Japan has some of the best hiking in the world, offering both stunning mountain scenery along ancient travelling routes, to coastal trekking on spectacular – and sparsely populated – ocean-side trails.
In 2027, Japan Holidays has again partnered with Japan-based Michinori Travel ,to present an expanding range of fully-guided and self-guided Japan hiking adventures.
Japan Hiking Tours 2027
The 2027 lineup offers the chance to experience THREE iconic Japan hiking trails – two inland trails – the famous Nakasendo Trail Walk and the World-Heritage listed Kumano Kodo Trail – and a coastal trek – the exciting new Michinoku Coastal Trail – one of the world’s longest.
Japan Holiday’s fully-guided itinerary walks the best-kept sections, pairs them with small inns and regional food, and adds hands-on culture in places that still shape the areas today.
The Michinoku Coastal Trail (MCT)
The Michinoku Coastal Trail (MCT) is Japan’s newest – and longest- hiking trail, through one of the country’s more remote and rugged regions.
The name of the coastal walk is a throwback to ancient times, when Japan’s north-eastern Tohoku region was referred to as “Michinoku” – meaning “end of the road”.
Discover where ocean and culture meet along the Michinoku Coastal Trail on this 9-day fully-guided adventure coastal trek. Experience dramatic cliffs, quiet beaches, and charming fishing towns while connecting with the resilience and spirit of Tōhoku. Four tours departing in 2027.
The Nakasendo Trail
The Nakasendo Trail is a 534-kilometer historic walking route in Japan, connecting Kyoto and Tokyo through the central mountains. Also known as the “Central Mountain Road,” it features 69 preserved post towns (like Magome, Tsumago, and Narai) ) that served as crucial rest stops and accommodation for travelers.
Many post towns, particularly in the Kiso Valley (like Magome, Tsumago, and Narai), are well-preserved, offering a glimpse into feudal Japan with their traditional wooden buildings and stone paths, offering a chance to experience traditional Japanese culture and history from the Edo period .(1603–1868).
Walk this ancient mountain trail through central Japan over 8 days on this fully-guided adventure, passing through rustic villages and staying in traditional Japanese inns. Four tours departing in 2027.
The Kumano Kodo
The Kumano Kodo is one of Japan’s foremost pilgrimage routes, made up of seven trails that snake through the Kii Mountain Range in Japan’s Wakayama prefecture.
A fully-guided 9 days challenging hike along Japan’s famous pilgrimage trail – one of only two pilgrimages in the world registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Four tours departing in 2027.
