WALKING IS ONLY PART OF THE ADVENTURE
NAKASENDO WAY
JAPAN
JOIN US FOR A GUIDED PACK FREE 8 DAY WALK – $7,449 PP*
INCLUDED WOWS – ANCIENT WAY OF THE SAMURAI, JAPANESE TRADITIONAL TEA CEREMONY & KIMINOS, FUSHIMI INARI SHRINE WALK, SAKE EXPERIENCE, JAPANESE WOODBLOCK ART CLASS, LOCAL EDUCATIONAL WALK GUIDES, BOUTIQUE ACCOMM, LOCAL WINES & FOOD, PRIVATE TRANSFERS + MORE
SAVE UP TO $500 PER COUPLE OR $250 PER PERSON WITH OUR SPOT SPECIALS ON 2024 DEPARTURES * BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY AND SAVE – AVAILABLE UNTIL SOLD OUT!
WALK SNAPSHOT
8 DAYS – 7 NIGHTS
PACK FREE GUIDED WALK – ONLY CARRY A DAY PACK
PRIVATE TRANSFERS BETWEEN WALKS – NO TRAINS
FLEXIBLE WALKING OPTIONS
CHOOSE SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS EACH DAY
PROFESSIONAL LOCAL GUIDES FROM THE AREA
BEST ACCOMMODATION IN EACH AREA
LOCALLY SOURCED DINNERS & WINE INCLUDED
ALL MEALS INCLUDED
ECO FRIENDLY – ECO TOURISM ACCREDITED
DEPARTURE DATES
ASK US ABOUT OUR 2024-2025 WALKS DATES.
PRICES FROM $7,449 PP*
TOUR PRICES
GREAT TIME TO BOOK – Earlybirds Out Now for 2025 Season – Save up to $800 per couple 2025 DATES.
Our once a year sale is on now with fantastic Earlybird savings of up to $800 per couple or $400 per person available on 2025 departures when you pay in full at time of booking.
2024 DATES – LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!
Spot Specials of up to $500 per couple or up to $250 per person are available on specific departures when you book and pay in full at time of booking. On sale until sold out!
Private group walks are available and require a minimum of 10-12 guests. Groups can choose a departure date subject to availability. See details and prices below.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Please note your tour price does not include flights to/from the countries visited. We are offering our guests a service to book their international flights or any other travel plans during their holiday. To start planning your trip, email us at flights@lifesanadventure.com.au
Prices in Australian Dollars
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NEXT SEASON’S DEPARTURES
March – November 2025
EARLYBIRD PRICE
Normal Price…. $7999 per person twin share
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FIRST TIME PASSENGERS:
Earlybird…… $7,699 per person twin share
SAVE $300 per person
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TRAVELLED WITH
LIFE’S AN ADVENTURE BEFORE:
Earlybird…… $7,599 per person twin share
SAVE $400 per person
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Earlybird prices available on all 2025 departures when you book and pay in full at the time of booking. BOOK EARLY TO SAVE – OFFER ENDS 31 OCTOBER 2024! Normal Price requires $500 deposit only, with final payments due 12 weeks prior. Past passengers $100 extra savings also available on normal price fares. Based on twin share – see details about Single Supplement extras. See full ticket conditions below under Discount information.
Prices in Australian Dollars
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THIS SEASON’S DEPARTURES
March – November 2024
SPOT SPECIAL DEALS
Normal Price…. $7699 per person twin share
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FIRST TIME PASSENGERS:
Spot Special…… $7549 per person twin share
SAVE $150 per person
_____________________
TRAVELLED WITH
LIFE’S AN ADVENTURE BEFORE:
Spot Special…… $7449 per person twin share
SAVE $250 per person
_____________________
Spot Special prices available on specific 2024 departures when you book and pay in full at time of booking. Normal Price requires $500 deposit only, with final payments due 12 weeks prior. Past passengers $100 extra savings also available on normal price fares. Based on twin share – see details about Single Supplement extras. See full ticket conditions below under Discount information.
Prices in Australian Dollars
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PRIVATE GROUPS
10 – 12 participants
Departure date of your choice
PRICES
Prices are equal to Past Travellers’ discount rates.
Departure date of your choice is subjective to availability. A minimum group size of 10 required. Prices are equal to Past Travellers’ discounted rates. Additional Past Traveller’s’ discount not available for groups.
The following extras can be purchased with your tour:
SOLO TRAVELLERS
WILLING TO SHARE
If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room, we will attempt to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we can’t find you a match of the same gender by around 12 weeks prior to the tour, you will be charged the single supplement cost.
SOLO TRAVELLERS
WANTING THEIR OWN ROOM
For those wanting to guarantee their own room, a single supplement cost will be charged at the time of booking.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $1240
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TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel Insurance is compulsory for all international bookings. Travel Insurance covers items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. We have partnered with Cover-More to provide travel insurance to our guests. To get a quote or purchase travel insurance directly wit
Discount Information
PAST PASSENGER DISCOUNT: Those who have travelled with Life’s An Adventure previously, receive a past passenger discount of $100. This discount will automatically be deducted from future bookings when you book online using the same email address used for past bookings.
EARLYBIRD CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations are not permitted for Super Earlybird, Earlybird Deals or Spot Specials, however, transfers to another date are permitted 12 weeks or more prior to departure. We advise taking out travel insurance, in case unexpected circumstances prior to the trip, prevent you from joining this tour. Super Earlybird, Early bird or Spot Special discounts cannot be used in conjunction with another offer. To receive these special discounts, full payment must be made at the time of initial booking.
Travel Insurance
We advise taking our Travel Insurance to cover items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, or adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. We have organised through NIB Insurance for you to purchase travel insurance directly with them – please click here for details. Please note this insurance is only available for Australian Residents, other clients will need to source their own travel insurance.
Additional Information
- Prices are per person in Australian dollars and include GST.
- A deposit of $500 per person is required to secure your booking. (unless taking advantage of Earlybird or Spot Specials in which full payment is required at time of booking).
- Note: If you are booking within 90 days of your departure date – we will require full payment at the time of booking
- Prices are based on twin share of rooms. If you are travelling solo you may be required to share with someone of the same gender. If this is not suitable you can request to pay a single supplement, however, limited single rooms are available per trip so are on a request basis.
- Payments must be made online via our NAB (National Australia Bank) secure payment page via credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or over the phone.
- We advise taking our Travel Insurance to cover items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, or adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc.
Booking Terms and Conditions
Before you book please read our Booking Terms and Conditions. Click here
Cancellation Policy and Conditions of Travel
Click here to view Cancellation Policy and Conditions of Travel.
CHECK OUT THE WOW-MAZINGS YOU'LL EXPERIENCE
The ultimate Pack-Free guided 8-day walk
The Way of the Samurai – Kyoto to Tokyo
Walking on Japan’s Nakasendo Way is a truly enchanting experience that transports travellers to a bygone era of samurais and serene landscapes. This historic trail, which means “path through the mountains,” winds its way through the picturesque Japanese Alps, connecting Kyoto and Tokyo.
Often referred to as the “Way of the Samurai, we traverse the Nakasendo, encountering quaint villages, ancient cedar forests, and traditional teahouses where weary travellers once sought respite.
The journey allows you to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural tapestry, where centuries-old customs and hospitality still flourish. Whether you’re exploring the rustic charm of Tsumago or the lush countryside of Magome, each step on the Nakasendo Way reveals a deep appreciation for Japan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable walking adventure.
What makes this tour unique
Our philosophy with our tours, is that walking is only part of the adventure. We’ve included some special wow-mazing experiences throughout the journey to make your trip truly unforgettable.
Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony wearing kimonos in Kyoto, make your own Japanese art in Ena and visit a Sake establishment to tantalise the tastebuds. We have meticulously designed our tours using private transfers between our walks which not only allows for relaxed walking but gives our guests flexible walking options each day.
You can walk as much or as little as you like and you won’t need to rush to meet train timetables! Add this to staying in the best accomodation in each region all with a unique Japanese charm and you have the perfect journey.
Your 8 day walking holiday includes:
- Pack Free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry
- Private vehicle transfers – no trains!
- Flexible walking options or sightseeing each day
- Professional and passionate local guides that speak Japanese and English
- Luggage transported to your accommodation each day
Wow-mazing Experiences
- Japanese Traditional Tea Ceremony & Kimonos, Kyoto
- Fushimi Inari Shrine Walk, Kyoto
- Sake experience, Kiso Fukushima
- Japanese Woodblock Art Class
The best accommodation in each area
- 1 night at The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo, Kyoto or similar
- 2 nights at Ichikawa Inn, Ena or similar
- 1 night at Maruya Inn, Tsumago or similar
- 1 night at Tsutaya Inn, Kiso Fukushima or similar
- 1 night at Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat or similar
- 1 night at Ancient Hotel Karuisawa or similar
Meals
- Complimentary Sake, beer, or soft drink with evening meals
- 8 x superb dinners every evening featuring local produce
- 7 x lunches
- 7 x breakfasts
This tour runs in two directions. Kyoto to Toyko and Toyko to Kyoto. You will need to fly into Japan the day before your tour starts. If your tour is starting in Kyoto the closest international airport is Osaka, only 13 minutes by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto or Toyko is 3 hours by Shinkansen (bullet train).
WALK GRADE:
6kms. 3 hours.
This morning meet your guides in the foyer of the Sora Niwa Terrace Hotel, Kyoto at 9.00am. After a short briefing, we make our way to one of Kyoto’s most iconic walks and one that can’t be missed.
Walking through Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is a mesmerizing journey. Walk through its thousands of vivid orange torii gates that create a captivating tunnel-like pathway which meanders its way through the forest and up the hill side. This walk is not only visually stunning but deeply spiritual. The climb to the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto.
Afterwards we enjoy lunch in a local restaurant featuring traditional Japanese cuisine. We make our way back to the hotel to enjoy some free time before meeting up and heading to our special afternoon experience.
We will join the time-honored tradition of a Japanese tea ceremony. Dressed in vibrant and exquisite Japanese kimonos of your choosing, you’ll have the opportunity to select the kimono that resonates most with you and for the women you will have your hair styled with flowers.
After your dressed and looking fabulous you will join our expert to learn the fine art of the tea ceremony which encourages mindfulness, fostering an appreciation for simplicity and humility. This will be a wonderful experience that will offer some fantastic photo opportunities.
Tonight the group come together to enjoy a fabulous dinner in Kyoto accompanied with wine.
TERRAIN:
Stone paths
WALK GRADE:
Easy. 8kms
FLEXIBLE WALKING:
Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a 5km section of today’s walk instead.
ITINERARY:
This morning we enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we transfer with our private vehicles from Kyoto to Hikone, a captivating castle town nestled along the serene shores of Lake Biwa.
Wandering through its historical streets, we uncover tales from Japan’s feudal past. Surprisingly, Hikone remains a hidden gem, its castle holding the prestigious title of a Japanese National Treasure. This charming town has also served as a backdrop for numerous period films, including the renowned “Shogun” starring Richard Chamberlain and Toshiro Mifune.
Afterwards, we make our way to the small town of Ena where we take a break at our accommodation for the night, the charming Ichikawa Inn. This is a 400 years old Inn and the owner is the 6th generation.
Afterward, we take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Hiroshige Museum of Art, a cultural haven that offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of traditional Japanese woodblock art. Here, you can try your hand at crafting your very own masterpiece, allowing you to connect with the rich artistic heritage of Japan in a hands-on and creative way.
We return to our accommodation to enjoy wonderful organic food from recipes handed down from generation to generation.
TERRAIN:
Trails with stone paths and dirt trails
WALK GRADE:
14kms
FLEXIBLE WALKING:
Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
ITINERARY:
After breakfast we head out on today’s walk from Okute-juku to Oi-juku is a journey through time and tradition in rural Japan.
As you leave the quaint post town of Okute-juku, with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings and cobblestone streets, the path meanders through lush, serene countryside.
The route offers glimpses of traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, vibrant rice paddies, and the soothing sounds of babbling streams. Along the way, hikers can pause at tranquil shrines and rest stops, allowing them to appreciate the beauty of the Japanese countryside and the quietude of rural life.
After our walk, we are transferred to the Naegi Castle Ruins. Often likened to Machu Picchu in Peru, the Naegi Castle Ruins in Japan hold an air of ancient mystique and historical significance, nestled amidst the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape.
Later we make our way back to our accommodation in Ena. Tonight we enjoy dinner at our accommodation.
TERRAIN:
Most of the trail through forest and countryside and some sections past houses and fields of local residents. Some stone paths and some asphalt roads.
WALK GRADE:
10kms Elevation Gain: 461m. 4 hours.
FLEXIBLE WALKING:
Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a 5km section of today’s walk instead.
ITINERARY:
After an enjoyable breakfast we head out on our walk to the old post town of Magome. We walk through the quaint cobblestone streets admiring the old wooden watermills and traditional architecture which exudes timeless charm with its well-preserved Edo-era streets and historic atmosphere.
Our journey leads us upwards towards the enchanting Magome Pass. Along this path, our surroundings undergo a dramatic transformation, shifting from expansive countryside vistas to the densely wooded depths of the Kiso Valley. Along the way we enjoy a nice rest stop at a traditional-style Japanese house with a irori fire pit and traditionally dressed staff serve tea.
Afterwards we continue on and admire the captivating duo of waterfalls before eventually arriving at the quaint village of Tsumago. Tsumago, a time-honored jewel tucked within Japan’s lush Kiso Valley, enchants visitors with its meticulously preserved Edo-era architecture, evoking a sense of stepping into a living museum of bygone days.
The village’s tranquil ambiance, framed by scenic mountains and a winding river, invites travellers to savour the serene beauty of rural Japan at its most authentic.
Spend time exploring this small town before heading to our accommodation at the charming Maruya Inn in Tsumago, a Japanese-style retreat nestled amidst the serene surroundings of Tsumago’s historic post town. Relax in the soothing waters of the onsen before enjoying a superb dinner served with sake or beer.
TERRAIN:
Some steep sections, trails with stone paths, wooden footbridges, dirt trails
WALK GRADE:
14.8 kms. Elevation gain: 669m. Moderate to Challenging. 4 hours and 45 mins
FLEXIBLE WALKING:
Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a shorter 4km walk from Tsumago to Nagiso. The driver will collect you from here and take you on to the town of Kiso Fukisahama for free time in the town.
ITINERARY:
After breakfast, we farewell our accommodation and make our way to Nagiso to start our walk.
Our walk today avoids the busy road trail along the river and travels over the Yogawamichi Path from Modono to Nojiri. It is a captivating journey through Japan’s lush and unspoiled countryside which meanders through a tapestry of serene alpine scenery, charming villages, and dense forests, offering us a glimpse into the traditional rural life of the Kiso Valley.
As you traverse the path through dense forests adorned with delicate cedar trees flourishing in their unspoiled splendour, you can occasionally catch glimpses of distant mountain peaks.
Afterwards, we are met by our driver and enjoy the scenic drive to the town of Kiso Fukushima. Early this evening we have an optional visit to the Sake Brewery to meet the wonderfully friendly staff and sample some of Japan’s best sake. Tonight we enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner served with wine.
TERRAIN:
Trails with stone paths, steep stone stairs, and dirt trails
WALK GRADE:
6 kms, elevation gain: 323 m, medium grade, 4.5 hours
FLEXIBLE WALKING:
Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
ITINERARY:
After breakfast we make our way through the mountainous landscapes of south-east Nagano, transferring to the foot of the impressive Mt. Ontake for the start of your walk. Today’s trail is the owner’s favourite walk in all of Japan, and is one you absolutely can not miss.
You start with a steep stone staircase section taking you through the forest up to the monument of the Three Great Gods of Ontake, known as Omata Sansha.
You continue your walk through lush forests seeing various Reijinhi, stone carvings along the pilgrimage up to Ontake used for sacred rituals. During your walk you pass through the Hanadofukando and Juni Gongen Shrine, showcasing more of Japan’s rich culture, before reaching the waterfalls.
Shintaki Falls cascade down 50 metres, and like the shrines are used for religious purposes. People come from far to take part in purification rituals at many of the waterfalls to be found around Ontake.
Towards the end of this rewarding walk, savour your lunch before making your way to the final highlight of the walk. Kiyotaki Falls is another beautiful water formation used for cleansing rituals and is our final stop before reaching the end of the trail.
After our walk, we make our way to the superb Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat. Enjoy the open-air Onsen Hot Springs before joining everyone for dinner in the restaurant served with wine.
TERRAIN:
Most of the trail through forest. Some stone paths and dirt trails as well as inclines
WALK GRADE:
9kms. Elevation gain 373m.
FLEXIBLE WALKING:
Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a shorter section of today’s walk instead.
ITINERARY:
This morning enjoy breakfast as you enjoy the views of Mount Ontake.
We make our way to our walk for today. Embarking on the picturesque journey from Yabuhara to Narai via Torii Pass is a step back in time through the heart of Japan’s Kiso Valley.
The trail unveils itself as a meandering pathway through serene forests, where sunlight filters through a green canopy. Along the way, hikers encounter wooden torii gates nestled amidst the trees, each marking progress towards Torii Pass.
As you ascend, the panorama transitions from tranquil woods to sweeping vistas of the Kiso Valley, with its charming villages nestled in the embrace of surrounding mountains.
Finally, arriving in Narai, a beautifully preserved post town, you’re welcomed by cobblestone streets, traditional Edo-era buildings, and a sense of having journeyed through time itself.
This hike encapsulates the essence of rural Japan, offering a meditative and visually captivating exploration of its natural and cultural treasures.
After our walk enjoy free time to meander through the streets of Narai before we head to the beautiful town of Karuisawa.
Our accommodation tonight is at the superb Ancient Hotel high-end hot spring haven, set amongst the woodlands. Tonight enjoy dinner in the restaurant served with wine.
TERRAIN:
Most of the trail through cypress-lined forest path Some stone paths and dirt trails as well as steep descents.
WALK GRADE:
8kms. Moderate
FLEXIBLE WALKING:
Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a 5km section of today’s walk instead.
ITINERARY:
Following a satisfying breakfast, we embark on the final leg of our walking adventure.
We take a short detour from our hotel to explore the stunning Shiraito Waterfall located in the forest and measuring three meters high and 70 meters wide and is one of the most famous and beautiful waterfalls in Japan.
Shiraito no Taki literally means “the waterfall of white threads”, which aptly describes its appearance, as multiple streaks of water drape over the surface forming what seems like a white curtain.
From here we make our way to the Observation Deck for stunning mountain views before reaching the picturesque Usui Pass. At this idyllic spot, we pause for a break allowing time to explore the Kumanokotail Shrine or indulge in a delectable ice cream treat at the nearby cafe while savoring the panoramic vistas of majestic Mt. Asama.
From here we make our way down into the valley until we reach Yokokawa along the way enjoy the scenic mountain trails and endless stone relics along the way.
We eventually arrive into the town of Yokokawa the end of today’s walk.
From here we make our way back to Toyko the end of a superb journey with drop offs at the Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi located conveniently next to public transport for your ongoing journey.
Please note this tour can be added to our Kumano Kodo walk making it a 16 day walk. See details.
SAVE UP TO $500 PER COUPLE OR $250 PER PERSON WITH OUR SPOT SPECIALS ON 2024 DEPARTURES * BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY AND SAVE – AVAILABLE UNTIL SOLD OUT!
WHAT MAKES US ‘WOW-MAZING’ DIFFERENT? TAKE A LOOK.
LIFE’S AN ADVENTURE GIVES YOU PACK FREE GUIDED WALKING TOURS WITH OUR UNIQUE WOW-MAZING INCLUSIONS LIKE...
... WILDERNESS CRUISES TO REMOTE LOCATIONS - CHOPPER FLIGHTS OVER STUNNING SCENERY - MEETING LOCAL CHEFS AND WINE MAKERS - DELICIOUS PADDOCK TO PLATE DINING - LOCALLY SOURCED WINES - FLEXIBLE FITNESS WALKING OPTIONS - FABULOUS BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION - SURPRISE & DELIGHT EXPERIENCES + MORE
BOOK AND WALK WITH CONFIDENCE.
PERSONALISED TOURS
Our tours are curated to be personal and intimate with a maximum group size of 12 – 16 guests. However, if you’d like to have a bigger group, contact us for more details.
CEO GUIDES
Our guides are CEOs – Chief Experience Officers – and their passion is to give you a world-class walk. We pride ourselves on employing a talented team of passionate CEOs who all have a passion for their tour. They’re committed to your safety and have a genuine desire to provide an enriching, immersive and wow-mazing walking experience.
21 TOURISM AWARDS
We don’t mean to boast but it is awesome to be recognised for having tours that people love walking on. We’ve won 21 Tourism Awards of Excellence including the Qantas Australian Tourism Award for Australia’s Best Adventure Company. Awards are great, but our biggest accolade which we value even more, is that our clients come back and travel with us time and time again.
GENUINE ALL-INCLUSIVE
Our walking tours are all genuinely all-inclusive – so once you pay for your tour there are no hidden extras. During your evening meals, you won’t need to put your hand in your pocket to pay for wine as it’s included in the price of the tour and if you tour has a stunning scenic chopper flight or eco wildlife cruise – it’s 100% part of your tour package. What’s more – there are No Credit Cards fees.
FLEXIWALK
Our FlexiWalk is a new optional Add-On that allows guests to cancel their tour last minute and not be penalised. Exclusively designed by Life’s An Adventure, this product gives our guests certainty in a time of uncertainty.
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