Japan
Family pilgrimage to Japan: Ninjas and the Kumano Kodo
Réf : AJAPFAMX
In summary
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Sports
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Duration16 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationAsia / Japan
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions5778.66 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Explore Japan as a family, from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo to the sacred paths of the Kumano Kodo. We embark on a unique journey blending culture, nature, and gentle adventure, designed for explorers of all ages. From Tokyo, the futuristic metropolis, to Kyoto, the capital of traditions, this 15-day Japan tour immerses us in a fascinating world where modernity, spirituality, and conviviality intertwine. Children will marvel at sumo wrestling, the Pokémon Center, and the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli, learn the secrets of ninjas, and experience Japanese life in onsen, the traditional hot springs. A highlight of the trip: hiking on the sacred paths of the Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An easy hike, surrounded by mystical forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and colorful shrines, for a rare and peaceful family experience. Each day combines cultural discoveries with relaxing breaks: walks through mountain villages, a scenic express train ride, cozy ryokans, and even a night in a monastery in the heart of spiritual Japan. An unforgettable family trip to Japan, filled with laughter, emotion, and wonder, to create lasting memories together in the Land of the Rising Sun.
The highlights
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From futuristic Tokyo to the temples of Kyoto, a magical family adventure
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Fun experiences: Ninja, Pokémon, temples, sumo wrestling and onsen
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Authentic Japan: nature, traditions and local encounters
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Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to hike for 4 to 5 hours a day, covering an elevation gain of around 600m on trails. You hike occasionally and are in good physical condition.
The expert's opinion
Trail difficulty: 2/5 – Gentle adventure accessible to all
A discovery trip perfectly suited to families and curious travelers.
The walks are easy to moderate, the routes well balanced, and the activities varied, alternating between culture, nature and moments of relaxation.
Circuit suitable for ages 7 and up.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Average daily elevation gain: 100 m
- Average daily descent: 50 m
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Languages spoken:
French
English
French
English
Supervisor
Supervisor
Based in Japan for many years, our local agency guarantees a successful active travel experience, thanks to our guides and logistical infrastructure. During your trip, you'll be accompanied by our adventure guides, fully committed to helping you discover unique places in the heart of nature. Let us guide you…
Program
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Flight to Japan
- Transportation Plane - 13h30 - 9700km
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Overnight flight to Tokyo, the Japanese capital.Day 1 -
Arrival in Tokyo
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Upon arrival at Tokyo Airport, we will take public transportation to our hotel in central Tokyo. Depending on your arrival time, you will have lunch on your own, followed by free time to relax or begin exploring the city. We will meet our guide in the evening for dinner and a briefing, around 6:00 PM. (Dinner will be postponed to the following day in case of late arrival.) The transfer to the hotel is by public transportation without an escort. Rest assured, we will provide you with all the necessary instructions to get to the hotel. If you arrive at the hotel after 6:00 PM, you will need to check in yourself. Your guide will meet you the following morning. *If you would prefer a transfer service to assist you from the airport to the hotel, we can arrange this for an additional fee (see details in the options). Please let us know if you would like to take advantage of this service. The cost of the public transport ticket from the airport (Haneda or Narita) to the hotel is reimbursed by your guide upon your arrival at the hotel, in exchange for a bank receipt.Day 2 -
Guided tour of Tokyo
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
We begin our exploration of Japan in Asakusa, the heart of "old Tokyo," where the spirit of bygone Japan still lingers. Beneath the Thunder Gate, we stroll along the colorful shops of Nakamise-dori before visiting Senso-ji Temple, the oldest in the capital. Next, we catch a glimpse of the towering Tokyo Skytree, then head to the sumo district of Ryogoku, where we savor their traditional dish, chanko nabe. In the afternoon, we immerse ourselves in Japanese youth and creativity in the Harajuku and Omotesando districts, hubs of fashion and design. The day concludes in Shibuya, before the statue of the faithful Hachiko, at the heart of the world's most famous and bustling intersection.Day 3 -
Tokyo – Free day or optional “Manga Culture” and “Ninja Experience”
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
A free day to enjoy Tokyo at your own pace, or choose from our themed options, ideal for families seeking unique experiences. Option 1 – Manga Tour (lunch included) — Extra charge. Let's dive into the fascinating world of manga and Japanese pop culture! We begin in Ikebukuro, a lively district where themed cafes and shops dedicated to Japanese heroes stand side by side. At the Pokémon Center, Pikachu and his friends welcome us in a colorful setting, before we discover the poetry of the Ghibli universe. The tour continues in the iconic Akihabara district, the kingdom of otaku culture, before heading to Odaiba Island to admire the giant Gundam statue, an impressive steel sentinel. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon for those not continuing with the Ninja Experience. Option 2 – Ninja Experience — Extra charge. It is possible to continue with this unique activity, ideal for extending the day! Head to the Tokyo Ninja Museum for an interactive immersion into the world of these masters of the shadows. We'll don traditional attire, learn to handle throwing stars, try out a blowgun, discover the history and secret techniques of the Ninja, and then watch a sword demonstration. The Ninja experience is conducted entirely in English. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay in Tokyo.Day 4 -
Tokyo – Matsumoto: Between Modernity and Feudal Japan
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 03h - 150km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, we board the express train to Matsumoto (approximately a 3-hour journey), a pleasant trip through the rolling hills of central Japan. Upon arrival, we have lunch at a local restaurant before setting off to explore the magnificent Matsumoto Castle, nicknamed the "Black Crow" for its dark facades. Designated a national cultural heritage site, it is one of the few remaining intact medieval castles in the country, with its five-story keep overlooking the moat. Afterward, we stroll along Nawate-dori, a charming alley lined with small traditional shops and typical stalls. Check-in at the hotel, dinner at a restaurant, and overnight stay in Matsumoto. Please note that in the morning, we will ship our luggage to Kyoto. Pack a small backpack with a change of clothes for the duration of the two-day, two-night hike.Day 5 -
Matsumoto - Kamikochi - Hirayu Onsen
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 150 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, in Nagano Prefecture, the Kamikochi Valley stretches for 15 kilometers, between 1,400 and 1,600 meters above sea level. Designated a Natural Heritage Site of Japan, this pristine valley is only open to the public from May to October: a true paradise for nature lovers and hikers. We'll depart early to fully appreciate the majestic landscapes of the surrounding mountains. As we hike, we'll discover spectacular scenery and breathtaking panoramas. A picnic lunch (sandwich) will be provided along the way. After the hike, we'll travel to Hirayu Onsen, located halfway between Matsumoto and Takayama. We'll spend the night in a traditional mountain ryokan, renowned for its natural hot springs (onsen), ideal for relaxing after exertion. Dinner and overnight stay at the ryokan.Day 6 -
Hirayu Onsen - Takayama - Nagoya
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we depart early by public bus (approximately a 1.5-hour journey) for Takayama, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Hida Mountains in the Japanese Alps. Nicknamed "Little Kyoto," Takayama has preserved all the charm of traditional Japan. We will stroll through its picturesque streets lined with wooden houses before visiting the former Governor's Residence, a testament to its feudal history. We will then explore the Festival Float Museum, home to the magnificent yatai, richly decorated floats used during the Takayama Festival, one of the three most beautiful in Japan, celebrated twice a year, in spring and autumn. In the afternoon, we will take an express train to Nagoya. Dinner at a restaurant and overnight stay at the hotel. *Please note: in the morning, we will send our luggage to Kiikatsuura. Bring a small backpack with a change of clothes for the duration of the two-day, one-night trek.Day 7 -
Nagoya – Kii Kastura (Kumano Kodo Hike)
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 04h - 200km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we depart by high-speed train to Kii Katsuura, in the beautiful Wakayama Prefecture. We enjoy a bento lunch on board the train before arriving at noon. Afterwards, we set off to explore the sacred Kumano Kodo trails, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These mysterious paths, surrounded by forests, lead to ancient temples and shrines nestled in the heart of tranquil nature. A visit to Mount Nachi is a highlight of the trip: the red pagoda of Seiganto-ji Temple stands facing the majestic Nachi Falls, one of the highest in Japan. A magical setting that young and old alike will not forget! After this wonderful day of exploration, we return to our ryokan, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner and a relaxing soak in the traditional Japanese hot baths.Day 8 -
Kii Kastuura (Kumano Kodo Hike)
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 03h - 7km
- Activity Hiking
- Positive elevation gain 150 m
- Negative elevation 150 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we board our private bus to the grand Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, nestled in the Kumano River Valley. We disembark a few kilometers before the shrine to walk a section of the sacred Kumano Kodo trail. This beautiful walk through the heart of Japanese nature, along ancient paths bordered by forests and streams, allows us to experience the tranquility and spirituality that have permeated this place for centuries. Upon arrival at the shrine, we learn about the purification rituals and pilgrimage traditions still practiced today. Later in the day, we visit Kumano Hayatama Taisha Shrine, the second largest shrine in the region, before returning to our ryokan. A well-deserved hot bath awaits us to relax our bodies and minds before dinner. Dinner and overnight stay at the ryokan.Day 9 -
Kii Katsuura - Osaka
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we're taking the train along the southern coast of the Kii Peninsula. The journey, about four hours long, offers stunning views of the sea and coastal villages. It's the perfect opportunity to relax and recover after our hikes on the Kumano Kodo. We arrive in Osaka, a major port city and the vibrant capital of the Kansai region. Renowned for the warmth of its people, its infectious energy, and its culinary creativity, Osaka is a lively city where modernity and tradition happily coexist. We'll explore its iconic districts: Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori, with their vast covered shopping arcades, bright lights, and unique atmosphere. Then, we'll visit the Osaka Museum of Culture, where we can experience life in bygone eras. Children will love wearing yukata (cotton summer kimonos) to stroll through the recreated ancient streets—a fun activity and perfect for taking beautiful souvenir photos! At the end of the day, we'll ascend to the top of the Umeda Sky Building for a spectacular panoramic view of the illuminated city. Check-in at the hotel, followed by dinner in a lively Osaka neighborhood. *Please note: in the morning, we ship our luggage to Kyoto. Bring a small backpack with a change of clothes for the duration of the two-day, two-night walking tour.Day 10 -
Osaka - Kyosan
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we leave bustling Osaka for a completely different world. A high-speed train followed by a funicular railway takes us, in about two hours, to Koyasan, a major center of Japanese Buddhism nestled in the mountains. Founded over 1,200 years ago, Koyasan was once home to thousands of monks and nearly 50,000 inhabitants. Even today, this monastic city remains an important spiritual center and a sacred pilgrimage site. We will visit the main temple, Kongobu-ji, the heart of Shingon Buddhism, before strolling among the temples and peaceful pathways. The Okunoin site, a vast necropolis shrouded in mist and bordered by giant cedar trees, offers an atmosphere that is both mystical and serene; a highlight of the trip. At the end of the day, we will settle into a temple-hostel (shukubo), where we will share for a night the simple and serene life of the monks: Buddhist vegetarian meal, sounds of bells at dusk and a unique atmosphere of contemplation.Day 11 -
Kyosan - Kyoto: Between spirituality and the Nintendo universe
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 02h30 - 150km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, those who wish can attend a Buddhist ceremony at the temple: a moment of calm and spirituality, ideal for starting the day. After breakfast, we depart for Kyoto, the final stop on our Japanese adventure. (Approximately 2.5 hours travel time) A former imperial capital, Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan. Between millennia-old traditions and vibrant modernity, the city charms visitors with its majestic temples, wooden houses, characterful alleyways, and peaceful gardens. We stroll through the city center before discovering Nishiki Market, a true paradise for food lovers: skewers, candied fruit, grilled fish, and Japanese sweets to savor at the various stalls. Optional: a visit to the Nintendo Museum! For families who are video game fans, this visit is a unique experience. The museum traces the entire history of Nintendo, from its first card games to the legendary Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. Discover retro consoles, rare prototypes, interactive spaces, and fun installations for all ages. A fun, nostalgic, and inspiring experience that will delight the whole family! Participants in this option can easily reach the museum (20 minutes from Kyoto Station – 360 yen). The guide will provide all the necessary information to get there. In the evening, enjoy dinner at your leisure to explore Kyoto at your own pace and perhaps try a ramen restaurant or a small local bistro?Day 12 -
Kyoto - Arashiyama and the Golden Temples
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
This morning, we depart for Arashiyama, a charming town west of Kyoto, famous for its bamboo grove. The walk begins at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, a peaceful place with thousands of small Buddha statues, before winding through pretty alleyways lined with traditional houses to the bamboo forest, a magical spot for the whole family. After a local lunch, we explore two iconic Kyoto temples: Ryoan-ji, with its enigmatic rock garden, and Kinkaku-ji, the famous Golden Pavilion, reflected in its pond in a magnificent setting. At the end of the day, we return to the city. Dinner is on your own, and overnight at the hotel.Day 13 -
Kyoto - Uji and Nara: between green tea, giant Buddha and curious deer
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
This morning, we set off for Uji, a charming little town on the riverbank, surrounded by verdant hills. This is where the best green tea in Japan is grown! We visit the magnificent Byodoin Temple, famous for its phoenix-shaped pavilion that seems to float on the water. The small adjoining museum reveals superb Buddhist treasures. Then comes a unique experience: we participate in a genuine tea ceremony, tasting Uji matcha, prepared according to an ancient ritual. A gentle, calm, and fascinating experience that children love to watch. We then continue on to Nara, the ancient capital of Japan and a jewel of history. After lunch, we discover the majestic Todaiji Temple, home to a giant bronze Buddha, impressive in its size and serenity. The stroll continues in Nara's large park, where sacred deer come to greet us. They allow themselves to be petted and readily ask for a few biscuits. A moment of laughter and tenderness with the family! We end our visit at the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, surrounded by thousands of stone and bronze lanterns suspended throughout the forest, a place that is both magical and peaceful. At the end of the day, we return to Kyoto for our farewell dinner, an opportunity to share our best memories of the trip.Day 14 -
Kyoto - Osaka - Return flight to France
- Transportation 01h30
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
For your return trip, you will travel to the airport on your own, but don't worry: your guide will provide you with all the practical and precise information you need to get there easily. The airport is a modest size, very well signposted, and particularly efficient. The journey is by public bus or express train (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). Note: If you prefer to take a taxi, the fare will be at your own expense.Day 15 -
Arrival in Paris
- Transportation Plane - 13h30 - 9700km
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrived in Paris during the day.Day 16
Note
Depending on weather and operational conditions, the guide reserves the right to modify this itinerary, for your safety and that of the group.
Accommodation
During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.
Access
Departure
Tokyo
Day 1
: 00h00
End of stay
Tokyo
Day 16
- 23h59
Travel within the country:
Within the country, we will primarily travel by super-express train: the Shinkansen, but also by train and bus. Japan boasts one of the most developed transportation networks in the world: its rail network alone covers virtually every possible destination. The Shinkansen is renowned for its exceptional punctuality, with trains departing every 1 minute 30 seconds during peak hours.
In Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, we will travel by subway or regional trains.
Other journeys will be made by minibus.
Go to the starting point
The nearest airport isHND - Tokyo - Aéroport de Haneda
1. International transport:
For flights to Japan, we use scheduled flights departing from Paris. You will primarily fly with Air France or Lufthansa. Depending on availability at the time of your booking, we may also offer flights with other airlines.
We pre-purchase a stock of flights departing from Paris on these different airlines in order to guarantee you the best fares and availability for as long as possible. Departures from certain provincial cities are possible upon request.
Would you like to travel on other dates?
Create an alert and we'll notify you by email if new departures are added.
Price details
The price includes
- Flight Paris / Tokyo - Osaka / Paris
- Air taxes
- Transfers and local transport as mentioned in the program
- Meals as indicated in the day-by-day plan
- French-speaking tour guide
- The accommodations mentioned in the program
- Entrance tickets to the sites visited, according to the program
The price does not include
- Transport other than that mentioned
- Meals other than those mentioned (3 dinners, 1 lunch)
- Child discount (ages 7-11): €350
- Child discount (ages 12-15): €200
- Personal expenses
- Drinks
- Tips for the local staff (at your discretion)
- The transfer by public transport from the airport to the hotel on day 2, which will be reimbursed upon your arrival at the hotel.
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Clothing to bring
In spring as in autumn, you should bring comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, and take:
- sweater or fleece, undershirt or warm cardigan,
- windbreaker, plastic poncho, raincoat…
- If possible, a pair of shoes that are easy to take off for various visits and evenings out, as we take our shoes off very often.
- For women, avoid low-cut necklines and partially bare backs.
- (we can't say that, but we should: for everyone, use perfumes or aftershave in minimal mode, the Japanese do not wear perfume, or very little).
It can get quite cold, especially at night, which falls early, until April 15th and from the end of October.
For hiking, good walking shoes, preferably waterproof, but no other specific equipment.
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Paulin team
4.4/5
(1436 reviews)
• 445 stays
For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.
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