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Walking holidays in Japan

Our walking holidays in Japan are a great way to experience the natural beauty, fascinating culture and fine cuisine that this magical country has to offer. From exploring the ancient shrines of Kyoto to the mountainous trails along the Kumano Kodo, there is a huge amount of unique sights to discover.

We believe that hiking trips in Japan are the best way to discover all the hidden gems off the beaten track. As you trek through stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites, you can expect to get up close to unique landscapes rich in history. Dense forest, picturesque valleys, quaint villages, awe-inspiring waterfalls and ancient temples are just some of the wonders you will encounter on our walking tours in Japan.


Why choose Headwater?


Walk the Kumano Kodo
Japan:

Walk the Kumano Kodo

Walk the ancient pilgrimage route Kumano Kodo, journeying through the Kii Peninsula Mountains to the famous Grand Shrines.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW10KK
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration10 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From £3199per person, tour only

  • 2 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts & 6 dinners
  • Route notes provided
Walk the Nakasendo Trail
Japan

Walk the Nakasendo Trail

Follow the historic Nakasendo Trail, exploring the incredible cities of Kyoto and Tokyo either side of your journey.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW10NK
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration10 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From £3239per person, tour only

  • 1 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts & 5 dinners
  • Route notes provided
Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail
Japan

Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail

Embark on this spiritual journey on the island of Shikoku, exploring spectacular scenery and some of the 88 Buddhist temples which connect this trail.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW10SH
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration10 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From £3239per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts & 6 dinners
  • Route notes provided
Japan: Hiroshima & Island Hopping
Japan

Japan: Hiroshima & Island Hopping

From Kyoto to Osaka, you walk, cycle and kayak your way through Hiroshima and the idyllic islands of Shimanami Kaido.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

Book Early and Save 10%. T&Cs Apply
  • Holiday codeM10JP
  • Holiday typeMulti activity holiday
  • Duration10 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From £3339per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2025  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and two dinners
  • Bike hire included
  • Route notes provided
Japan's Kumano Kodo
Japan

Japan's Kumano Kodo

Walk Japan's ancient pilgrimage routes along the Kumano Kodo - after uncovering Kyoto’s most ancient shrines and pathways, we head off the beaten track to the Kumano Kodo region; one of Japan's most remote and rewarding pilgrimage routes.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW13JA
  • Holiday typeGuided walking
  • Duration13 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From £6199per person, tour only
  • All breakfasts, six lunches and nine dinners All accommodation All transport and listed activities