12-Nights Whispers of the Ancients: A Luxe Pilgrimage Through Japan – President’s Pick

This 13-day luxury journey takes travelers from the vibrant streets of Osaka and Nagoya into the spiritual heart of Japan, featuring sacred mountain trails along the ancient Kumano Kodo, traditional temple lodgings, and deep-rooted samurai heritage. Seamlessly blending high-end modern comforts with centuries-old traditions, it offers an immersive exploration of Japan’s most revered cultural and natural sanctuaries.

• Osaka Evening Food Experience – You’ll explore one of Osaka’s lively local neighborhoods with a guide, sampling street food, standing bars, and cozy izakaya while learning about the city’s famous kuidaore culture.
• Spiritual Stay on Mt. Koyasan – A two-night immersion in Japan’s most sacred mountain: walking historic pilgrimage trails, visiting Okunoin, staying in a shukubo temple lodging, and joining early morning prayers and a fire ceremony.
• Multi-day Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Hikes – You’ll walk the Nakahechi trail, visit all three grand Kumano shrines, see Nachi Falls, and experience ancient oji shrines, cedar forests, and sacred mountains — a full immersion into Japan’s most storied pilgrimage route.
• Cultural Highlights in Nagoya & Inuyama – Visits to Nagoya Castle, Osu Kannon Temple, and a full-day excursion to Inuyama Castle, Urakuen Garden, and Jo-an teahouse — blending samurai history, architecture, and traditional tea culture.