Set inside the historic Osaka Shin-Kabukiza theater building, the Royal Classic Osaka couples a vivid past with Western-style design and contemporary lines. Staying here, you will be in the center of the lively Namba district known for its thriving theater and restaurant scene. The well-appointed rooms come equipped with en-suite facilities, AC, TV and fridge.

Tucked away in the Hatenashi mountain range, Organic Hotel Kiri-no-Sato Takahara showcases breathtaking vistas of the surrounding scenery. This friendly lodge, made of local wood features eight rooms: three Japanese-style tatami rooms and five with twin beds. Along with its restaurant and café/bar, and Wi-Fi throughout, the inn features onsen (hot spring) baths, ideal for soaking in after a long hike.

This traditional Japanese-style inn offers airy interiors and a classic Japanese experience. Its eight minimalist rooms feature exposed-wood detailing and tatami (straw) floors. The inn is located in Kawayu Onsen, which features hot spring bathing opportunities aplenty, from private baths at the inn to bathing in thermal waters which bubble up through the river bed opposite the ryokan.

Located in a quiet part of Kyoto, the Noku Hotel is just a short walk from the Imperial Palace and easily accessible to the subway station. Experience lavish comfort and luxurious amenities in a warm and welcoming environment that captures the shokunin spirit of Kyoto life. Each room comes equipped with free pajamas, a 40-inch TV, Wi-Fi, a mini bar, and 24-hour front desk service.

MT Sobek has been operating award-winning adventures in Asia since 1969, working with best local guides to ensure an immersive and unforgettable adventure.

This well-paced 8-day hiking trip follows the spectacular Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail on the Kii Peninsula with each day ending at a charming ryokans or hotels with onsens.

Our local expert guides go the extra mile and are the perfect travel companions. Come away with a unique understanding of the Shinto grand shrines and historic sites along this fascinating route.

Four days of moderate hiking, cultural touring on foot, with easy walks to explore historical wonders.

Stay in traditional ryokans (inns) and unwind in onsen (hot springs) while on the Kumano Kodo, and comfortable hotels with modern amenities in Kyoto and Osaka.

Spring and fall temperatures from mid 60°Fs to high 70°Fs/low 80°Fs. Rain is common throughout the year; fall tends to be slightly wetter than spring.

Fish is a more challenging allergy to manage due to the ubiquitous nature of dashi (fish broth), but we can usually still manage it.

Yes, you can, but please let us know as soon as possible so we can manage your request.

The ryokans vary significantly, but usually have tatami mats for flooring and futon beds that are laid out each night. Baths may be communal and divided by gender.

You will take a pre-booked shared taxi from either Kansai or Itami airport to the hotel in Osaka, where your MT Sobek guide will meet you in the evening for a trip briefing and dinner.

On this trip we enjoy an authentic experience, traveling as many Japanese people do on the excellent train and bus system. Large bags are not accommodated on public transportation so we make use of a clever bag forwarding system known as "takuhaibin," unique to Japan. You will be without your larger suitcase on days 2 and 5, carrying overnight essentials in a smaller duffel along with your daypack, as you journey aboard local trains and buses. Your larger suitcase will be transported by courier to your accommodation on the following day, and we take care of the small duffel so that you only ever need to carry a daypack on the actual hikes. We find this is a fantastic way to get an authentic travel experience, while still having access to larger luggage on the majority of the trip.