Japan has a long and rich tradition of pilgrimage. Since ancient times pilgrims young and old, rich and poor have followed sacred routes through forests, over mountains and across rivers to find peace, enlightenment and spiritual rebirth. Our Pilgrim's Paths itinerary showcases a selection of the stunning natural environments in which these routes are found, whilst juxtaposing this with two of the nation's most iconic cities.

Your journey starts and ends in Tokyo, Japan's remarkable capital city. Here a visit to bustling Senso-ji Temple, where the smell of incense permeates the air and young and old alike queue to purchase their fortunes, gives a glimpse of a bygone Tokyo seemingly lost today in the steel, glass and neon of a skyscraper world. Contrast this with the über-modern, energy filled districts of Shinjuku and Shibuya where the pace never slows, and new and ever crazier trends spring forth.

A ride on Japan's Shinkansen 'Bullet Train' followed by a scenic local train ride hugging the coastline brings you to the pilgrimage Mecca of Ise. Millions
of Japanese come here every year to see the outer and inner shrines, the latter dedicated to Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess. Stroll through the extensive grounds before a traditional lunch in the restored old quarters.

A stay in Yunomine begins your exploration of the Kumano Kodo, a designated World Heritage route. This tiny village is a hidden gem tucked in a steep, wooded valley and home to one of the most unique onsen in Japan. We recommend an expert guide for a day to provide a local's introduction and lead you on a choice of nearby hiking trails. For the journey on to Chikatsuyu-oji you can choose to follow in the steps of the junreisha (pilgrims) and take on the challenging 24km hike through stunning scenery or alternatively, local buses can do some of the work for you!

A full day traversing the valleys and peaks on foot and by bus and you arrive at the mountain top sacred site of Koya-san. Here you'll stay in traditional temple lodgings, surrounded by thick forests and serving meals of shoujin ryori, traditional Buddhist cuisine. The early morning meditation ceremony is a unique experience and we also recommend a twilight walk through the vast Okunoin Cemetery.

Before returning to Tokyo by Shinkansen, the penultimate stop on your pilgrimage across Japan will be a true highlight: Kyoto. Here you will find the very best in arts, crafts, gardens and cuisine, as well as 17 World Heritage sites.

Historic cities, ancient forest paths, the most venerated of Shinto shrines and healing volcanic hot spring waters make this a very special spiritual journey through Japan.