GROUP TOURS & RETREATS
Curated small group adventures that weave Kumano’s sacred trails with hands-on cultural experiences
Join our intimate small-group hiking tours of around 6 to 8 travelers. All options trace the legendary Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route while also branching into equally stunning corners of the Japanese countryside. We have designed each itinerary for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path immersion. With local guides, comfortable stays, and seamless logistics, you’ll move through cedar forests, hidden shrines, and rural villages while gaining a deeper understanding of Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Patron of the Arts: Traditional Crafts of Kyoto & Kumano
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12 days / 11 nights
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$10,999 USD per person
(shared double room) -
$12,499 USD per person
(private single room) -
November 6 to 17, 2026
In Kyoto, step away from the crowds and into narrow alleyways that lead to quiet workshops and private workspaces. From there, travel south to the Kumano region, where countryside craft traditions contrast the workshop culture of the city. Along the way, you’ll meet craftspeople working in their own studios, some among the last to carry techniques passed down through generations. Whether this is your first time in Japan or a return visit, this journey offers rare access to places, people, and practices that most travelers never encounter.
Taiko Retreat: Godai
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9 days / 8 nights
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$4,899 USD per person
(shared double room) -
$6,859 USD per person
(private single room) -
October 11-19, 2026 (Full, but please join our waitlist)
Experience the heartbeat of the Japanese countryside through an exclusive, tailor-made journey led by internationally renowned taiko artist and dancer Carrie Alita Carter. Taiko Retreat - Godai combines the powerful art of taiko drumming with the natural beauty of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail.
Torchlight Traditions: Japan Fire Festival Tour
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5 days / 4 nights
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$5,299 USD per person
(shared double room) -
$6,889 USD per person
(private single room) -
February 1 to February 7, 2027
Join an exclusive group to learn about and observe the legendary Oto Matsuri, Shingu City’s 1,000-year-old sacred fire festival. This rare cultural experience offers a unique window into Japan’s living history. Delve into Kumano's living spiritual history in a way that few have the chance to, with the safety of a 1:1 guide. Experience one of the most extraordinary rituals in the country.
Transparency
At Kumano Adventures, we want to ensure this experience aligns with what you're looking for. Each of our trips is thoughtfully designed, and this one has its own distinct pace, focus, and level of activity.
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Accommodations: In many traditional Japanese inns, you'll sleep on a futon (cushoned mat) laid out on a tatami (woven straw) floor. While it may be different from what you're used to, many guests find it to be a cozy and restful experience. If you have concerns about comfort or mobility, please let us know—we’re happy to discuss options to help you rest well.
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Meals: A typical Japanese meal includes a variety of small dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, seafood, and meat—often with a special emphasis on seafood and beef. Unlike in many Western restaurants, substitutions are not commonly offered, and menus are often fixed with limited options for customization. It’s important to know that traditional Japanese cuisine may not easily accommodate celiac or strictly vegetarian diets.
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Hot springs: In Japan, hot spring bathing is traditionally done without bathing suits and is typically enjoyed nude in gender-separated baths. For those who prefer more privacy, many facilities offer the option to reserve private hot spring rooms, where you can relax in comfort on your own or with a travel companion. Your trip manager can help you reserve space.
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Itinerary Changes: While we do our best to stick to the planned itinerary, sometimes unexpected changes come up—due to weather, local circumstances, or the availability of our partners on the ground. When that happens, we’ll let you know as soon as we can. Our priority is always to provide you with the best experience possible, even if that means adjusting plans along the way.
