Photo: Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Journey highlights
- Overnight temple stay (shukubo) on Mount Koya
- Dawn at Fushimi Inari
- Ise Grand Shrine
- Floating torii at Miyajima
Itinerary at a glance
- Days 1-3
Kyoto and Nara
Fushimi Inari at dawn, the temples of Kyoto and the Great Buddha of Todai-ji.
- Days 4-5
Mount Koya
Night in a temple lodging, morning prayers and the Okunoin cemetery.
- Days 6-7
Ise
The Inner and Outer Shrines, the holiest in Shinto.
- Days 8-11
Miyajima
Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen, then departure.
Every itinerary is a starting point. We adjust days, hotels and rituals to your wishes in the quote.
What is included
- Handpicked hotels and guesthouses close to the sacred sites
- All ground transfers in private, air-conditioned vehicles
- Expert local guide versed in the tradition and its etiquette
- Temple, shrine and site entry arrangements where available
- Daily breakfast, with vegetarian and dietary needs respected
- 24/7 trip support from our team before and during travel
Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Personal offerings, donations and tips
Frequently asked questions
What is a temple stay on Mount Koya?
A shukubo is a guest lodging inside a working Buddhist temple. You sleep on futons, eat shojin ryori (vegetarian temple cuisine) and may join the monks at morning prayers. Mount Koya has dozens of them, and anyone may stay.
Can visitors enter the Ise Grand Shrine?
Visitors walk the forested grounds and pray at the outer fence of each main sanctuary, but the inner buildings are reserved for priests and the imperial family. The shrines are rebuilt every 20 years in a rite called Shikinen Sengu.
How much does the Japan: The Sacred Path cost?
The Japan: The Sacred Path is priced on enquiry. The cost depends on your travel dates, group size, hotel category and any extras such as private rituals or a personal guide. Send an enquiry and a specialist will reply with a tailored quote.
How many days is the Japan: The Sacred Path?
The standard itinerary is 11 days. It can be shortened or extended to suit you.
When is the best time for the Japan: The Sacred Path?
March to May and October to November
How demanding is the Japan: The Sacred Path?
The pace is moderate. It is ideal for mindful travelers and lovers of Japanese culture.
