When people hear the word “pilgrimage,” they often picture the Camino de Santiago or the ancient routes of Portugal and Italy. Yet Japan also has a remarkable pilgrimage tradition, with trails that wind through forests, mountains, and villages, leading travellers to temples and shrines that have been revered for centuries. These journeys allow you to slow down, reflect, and immerse yourself in a landscape rich with spirituality and culture.
At Walk the Camino, we’re proud to offer bespoke walking tours in Japan that will show you this beautiful country on foot. We’ve created this guide to walking and hiking tours in Japan to help you learn more about the various options available. If you have any questions or would like to start your journey, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
Why Walk the Pilgrimage Routes in Japan?
The pilgrim routes in Japan are unlike any other hiking experience. These trails date back hundreds of years and remain imbued with spiritual significance. Along the way, you also have a unique opportunity to experience the local culture, engaging in activities such as monk-led forest walks and washi-paper workshops.
These trails are also well-maintained to make for a comfortable journey. Accommodations range from welcoming ryokan inns to stays in onsen towns, while luggage transfer services allow you to walk freely with just a daypack. There’s no need to rough it or exhaust yourself on these stunning pilgrimages! Continue reading to discover more about our favourite hiking tours in Japan and how we can support you on your journey…
The Kumano Kodo: Japan’s Camino Through the Mountains
The Kumano Kodo, located on the Kii Peninsula south of Osaka, is a network of ancient pilgrimage trails that link three sacred shrines known as the Kumano Sanzan. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these pilgrimage routes and shrines provide a unique glimpse into Japanese history. It’s at these sites that you can see how Shintoism and Buddhism once fused before becoming separate religions.
There are multiple route options available, ranging in distances and difficulty. The most popular route is the Nakahechi, also known as the Imperial Route, which connects the three shrines. You can choose to embark on a multi-day hiking journey or break up the highlights over a number of shorter walks. Learn more about experiencing this pilgrimage with our guide to Exploring the Kumano Kodo.
With our Self-Guided Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour, you can enjoy full logistical support from our team as you take on the Nakahechi. Lasting six nights and covering over 55 kilometres, this is a moderate to strenuous journey made all the better with our seamless organisation. When you book with us, your accommodation and luggage transfers are included. We can also adjust the itinerary according to your fitness levels.
If you have completed the Camino de Santiago, you can even receive a dual certificate upon completing the Kumano Kodo! Should you still be planning on walking the Camino, browse our range of Camino de Santiago Tours!
The Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage: The Temple Route
On the island of Shikoku, this legendary circular route connects 88 temples associated with the Buddhist monk Kūkai. The entire circuit is more than 1,000 kilometres long and takes weeks to complete.
Those who undertake the Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage are known as o-henro-san and may even wear the traditional garb of white clothing and sedge hats. But while the pilgrims may appear from another century, you can still enjoy modern amenities and comfortable accommodations during your journey.
Along the way, you’ll pass through mountains, quiet villages, and even cities, stopping at as many temples of the 88 as possible. At each temple, pilgrims may make an offering or pray and chant. Whether you join this pilgrimage for spiritual reasons or not, you can expect this to be a truly enlightening journey. You can learn more about the route’s history with our Guide to Japan’s Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage.
If you want to undertake this unique pilgrimage, Walk the Camino offers a Shikoku 88 tour lasting eight days and covering over 67 kilometres. With accommodation and transport included, you can truly let go and be present during your pilgrimage. For the full itinerary and details, have a look at our Japan Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Route.
More Hiking Routes in Japan
While the Kumano Kodo and Shikoku 88 are the most famous pilgrimage walks, Japan offers other long-distance trails that evoke a similar spirit. The Nakasendō Way, once an old post road linking Kyoto and Tokyo, allows you to walk through preserved Edo-era towns and mountain passes. The Iseji Route, part of the Kumano network, connects the sacred Ise Shrine with the Kumano shrines along a dramatic mix of coast and mountains. These paths are less well-known internationally, but for those who love multi-day walks, they offer endless opportunities to explore.
Embark on Your Pilgrimage with Walk the Camino
When you choose to embark on your pilgrimage to Japan, the Walk the Camino team will be here to help you make it happen. With us, you’ll enjoy the freedom of a self-guided walk with the reassurance that all of the practical details are taken care of.
And if you’re interested in even more hiking tours, Walk the Camino offers routes across the globe, from pilgrimage routes in the UK to our El Camino tours in Spain. If you’re ready to begin your journey or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
