NORTHERN ALPS HIKING
Highlights | Sample Itinerary
Highlights
10DAYS
NORTHERN ALPS HIKING
Embark on a 10-day adventure through Japan's hidden gems! Rise before dawn to behold Matsumoto Castle, trek through ancient villages, conquer the peaks of Hakuba-Oike and Yudonosan, and find serenity at Yamadera Temple. Sail to the secluded Sado Island, soak in RengeOnsen's hot springs, and climb the 2,446 steps of Mount Haguro. This journey, brimming with history, nature, and local wonders, will leave you rejuvenated and awestruck.
****This tour doesn't include Seat-In-Coach (SIC) tour(s).
Sample Itinerary
*** It's recommended to make reservations far ahead of your arrival date due to the limited number of hotels and rooms.
DAY 1: TOKYO - MATSUMOTO
Today, we will transfer from Tokyo to Matsumoto. Our journey begins in the charming town of Matsumoto, where history whispers from every corner. Rise before dawn and witness the majestic Matsumoto Castle emerge from the mist, its black and white facade a stark contrast against the rising sun. Feel the cool stone beneath your fingers as you climb the keep, and let your imagination paint a picture of samurai warriors clashing in its shadow.
DAY 2: SHIONOMICHI ROAD
Meet your local guide, a seasoned adventurer who knows the secrets of the surrounding mountains. Together, you'll embark on a trek along the Shionomichi Road, a path that winds through centuries-old villages and verdant forests. Enjoy the local lifestyle at the old folk house, and take a rest for the hiking on the next day.
DAY 3: MATSUMOTO - HAKUBA-OIKE
Rise with the sun and leave civilization behind as you take a taxi to arrive at and tackle the challenging climb to the Tsugaike Plateau. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you navigate rocky trails and traverse the vast Watasu wetlands. The journey takes 4 hours and a half including lunchtime. Finally, reach the crown jewel - Hakuba-Oike, a turquoise lake nestled amidst snow-capped peaks. Spend the night in a cozy mountain hut, sharing stories under the star-studded sky.
Day 4: HAKUBA-OIKE - SENKIONSEN
Descend from the mountain, your legs burning with accomplishment with a journey that takes 5 hours and a half including lunch time, and reach Naoetsu. Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters of RengeOnsen. This hidden hot spring, nestled in the heart of the mountains, offers four distinct pools, each with its own unique mineral properties. Let the steam soothe your muscles and the silence wash away your worries.
DAY 5: SADO ISLAND
Sail away by ferry to Sado Island, a jewel in the East Sea. This isolated haven boasts rugged coastlines, lush rice fields, and a vibrant culture untouched by time. Enjoy its superb nature and beautiful landscapes like the ocean mountain river lake and rice field.
DAY 6: SADO ISLAND
Dive into the heart of Sado at Ryotsu, the island's main port. Wander through bustling markets, sample fresh seafood at the restaurant, and soak in the natural wonder of the Sado Onsen ryokan, a traditional Japanese hot spring inn. This is your chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sado people.
DAY 7: MOUNT YUDONOSAN
Journey to the sacred slopes of Mount Yudonosan, one of the three peaks of the Dewasanzan mountains. This mystical place is said to be a gateway to the heavens, and its shrine, hidden within the mountain itself, pulsates with ancient energy. Hike through the ancient cedar forests of Yudensan shrine, Mt. Gassan, and Busseiti for 4 hours and a half and feel the weight of centuries of devotion as you climb towards the summit.
DAY 8: MOUNT HAGURO
Descend from Yudonosan and face the challenge of Mount Haguro. Ascend the legendary 2,446 steps, each one is a testament to the human spirit's quest for enlightenment. Reach the top and bask in the breathtaking panorama, a reward for your physical and spiritual journey.
DAY 9: YAMADERA
Travel to Yamadera, a Buddhist temple nestled deep within the mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of wooden architecture, perched precariously on a cliff face. Climb the hundreds of steps, each one is a prayer for peace, and soak in the tranquility of the temple gardens. In the evening, relax in the famed Ginzanonsen hot spring area, said to have inspired the anime film "Spirited Away."
DAY 10: DEPARTURE
With a heart full of memories and a soul rejuvenated, you will move to Yamagata airport and bid farewell to the trip.
DAY 1: TOKYO - MATSUMOTO
Today, we will transfer from Tokyo to Matsumoto. Our journey begins in the charming town of Matsumoto, where history whispers from every corner. Rise before dawn and witness the majestic Matsumoto Castle emerge from the mist, its black and white facade a stark contrast against the rising sun. Feel the cool stone beneath your fingers as you climb the keep, and let your imagination paint a picture of samurai warriors clashing in its shadow.
DAY 2: SHIONOMICHI ROAD
Meet your local guide, a seasoned adventurer who knows the secrets of the surrounding mountains. Together, you'll embark on a trek along the Shionomichi Road, a path that winds through centuries-old villages and verdant forests. Enjoy the local lifestyle at the old folk house, and take a rest for the hiking on the next day.
DAY 3: MATSUMOTO - HAKUBA-OIKE
Rise with the sun and leave civilization behind as you take a taxi to arrive at and tackle the challenging climb to the Tsugaike Plateau. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you navigate rocky trails and traverse the vast Watasu wetlands. The journey takes 4 hours and a half including lunchtime. Finally, reach the crown jewel - Hakuba-Oike, a turquoise lake nestled amidst snow-capped peaks. Spend the night in a cozy mountain hut, sharing stories under the star-studded sky.
Day 4: HAKUBA-OIKE - SENKIONSEN
Descend from the mountain, your legs burning with accomplishment with a journey that takes 5 hours and a half including lunch time, and reach Naoetsu. Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters of RengeOnsen. This hidden hot spring, nestled in the heart of the mountains, offers four distinct pools, each with its own unique mineral properties. Let the steam soothe your muscles and the silence wash away your worries.
DAY 5: SADO ISLAND
Sail away by ferry to Sado Island, a jewel in the East Sea. This isolated haven boasts rugged coastlines, lush rice fields, and a vibrant culture untouched by time. Enjoy its superb nature and beautiful landscapes like the ocean mountain river lake and rice field.
DAY 6: SADO ISLAND
Dive into the heart of Sado at Ryotsu, the island's main port. Wander through bustling markets, sample fresh seafood at the restaurant, and soak in the natural wonder of the Sado Onsen ryokan, a traditional Japanese hot spring inn. This is your chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sado people.
DAY 7: MOUNT YUDONOSAN
Journey to the sacred slopes of Mount Yudonosan, one of the three peaks of the Dewasanzan mountains. This mystical place is said to be a gateway to the heavens, and its shrine, hidden within the mountain itself, pulsates with ancient energy. Hike through the ancient cedar forests of Yudensan shrine, Mt. Gassan, and Busseiti for 4 hours and a half and feel the weight of centuries of devotion as you climb towards the summit.
DAY 8: MOUNT HAGURO
Descend from Yudonosan and face the challenge of Mount Haguro. Ascend the legendary 2,446 steps, each one is a testament to the human spirit's quest for enlightenment. Reach the top and bask in the breathtaking panorama, a reward for your physical and spiritual journey.
DAY 9: YAMADERA
Travel to Yamadera, a Buddhist temple nestled deep within the mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of wooden architecture, perched precariously on a cliff face. Climb the hundreds of steps, each one is a prayer for peace, and soak in the tranquility of the temple gardens. In the evening, relax in the famed Ginzanonsen hot spring area, said to have inspired the anime film "Spirited Away."
DAY 10: DEPARTURE
With a heart full of memories and a soul rejuvenated, you will move to Yamagata airport and bid farewell to the trip.
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