Let us show you Japan behind the curtain

Aug 20, 2026

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Remember that 1980s mini-series Shōgun? Maybe you read James Clavell’s book instead. Both offered a glimpse behind the curtain of a Japan most Westerners had never seen.

A vibrant street scene with glowing red and pink paper lanterns displaying Japanese characters sets the stage for an enchanting walking tour. Signs and decorations enhance the festive atmosphere, immersing visitors in this lively urban setting.

Our eight-day Michinoku Coastal Trail pack-free guided walk does much the same – only this time, you’re part of the story.

A scenic coastal landscape with a traditional Japanese building atop a rocky hill, surrounded by ocean waves, awaits discovery on Walking Tours in Japan. A sandy beach and a red torii gate stand gracefully under a partly cloudy sky, inviting exploration and awe.

This is Japan beyond Tokyo’s bright lights and Kyoto’s crowds: a rugged, beautiful and deeply cultural corner of the country where spectacular coastline, ancient traditions, fascinating history and extraordinary Japanese food come together.

Explore the scenic view of rocky cliffs covered in green foliage jutting into the sea on a walking tour. The calm, blue water surrounds the cliffs, while lush greenery graces the foreground. The overcast sky adds a serene atmosphere to this picturesque adventure.

The scenery is pure cinematic Japan. Marvel at panoramic views from Kabushima Shrine, where thousands of seabirds wheel above dramatic cliffs and the Pacific stretches towards the horizon. Explore Tanesashi Fishing Port and sample some of the freshest seafood imaginable, before following peaceful coastal pathways near Itsukushima-Jinja Shrine. Then cruise beneath the towering Kitayamazaki Cliffs, watching this spectacular coastline unfold from a completely different perspective.

Two small boats with people in life vests navigate through clear blue waters near tall, rugged cliffs and dense green trees on a sunny day, offering a picturesque escape that rivals the beauty of any walking tour.

But the real story lies in the people, traditions and places you encounter along the way. Visit the Tsunami Monument and reflect on the extraordinary resilience of communities that have rebuilt their lives after devastating natural disasters. At a Fisherman’s Hut, sit down to enjoy freshly caught local delicacies and experience a taste of coastal life that most visitors to Japan never discover.

Guests wearing traditional yukata robes while enjoying an authentic stay at a Japanese ryokan in the Kiso Valley, Japan.

And because this is a pack-free adventure, you can concentrate on the walking rather than what’s on your back. Private transfers between sections of the Michinoku Coastal Trail mean you can walk as much or as little as you like each day, while comfortable accommodation awaits when the walking is done.

Traditional tatami guest room at Yogarasu Sanso Nagataki, a Japanese ryokan near Nakatsugawa on the historic Nakasendo Way.

Then comes another quintessential Japanese experience: a relaxing soak in a traditional onsen, where you can ease tired legs, unwind and let the day’s incredible images replay in your mind.

Seafood and antipasto buffet with sashimi, cured meats, salads, and fresh vegetables at Il Azzurri.

This is Japan walking at its most immersive – wild landscapes, ancient culture, remarkable resilience, unforgettable encounters and seriously good food. Forget simply visiting Japan. Step into the story and experience the Japan that lies beyond the tourist trail.