Let’s show Japan on the path and on the water

Jul 25, 2025

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Let’s show Japan on the path and on the water

Our Japan tours go far beyond walking — they’re about immersing you in the real Japan, the one most tourists never get to see.

A traditional Japanese shrine surrounded by red torii gates awaits on walking tours. The building, with its curved roof, nestles among tall green trees. Stone lanterns and statues enhance the tranquil setting, offering a serene experience for visitors.

A perfect example is our 9-day Michinoku Coastal Trail pack-free guided walk, which blends natural beauty, culture, and authentic local experiences.

On day four, you’ll explore the breathtaking Sanriku Coast, known for its towering cliffs, rugged shoreline, and sweeping ocean vistas. But the highlight of the day? A ride on a traditional sapa boat — an unforgettable, close-up encounter with the dramatic 200-meter-high cliffs of Kitayamazaki and the striking rock formations around Tanohata.

A scenic coastal view with a calm bay surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush green forests creates an inviting backdrop for walking tours. The sky is partly cloudy, and a large tree branch frames the top of the image, adding to the picturesque tranquility.

This region is famously nicknamed the “Ocean Alps” — and it’s easy to see why. The coastline here offers some of the most spectacular and unspoiled views in all of Japan. Unlike anything you’ll find in a guidebook, this experience connects you with the raw, natural beauty of the northern Tohoku region, where the mountains meet the sea in a dramatic clash of elements.

Now, you might be wondering — what exactly is a sapa boat?

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.

A sapa boat is a traditional wooden fishing vessel once common along Japan’s coastlines, especially in areas like Wakayama and the Seto Inland Sea. With a flat bottom and simple oars, the sapa was designed to navigate calm, shallow waters with ease. While they were originally used for fishing and daily coastal life, today they offer a more serene and culturally rich experience.

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.

Gliding through tranquil waters, you’ll pass rocky shores, sleepy fishing villages, and forested inlets — all while being guided by local fishermen who know these waters better than anyone. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a window into Japan’s maritime heritage, a quiet and reflective journey through the rhythms of traditional coastal life.

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 the kind of hidden experience that sets our tours apart — not just sightseeing, but truly seeing Japan.