Join us on a guided walk beneath Japan’s famous cherry blossoms

Aug 27, 2026

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On Life’s An Adventure’s 7-day guided Nakasendo Way pack-free walk, you’ll step back in time and follow the ancient route once travelled by samurai, merchants and pilgrims.

A traditional Japanese castle with curved rooftops stands under a clear blue sky, framed by blooming pink cherry blossoms and green trees—a perfect highlight for walking tours that prove life’s an adventure.

And if you time your journey for spring, you’ll experience one of Japan’s most magical sights: cherry blossoms in bloom.

A beautiful scene featuring cherry blossoms fully in bloom overhanging a calm river, reminiscent of a Cherry Blossom Sale. The blossoms form a canopy, their pink hues reflected on the water's surface. Soft, glowing lanterns line the walkway, creating a serene ambiance.

The delicate pink and white flowers provide a spectacular backdrop as you walk through the Japanese Alps, ancient forests and beautifully preserved post towns.

A traditional Japanese castle with green-tiled roofs stands majestically under a clear blue sky. In the foreground, pink cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, framing the scene beautifully—an idyllic sight that promises unforgettable moments for those on walking holidays.

Places such as Magome and Tsumago retain their Edo-era character, with cobblestone streets, wooden buildings, traditional teahouses and old watermills. In Japanese culture, the short-lived cherry blossom is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life – making these moments beneath the sakura all the more special.

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

But there’s far more to this journey than blossoms. You’ll walk through the peaceful Kiso Valley, visit the sacred Mount Ontake pilgrimage route and discover waterfalls, shrines and ancient forest trails.

Guest standing beside a spectacular waterfall on the Mt Ontake Pilgrim Trail in the Kiso Valley, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.

You’ll also explore Narai, another beautifully preserved post town, before finishing with a walk towards Karuizawa and a visit to the spectacular Shiraito Waterfall.

Guests walking through a traditional Japanese village on the historic Nakasendo Way in the scenic Kiso Valley.

The experience also includes some wonderful cultural highlights. In Kyoto, you’ll take part in a traditional tea ceremony dressed in a kimono, while a Japanese woodblock printmaking experience offers a chance to create your own piece of art. There’s also a sake experience in Kiso Fukushima, plus plenty of opportunities to enjoy Japan’s renowned food and hospitality.

Wow-mazing inclusions on a Life's An Adventure guided walk

And because this is a pack-free adventure, your luggage is transported between accommodations, leaving you to walk with just the essentials. Private vehicle transfers and flexible walking options mean you can enjoy the trail at your own pace, without worrying about public transport or carrying a heavy pack.

EARLYBIRDS SAVINGS
Book for 2027 departures and Earlybirds SAVE $300 per person for guests who have travelled with us before and SAVE $200 per person for new guests!