HIGH SEASON
In Japan, there are some periods when locals travel en masse as they are on holiday. These times are best avoided as the accommodation costs escalate considerably (more than double). It would make a lot of sense if you could avoid these times. Otherwise, see below for high-season periods. This could lead to the cost of the trip increasing by 30% or more.
SAKURA SEASON FOR KYOTO – MID WEEK OF MARCH TO APRIL
GOLDEN WEEK – GENERALLY BETWEEN 29TH APRIL TO 5TH MAY
OBON PERIOD – MID-AUGUST ( BETWEEN THE 10TH TO 20TH OF AUGUST)
KOYO SEASON – AUTUMN COLOUR CHANGE – MID OCTOBER ONWARDS DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER
Please speak to the Auswalk team to get a quote for the above times
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
On this walk, you will have to catch some trains in between the destinations, which is pretty straightforward whilst walking within each destination.
These transfers are all outlined clearly in the walk notes day by day as you go. None of these can be pre-booked, and they are the best way to get around Japan, as well as the most eco-friendly.
None of the transport costs a significant amount (i.e. $1.50 to $5.00). If you catch a taxi you could be up for $15 to $30.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
We have included meals when it makes sense, but when you are somewhere like Kyoto, with thousands if not more eateries, we have left you to your own devices. We try to make recommendations, but note that following the crowds and waiting in line is sometimes quite time-consuming. Walking around and tasting the variety of exceptional food is one of the highlights of Kyoto.
The entry fees into the numerous temples, shrines and gardens are not included. These can add up to about 2500 Yen ($25) a day. Trying to prebook these is not possible.
Some taxis (possibly 2 or 3) are recommended instead of the subway; these can be as much as 2000 Yen ($20) each. Taxi travel in Japan is at Western prices, but it is very efficient – taxis are everywhere and easy to catch.
The above is straightforward and will be explained in detail in your walking notes. Note: We don’t advise organising private transfers, as these are very expensive in Japan and unlikely to enhance your experience.
It is necessary to carry cash as some purchases can only be made with cash. Japan is very safe.
AVAILABILITY
This walk is available all year round, but you may encounter some snow from December to February. Many people prefer to walk in spring to see the cherry blossoms and in autumn because of the change of seasons and the good weather. Summer is very hot in Kyoto, so either walk at another time or we suggest starting early each day.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
It makes sense to fly into Osaka. However if you choose Tokyo, it is a short bullet 2.5 hr train ride to Kyoto from Tokyo.
Travelling to the start of the walk
The first part of this walk starts in Kyoto. If you arrive in Osaka, the train station is outside the airport. There are English-speaking people to buy tickets at the station. Once in Kyoto, unless you are staying at the upgrade (which is at the station), it is best to catch a taxi to your accommodation instead of dragging your bags.
From Kyoto, we catch a train to each of the destinations. The details are outlined in the notes you will receive six weeks out from departure.
By Air: The best option is to fly into Osaka (or Tokyo if it suits you or is way cheaper) and take the train from there. You can take the train direct from Osaka Kansai Airport to Kyoto. The train station is at the airport, and English-speaking staff are at the ticket office. You might consider spending some time in Osaka – an exciting city with many beautiful temples and Osaka Castle. In spring, it is wonderful. It also has a sophisticated restaurant culture and markets that seem to go on for kilometres.
By Rail: Japan has one of the best train systems in the world, so it’s straightforward to catch a train to any destination in the country. An express train is the fastest way to travel to the area. Travelling in Japan on trains is a seamless experience, and pre-purchase tickets are not always necessary. Plenty of rail staff speak English well enough to direct you the right way and converse with you about how to buy your ticket. We can provide more information if you wish, so please ask one of our destination consultants. Hyperdia is the best resource for planning your train travel in Japan.
Always pay for reserved seats to avoid the hassle of standing and also enjoy the added advantage of having a place to store bigger bags.
Travelling from the end of the walk
By rail: Same as above in reverse.
By Air: See above
WALKING
The walk is over 50 km in length and is moderate to moderate to challenging, with some long days if you wish. Full-day walks average about 15 km with 5 –8. hours walking each day; however, the walks can be extended if you wish to as long as 20 km (you can also shorten almost all the days).
For what to bring, please refer to Gear Advice in our FAQ section.
WEATHER
From the end of March, the temperature begins to increase. In summer, it’s quite warm and humid but still possible to walk, particularly if you enjoy warmer temperatures and taking a dip in a stream. However, in Kyoto, it gets very hot at an average of 33 degrees Celsius with a humidity of 69%. In this case, it is best to avoid summer or be prepared to walk early in the morning in Kyoto. Walking early comes with the added benefit of avoiding the crowds all year round!
As walkers, spring and autumn are the best times as the weather is perfect for walking.
See the weather information about Kyoto’s average weather at different times of the year.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips requiring international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred by our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For over 30 years, we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.
IMPORTANT - SOLO WALKERS
For your safety and well-being, we are unable to accept bookings for solo walkers on this self-guided trip. The remote nature of some tracks and limited mobile reception mean that walking alone presents a higher risk in case of emergencies.
SELF GUIDED
5 DAYS 
Moderate 
SELF GUIDED
5 DAYS 
Moderate 
Mark F
We throughly enjoyed the Japanese walking holiday that Auswalk has put together, the transfers worked smoothly and we always felt well supported. Auswalks gave us prompt updates regarding snowfalls we experienced. Highly recommended.