12-Nights Sacred Lakes & Mountains of Northern Japan

MT Sobek

In Japan, mountains are objects of worship where powerful spirits reside. This itinerary explores Northern Honshu's revered mountain destinations, dripping with legend and tradition, bookended with tours of modern Tokyo and historic Nikko. From Nikko National Park's UNESCO-listed temples to the volcanic Hakkoda Mountains and Dewa Sanzan—home to sacred mountains and Shugendo's holiest shrines—experience the connection with nature that infuses Japanese life and culture. Hike along sparkling lakes and mountain streams, and rejuvenate in a charming onsen. Explore northern Japan's beautiful, sacred spaces on this specially crafted adventure!

Highlights:

• Escape to northern Japan and hike it's unspoiled lakes, high-altitude wetlands, and lush gorges
• Discover Japan's "mountain faith" — Shugendo, with deeply rooted spiritual traditions, in sacred Dewa Sanzan
• See Nikko's UNESCO-listed sites, unwind in natural hot springs, and overnight in traditional ryokans

Important Trip Details:
You will be walking 2-5 hours and 1-8 miles a day on flat paths and mountain trails through the Japanese countryside, visiting idyllic villages, ancient temples, and traditional inns. Elevations are between 500 and 3,500 feet. There are some steady climbs that require stamina. You need to be in good health and physical condition for this trip.

Minimum Age: 13

Featured Destinations

Tokyo Tokyo Tokyo, Japan, presents a different view at every turn. It's one of the world's main economic centers and its most populous agglomeration. The business of Tokyo is business, but you can still find harmony and small-scale gardens on back streets. Around the corner from neon and concrete, you may find the bonsai-lined courtyard of a traditional inn. Tokyo was nearly destroyed by bombs and fires during World War II, and by earthquakes at other times, but it has always rebuilt itself. As a result, there is little left of Old Japan in the city, but there's plenty of New Japan to take its place. The streets are a confusing maze, so a map is essential. The transit system is excellent, however, and there are kobans (police boxes) throughout the metropolis, as well as a populace generally willing to answer questions. Visitors to Tokyo represent both business and leisure travelers. And despite its past reputation, Tokyo is no longer fearsomely expensive. It's relatively easy to visit Tokyo on a budget.	Destination Guide
Nikko Nikko In Nikko, Japan, visit the fabulous Yomeimon Gate and the Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of the first Tokugawa Shogun.	Destination Guide
Ginzan Onsen
Haguro-San
Sukayu Onsen
Mount Hakkoda
Oirase Gorge

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