Active Adventure in Japan & China: Hiking Trails, Hot Springs & Iconic Landmarks - 14 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Osaka (Japan), Train to Tanabe, Bus to Hongu, Explore at Leisure

Welcome to Japan's third-largest city, Osaka! Upon arrival, transfer to the station for a 2.5-hour train ride to Tanabe. From there, you'll catch a two-hour bus to Kawayu Onsen, a natural hot spring town nestled along the Otogawa River in Hongu. When you arrive, check in at your hotel, then spend the rest of the day roaming around town, strolling along the riverbank to see hot water bubbles surfacing from the riverbed, or unwinding in the river's onsen (hot spring) surrounded by mountains and lush forests. You can even dig your own open-air onsen bath on the shores of the riverbank.

After luxuriating in this geological thermal wonder, visit a local restaurant that serves kaiseki-ryōri (a traditional multicourse Japanese dinner). Try a variety of dishes, such as sashimi (thinly sliced raw fish), miso soup, and tempura (lightly battered and deep-fried seafood, vegetables, or meat), before walking back to your hotel for a restful sleep.

Day 2: Hike a Portion of the Kumano Kodo Trail, Unwind in Tsubo-yu

Lace up your hiking boots and begin your active adventure with a trek along a portion of the 43-mile (70 km) Kumano Kodo trail. You'll start with a 30-minute bus ride to Hosshinmon-oj, a Shinto shrine that marks the starting point for today's 4.6-mile (7.5 km) trek. Once there, set off down the stone-paved path, climbing moss-covered stairways and following the route of ancient pilgrims. See centuries-old cedar trees, lush fields, and expansive tea plantations as you walk until you reach the monumental Orotti Gate at the entrance of Kumano Hongu-taisha, one of three major shrines in Kumano.

Discover the sacred grounds and main hall adorned with a thatched roof, intricate woodwork, and vermilion accents. Then, visit the nearby Kumano Hongu Heritage Center to learn about the rich history of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and browse the artifacts, ancient maps, and insightful displays. Be sure to see Oyunohara, the largest torii gate in the world at 111 feet (33.9 m). Once you've explored the area, hop on a bus for a 10-minute transfer to Yunomine Onsen, home to the only UNESCO-listed hot spring in the world, Tsubo-yu, where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing.

Day 3: Cruise the Kumano River, Train to Nacihi-Katsuura

Retrace the historic Kumano Kodo water pilgrimage route this morning with a private guide. Start with a 40-minute transfer to the boat tour center, where you'll board a traditional wooden boat and cruise down the Kumano River. Observe the lush greenery, ancient forests, and sacred sites lining the riverbanks while listening for the occasional bird call. After the cruise, visit Kumano Hayatama Taisha, a Shinto shrine nestled in the coastal town of Shingu. Enter the main hall to see the ancient nagi tree within the complex, showcasing the shrine's balance of intricate architecture and nature.

When you're ready, climb 538 stone steps lined with torii gates to Kamikura-jinja, believed to be where the gods of Kumano first descended to Earth. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the coastal town below and the glittering river. Once you've explored the shrine, descend the mountain and head to the station for a 20-minute train journey to the picturesque town of Nacihi-Katsuura, on the Kii Peninsula, renowned for its therapeutic onsens overlooking the water and fresh seafood markets. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the evening relaxing in an onsen or savoring locally caught delicacies.

Day 4: Hike to Kumano Nachi-Taisha & Nachi Waterfall

Explore another portion of the Kumano Kodo trail today, starting with a 20-minute bus ride to the Daimonzaka Slope to begin a half-day trek. Follow the ancient stone path into the cedar forest, looking out for the moss-covered lanterns and stone markers that allude to the historical significance of this trail. As you walk, listen for the distant sounds of flowing water from the Nachi River until you reach Kumano Nachi-Taisha, a Shinto shrine located halfway up Nachi Mountain, after 1.5 hours of walking.

Enter at the towering torii gate and stroll to Seiganto-ji, a red-and-orange temple overlooking the tallest single-tiered waterfall in Japan, Nachi Falls, standing at 436 feet (133 m). After admiring the cascading water, enter the temple to see the intricate architectural details up close and explore the treasure hall full of historical artifacts. Following the hike, rest your feet on a 30-minute transfer back to Nacihi-Katsuura. Then, spend the rest of the day relaxing in one of the town's onsens or visit the Katsuura Fish Market, famous for its fresh catches and lively tuna auctions.

Day 5: Train to Osaka, Self-Guided Exploration of Japan's Third-Largest City

Trade Nachi-Katsuura's tranquil hot springs and scenic waterfalls for Osaka's lively energy and vibrant street food scene as you return to the city on a four-hour train ride. Make your way to the hotel to check in and refresh, then venture out to explore the city on your own. If you're not too tired, you could head to Universal Studios Japan, a world-class theme park with an array of rides, performances, and food based on movies and TV shows. If rides aren't your thing, you can immerse yourself in the realms of fantasy and adventure by meeting your favorite characters or watching them perform in live shows.

Those who want a more relaxing afternoon can enjoy a cruise along the Okawa River, passing under intricate bridges and along towering buildings. Look for iconic landmarks on the shores, like Osaka Castle or Osaka City Hall, with its distinct twin towers. Try to time your cruise in order to watch the sunset over the water and the city's skyline. In the evening, visit the Kuromon Ichiba Market, better known as "Osaka's Kitchen," to browse the array of stalls and try local delights like sizzling takoyaki, deep-fried octopus balls covered in a sweet sauce and bonito flakes. 

Day 6: Fly to Shanghai (China), Enjoy a Traditional Benbang Dinner

Say goodbye to Osaka and Japan this morning as you transfer to the airport for a 2.5-hour flight to Shanghai, China's largest metropolis. Transfer to your hotel to check in and freshen up before exploring the city at leisure. A good place to start is People's Square, where you'll find landmarks like the Shanghai Museum. Step inside to peruse the collection of over 120,000 artifacts, including ancient ceramics, intricate calligraphy, and colorful paintings. Then, take a leisurely walk in People's Park, featuring tranquil ponds, vibrant flowerbeds, and lush greenery.

In the evening, visit a local restaurant on your own to sample Shanghai's traditional benbang cuisine, which originated in the Ming and Qing dynasties. This traditional style of cooking features sweet and savory dishes made with fresh ingredients. You'll be spoiled for choice with plenty of delicious dishes to try, such as delicate xiaolongbao (dumplings filled with soup and pork), xiang you shan hu (sautéed mashed eel), and shi zi tou (meatballs made from minced pork and water chestnuts). End the night with a sweet treat of eight-treasure rice (glutinous rice adorned with candied fruits, nuts, and red bean paste).

Day 7: Full-Day Highlights Tour of Shanghai 

Join your guide on a full-day highlights tour of Shanghai, starting at the Bund, a historic waterfront promenade. Enjoy sweeping views of the futuristic Pudong district across the Huangpu River, and listen as your guide shares how the city evolved from a small fishing village to one of the world's largest financial centers. Then, head to Yuyuan Garden, a serene oasis amid the urban landscape. Wander through the landscaped courtyards, meandering paths, and scenic pavilions adorned with intricate details.

Cross over the delicate bridges to admire the lotus ponds beneath before continuing to Yuyuan Bazaar just outside the garden. Browse the stalls full of local snacks, handicrafts, and antiques to find the perfect souvenir to take home. Continue to the former French Concession, with its tree-lined streets and charming colonial architecture, for a stroll through the bohemian neighborhood. Then, end the day at China's tallest building, Shanghai Tower, at 2,073 feet (632 m). Take the ultra-high-speed elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis and winding river.

Day 8: Train to Huangshan City, Explore the Historic Villages of Hongcun & Xidi

Leave the bustling metropolis of Shanghai behind this morning as you hop on a three-hour, high-speed train to Huangshan City, the gateway to the iconic mountain range of the same name. When you arrive, check into your hotel and prepare for a half-day tour of two historic villages. You'll first head off on a 1.5-hour transfer to the UNESCO-listed Hongcun, known for its well-preserved Hui-style buildings, featuring elegant curved roofs and intricate wooden carvings. Wander along the narrow cobblestone streets to admire the whitewashed houses, tranquil waterways, and traditional shops.

If you've watched the movie "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," you may recognize some of the scenery as the village was a prime filming location. Then, trade one UNESCO World Heritage Site for another as you transfer 30 minutes to Xidi to admire more historic village architecture. See the traditional courtyards and ancient ancestral halls surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. Then, stop to sample Xidi's famous tofu and traditional pastries, like moon cakes or tangyuan (glutinous rice dumplings), before returning to your hotel in the city.

Day 9: Explore the Magnificent Huangshan Mountain Range

Day 10: Continue Exploring the Huangshan Mountain Range

Get up early and stroll to the nearby Refreshing Terrace on Lion Peak to see the first light of dawn break over the mountains. Watch as the sun slowly rises, piercing through the mist and casting the rugged granite formations in a soft, golden glow. Then, return to your hotel for a delicious breakfast. Once you've refueled, head to the North Sea Scenic Area to discover the different viewing platforms, such as the Dawn Pavilion and Shixin Peak, offering far-reaching views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

You'll also discover plenty of interesting rock formations, like Monkey Gazing at the Sea, named for its resemblance to a contemplative primate. Now that you've thoroughly explored Huangshan's mesmerizing landscapes and iconic peaks, take the cable car back down the mountain and transfer to your hotel in the city. 

Day 11: Train to Hangzhou, Fly to Beijing, Peking Duck Dining Experience

Day 12: Explore the Forbidden City & Beijing's Hutongs

Spend the day exploring Beijing's iconic landmarks, starting in the heart of the city at Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square. Follow your guide across the massive space to see the Monument to the People's Heroes, the National Museum of China, and the Mao Zedong Mausoleum. When you reach the square's northern end, you'll find the Forbidden City. This UNESCO-listed complex served as the imperial residence for nearly five centuries, housing 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1368 to 1912 CE.

Enter to explore the expansive courtyards and discover the array of meticulously designed halls, pavilions, and gardens. Be sure to note the intricate details of the palace's architecture, like the iconic yellow roofs and ornate dragon carvings. In the afternoon, take a pedicab or stroll through Beijing's historic hutongs—a labyrinthine network of narrow alleys lined with siheyuans (traditional homes)—to learn about the locals' way of life. These neighborhoods are living museums, offering a window into the city's past. As you weave through them, see residents drink tea, play mahjong, and shop at local markets.

Day 13: Visit the Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall & Changling Tomb 

No trip to China is complete without visiting the iconic Great Wall, built over 2,000 years ago from the seventh century BCE. You'll first transfer to the Mutianyu section of the wall, renowned for its well-preserved watchtowers and fortifications, so you can better understand its strategic importance during ancient times. Once there, you can ascend the stone steps or ride up in the cable car to walk along the top of the wall. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside as you trek from two to six hours, depending on the route you and your guide choose. 

After exploring the wall, head back down to the Changling Tomb, one of many Ming tombs in the Changping district. This one, in particular, is the tomb of Emperor Zhudi, who played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Ming dynasty, and his Empress Xushi. To enter the tomb's main hall, traverse the Sacred Way, flanked by carved stone statues and dense foliage. Explore the burial chamber inside and pay your respects to the emperor and empress while you learn more about their contributions to China's rich history before returning to your hotel in Beijing.

Day 14: Depart Beijing

Now that you've spent two weeks exploring Japan and China on active adventures, your journey is coming to a close today. If you have some time before your flight, you can visit the Summer Palace on your own. Nestled on the shores of Kunming Lake, this UNESCO-listed landmark is brimming with pagodas, pavilions, and bridges, all strategically placed to create a harmonious blend of nature and architecture.

Stroll down the Long Corridor, adorned with thousands of hand-painted scenes of the Qing dynasty's history, or take a boat ride across the lake for a different perspective of the palace grounds. Just keep an eye on the clock, as a driver will be meeting you back at the hotel to take you to the airport in time for your flight home. Safe travels!