Preparing for the Kumano Kodo with a purification ceremony
Legend has it that the gods of the three main Kumano shrines were ceremonially transferred from Kumano Hongu Taisha and…
Walking the Nyonin-michi Women’s Pilgrimage in Koyasan
Up until 1872, women were not permitted into Koyasan, a village high in the Kii mountains. Instead, they would carry out…
Exploring the narrow backstreets of Nakatsugawa on the Nakasendo Way
After a few days soaking up the sights of Kyoto prior to my Nakasendo Way walk, I decided to head off early to Nakatsuga…
Your Ultimate Guide to Japanese onsens (hot spring bathing)
If you’re a traveller hoping to embark on a journey to the heart of Japanese culture, you cannot miss Japanese hot…
Japanese Food – A work of art
Anyone who has hiked in Japan will tell you that a significant part of the experience is the food – and it will definite…
Discovering the secrets of Kiso-Fukushima
All of the post towns along Japan’s ancient Nakasendo Way have something special of interest. The beautifully restored a…
Why I love Kyoto
Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is a wonderful contrast between old and new, modern and traditional, energy and sere…
You say Camino, I say Kumano
If you’ve completed the Camino (or a section of it) across northern Spain there’s a good chance you will want to walk th…
Where to stay on the Kumano Kodo: accommodation along the pilgrimage
Ask any of the pilgrims who’ve walked the Kumano Kodo and they will tell you it’s much more than a walking t…
Hiking Japan with dietary requirements
The Japanese are very traditional around food and food etiquette, and while Japanese food is incredibly tasty and “clean…
Do I need a Japan Rail Pass?
So you’re heading to Japan, all excited about your Kumano Kodo or Nakasendo Way trek…or perhaps still thinking abo…
Miyajima: Japan’s sacred shrine island
When planning a holiday to Japan most people think of Tokyo and Kyoto. If you are planning on extending your stay in Jap…