Japan Northern Explorer

16 days (Tokyo)

Destinations visited: Japan, Tokyo, World

Grading:

Adventure touring level

Grading Definitions

Discovery & Cruising

These are our least demanding trips. These journeys of discovery and cruises involve little or no extended activity and are suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health. The itinerary may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and may involve long travel days on various types of transport. Sightseeing may be conducted on foot and all participants should be capable of carrying their own luggage from vehicle to hotel rooms. These adventures do not go above 2500m and rarely involve camping.
Suggested preparation: Once or twice a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour, for at least 2 -3 months prior to departure.

Adventure Touring

Suggested preparation: Two or three times a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour or more, for at least 3 months prior to departure.

Introductory

These trips involve trekking or walking, cycling, rafting or sea kayaking for up to five or six hours a day at a slow but steady pace and should never be misinterpreted to mean they are easy trips. These trips do not spend time at altitudes above 4000m and are usually a week in duration. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health.
Suggested preparation: 30 minutes of aerobic type exercise, (either cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trek. For trekking, hill walking with a daypack in variable weather conditions is also recommended. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week for three months prior to departure is recommended.

Introductory to Moderate

These trips involve a combination of what is described in our INTRODUCTORY and MODERATE levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity with several moderate stages

Moderate

These adventures involve trekking, cycling, rafting or sea kayaking for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. These trips may spend successive days at altitudes not generally exceeding 5,500m and are usually between 10 and 15 days in duration. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health.
Suggested preparation: 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to five times a week for the three months leading up to your trek. Hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling is also recommended depending upon the activity you plan to undertake.

Moderate to Challenging

These adventures involve trekking, cycling, rafting or sea kayaking for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. These trips may spend successive days at altitudes not generally exceeding 5,500m and are usually between 10 and 15 days in duration. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested preparation: 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to five times a week for the three months leading up to your trek. Hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling is also recommended depending upon the activity you plan to undertake.

Challenging

These adventures involve trekking, cycling or rafting in remote areas in variable weather conditions for up to 8 to 10 hours a day (possibly more subject to weather conditions and altitude). This may include spending successive days at altitudes not generally exceeding 6000m. These trips may often be over three weeks in duration. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8kgs (and in some cases a full pack) and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions.
Suggested preparation: One hour of aerobic type exercise, four to five times a week for three to six months prior to departure. Hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or on/off road cycling is also recommended.

Entry Mtn/Exploratory Treks

These adventures are classed as expeditions. They involve either extreme trekking and or basic mountaineering. Expect remote and poorly defined trails in variable weather conditions for up to 12 hours a day (possibly more subject to weather conditions and altitude). This may include a number of demanding high pass crossings and evacuation may be difficult from remote areas. Suitable for first time mountaineers wishing to take the step from trekking into the realm of mountaineering. Prior experience trekking at altitude is preferable but not essential and you should be comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Prior technical mountaineering experience is not necessary. Terrain will involve low angle snow slopes. Ropes may be used during treks for glacier travel and steeper sections of ice and snow. When mountaineering, basic mountaineering instruction is given by our mountaineering guides.
Suggested preparation: For grade 8-10 mountaineering expeditions you will need to be very fit and healthy. A minimum of 1 hour of aerobic exercise per session, four to five times a week is essential. Running and cycling in hilly areas is particularly beneficial as are multi day walks on the weekends. This is the ideal time to try out your boots and other gear to make sure you are prepared and ready for your expedition. If you are considering Intermediate or advanced level trips, you will need to discuss your preparation leading up to the trip with our expert staff.

Intermediate Mtn Expedition

Participants should be competent and self sufficient in the outdoors and have experience in multi day trekking at altitude. Prior experience on an entry level mountaineering expedition is highly recommended. The terrain will involve low to moderate angle snow slopes and traveling on crevassed glaciers. Experience using ice axe and crampons is preferred but not essential.
Suggested preparation: For grade 8-10 mountaineering expeditions you will need to be very fit and healthy. A minimum of 1 hour of aerobic exercise per session, four to five times a week is essential. Running and cycling in hilly areas is particularly beneficial as are multi day walks on the weekends. This is the ideal time to try out your boots and other gear to make sure you are prepared and ready for your expedition. If you are considering Intermediate or advanced level trips, you will need to discuss your preparation leading up to the trip with our expert staff.

Advanced Mtn Expedition

These are our most challenging expeditions. Clients must have prior mountaineering experience. Most are participatory expeditions & involve load carrying, setting up of camps, cooking and campcraft. Altitude is generally greater than 6500m. Some of these expeditions also involve “technical” climbing and are for experienced alpine climbers / mountaineers only. Technical expeditions involve steep climbing at high altitude (including rock climbing). Participation on one of these expeditions is subject to acceptance by one of our high altitude mountaineering guides.
Suggested preparation: For grade 8-10 mountaineering expeditions you will need to be very fit and healthy. A minimum of 1 hour of aerobic exercise per session, four to five times a week is essential. Running and cycling in hilly areas is particularly beneficial as are multi day walks on the weekends. This is the ideal time to try out your boots and other gear to make sure you are prepared and ready for your expedition. If you are considering Intermediate or advanced level trips, you will need to discuss your preparation leading up to the trip with our expert staff.

from
USD$5,890

Book now

A captivating journey to the rugged region of northern Japan

Northern Japan is a truly first-class destination for those with a taste for natural beauty, legendary hospitality, and the subtlety of Japanese culture. We will visit the famous World Heritage shrines and temples of Nikko, explore the unique culture and history of Sado Island in the Sea of Japan and cruise pine-covered islands in Matsushima Bay. We visit the old castle town of Hirosaki, soak in the lively atmosphere of the young city of Sapporo, and breathe the clean air of Lake Shikotsu. Along the way we'll have plenty of time to soak in natural hot springs, sample an amazing array of fresh local foods, and learn more about Japanese religion, literature, and architecture. We are treated to a scenic overnight cruise from Tomakomai to Tokyo for a unique view of Japans coastal landscape. No trip to Japan is complete without a visit to the iconic Mount Fuji and so we end our journey with a day trip to Five Lakes area to view its snow capped peaks. Mention to the residents of Japan's southern cities that you are going to visit the northern country and watch their eyes glimmer with envy!

Highlights

Explore old neighbourhoods Tokyo
Stay in traditional ryokan (inns)
Visit the old castle town of Hirosaki
Cruise secluded Matsushima Bay
View stunning ocean scenery from an overnight ferry
Explore World Heritage shrines and temples of Nikko
Discover the unique culture and history of Sado Island
Soak in outdoors hot spring baths
Walk ancient forest trails
Soak in the lively atmosphere of the young city of Sapporo
Breathe the clean air of Lake Shikotsu
Marvel at the famous peaks of Mount Fuji

Itinerary

Day 1 Join in Tokyo

On arrival at Narita International Airport make your way through immigration and customs, and then transfer to our hotel in Tokyo (transfer arrangements will be advised in your pre-departure information). Before Tokyo became the bustling metropolis it is today, it was once a languid fishing village called Edo. Although Tokyo is now a world-class city and home to millions of people, it’s still surprisingly easy here to stumble across unexpected traces of old Edo. Tonight following our group meeting at 6pm, we head out to an optional dinner together at a local restaurant, and then enjoy an evening walking tour of the backstreets of Tokyo.

Day 2 Kamakura day trip

This morning has us on an express train out to the seaside village of Kamakura. The capital of Japan for a brief period in the 13th century, Kamakura is now a quiet beachside down known for its impressive temples and beautiful scenery. We’ll enjoy a walking tour of this quiet area, and an optional 2 hour hike through the foothills to the famous Kamakura Buddha.

Day 3 Sightseeing in Tokyo, train to Nikko

We’ll make an early start today to visit some of the highlights of Tokyo. Using Japan’s renowned public transportation system, your leader will guide you around this busy city for the day. In the late afternoon we’ll experience our first bullet train trip, heading north from Tokyo to the peaceful temple town of Nikko (2hrs).The quiet cedar forests and World Heritage shrines and temples here are a relaxing end to an exciting busy day’s exploration.

Day 4 Shrines & Temples in Nikko

Our morning will be spent visiting the fascinating World Heritage shrines and temples in Nikko. Built by the great shogun Tokugawa Leyasu’s grandson to commemorate his grandfather’s accomplishments, Nikko has stood the test of time and remains a breathtaking sight. This afternoon is free time with an optional activity to explore Greater Nikko National Park for some world-class hiking or relax amongst the quaint shops and restaurants in town and watch the world go by.

Day 5 Transfer to Sado Island

This morning we catch our train south and then west across the mountains to the port city of Niigata (4.5hrs). From Niigata, we catch a ferry to the rocky coast line of Sado Island (2hrs). This isolated and beautiful island in the Sea of Japan was once a site of banishment for artists, intellectuals and religious figures in feudal Japan. We spend two nights here, exploring the unique history and beautiful temples and fishing villages on Sado.

Day 6 On Sado Island

We continue exploring Sado Island today with visits to local markets, a chance to try paddling in traditional boats, and some light hiking along seaside paths. Dinner tonight is a veritable feast of fresh seafood and local vegetables at our traditional inn!

Day 7 Transfer to Matsushima

We say goodbye to Sado Island and travel by ferry and train to the Matsushima Coast (4.5hrs). Located on Tohoku’s Pacific Coast, Matsushima’s famous pine-covered islands are considered one of the “Nihon Sankei”- three great sights of Japan. Upon arrival, we settle into our seaside inn for another delicious local gourmet meal and a glass or two of fine Tohoku sake.

Continue reading ...

Day 8 Cruising Matsushima Bay

Following breakfast we enjoy a sightseeing cruise through Matsushima’s famous pine islands. After the cruise, you’re free to explore the island on your own using the well-marked paths. We recommend hiking (or riding the cable-car) up a nearby mountain for a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful area.

Day 9 Transfer to Hirosaki

After a hearty traditional breakfast, we catch a train from Matsushima to the historic castle town of Hirosaki (4.5hrs). Located in far-northern Aomori Prefecture, Hirosaki was once an important cultural centre in northern Japan. The city’s castle, well-preserved samurai district and temples linger as reminders of its historic significance. We take some time this afternoon to learn more about the cultural history of northern Japan as it’s visible in the Hirosaki landscape.

Day 10 Transfer Hirosaki to Hakodate

We hop on an express train this morning and travel from Hirosaki onto the island of Hokkaido. The trip from Hirosaki to Hakodate takes 3 hours, and goes through a long undersea tunnel—an impressive feat of engineering. We arrive in Hakodate, a vibrant European-influenced city with an interesting history. We learn more about this city and about the turbulent history of 19th century Japan during our stay here, touring the ruins of Japan’s first western-style fortress, and finish the day catching the impressive night time view of the city from nearby Mount Hakodate.

Day 11 Hakodate and surrounding area

We’re up very early this morning to immerse ourselves in Hakodate’s lively morning market. One of the specialty foods on Hokkaido is crab, and the market in Hakodate offers a great chance to gape at the endless selection of crab and other seafood on offer. We’ll then head out to nearby Lake Onuma for some lakeside strolls before dining on fresh seafood at our inn tonight.

Day 12 Transfer to Sapporo

This is our day to enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery of Hokkaido. The train journey from Hakodate to Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, takes 3 hours and offers views of rolling flatlands, volcanic ranges, clear blue lakes, and wide corn fields under clear blue skies. We arrive this afternoon in the early afternoon in Sapporo, a young, vibrant city with unique architecture and culture.

Day 13 Sights of Sapporo

In 1857, only seven people called Sapporo home. Now, over two million people live here. As the youngest of Japan’s major cities, Sapporo boasts an open, relaxed atmosphere and an indomitable pioneer spirit. Today there are many optional activities to choose from: take time today to learn about the history of Hokkaido and its Ainu native people, wander through the city’s open air museum, visit the peaceful city gardens, learn about one of the city’s best-known exports, Sapporo Beer, and the Sapporo Brewery, or head out to nearby Lake Shikotsu for some fabulous light hikes and lakeside relaxation.

Day 14 Pacific Ocean cruise, literature lesson, cruise to Tokyo

One of the best-kept secrets of travel in Japan is the comfort and convenience of traveling by ferry. Ferries in Japan resemble comfortable cruise liners, complete with private rooms, restaurants, and hot spring baths. Our journey from Tomakomai to the port of Oarai just north of Tokyo is a 19 hours overnight trip. While we will spend a good portion of that time relaxing in the deluxe stateroom, we will also have the opportunity to spend a few hours reading excerpts from classics of Japanese literature that take place in Tohoku and Hokkaido. We’ll read work by the haiku poet Matsu Basho, the nobel-prize-wining author Yasunari Kawabata, and lesser-known but equally talented writers who’ll provide you with a fresh understanding of the history and significance of the area we’ve been lucky enough to travel through.

Day 15 Arrive Toyko and transfer to Mt Fuji & Five Lakes Area

We arrive this morning in Oarai Port and transfer by train to Lake Kawaguchi, at the base of Mt Fuji, arriving late afternoon. No trip to Japan is complete without a visit to the iconic Mount Fuji. Located just two hours west of Tokyo, the Mount Fuji Five Lakes area is a must-see for those interested in both the history and natural beauty of Japan. We transfer by train from the ferry port to Fuji-Yoshida City (about 4.5 hrs), before checking into a traditional inn on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi.

Day 16 Morning at Mt Fuji, return to Tokyo where trip concludes

As the sun rises we hope to get our first glimpse of Japan’s most iconic peak, Mount Fuji. Our morning is spent exploring on foot the ancient Sengen Jinja Shrine, the nature trails, hot springs, and gardens in the surrounding area. We will return to Tokyo by express highway bus where the trip concludes in the late afternoon at around 5.30pm. The tour leader will be happy to help you make arrangements for further travel in Japan or to your next destination.

Additional Information

Inclusions

14 breakfasts and 13 dinners
expert bilingual guide
medical kit
comfortable well located hotels, local ryoken
sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary
comfortable cruise Hokkaido/Tokyo
Japan Rail Pass

Summary

5 nights hotels
9 nights traditional inns
1 night boat

Trip Main Activities

Adventure Touring
Day Walking

Group Size Min

Group Size Max

Accommodation Summary

In the countryside and Kyoto we stay in atmospheric, family-run inns and in comfortable western style hotels in Tokyo. The Japanese “ryokan” is such a delicate environment, with compact spaces and displayed heirlooms, that for the first encounter something of a bull-in-a-china-shop feeling is inevitable - especially in the entrance as shoes are put on and removed. But this reaction normalises as we and the innkeepers get used to each others ways! Traditional-style accommodation means sleeping on “futon” bedding laid out on tatami floors. In the mountains it is usual for groups to sleep together in the same room, modified by sliding partitions. Our inns understand that westerners may be more comfortable with privacy, and assign two-person rooms when there are few other guests. But privacy throughout is difficult to guarantee without paying a premium. Please check with our office staff if you require more information on this. Please note that when staying in ryokens hot showers and tub bathing is at the end of the day when a communal bath is heated (women and men are separated), but usually only wash basins are available in the morning. Japanese love bathing together, communing as they soak. This is a surprisingly good opportunity to meet the locals. However, if privacy is an issue this may be arranged by careful scheduling within the group.

Equipment Required

Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre-departure information provided on booking).

What You Carry

In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc.

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with World Expeditions on their site

from
USD$5,890

Book now

Traveller reviews for Japan Northern Explorer (0)

To write a review sign in, register or

Recommend

Add your experience Your experience “ ”
Say more…
Write your review Your review

Tags

Good for…

Not good for…

Photo Upload

Add a photo

Note: when you submit posts to our site (including images), you’re giving us permission to reuse your material elsewhere and also to pass it to others for use. Full website terms here.

Why we recommend World Expeditions

Pioneers in responsible travel.
No local payments.
True adventures in every sense.
Expert guides and support.
Quality facilities and transport.

Customer care

World Expeditions is a global company with offices in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Canada, all staffed with experienced adventure travellers.

Contact World Expeditions customer service