Japanese Alps Adventure

Depart from Kochi International Airport for your flight to Tokyo (with connections). Upon arrival at Narita or Haneda International Airport, transfer to your centrally located hotel. After refreshment, begin your Japanese adventure with an urban hiking exploration of Tokyo's contrasts—from the forested Meiji Shrine to the futuristic Shibuya Crossing. Evening trip briefing with your adventure guide over dinner featuring contemporary Japanese cuisine. Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, board the express train to Matsumoto in the Japanese Alps. Upon arrival, visit the stunning black "Crow Castle" before checking into your hotel. After lunch, embark on an afternoon mountain biking adventure through the Azumino countryside, pedaling past wasabi farms, rice fields, and traditional villages with the Alps as your backdrop. Visit a sake brewery for a tasting session before returning to Matsumoto. Evening walk through the atmospheric old merchant district followed by dinner at a local izakaya restaurant.

 Full-day excursion to nearby Asama-yama volcano area. Begin with a moderate hiking trail across unique volcanic landscapes with fumaroles and dramatic rock formations. After a picnic lunch, visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to observe Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs. Return to Matsumoto with a stop at an outdoor onsen (hot spring bath) for a rejuvenating soak with mountain views. Dinner at a traditional restaurant specializing in regional highland cuisine.

 Morning transfer to Kamikochi, a pristine alpine valley closed to private vehicles. Check into your mountain lodge before embarking on a full-day hiking adventure along the Azusa River through one of Japan's most spectacular nature preserves. The moderate trek follows crystal-clear waters with views of the surrounding peaks including the iconic Mt. Hotaka. Spot unique alpine wildlife and plants with your naturalist guide. Return to your lodge for a hearty mountain dinner and overnight stay. Optional night walk to observe stars and nocturnal creatures.

Today offers a choice of adventure activities. Option 1: Challenging full-day trek to Yakedake, an active volcano with steaming vents and panoramic views. Option 2: Adventure canyoning experience in the clear mountain streams with professional guides, navigating gorges, natural water slides, and pools (seasonal activity, May-October). Both groups reunite for a special outdoor cooking experience using local ingredients and traditional methods. Overnight at your Kamikochi lodge.

Morning departure for a spectacular journey to Takayama, traveling part way by local bus through mountain passes and part way on a moderate hiking trail following ancient trade routes. This transportation-hiking combination offers a unique perspective on the Japanese Alps landscape and rural life. Arrive in the well-preserved old town of Takayama by late afternoon. Check into your traditional ryokan (Japanese inn). Evening food adventure through Takayama's famous old town sampling local specialties including Hida beef, miso specialties, and craft sake.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day cycling adventure through the Hida countryside surrounding Takayama. Ride on quiet roads between traditional villages with their distinctive gassho-zukuri (steep-roofed) farmhouses, some over 250 years old. Visit local artisans specializing in wood carving, sake brewing, and miso production. The cycling route includes moderate hills and covers approximately 30-40km with regular stops. Return to Takayama for a farewell dinner featuring premium Hida beef and regional specialties. Final night in your ryokan with private onsen bath.

Early morning visit to Takayama's famous morning market along the Miyagawa River, where local farmers sell produce, crafts, and snacks. Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final onsen experience at a traditional bathhouse. Transfer to Takayama station for your limited express train to Nagoya and connecting flight to Tokyo, then international connection to Kochi, taking with you memories of alpine adventures and traditional Japanese culture.