Experience｜DMC Japan

Journey across the breathtaking landscapes of the Northern Alps, connecting Matsumoto and Takayama through one of Japan’s most spectacular mountain regions.
Surrounded by 3,000-meter-class peaks, this special route reveals the unique relationship between nature and local communities. Discover the “culture of wood” and “culture of water” that have been deeply rooted in Matsumoto and Hida Takayama, shaped by generations of living in harmony with the mountains.
Through encounters with local craftsmen, mountain guides, and regional professionals, travelers will experience the wisdom of sustainable living, the circulation and regeneration of natural resources, and the deep connections between people and nature.

Exploring the Northern Alps: Nature & Culture | 7 Days

Day 1｜Matsumoto – Discover Historic Streets & Local Culture
Explore Matsumoto’s historic castle town
→ Guided walking tour with a local expert
→ Evening cultural experience (Night Hopping)

Day 2｜Matsumoto & Norikura – Discover the Culture of Wood & Water
Visit a local wood craftsman and workshop
→ Sake brewery visit
→ Encounter with local artisans and their craftsmanship

Day 3｜Norikura Highlands – Experience the Beauty of Alpine Nature
Guided E-MTB ride through Norikura Highlands
→ Barrel sauna surrounded by nature
→ Stay immersed in the Northern Alps landscape

Day 4｜Kamikochi – Walk Through Japan’s Iconic Mountain Landscape
Explore Kamikochi
→ Trek the Dakesawa Trail
→ Discover the Northern Alps with an experienced mountain guide

Day 5｜Kamikochi & Okuhida – Forest, Nature & Local Experiences
Explore Kijiyadani Valley
→ Experience Off The Grid Coffee
→ Continue to Okuhida Onsen Village

Day 6｜Hida – Discover Traditional Craftsmanship & Local Life
Hida Kokufu E-BIKE experience
→ Discover local history and traditional lifestyles
→ Stay in a traditional Japanese farmhouse

Day 7｜Takayama – Experience Hida’s Heritage & Traditions
Explore Takayama’s historic old town
→ Discover Hida craftsmanship and traditional culture
→ Evening cultural experience (Night Hopping)

The Iseji Trail: From Ise Jingu to the Kumano Sanzan | 8 Days

Following the ancient path once walked by countless pilgrims, this journey offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s traditional pilgrimage culture and the connection between sacred places.

Walking along coastal stone paths, historic mountain passes, and landscapes shaped by local beliefs and traditions, travelers discover the deep relationship between nature, spirituality, and everyday life in Japan.

Through encounters with local storytellers and experts, guests gain a deeper understanding of Kumano faith, the connection with Ise Grand Shrine, and the Japanese philosophy of respecting and living in harmony with nature.

More than a hiking experience, this is a meaningful pilgrimage journey that reveals the history, nature, and human stories that have shaped Japan over generations.

Day 1｜Ise – Discovering the Origins of the Pilgrimage
Learning about the Iseji Trail and Kumano faith with local experts ⇒ Visit Ise Grand Shrine (Geku & Naiku)

Day 2｜Iseji Trail – Taking the First Step as a Pilgrim
Futami Okitama Shrine ⇒ Walk along the Iseji Trail

Day 3｜Crossing the Boundary – From Ise to Kii
Nisaka Pass Walk (approx. 8–10km)

Day 4｜The First Steps Toward Kumano – Walking the Pilgrimage Route
Tsuzurato Pass Walk (approx. 6–8km) ⇒ Pilgrimage route overlooking the Kumano Sea

Day 5｜Owase – Forests and Stone Paths of the Pilgrimage Route
Magose Pass Walk (approx. 7–10km) ⇒ Owase Shrine

Day 6｜Yagiyama – Overcoming the Challenge of the Pilgrimage
Crossing Yagiyama Pass (approx. 10–13km)

Day 7｜Kumano – Exploring Japan’s Spiritual Heritage
Matsumoto Pass ⇒ Onigajo Cliffs ⇒ Hadasu Village Walk ⇒ Hana-no-Iwaya Shrine ⇒ Kumano Hayatama Taisha Shrine ⇒ Xu Fu Park

Day 8｜Kumano Hongu – Completion and Renewal of the Pilgrimage
Visit Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine ⇒ Oyunohara ⇒ Pilgrimage completion ceremony