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Sign Up for Early Access to Information on Our Featured Group Tour (October 2026)

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KUMANO ADVENTURES

Socially-conscious travel in off-the-beaten-path Japan

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DEEP JAPAN TRAVEL

We are an award-winning travel design firm that curates cross-cultural experiences and tailor-made trips in the Kumano area of Japan. We're dedicated to supporting the local communities of Kumano and preserving their rich cultural heritage.

Impact Focused Trips

As a social enterprise, we strive to do more than offer transformative trips—we seek to make a positive impact on our local communities and the environment. And we apply impact measurement and management principles to ensure that we do.

Experiences as Unique as You Are

These aren’t canned tours that follow the same itinerary for every customer. We take the time to craft one-of-a-kind journeys that put you in touch with local guides, craftsmen, and instructors. If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds and see a side of Japan few people ever have had the chance to explore, our tours are for you.

Truly Local Expertise

From the best views for your hike along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, to hidden hot springs and locally crafted delicacies, we know what’s good because, well, we’re local! And we’re beyond excited to share our favorite hidden gems with you.

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 FEATURED RETREAT 

Taiko Retreat - Godai

Japanese Drumming Workshops + Hiking the Kumano Kodo


October 11 to 18, 2026

Experience the heartbeat of the Japanese countryside through an exclusive, tailor-made journey led by internationally renowned taiko artist and dancer Carrie Alita Carter. Taiko Retreat - Godai combines the powerful art of taiko drumming with the natural beauty of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail. Godai is the Japanese concept of the Five Elements—Earth, Wind, Water, Fire, and Void—each representing a fundamental force of nature. Taiko Retreat - Godai explores our deep connection to the natural world through taiko, movement, and meditation, allowing participants to experience rhythm as an extension of the elements around them.


This one-of-a-kind group tour offers a rare opportunity for 20 travelers to engage in over four full days of immersive taiko workshops, mastering the powerful beats and precise movements of this art form. Afterward, embark on a guided hike along the sacred Kumano Kodo, one of only two UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes in the world. As you walk beneath towering cedar trees and follow paths traversed by emperors and common people for thousands of years, you'll discover an ancient landscape rich in spiritual significance and natural beauty.

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CHOOSE YOUR TRAVEL STYLE

We offer five distinct services to accommodate your travel preferences and needs.

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Group Adventures

Small and immersive group tours on select dates

These small group tours go beyond the usual tourist paths, offering deeper insight through hands-on experiences with local artisans, experts, and communities.

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Custom Adventures

Fully bespoke trips that maximize your time in the Japanese countryside

Embark on a fully personalized adventure, crafted to match your preferences while offering delightful surprises throughout. Includes itinerary planning, reservations, and on-trip assistance via phone and messaging.

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Travel Consultation

Private travel planning session with a dedicated expert

Often the most wonderful places in Japan's countryside have irregular hours and little online presence. For $50 USD per hour, we provide tailored travel advice, cultural recommendations, and introductions to our local connections.

HEAR FROM OUR ADVENTURERS

I had the absolute pleasure of using Kumano Adventures and Giuliana’s expert guidance with two friends in the south east region of Japan, and it was one of the best experiences of my life…Read More

Oliver C.

Craft Your Adventure

May 2023

READY TO JOIN US?

Contact us to begin brainstorming and planning your unique adventure to the Kumano area.

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GET TO KNOW US A BIT BETTER THROUGH OUR NEWSLETTER

In our newsletter, we dive into what life is like in the Japanese countryside and share the behind the scenes of our travel business. We also share insights into how to make the most of your time in the Kumano area, as well as exclusive discounts on our services. We will always offer a one-click unsubscribe option. Consider coming along for a peek into this corner of Japan.

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