Kumano Kodo Trail Japan walking vacation

Planet

Our local in-country agent and Tour Leaders are working to reduce the amount of single-use plastics on all our trips in Japan. At the start of each trip they distribute reusable water bottles among the group and demonstrate that the local tap water is perfectly safe to drink. In addition to this, they actively discourage hotels and other local suppliers from distributing single-use water bottles.

The distances covered by this trip in Japan are substantial. To travel around the country we choose to use the extremely efficient and comfortable public transport network of trains and buses, helping us to significantly reduce our carbon emissions on tour. Also, as this is a walking trip, in both the countryside and cities we explore on foot, the greenest form of 'transport' which also allows us to experience an intimate connection with Japan's culture and landscapes.

As a travel company we are continually looking for ways to improve and are proud to be ‘Responsible in everything we do’. Education is key, and so all staff, Tour Leaders and partnering suppliers are trained in responsible and sustainable tourism. At our Head Office, we continually strive towards a sustainable and planet-friendly working environment, including having solar panels installed and a company commitment to reducing our plastic usage.

People

Our Tour Leaders are passionate about Responsible Tourism. On arrival they brief each group on Japanese customs and etiquette and how to travel responsibly. They are on hand throughout the trip to offer advice on how to get the best from each location without causing any damage or offence, and how best to contribute to the local economy. As Japanese speakers and either Japanese themselves or resident in Japan for several years, they are ideally placed to bridge the gap between travelers and locals, ensuring that both parties benefit from the interaction.

Rather than dining in large hotels, our leaders arrange meals throughout the trip in a variety of locally-owned restaurants providing both the opportunity to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and hospitality and supporting the local community.

While walking on the Kumano Kodo ancient pilgrimage trail on the remote Kii Peninsula, we stay in small traditional inns known as ryokan, sleeping on futons in tatami mat rooms and bathing in hot spring baths. Our visit helps to support these rural communities and gives us a great insight into the more traditional side of Japan.

As a company we have valuable and longstanding partnerships with UK charities Toilet Twinning and Send a Cow, plus many smaller initiatives and projects around the world. We’re members of the UK travel industry body AITO because we believe it’s important to share our knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other operators.