Hiking Journey in the Japanese Alps: Japan with Kendell

Dates

Jun 24–30, 2024

Group Size

8–20 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Adventure

About This Trip

Zen-like pine forests, snow-capped peaks, ancient temples, and rivers flowing around you, hiking in the Japanese Alps can feel like a dream. When exploring the natural side of Japan, where nature and culture collide, it may seem like your imagination dreamed it into reality. We will be on the move for this trip, so I will weave in yogic stretches and if time, space and weather allow, most certainly will offer full classes. If you are dreaming about an exotic adventure to the revered mountains of Japan, this is your chance to experience it with a supportive and uplifting group.
$3,450USD
$3,650USD
Jun 24–30, 2024
7 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Kendell Sullivan
Kendell Sullivan

Creator of Ritual MAGIK Yoga and an experienced journey guide, Kendell, E-RYT 500, infuses her teachings with classical Hatha yoga and nature-based wisdom traditions. Known for her sense of adventure and passion for playful discovery, she has traveled the world, guiding dreamers to experience far-off lands and explore their mystical inner being.

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Trip Activities

  • Tokyo Nights Street Eats Tour

  • Bullet Train: Tokyo - Nagoya

  • Matsumoto Walking Tour

  • Mount Kisokoma Hike

  • Trek day 1: Kamikochi to Karasawa

  • Karasawa Mountain Hut Camp

  • Trek day 2: Karasawa to Kamikochi

  • Takayama Morning Market Visit

  • Takayama East Temple Walk

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food & alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Japan! Settle in and get ready for an incredible trip.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers from Narita International Airport (NRT), between 9 am and 5 pm.

Tokyo Nights Street Eats Tour

3 Hours

You will meet your new travel buddies and set out for the bright lights of Tokyo on a street food tour. You will be accompanied by a local food expert who will take you to the side streets and alleys in search of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets and toast to the culinary adventure ahead.

dinner

Your welcome dinner on the Tokyo nights street food tour is included.

Shinjuku Washington (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Tokyo

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Day 2

Info

Today you be up bright and early to catch a bullet train to Nagoya. You will transfer to the Kiso Valley to hike the Nakasendo Trail from Magome to Tsumago.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Bullet Train: Tokyo - Nagoya

1 Hour 50 Mins

Hop on a futuristic bullet train and head out of Tokyo for Nagoya.

Matsumoto Walking Tour

2 Hours

Your local Guide will take you on a walking tour of Matsumoto, located in the Nagano Prefecture. On the walk, you will visit sites like Matsumotojo, one of Japan's most beautiful original castles.

Alpico Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Matsumoto

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Day 3

Info

Today you will lace up the hiking boots and hike up Mt. Kisokama, the highest peak in Japan's central alps.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Mount Kisokoma Hike

4 Hours

Despite being the highest peak in the Kiso mountains, Mt. Kisokoma is still accessible thanks to the ropeway. It will be a full-day hike through the gorgeous central alps mountain! Distance: 3 miles / Duration: 3 - 4 hours / Elevation Gain: 300 meters

lunch

Boxed lunch on the hike is included.

Alpico Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Matsumoto

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Day 4

Info

Today you will begin your two-day trek from Kamikochi to Karasawa. Tonight you will spend the night in a mountain hut en route.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Trek day 1: Kamikochi to Karasawa

6 Hours

The first leg of your trek will take you up the Karasawa Cirque, one of the most gorgeous spots in Kamikochi, located at an altitude of 2,300m above sea level. Distance: 9.3 miles / Duration: 6 - 7 hours / Elevation Gain: 800 meters

lunch

Boxed lunch on the hike is included.

Karasawa Mountain Hut Camp

1 Hour

Tonight you will spend the night on top of the mountain.

dinner

Dinner at the camp is included.

Karasawa Mountain Hut (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight at Karasawa Mountain Hut

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Day 5

Info

Today you will hike back down the mountain to Kamikochi. At the end of the trek, you will transfer to Takayama where you will spend the night.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hut is included.

Trek day 2: Karasawa to Kamikochi

3 Hours

This morning you will wake up at the mountain camp and begin your trek back down. Distance: 9.3 miles / Duration: 5.5 miles / Elevation gain -800 meters

lunch

Boxed lunch on the hike is included.

Takayama Ouan (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Takayama

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Day 6

Info

This morning you will visit the Takayama morning market before exploring the eastern temples of Takayama.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Takayama Morning Market Visit

1 Hour 30 Mins

Spend time with locals and visit the Takayama Morning Market held near the river, selling fruits, vegetables, and small snacks.

Takayama East Temple Walk

1 Hour

Join your local Guide for a walk back in time and explore the East Temple area of Takayama.

dinner

Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included.

Takayama Ouan (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Takayama

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Day 7

Info

All good things must come to an end! You'll transfer to the airport and bid farewell for now.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

3 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers to Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) on the last day.

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Physical Activity Level:Adventure

These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.