Day 2

Early risers may wish to join a special visit to the World Heritage Site Tenryuji Temple, including the Sogen Pond Garden and the Dharma Hall “Unryuzu” before general visiting hours (additional fee applies). Afterwards, enjoy a delicious continental breakfast with a view of the Katsura River at Muni La Terrasse. There is time for a relaxing Onsen soak or riverside stroll before you're collected by your private driver for your day exploring Kyoto. This afternoon's highlights include Kiyamizu-dera 'pure water' temple, the Gion District's atmospheric laneways and traditional teahouses, and an optional short walk on the Philosopher's Path. You'll return to Muni Kyoto in time to enjoy a complimentary drink on the terrace as the sunsets over the Katsura River. Tonight is a free evening to explore the restaurants of Arashiyama which can be accessed on foot from the hotel, or perhaps another dinner at Muni Alain Ducasse.

Included: B

Day 3

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kyoto Station for your Green Class rail journey to the Kiso Valley, which includes the bullet train to Nagoya. On arrival, your driver and guide will lead the way to Magome, a beautifully preserved post-town in the Kiso Valley. There's time to explore the town and enjoy a light lunch before commencing your guided walk on one of the most famous sections of the renowned Nakasendo Trail. The scenic eight-kilometre route to Tsumago-juko winds through ancient forests and past a scenic waterfall before arriving into the picturesque village. Later you'll be transferred to nearby Zenagi Expedition Hotel, a beautifully restored traditional Japanese Kominka house built in the 1600s. The property is exclusively yours for the next two nights, and comes with an in-house team consisting of your private chef, sommelier and host. Enjoy a welcome drink, before a soak in your room's Hinoki bathtub scented with calming Japanese herbs sourced from the forest. Later, indulge in a French-inspired multi-course degustation dinner prepared by the award-winning chef.

Walking distance: 9 km, plus time to explore Tsumago on foot

Included: B - D

Day 4

Today's Nakasendo Trail adventure begins after breakfast in Nagiso, following the tranquil Yogawa-Michi route that meanders through the serene countryside and climbs into the secluded mountains of Yogawa. You'll cross the picturesque Nenoue Pass and walk alongside the clear waters of the Atera River, eventually reaching Nojiri. Around midday, your guide will take you to the breathtaking Atera Gorge for a refreshing swim and a scenic picnic lunch. Later, return to Zenagi Expedition Hotel for a relaxing soak and another gourmet dinner, with your personal butler attending to every detail.

Distance: Up to 17 kilometres (your private driver will be available to shorten the distance on some sections to suit your fitness and preferences)

Included: B - L - D

Day 5

Start your day with a final breakfast at Zenagi before meeting your guide at 9 am for a scenic walk from Yabuhara to Narai, crossing the famous Torii Pass. The hike begins in Yabuhara, known for its craftsmanship, and follows a forested, cobblestone path to the summit at 1,197 metres, offering stunning valley views. Descend into Narai-juku, a beautifully preserved Edo-period post-town. After a light lunch, check into Byaku Narai, a luxurious ryokan set within four restored heritage buildings in Narai. Explore the gardens, relax in your private Onsen bath, before dinner inspired by the Kiso Valley’s history in a renovated sake brewery.

Distance: 9-12 kilometres; the option to extend your walk to the next post-town, Hirasawa, adds 3km round-trip

Included: B - D

Day 6

After a leisurely breakfast, your driver will take you to the impressive grounds of Matsumoto Castle, a 16th-century National Treasure known for its iconic black façade and picturesque gardens. Explore the castle interior and learn about the Samurai history of the Castle and surrounding streets, before a stroll around the extensive grounds. Afterwards, you'll be transferred to Matsumoto Honbako Hotel, which has views to the northern Japanese Alps. Spend the afternoon relaxing in your private hot spring bath or browsing the hotel’s curated library. In the evening, enjoy a drink at Honbako Bar before dining on wood-fired cuisine at 367 Sanrokunana.

Included: B - D

Day 7

The breakfast at Honbako features freshly baked bread and seasonal vegetables sourced from the Shinshu region. After check-out, your private driver will transfer you to Matsumoto (Shiojiri) Station to meet your train. Enjoy the rural scenery on your 2.5 hour rail journey to Tokyo, travelling in Green Class for your comfort. Your journey concludes on arrival into Shinjuku Station, but transfers to your next destination are available on request.

Included: B