Your Journey Day by Day

Zen Fall: An Autumn Adventure in Hidden Japan
November 12–19, 2026

Day 1 (Evening): Geological History Experience/ Ancient Volcano Sunset

At the fabulous Ebino Visitors center a local expert will explain the astonishing geological powers and time scale which forged this dynamic natural wonder.

We'll enjoy an easy hike up one of the oldest volcanoes (Ebinodake) in the range to witness the sunset over the horizon featuring Kinkowan (Golden Brocade) Bay and the iconic Sakurajima active volcanic island. Retuning to our spa nestled deep in these sacred mountains we'll dine on local specialties before retiring to our rooms surrounded by ancient forest.

Day 1 (Morning): Kirishima — Japans First National Park

Start your journey letting your stress, weariness and concerns melt away in natural hotsprings and unique geothermal steam sauna. Our orientation will give you the key to the Zen mind from which Japans Wabi Sabi beauty was born and help you connect more deeply with all the wonders of your time in this mysterious archipelago.

Day 5: 17th generation Zen Temple training, Sublime Gorge and Forest River Healing

We visit a Zen temple founded in 1646 sitting peacefully above a beautiful riverside village. Here you'll find the living heart of the Japanese mind from which all its most beautiful art and culture evolved. Take the time to receive training in Zen practice from the 17 th generation monk surrounded by exquisite autumn colors.

Refreshed we move up river to the pristine beauty of Shishigawa Gorge, sit in awe at breathtaking views, walk along a sublimely pure river before settling in to your haven nestled amongst soaring peaks and peaceful rivers.

Day 6: Hoko Twin Peaks and Pacman Rock

We get an early start to climb the iconic Hokodake. Its twin peaks massive granite rock faces are reached through an ancient virgin forest littered with huge boulders, the purest of rivers and cascading waterfalls.

At the peaks we sit an atop the expansive valley and look out at the grandeur of the area created by the unimaginable forces of tectonic movement and super volcanic activity.

You'll become aware of the difference between Kirishimas relatively new geological history and these more ancient formations.

Day 4 Kadogawa — Danjiri Festival Spirit in Full Bloom

Step into the living heart of Japans fishing culture at the Danjiri Festival — a spirited, centuries-old celebration of strength, pride, and community.
The air pulses with taiko drums, chants, and the deep roots of tradition. It’s raw, real, and unforgettable.
Feel the vitality of this port towns life — become part of the sea of supporters urging on the feats of strength and endurance.

During a gap in the festivities and top tier traditional entertainment we'll he'd out to the nearby peninsula to explore dramatic ocean vistas and hidden emerald green coves before returning to your Japanese inn.

Day 7: Birthplace of the Gods, Hidden Samurai Town, Dramatic castle ruins sunset.

Diving deeper in ancient culture, mythology and Japanese spiritual roots we visit a shrine with towering millennia old trees and sacred energy established 1800 years ago. Take a walk through narrow gorge into mysterious cave featured in Japans origin story. We then move onto another Geo park, historical Samurai town, you'll amazed how this elegant, sophisticated Kyoto like town is still untouched by hordes of sightseers. This town has it all, hotsprings, cuisine, the arts, culture, architecture, yet still tranquil and soothing to the senses.

Exploring the castle ruins, its enormous scale and beauty with marvel only to be dwarfed by the sun setting behind the majestic Kuju mountains in the west. You'll need to sign an NDA before we take you there!

Day 3 - Ancient Mountain Ritual , Tea ceremony/farm and Coastal Wonders/Unihabited Island Retreat

Start with a dawn ritual guided by a local yamabushi/shrine priest - this is a rare glimpse into a very real and living tradition of mountain ascetic tradition. As we move north we stop by a beautiful tea plantation to enjoy the calm and beautiful expirence of Japanese tea ceremony at one of the few matcha producing farms in Kyushu.

We continue up the coast to small fishing town where we board a local fishing boat to cruise to and explore nearby uninhabited islands.

Day 2 Koshikidake and 3 Lakes Loop

You'll marvel at the incredible diversity of geology and flora as we traverse 3 volcanic lakes each surrounded by unique forests and each with its own sublime crystalline hues. We take an easy climb to volcanic peak with sweeping views of the entire range before descending into a rare highland moor in the crater. After lunch we'll do another short climb to crater over with dramatic plunging cliffs into mythical lake, vistas looking out over a huge live crater and towering volcanic peaks. The contrast between the spectacular autumn colors and rough volcanic terrain, combined with the lack of other climbers makes this an experience to remember.

Day 8: Buddhist Cave Morning Meditation, Breakfast at 200 year old Samurai Establishment, Hotspring Mecca of Japan
Meditate in the early morning sun as it set the Autumn leaves on fire in Buddhist cave by Japans largest cliff carving. This sublime Temple garden feels like you've been transported into a Kung Fu Panda movie!

Enjoy an exquisitely simple breakfast in shop that once served the rulers this area before we move on to the seaside hotspring resort cradled by majestic mountains.