Basho Tour

This is the first time that a walk firm's walk has been so good that we have created a walk page just for it - and also the first time that an artificially constructed walk involving many sections needing linking transfers is so good that its totality deserves its own Walkopedia page, rather than separate pages for its best paths. Well done Walk Japan!

Walk Japan says:

"Basho's most famous poetic travelogue, The Narrow Road to the North, is one of the great works of Japanese literature. This fully guided tour takes us on a unique, authentic experience following in the footsteps of 17th Century Japanese poet. Beginning in the great city of Tokyo, our travels take us to the famous temple (and walking) area of Nikko, then through the beautiful and iconic scenery of the Tohoku region, along the rugged Sea of Japan coast to Sado-ga-shima island and Kanazawa before reaching the cultured old capital of Kyoto. The walking is along quiet country lanes, forest trails and mountain footpaths; all easily enjoyed by regular walkers. Like Basho, we take delight and inspiration from some of the greatest scenery to be found in Japan including Matsushima, one of the classic Three Views of Japan, and the beautiful gardens found at Hiraizumi and Kenroku-en.

Besides the beauty of the countryside we travel through and the haiku poetry of Basho, we also learn of the tumultuous history that wreaked destruction but also nurtured the tough spirit and culture of the people of Japan's northerly regions. The Basho Tour also features visits to onsen thermal hot spring resorts, stays in Japanese inns and sumptuous Japanese cuisine.

We meet in Tokyo and travel through Nikko, Matsushima, Hiraizumi, Sado-ga-shima and Kanazawa before finishing our journey in Kyoto."

It is work pointing out that this is a mixed walking and cultural expedition, a marvelous experience but perhaps not for you if you want hard-core walking. Have a look at Walk Japan's itinerary here.

Best months: April to end October.