Our trips are designed with solo travelers in mind, and most women who join do not know anyone else before the adventure begins.

To make the experience feel welcoming from the start, we host a pre-trip WhatsApp group where we facilitate introductions, help coordinate travel plans, and chat about training and preparation — so by the time you arrive, you’re already traveling with familiar faces, not strangers.

Many Ramblers feel nervous about the walking before they go — and that’s completely normal. If at any point you don’t feel up to walking a section and the route is accessible by road, your local guide can arrange transportation so you can rest and rejoin the group later.

It’s also worth knowing that most women on our Sole Sister Camino adventures in Spain and Portugal arrived unsure whether they could walk for several hours on consecutive days, and were happily surprised by what they were capable of once they were there.

One of the beautiful things about traveling with like-minded women in midlife and beyond is that there is absolutely no judgment about walking slowly — in fact, it’s encouraged.

Participants in our past Caminos often describe the experience as “walking in a supportive bubble,” with one Rambler sharing that while the distances looked daunting on paper, the walking felt much easier than she imagined.

With plenty of time to prepare before departure and a deeply supportive group around you, many women discover they’re far more capable than they ever expected.

If you are a fairly regular walker and can walk or hike approximately 12 km (or 2 hours) you will be fit enough for this adventure.

This Camino route features numerous beautiful spots to rest, eat, and use the washroom.

There's a saying about Caminos and that is to do it your own way, and that's the spirit our group trip will embrace. During the daily walks, the larger group will likely divide into smaller groups.

Some Sole Sisters may prefer to walk at a faster pace, while others might enjoy a more leisurely stroll. Some will want to arrive at our daily destination as quickly as possible, while others will prefer to meander, take breaks, stop to take pictures, and explore historical sites.

The guide will touch base with group members throughout the day, and we will keep track of each other using our WhatsApp group.

You will experience your Camino in your own way and at your own comfort level.

There's a saying on the Camino about doing it your way, and this spirit will be embraced during our group trip.

On our Sole Sister Ramblers Spain Camino, some Ramblers preferred to walk quickly, while others enjoyed a more leisurely pace. The larger group will likely split into smaller groups, and our guide will recommend a spot for those who wish to meet up.

Some Ramblers preferred to arrive in the town where we would spend the night as soon as possible. In contrast, others liked to stop along the way to explore, take photos, and visit historical sites.

Your guide will maintain contact with the group throughout the day, and we will keep track of each other through our WhatsApp group.

The guide will also post explicit directions and recommendations in the trip's WhatsApp group for those who prefer to walk independently and will check in regularly with all Ramblers.

You will experience your Camino your way and at your own comfort level.

This walking adventure includes luggage transfers, so you can walk comfortably each day with just a small day pack.

In addition to your main bag, you will need a daypack, either a backpack or a waist pack, to carry items you may need while on the trail. Essential items might include water, snacks, and other personal items.

We recommend keeping your main luggage to around 15 kg and no more than 20 kg.

You will also need a day pack for carrying daily essentials.

When traveling by train in Japan, luggage size is calculated by adding the length, width, and height together, and we recommend your main bag does not exceed a total of 159 cm.

Bags measuring 160–250 cm require pre-booking of additional luggage space for an extra fee, which can be difficult to secure on Japan’s busy rail system, while luggage over 251 cm is not permitted on Shinkansen trains at all.

Japanese trains generally do not have large luggage racks for oversized suitcases, so if your luggage exceeds these limits, you’ll need to use a luggage forwarding service, which involves additional charges — your local guide can assist you with arranging this if needed.

On the Kumano Kodo, expect moderately hilly, forested mountain trails with frequent ups and downs, where you’re often climbing out of one valley and descending into another.

There isn’t much long, flat walking. Instead, the terrain follows a steady rhythm of short to moderate climbs and descents, sometimes on old stone paths or uneven forest trails. While the overall elevation isn’t extreme, there is one notably steep day on this adventure.

You can talk with your local guide about whether that day feels right for you, and if not, alternative transportation can be arranged so you can rest or explore in the next town and meet up with your Sole Sisters at the end of the day.

Lightweight, comfortable, and quick-drying clothing is recommended, as laundry facilities may not be available every day.

Plan to pack breathable, non-cotton T-shirts; long hiking pants or zip-offs; nylon hiking shorts; quality hiking socks; and warm layers such as a light jacket, fleece, and base layers.

Windproof and waterproof outer layers (jacket and trousers) are essential, and during the winter months, waterproof gloves or mitts are also recommended.

You’ll need sturdy hiking boots with good grip, ankle support, and a waterproof membrane that are comfortable for full days on the trail, as well as walking poles for added support on steep ascents and longer descents.

Bring comfortable shoes or sandals for shorter walks and downtime, a reusable water bottle that holds 1–2 litres, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, or bandana), and a torch, flashlight, or headtorch.

Intrepid travel experiences offer the chance to go beyond the typical attractions and discover hidden gems you might otherwise miss.

Along the way, your knowledgeable local guide will recommend favorite restaurants and special sights, introduce you to Japanese food, drink, and cultural traditions, and assist with translations when needed.

It’s also comforting to know you’ll be traveling with a group of like-minded women in midlife and beyond. This shared experience often leads to meaningful connections and lasting friendships — and through the Sole Sister Ramblers community, you can stay in touch long after your adventure ends.

The local currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). While Japan is modern in many ways, cash is still widely used and often preferred, especially in smaller towns, rural areas, traditional inns, local restaurants, temples, buses, and along walking routes.

ATMs are easy to find in major cities and are most reliable at convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, as well as at post offices — all of which generally accept international debit cards.

Credit cards are commonly accepted at department stores, hotels, and larger restaurants, but may not be accepted everywhere, so it’s important to carry cash with you.

We recommend having some yen on hand at all times for daily expenses, snacks, transport, and small purchases.

You will want to experience a traditional Japanese onsen while in Japan, and this adventure provides a beautiful opportunity to do so.

Onsens are a quintessential local tradition. Public onsens involve bathing nude with others of the same gender, which can feel unfamiliar at first, but many women find it relaxing and surprisingly enjoyable once they try it.

There is specific etiquette involved, and your leader will share tips and guidance so you feel comfortable and prepared.

Please note that travelers with visible tattoos may not be permitted in some public onsens, though private onsens may be available — speak with your leader for options and more information.

Food along the Kumano Kodo Camino is simple, nourishing, and deeply connected to place.

Meals are typically enjoyed at small guesthouses and inns, where hosts prepare traditional Japanese home-style dishes using local, seasonal ingredients.

Expect beautifully presented set meals rather than choices from a menu, often featuring rice, miso soup, vegetables, tofu, fish, and occasional meat.

The emphasis is on freshness, warmth, and care rather than variety or luxury — and you are likely to be surprised by how comforting and memorable these meals become.

Breakfasts are usually Japanese-style and hearty enough to set you up for walking, while dinners are often a highlight of the day, shared with your Sole Sisters and enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

Special dietary needs can often be accommodated with advance notice. If you have any dietary restrictions, talk with your local guide and she will advise you on what is possible.

If you are vegetarian or vegan on the it’s very doable, but it helps to go in with the right expectations.

Traditional meals along the trail are often based on rice, vegetables, tofu, and soups, which works well for vegetarians, though fish broth (dashi) is commonly used.

With advance notice, guesthouses can usually adjust meals to be vegetarian and sometimes vegan, focusing more heavily on tofu, vegetables, and plant-based dishes.

Vegan options may be simpler and less varied, but still nourishing and thoughtfully prepared.

Communicating your needs ahead of time is key, and your local guide can help set expectations and coordinate with accommodations.

If you are gluten free, it’s also possible, but a bit more challenging. Soy sauce, miso, and some prepared items often contain gluten, and full substitution isn’t always available in small, rural inns.

That said, many meals can be adapted to focus on plain rice, vegetables, fish, eggs, and tofu, avoiding sauces where possible.

This adventure begins and ends in Osaka.

You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable local Intrepid tour leader and a dedicated Sole Sister Ramblers host.

Your local leader is there to ensure a smooth, stress-free adventure — sharing insight into local culture and history, recommending great restaurants, assisting with translations when needed, and looking after your safety along the way.

Intrepid leaders do more than guide the route; they help you connect with the soul of each place through its cultural, historical, and everyday life.

Alongside them, your Sole Sister host focuses on the group experience — making sure everyone feels welcome, included, and supported, and bringing our motto to life: everywhere is within Rambling distance with Sole Sisters.

Hotel accommodations are in charming local guesthouses and small hotels, with twin beds and double occupancy as standard.

If you prefer your own space, a single-occupancy add-on is available, giving you a private room for the duration of the trip.

All hotel rooms include en-suite bathrooms and the essential amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Some nights on this adventure are spent in traditional Japanese-style accommodation — ryokans or minshuku (local inns and guesthouses).

Rooms typically feature tatami mat floors with futons or mattresses laid out at night and packed away during the day. Bathrooms and toilets may be compact, and in many cases bathing facilities are shared, with set hours or bookable time slots; your leader will explain the local etiquette so you feel comfortable and prepared.

These rooms often have minimal furniture (no chairs or raised beds), so if getting up from the floor is difficult for you, or if you have knee, hip, or back concerns, this style of trip may not be the best fit. Some properties also observe a late-evening curfew (usually around midnight), and you’ll be asked to change into slippers when entering your room.

Please note that extra charges may apply if bedding or towels require professional cleaning, and many properties provide just one room key — which can be left at reception so you and your roommate don’t need to keep the same schedule while out exploring.

Osaka is served by Kansai International Airport (KIX), a major international hub with easy connections into the city; please note that airport transfers are not included in this tour.

When you book, Intrepid will ask for a deposit and the final balance will be due approximately 90 days before departure.

You will have access to a personal Intrepid portal, which you can log in to and pay money off when you feel like it before the final balance is due.

Intrepid will send a payment link, but if you prefer to pay directly to them via an in-person agent, you can choose to do that instead.

Intrepid Travel is focused on balancing purpose with profit. In 2018, they formalized this commitment by becoming a certified B Corporation.

Certified B Corporations prioritize their employees, strive for a more inclusive supply chain, and elevate corporate social responsibility. This certification signifies their dedication to creating benefits for everyone.

Intrepid's official pledge is to utilize travel as a force for good in the world.

What’s not included in the trip price: international flights, required visas, personal travel insurance, optional activities, late hotel check-outs, and any services not listed in the itinerary. Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary — including drinks with included lunches and dinners — are also not included, nor are tips for your leaders, guide, and driver, or any personal expenses of a personal nature.

To travel internationally, you’ll need a valid passport, and most countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates — so it’s a good idea to double-check the expiry before you go.

Intrepid will need your passport details to prepare for the trip, and the information on your booking must match your passport exactly, so please take care when entering these details.

We also recommend carrying a copy of your passport photo page with you while traveling and leaving another copy at home with a trusted friend or family member.

Many countries require a visa, and it’s your responsibility to check and obtain the correct visa for this trip, including for any countries you may transit through.

We recommend looking into visa requirements as soon as you book, so you have plenty of time to gather documents and allow for processing.

You can check entry requirements for your nationality through your government’s foreign travel advisories or consular websites.

Intrepid will share the specific cancellation terms when you book your trip, as these can vary slightly depending on the adventure.

In most cases, a $400 deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 70–90 days before departure.

If something comes up and you need to cancel before making your final payment, that $400 deposit can usually be applied toward another Intrepid adventure — so it doesn’t have to go to waste.

Once full payment has been made, trips are generally non-refundable.

Intrepid is deeply committed to keeping everyone safe — from travelers and local leaders to the communities they visit. Their health and safety standards align with guidance from the World Health Organization and the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Safe Travel protocols.

Every itinerary goes through a detailed risk assessment, and both leaders and suppliers complete extensive health and safety training, so you can focus on enjoying the journey with confidence and peace of mind.