Walking is one of the best ways to discover new, previously unexplored regions that haven’t yet been be spoilt by an influx of tourists.

Walk Japan specialises in small-group guided walking tours that celebrate the culture, rich history and gastronomy of Japan’s foodie trails.

With group sizes of no more than 12, knowledgeable guides, and use of local transport, restaurants, inns and accomodation, there’s truly no better way to discover the land of the rising sun.

Related travel story: Hokkaido has more to offer than just snow, here’s the lowdown

The Izu Geo Trail walking tour comprises 7 days and 6 nights, and the experience takes you through the Izu Peninsula, which –– although it’s only 150km from central Tokyo, is a distinctly different landscape and climate akin to a sub-tropical island.

Izu is a fish-lovers’ paradise and we enjoy some of the freshest available. Depending on the season our meals may include spider crab, squid, lobster, sea bream and many more varieties. All accommodations, most of which sit beside the ocean, incorporate onsen hot spring baths for a delightful and leisurely way to relax before a culinary feast each evening.

Priced from JPY376,000 / AUD$5,020, the Izu Geo Trail experience is booking up for 24 March – 30 March 2021 and 7 April – 13 April 2021.

Related travel story: Land of the rising sun: the inside guide to Tokyo

Alternatively, the Onsen gastronomy tour of Oita & Kumamoto, comprises 5 days and 4 nights discovering Oita and the north-east corner of Kumamoto Prefectures in the centre of Kyushu, an area of Japan renowned for its beautiful, richly varied rural landscapes; the high quality of its food sourced from the fertile land, pristine rivers and the surrounding seas; and also for the plethora of onsen hot springs found here.

This easy walking tour focuses on onsen thermal hot springs and Japanese gastronomy, allowing travellers to experience local food delicacies during the day and classic Japanese ryokan inns each night.

Priced from JPY278,000 / AUD$3,712, the Onsen gastronomy tour is now booking for 12 April – 16 April, 2021.

Related travel deal: Set your OOO and snag this lavish tropical north Queensland vacay deal