Hiking in Japan: A Primer

Posted on 01/17/2023 Last updated on 01/11/2024

Hiking is healthy for us! Not only for our body, but also to our mind and spirit. It is a good exercise.

Many visitors to Japan think of it as a country of technology, fashion, anime, cute mascots, ramen, sushi and amusement parks. But they don’t often think of the many amazing natural places that you can go hiking. Japan is one of the best place to hike. Believe it or not, the country is 75% to 80% covered in forests and mountains.

Hiking is in fact one of the most popular activities for Japanese residents to do. Just like how people enjoy escaping to the ocean for a getaway, locals will plan trips deep in forests and mountainous areas to enjoy fresh air and to relax.

Here are some tips for where to hike in Japan, and what to bring.

Best Hikes in Japan

1. Mt. Fuji (Yamanashi and Shizuoka) – the highest mountain in Japan and popular not only among locals but visitors from around the world.

2. Mt. Takao (Takao) – located just outside of Tokyo City and easily one of the best hikes in Japan.

3. Mt. Kita (Yamanashi) – second tallest mountain in Japan. You can see amazing panoramic views of Mt. Fuji.

4. Mt. Kaimondake (Kyushu) – is great for hiking and walking. The mountain is perfectly conical shape. It’s a breathtaking panoramic view.

5. Kumano Kodo (Kyoto) – is a world heritage site. It gives you more authentic and less touristy experience of the Japanese countryside.

6. Mt. Hiei (Osaka) – is where you can see one of the best views of the city of Osaka. Beautiful scenic trail that can be also be travelled by cable car.

7. The Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto) – Most beautiful walks you’ll experience in Japan. Lined with cherry blossoms in spring time.

8. The Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage (Shikoku Island) – one of the best hikes in Japan and known for its many temples.

9. The Japanese Alps (Honshu) – another of the best hikes in Japan. During autumn and winter it’s good for relaxing open air bath set against a spectacular mountain backdrop.

10. Lake Chuzenji ( Mt. Nantai) – this is a beautiful lake. Breathtaking to walk in autumn season. When the leaves turned gold, red and orange. There are lot of of hot springs that you can relax.

11. Daisetsuzan National Park (Hokkaido) – this is an excellent place to visit for hiking and so many hot springs in the area.

12. Yakushima (Kyushu) – home of magnificent forests that provides you with many options for hiking. The landscape looks like something out of some fairytale.

13. Mt. Mitake (Mitake) – beautiful destination here is the “Rock Garden” to hike. you can see lots of covered stones and view the two waterfalls. Good for walking and hiking. You can visit a shrine too.

What to Bring on Hiking Days

1. Sunblock
2. Hiking hat
3. Sunglasses
4. Headlamp
5. Smart phone (I recommend downloading the app “YAMAP”)
6. Bear Bell
7. Pepper spray
8. First aid-kit
9. Snacks
10. Water
11. Portable charger

Hiking is a great experience that aids in both physical and mental restoration for your body. So the next time a free, sunny day comes around, consider going for a hike!

Photo Credits:

Top photo: DragonOneさん on PhotoAC