Hiking in Japan | The Best Trails and What to Take

Throughout Japan, the vibrant cities and desolate countryside holds many secrets of the outdoors. Japan’s mountain terrain is a dream destination for hikers and trekkers. There are many options available for those who seek opportunities to scale peaks. Here is what you need to know and where to go for a great hike in Japan.

What to pack for Hiking in Japan

Short, easy hikes

Let’s start with the necessities. Many beginner hikers have endurance problems, so traveling light is a better option. However, this depends on which hiking trail you will do. 

The basics are:

• Water

• Food

• Hiking boots or proper footwear

• Sun protection

• Weather appropriate clothes

• Battery/charger

Long, challenging hikes

For hikes that are more incline and mountainous it is advised to bring more water and food.

If the trail exceeds  3 or more hours, prepare a medical kit such as bandages, disinfectant and small scissors. It is advised to get trekking poles that help you on rough terrain and provide  ample stability.

For hikes that are expected to exceed 5 hours and you will have to camp, you should bring these items:

• Insect repellant

• Sleeping bag

• Tent

• Fire starter  (flint/match)

• Food cutlery/pots

• Navigational equipment

• Trash bags

• Torch

• Insulation (hat/gloves/blanket)

• GEO tracker / GPS tracker

Where to Hike in Japan

Now that we have our essentials, it’s time to delve into the hiking trails in Japan. Starting off with the easiest levels to the  more  difficult ones. 

 

Easy hiking trails in Japan / Beginner friendly:

Norikura in Nagano

An active volcano and good dayhike. Accessible transportation to the hiking trail which is suitable for families. This trail is not too steep and can take upwards of 3-4 hours. The best time to visit this spot is from May to November.

Ryugadake in Mie

One of the Suzuka mountains in Mie, this is an easy day hike with steady terrain. It is accessible year round and has wonderful  views at the top. You are also able to find waterfalls along the trail. The usual time of the hike is 6 hours with an elevation of 970 meters.

Hatonosu Valley Okutama in Tokyo

A beautiful and scenic hike thats easily  accessible by public transportation. You can walk year-round and the end leads to an onsen. Along the trail is the popular blue and green river that shines like jade even during the rainy season. It takes 3-4 hours  with a distance of 6km.

Settogatake in Yamanashi

This hike is quite short with a time of 3 hours, however you will stay because of the stunning views of Mount Fuji. The elevation is quite steep, so prepare hiking boots.If you are in the 5 Lakes area, please check it out.

Mihara Izuoshima in Tokyo

The shortest hiking trail thus far at 2-3 hours. Mihara is an active volcano with an elevation gain of 300m. It’s  a year round trail that boast stunning views of Mount Fuji from the long standing torii gates. 

 

Intermediate Hiking Trails in Japan:

Yakushima Traverse

For intermediate climbers and hikers, this trek is for you. Over a 3-4 day hike, the trail goes through mountainous terrain and centuries old forests. It takes roughly 17 hours of active hiking at a distance of 23.7 km. The best seasons to go is from March to December.

Ureyama in Aichi

The trail offers a  variety of terrain from rocky ridges to waterfalls and scenic forests. The duration time is roughly 8 hours with an elevation of  1360m and a 13kmm distance. The best times to go are from March to December.

Gozaisho Snow Hike in Mie

A scenic and easily accessible winter hike with a variety of trails from beginner to intermediate. The intermediate trail  is 6-7 hours with the hiking season being year round.

Mount Fuji Yoshida Trail (Yamanashi)

Mount Fuji is considered one of the best pilgrimages in Japan as  well as being the most famous hike. The Yoshida trail is the easiest trail to access Mount Fuji at the 5th station.

Lots people use this trail so there are ‘traffic jams’ especially during holidays and weekends. This trail can be done in one go or broken into 2 days depending on experience. The best time to hike Mt. Fuji is from July to September before the snow occurs.

Difficult/ Expert Hiking Trails in Japan:

Kaikoma in Yamanashi

A challenging yet beautiful course, with its infamous “sword” the trail is one of the steepest ridgelines. With a time of 14-15 hours, the elevation gain is 2509m and can be completed in 2 days. Open year round, however it is advised to climb during the months of mid July to mid October.

Ishizuchi in Shikoku

Depending on the trail, this climb is one of Japan’s sacred mountains. Famous for its 4 sections with almost vertical chains and ropeways. A  short but difficult climb with a 6 hour time window and an elevation of 1024m. The best time to come is from November to May

Okueyama in Kyushu

Okueyama is a difficult hike with its infamous number of chains, ladders and ropes. The most interesting view of the granite rockface made from a volcano thousands of years ago. What makes it difficult is the terrain, causing slips. Its advised to go on this trail during the drier months. 

Osugidani in Mie

The valley of Osugidani is one of Japan’s most beautiful, with its waterfalls and flowing rivers. The time duration is 9 hours with an elevation of 1870m. The hike is dangerous for a few reasons, as its naturally wet all year round, with exposed  sections of water seeping onto the trail.  This trail is best done in two days and during the dry months.

 

Is hiking in Japan safe?

Hiking has a scale of danger. If you are going on a hike, please notify your next of kin or a friend in the chance of an emergency. For beginner trails, please have all the necessary provisions for both yourself and your fellow trail mates. For intermediate/experienced hikers, safety comes first  always.

Please follow the trail course, do not derail or change under uncertainty. Please look over  the trail map or bring navigational tools. If possible, please bring a hiking mate or someone as a spotter for dangerous ridge courses.

Follow the hiking season, and if there are signs of danger such as landslides, animals, or unfit trails, do not traverse. Some parts of Japan do have natural wildlife such as bears, boars and foxes. It is advised to avoid trails with bears in the spring as hibernation crankiness can kick in.

However, sightings are very low and the vast majority of encounters result in the bears running away.

Be safe and have a wonderful time in Japan!

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