As this would take you months to complete in its entirety, you are better off walking smaller sections and then taking a bullet train between different stops along the way. As well as visiting a plethora of beautiful and ancient shrines and temples, trekkers also get to enjoy fantastic scenery on the way. Bring insect repellent! In spring, Japan blooms with cherry blossoms. Photo by: ChiefHira [ CC by SA 3.0], Don't miss Uramino-taki, the waterfall in Nikko that features in Basho's haiku. Where to hike in Japan? Not only is the train service reliable and extensive its propped up by a generally excellent rural bus network. While the scenery is stunning in itself, many of the trails lead you to incredible shrines and temples, offering up the perfect combination of history, culture and nature. 34 km. March to May, September and October are the most popular times due to the optimum weather conditions. Trekking in Japan really is a must-do and to help you out, we've come up with the top six routes for you to try. Most hiking routes take about two to three days, and are open from early May to November. Hi! The trip was well organised, the activities were great fun, and everywhere we stayed was comfortable and welcoming. Despite some truly breathtaking views, it is certainly one of the toughest. Intermediate. All that we saw in Japan was amazing, including all the traditional Japanese temples. Amble peacefully through the centuries-old beech forests and marvel at the golden leaves falling all around you as autumn arrives. Matthew GuyMatthew CromptonThe-Lens-of-Bens. Some of the trails have quite steep inclines and descents, do it is best to take your time and not rush along the paths. 1. With so many amazing treks and hikes in Japan for you to try and so much for you to see and do, it may just be time to book those tickets and start planning your unforgettable tour to Japan. To help you out, here's a useful guide on trekking equipment that will take you through all the equipment that you might need on your trek. It takes around 6 – 8 weeks to complete the whole trail, but it is possible to break it up into smaller chunks. The trail also summits Mount Yarigatake and Mount Okuhotaka-dake, both of which tower to over 3,000 metres in height. Walking holidays in Japan: the best mountain hikes to tackle Japan’s hiking boom has resulted in well-signposted and maintained trails, as well as … 5-6 days depending on how fast you hike.. As the trail is split into six sections, you can take a day to complete each section. It is also an active volcano and considered to be one part of Japan’s trilogy of Holy Mountains. We attempt one of the most unique hikes in Japan, Mount Shirouma near Hakuba. As a result, hiking and trekking are the best ways to see all of the mountains, lakes, fields, waterfalls and unspoiled coastline boasted by the park. The beautiful nature and stunning landscapes which he wandered through reinvigorated him, however, and many of his most famous poems are found in his book, Narrow Road to the Deep North, which recounts his journey. As some of the treks we've highlighted above are quite tough, some taking around a month to fully complete, making sure you have the right equipment with you is absolutely crucial. Japan is a fantastic hiking destination, with great mountains, well-maintained trails and an extensive mountain hut network. Let's take a look! Wherever you go, you probably won’t be alone: the Japanese are very keen hikers. 40 km. Take this 6-day private tour to check Japan off your bucket list. Recommendations. So different. Our travel experts will respond within 48 hours. The circuit takes three days to complete. To experience true wilderness you need to hit the trail and get away from it all – so here are some of the best multi-day hikes on the planet. Each place felt very authentic and unique to Japan. The traditional start and end points are Kyoto and Tokyo, although where you begin and end really depends on what you want to see and how long you want to hike. Chat with a local travel specialist in Japan who can help organize your trip. The trip wa...”, “We booked this trip to celebrate a birthday and we were not disappointed! Summit peak after peak in the Japan Alps, traversing the highest mountains in Japan, or connect with sacred mountainscape as you conquer the most challenging pilgrimage trail available on the Kumano Kodo, the Omine Okugakemichi. You have many possible hikes at cooler, higher altitudes in the Japanese Alps, going from mountain hut to mountain hut. 1,200 km! 3. Intermediate. The furthest reaches of the remote peninsula can only be viewed from sightseeing boats or reached on multi-day trekking tours. In many cases with buses running to or near enough to the trailhead. While some parts of the trail can be steep, most of it is not too taxing. The mountain is great for a day hike, and passes through a diverse number of climate zones. Mountain huts and camping. The falls are said to have healing abilities. A Eurail Pass can help you with this epic adventure. Outdoor lovers can find natural respites all across the country, and although Japan is less well known for its long-distance trekking options, it also offers some of the best trails in the world with day hiking and multi-day options to suit any itinerary or disposition. Pay tribute to the world's biggest bronze statue of Buddha located in Nanzo-in temple. Trekking in Japan really is a must-do and to help you out, we've come up with the top six routes for you to try. Questions or booking enquiry? Amidst all of the stunning nature, you will at times come across swarms of insects. I have a week and I'm using to carrying gear/backpacking/hiking on multi-day trips. Then head either clockwise or anticlockwise from there. The easy access from Tokyo makes it a popular destination for both day-hikers and multi-day explorers. The ultimate way to ensure your Japan hike is one for the record books? Hike up the valley of the Dakesawa from Kamikochi. Best time to visit: It is possible to hike Kumano Kodo any time of the year, but spring and autumn are the best seasons if you want to avoid extreme temperatures. Mount Madarao is the official starting point of the trail and Mount Amamizu is its endpoint. Hike to the top of both Mount Madarao and Mount Amamizu, which lie at each end of the trail, and enjoy the commanding views that they offer up of the lakes, forests and mountains around them. Our international perspective combined with local experience provides a unique lens for cultural understanding and appreciation. Thorn Tree forum Country forums Scandinavia & the Nordics Norway. 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