If you are looking for the best hiking trails in Japan, you’re in the right place.
Japan, a country with a unique and diverse landscape, is a haven for hiking enthusiasts of all levels, offering a variety of trails that cater to every trekker’s preferences.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or looking for a leisurely nature walk, Japan’s hiking trails cater to all experience levels.
Planning your hikes can be exciting as you select the route that best matches your interests and fitness level.
Consider timing your visit with the seasons.
Arguably, the best time is for the cherry blossoms of spring or the colourful leaves of autumn.
Remember, if you go on a multi-day hike, some trails may require a stay in mountain lodges or huts, so look into accommodations ahead of your trip.
Here are 21 of the Best Hiking Trails in Japan to Try
While there are way more than 21 hikes in Japan, here are some personal favourites.
So, get your walking boots ready.
1. Mount Fuji, Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures
The iconic and highest peak in Japan, offering several routes to the summit.
- Season: Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty: Medium to Difficult
2. Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes, Kii Peninsula
A network of ancient pilgrimage routes and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Season: Late Spring, Summer, and Autumn
- Difficulty: Difficult
3. Nakasendo Trail, Central Honshu
A historic trail linking Kyoto and Tokyo, famous for its preserved post towns like Tsumago and Magome.
- Season: Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
4. Shikoku Pilgrimage, Shikoku Island
A circular route connecting 88 Buddhist temples.
- Season: Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty: Medium to Difficult
5. Mount Tanigawa, Gunma and Niigata Prefectures
A popular and challenging mountain for climbers.
- Season: Late Spring, Summer, and Autumn
- Difficulty: Difficult
6. Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido
The largest national park in Japan, featuring rugged wilderness and volcanic landscapes.
- Season: Summer and early Autumn
- Difficulty: Medium to Difficult
7. Mount Koya, Wakayama Prefecture
A spiritual mountain with forested trails leading to temples and shrines.
- Season: Spring, Summer, and Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
8. Yakushima Island Trails, Kagoshima Prefecture
Ancient cedar forests and dramatic coastlines, home to the famous Jomon Sugi tree.
- Season: Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty: Medium to Difficult
9. Oze National Park, Gunma prefecture
High mountain plateau known for its marshlands and alpine flora.
- Season: Late Spring to Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
10. Kamikochi, Nagano Prefecture
A scenic alpine valley in the Northern Japan Alps, perfect for leisurely hikes and serious climbs.
- Season: Late Spring to Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
11. Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture
Renowned for its hot springs, natural beauty, and the iconic view of Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi.
- Season: All year, best in Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy
12. Mount Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture
An active volcano with several hiking trails around its massive caldera.
- Season: Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty: Medium
13. Takeda Castle Ruins, Hyogo Prefecture
Known as the “castle floating in the sky,” accessible by a hike up the mountain.
- Season: Autumn (for the sea of clouds)
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
14. Kirishima Mountain Range, Kagoshima and Miyazaki Prefectures
This volcanic mountain range offers numerous hiking trails and scenic views.
- Season: Spring and Autumn
- Difficulty: Medium
15. Mount Yari, Nagano Prefecture
One of the most famous peaks in the Northern Alps, it is known for its spear-like shape.
- Season: Late Summer and early Autumn
- Difficulty: Difficult
16. Alpine Route, Tateyama Kurobe in Toyama Prefecture
A unique trail through the Northern Alps featuring snow corridors and panoramic views.
- Season: Late Spring to Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
17. Mount Gassan, Yamagata Prefecture
The highest of the Three Mountains of Dewa, it offers seasonal hikes and skiing.
- Season: Summer (for hiking), Winter (for skiing)
- Difficulty: Medium
18. Rishiri Island, Hokkaido
A remote island with a challenging hike to the summit of Mount Rishiri.
- Season: Summer
- Difficulty: Difficult
19. Minoo Park, Osaka
This popular spot for casual hikes is famous for its waterfall and autumn colors.
- Season: All year, best in Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy
20. Mount Hakusan, Ishikawa and Gifu Prefectures
One of Japan’s “Three Holy Mountains,” offering diverse flora and fauna.
- Season: Summer to early Autumn
- Difficulty: Medium to Difficult
21. Aokigahara Forest, Yamanashi Prefecture
Known as the Sea of Trees, this forest near Mount Fuji offers various trails and a unique landscape.
- Season: All year, particularly scenic in Autumn
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Japan’s Mountain Landscapes
Japan’s mountains some of the best hiking trails in Japan.
Majestic Peaks: Mt. Fuji and Beyond
Mount Fuji is the embodiment of Japan’s high-altitude splendour.
At 3,776 metres, this active volcano is the highest mountain in the country and a significant cultural landmark.
If you manage to hike to the top, the summit of Mount Fuji has some brilliant views on clear days.
As you climb, there are several mountain huts to take a break in.
Or you can visit on a day trip from Tokyo and avoid the hike completely.
Diverse Terrain: Lakes, Forests, and Waterfalls
The diversity of Japan’s hiking trails is a treasure chest for any outdoor enthusiast.
In the more remote areas, the sound of waterfalls cascading through the terrain becomes your inspiring companion.
- Lakes: Reflecting the sky above, lakes such as those near Mount Fuji offer peaceful moments for reflection amidst your hike.
- Forests: As you tread through the lush forests, look for the unique wildlife and plant species that call these woods home.
- Waterfalls: The sight and sound of a waterfall provide a refreshing pause on your journey through Japan’s mountainous regions.
Top Hiking Destinations and Trails
Here’s a little more detail on some of the more popular hikes in Japan.
Historic Paths: Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo
Nakasendo: The Nakasendo trail is an old route connecting Kyoto to Tokyo.
A popular destination is the Kiso Valley, where you can stroll through well-preserved post towns like Magome and Tsumago.
Kumano Kodo: The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes have been travelled for over a millennium.
This network of trails goes through the Kii Mountains to sacred sites. Along the way, you can also stay in traditional accommodations.
Island Adventures: Yakushima’s Ancient Cedar Forests
Yakushima: This island is home to the ancient Jōmon Sugi, a cedar tree over 2,000 years old.
You will trek through a lush landscape with mossy forests and a wide array of flora and fauna.
The trails in Yakushima cater to all levels of hikers, offering both day hikes and multi-day treks.
Alpine Excursions
The scenic valley of Kamikochi is your gateway to the Japan Alps.
It has great views of mountains and rivers.
It’s the starting point for many treks, including climbing Mt. Oku-Hotaka, Japan’s third-highest peak.
It is a beautiful hiking trail.
Daisetsuzan National Park is known as the ‘Playground of the Gods.’
It is the largest park in Japan.
The park has many trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
As you plan your hike, consider the season.
Snow may close trails in winter, and trails may close for wildlife at other times.
Cultural Encounters Along the Trails
Japan’s hiking trails offer more than scenic views and physical challenges.
Temple Trails: Shikoku Henro and Pilgrimage Routes
Embarking on the Shikoku Henro, you’ll follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims.
They have traversed this sacred circuit for over 1,000 years.
This 88-temple Pilgrimage route is through the island of Shikoku.
It is a spiritual journey that connects you with the island’s Buddhist heritage.
Each temple offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s religious customs.
- Marking the Journey: Travel from temple to temple with a choice of Michi stone markers guiding your path.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Some of the ancient temples along the route are recognised for their cultural significance.
Overnight in the Mountains: Huts and Hot Springs Experiences
When night falls on the Japanese mountains, experience the renowned hospitality in a mountain hut.
These huts provide a place to rest and share stories with fellow hikers.
- Onsen Bliss: Immerse yourself in Japan’s hot spring culture with an onsen experience, often located near huts.
- Mountaintop Lodging: Engage in the communal living of a mountain hut, sharing space and meals with other adventurers.
Regional Hiking Guides
Some of Japan’s best hiking trails In Japan offer a chance to escape the bustling city life and immerse yourself in nature.
Kyoto’s Hidden Hiking Gems
A visit to the Takao valley would complete your exploration of Kyoto’s outdoor offerings.
A 10km trail awaits here, taking roughly 3-4 hours to traverse.
The route combines natural beauty with cultural experiences, as you’ll encounter temples.
This day hike is perfect for a fulfilling day out.
Tokyo: Day Trips to Natural Marvels
Tokyo might be known for its skyscrapers and neon lights, but natural wonders are close.
A popular day trip is to Mount Takao, surrounded by rich forests and wildlife.
Only an hour from the city centre, it offers various trails that lead you to stunning views.
Practical Information for Hikers
Before heading out on your adventure in Japan, you must know about practical things.
These include accessing trails, the local weather, what gear to pack, and places to stay.
Accessing Trails: Public Transportation and Parking
Japan’s extensive public transportation system makes accessing hiking trails quite convenient, with easy access from public transport.
Many popular trails can be reached by train or bus, which often connect directly to trailheads or via shuttles.
Drivers can use parking areas, but they may be limited.
This is especially true during peak hiking seasons.
- Train and Bus: Check local timetables for the most direct routes to your hiking destination.
- Parking: Confirm the capacity and cost before arrival.
Navigating Weather and Terrain
The weather in Japan can vary depending on the season and region; hence, checking forecasts before your hike is crucial.
If possible, I would avoid early July through early September when it comes to the time of year.
The weather conditions in the summer months can be quite humid, and heat stroke is a real threat.
Also, the rainy season is In June.
- Weather Apps: Utilise weather apps for real-time information.
- Trail Maps: Carry updated maps or GPS-equipped devices.
Essential Gear and Safety Tips
Whether you’re a seasoned climber or out for a casual trek, having the correct gear is vital for your safety.
Start with tough shoes.
Also, have layers for the weather and enough food and water.
Remember to pack a first-aid kit and a means of communication in case of emergency.
- Clothing: Waterproof jacket, moisture-wicking layers, and sturdy boots.
- Essentials: First-aid kit, extra food, water, and a method of communication.
Accommodations: Camping Sites and Mountain Lodges
You’ll find camping sites and mountain lodges for multi-day hikes along the trails.
These facilities offer a range of amenities, from basic to more comfortable options.
Be sure to book lodges in advance.
They can fill up quickly, especially during the popular tourism season.
- Camping: Secure permits if required and check the facilities offered.
- Lodges: Reserve your spot early to ensure accommodation is available
The Bottom Line
Japan offers a treasure trove of beautiful hikes, blending scenic trails and historic routes across its main islands.
The Kumano Kodō, with its sacred sites like Kumano Nachi Taisha, is a multi-day trek that offers a deep dive into Japan’s Edo period and spiritual heart.
What’s more, Japan’s mountain areas, from the sacred mountains in the Kumano Sanzan to the higher altitudes near Lake Chuzenji, are among the best places for nature lovers.
The official climbing season for many famous mountains aligns with the cherry blossom season, making early May a great time to experience the lush beauty of Japan’s great outdoors.
Whether you take the cable car to Shinto shrines, stay overnight along the Omotesando trail, visit remote corners, hiking in Japan is always a good idea.
