Occupying East Asia is the island country of Japan, famed for its rich culture and remarkably diverse geography. Beyond the country’s conspicuous charms, its hiking spots transport you back in time and into a different realm featuring varied untouched terrains, awe-inspiring scenery, spiritual enlightenment, superb cuisines. Journey with us as you take you through some of the best hikes in Japan.
Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail
The Shikoku Pilgrimage trail, also known as Shikoku Henro, is famed for various reasons, including its identity as one of the few circular pilgrimages globally. Situated on Shikoku Island, this 1,200-year-old trail covers 1,400 km and houses 88 Buddhist temples, each with its spiritual significance and history. Many people traverse this trail for religious reasons and to reflect.
Hiking this trail strictly on foot typically takes about 45 days and is usually a life-changing journey that offers a unique experience. You will encounter diverse landscapes, including mountains, lush forests, and peaceful coastal paths.
You can soak in the breathtaking surroundings, indulge in delectable local cuisines, lodge in traditional Japanese ryokans, visit temples and shrines, and enjoy the company of warm locals. Immerse yourself in an enriching combination of nature’s allure and profound traditions that imprint on your heart and soul.
Mount Fuji Climb
About 100 kilometres (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo is Mount Fuji, also referred to as Fuji-san, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a staggering height of 3,776 metres (13,389 feet). Famed worldwide and viewed as a sacred symbol in Japan, this dormant volcano is a favourite of locals and tourists and is climbed by more than 200,000 hikers yearly.
Mount Fuji takes you on an enthralling journey through lush forests, cultural heritages, and jagged volcanic terrain, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas of the surroundings. A highlight is beholding a sunrise from the mountain’s peak. The routes available include Yoshida, Gotemba, Subashiri, and Fujinomiya, with the Yoshida being popular among first-time hikers and has several mountain lodges.
For the perfect relaxation break, you can indulge in a relaxing dip in an onsen (hot spring) in the Fuji Five Lakes area to soothe your muscles.
Nakasendo Trail
Hiking the Nakasendo Trail, which means “central mountain route,” is an odyssey through history and nature. This 540 km (340 miles) trail connected Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo period that spanned from the 17th to the 19th century. Traversing this trail sends you back in time when travellers, traders, and samurais walked those paths.
This trail encompasses varied terrains, including cobblestone roads, lush forests decorated with stunning trees, captivating waterfalls, and entrancing historical villages at the end of each path. It also has several inns and tea houses where you can relax, interact with the warm locals, taste mouth-watering cuisines, and feel the riveting Japanese cultural experience.
Journeying the Nakasendo trail provides a sense of tranquillity and exposes you to hidden treasure troves and historical sites.
photo credit: Susann Schuster
Kumano Kodo Hiking Trail
The Kumano Kodo hiking trail, one of Japan’s hidden gems, features an impressive mix of brilliant cultural heritage, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. It is a web of varied ancient pilgrimage routes that unites the shrines, Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Kumano Hayatama Taisha. Kumano Kodo earned the World Heritage status in 2004, alongside its sacred sites.
Prepare to encounter entrancing scenery peppered with verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, peaceful rivers, and rejuvenating hot springs as you embark on a physically and spiritually fulfilling journey. The trails have their unique features and levels of difficulty. However, you can choose which paths to follow and how to go about this journey, as there is no order on how you should tackle these routes.
Shinetsu Trail
Opened in 2008, the 110km-long Shinetsu Trail spanning the border of Niigata and Nagano prefectures provides a unique experience combining the allure of Satoyama terrains and Japan’s mountain culture. Journeying through this trail lets you witness the country’s beauty as you behold brilliant forests, tranquil lakes, and alpine meadows.
This region has a lot to enjoy, from unique dishes made with fresh local produce and tasty sake to lively festivals that reward you with live performances, delectable foods from stalls, and awe-inspiring views.
Regardless of the type of trail you’re looking for, whether challenging or serene walks in the stunning countryside, the Shinetsu trail has something to offer.
Witness Japan in a different dimension by traversing untouched landscapes, encountering breathtaking scenery from refreshing heights, savouring hot baths, conversing with locals, and returning in time as you visit the best hikes in Japan.
