Ray Bartlett - Lonely Planet Best Day Hikes Japan 1 (Travel Guide)

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Everyone has seen the images cramped housing, crowded trains and seemingly endless concrete and neon lights. Most travellers turn up to partake of Japans cultural heritage its temples, shrines, fine cuisine and traditional arts and few venture far from the well-trodden path. But what of the other Japan? For those who make the effort to get out of the big cities, spectacular mountains, twisting rivers, hidden harbours and rugged coastlines await. Besides meeting some of the friendliest and most open-minded people in the country, this is the best way to get behind the tatemae or public face that Japan shows to the outsider. If you really want to glimpse that honne or private face that few foreigners are privileged to see, walk a rocky trail, share a beer or soak in an onsen after the hike with walkers you met on the track.

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Climbing Japans tallest mountain (and national icon) is the ultimate bucket-list hike. Dawn from the summit? Pure magic.

Tucked in its own valley at the southern end of the North Alps, Japanese outdoor enthusiasts will tell you that Kamikchi is the place to be.

With seemingly endless arcades of vermilion torii (shrine gates), this vast shrine complex is one of the most impressive sights in all Japan.

An active volcano with steaming vents, gorgeous wildflowers and autumn foliage, plus an onsen you can dip your feet into along the way.

Long a centre for mountain worship, Ishizuchi-san, known as the roof of Shikoku, is the highest peak in western Japan.

This revered volcano near the Sea of Japan coast offers epic views, ancient temples, large tracts of virgin forest and lots and lots of steps.

Spectacular alpine scenery at one of Japans three holy mountains, accessed by the enthralling Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route in the north of the North Alps.

A fascinating ramble through the Nara countryside an extremely pleasant way to immerse yourself in historical and rural Japan.

Thokus 700km-long Michinoku Coastal Trail officially opened in 2019. This is the first leg, which traces rocky coastline and sandy beaches.

Hike from sea level to the highest point on World Heritage-listed Yakushima, an island full of wildlife and giant cypress trees 60km south of Kysh.

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n A BREAK FROM THE CITY

Most cities have surprisingly good hiking opportunities nearby.

A classic Tokyo excursion: close enough for a day trip, but far enough to feel like a mountain getaway.

This quick escape includes spectacular views of the Kansai metropolis and fun rock scrambling.

Relax in the healing peacefulness of pristine forest north of Hiroshima (pictured).

These two tiny villages have long served as a rural retreat from the heat and congestion of Kyoto.

Friendly trails make for a fun break from Tokyo only an hour west of Shinjuku.

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Y OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Get off the standard visitor trail in Japan and find places that foreigners seldom go.

Rugged and remote Hakusan is one of Japans three holy mountains.

This Fuji lookalike in Kagoshima Prefecture makes a great day walk with lovely views.

At the head of the remote Iya Valley, Tsurugi-san is easily climbed with the help of a chairlift.

Climb the peak beside Lake Mash, rumoured to have the clearest water in the entire world (pictured).

Thokus famous pilgrim trail is deep in the sacred mountains of Yamagata Prefecture.

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p ONSEN SOAKING

Soaking in hot springs after a hike is a Japanese tradition.

Excellent options once you get to Kumano Hong Taisha.

Hop into the free rotemburo (outdoor bath) at Iwaobetsu Onsen (pictured).

Soak in one of Hakones day spas after a walk down this historic, cobblestone post road.

This hike starts and finishes at one of Thokus most famous hot springs, Sukayu Onsen.

Down in the valley, choose from various onsen options at Shin-Hotaka Onsen.

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m MOUNTAIN VIEWS

There are some massive views in Japan, from both higher and lower peaks.

Gorgeous views out over Kyoto from this mountain behind the temple of Ginkaku-ji.

Spotting Mt Fujis perfectly symmetrical cone from the summit is nothing short of awesome.

Japans third-highest volcano offers panoramic views and is relatively easy to summit (pictured).

Cliffs that stare into craters and vistas stretching to the sea.