Japan set a record for itself by attracting 30 million visitors from around the world in 2018. This number is expected to rise as the word gets out about the highlights that this amazing country has to offer. From the rich history and incredible architecture to delectable cuisine and stunning nature, Japan has something for everyone. What people might not realize is that Japan is home to some of the greatest hiking routes in the northern hemisphere. Mils upon miles of beautiful trails traverse through dense forests and atop sky-breaching mountains. Let’s take a look at the 5 best hikes in Japan.
1. The Nakasendo Way
The Nakasendo Way directly translates to the Central Mountain Route. This historic route was popular during the Edo period and connected Kyoto to Edo (what’s now Tokyo). Between the route, there were 69 stations in total. The total route is 332 miles or 534 kilometers in length and takes travelers through roughly half a dozen prefectures. While much of the historic trail has been transformed into modern roadway, there are still clear markers for those who still want to make this trek. There are some sections of the route that have been preserved in the same form as their original creation
2. Mount Koya
Mount Koya, closely associated with the name Koyasan, is a hugely popular site for pilgrims from around Japan. The scenic hiking trails leading up to the top of this mounting have drawn tourists from around the world as well. Like a network of roots, these pilgrimage trails reach out from the top of the mountain in several different directions. While some visitors might opt to reach Mount Koya by cablecar, those that enjoy hiking have a lot of options to choose from. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is perhaps the most popular and primary hiking trail to reach the mountain. The trail starts Kudoyama Station and culminates at the Daimon Gate. Along the well-marked route, hikers will see stunning forest brush and some historic Buddhist architecture towards the beginning and end.
3. Mount Takao
Mount Takao is located in the Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park roughly an hour outside of Tokyo, making it a popular spot for hikers living or visiting the capital. There are 8 different hiking paths leading up to the top of the mountain that attracts some 2.5 million visitors each year. Mount Takao is roughly 1,965 feet or 599 meters tall, making it quite a challenging climb for some novice or intermediate hikers. It takes around 90 minutes to make it to the top, but it all depends on the route you choose. You can start hiking at ground-level or take a funicular halfway up the mountain and hike from there.
4. Mount Hiei
Mount Hiei is another well-known hiking area that attracts visitors who are seeking some pristine beauty. Located close to the popular city of Kyoto, this moderate trail is a great place to reconnect with nature and see some amazing wildlife. The 6.5-mile Hiei Mountain Trail is open year-round and is great for walking, trail running, or old-fashioned hiking. For those who don’t feel like hiking, there’s a toll road that offers access to the top. Buses and funicular routes are also available.
5. Kumano Kodo
Kumano Kodo is a vast network of trails originally created for pilgrimage purposes. Located in the Kansai region of southern Japan, the “old ways” have received a UNESCO title and are still being used after nearly 1,000 years. Other than the Camino de Santiago in northern Iberia, the Kumano Kodo is the only route to be considered a world heritage site. Along the network of routes, hikers can see three shrines: Nachi Taisha, Hayatama Taisha, and Hongu Taisha. The hiking ranges from relatively mild to a little more advanced depending on where you’re hiking.
