Japan’s landscape mostly consists of forested mountains and hills. The Japanese archipelago runs around 3000 kilometers from north to south, it gives it’s visitors an amazing opportunity to see a wide range of different natural sceneries, from the mangrove jungles in Okinawa to the drift ice in the seas off Hokkaido. Moreover, in Japan, you will be able to see some astonishing coastlines (beaches, bluffs, tidelands, and coral reefs that are inhabited by birds and fish) grand volcanoes and enormous Japanese forests that are home to deer, bear, monkeys, cranes and more.
Nature hikes in Japan
Due to the Japanese landscape, it is only natural that the country has developed a dynamic hiking environment that goes well with its geography. Here you can find a hike to any liking from long hikes in natural parks to short and easy day treks, the hikes differ by climate or difficulty levels:
Easy level: the tracks are not too far away from the city center as well as easily accessible by public transportation. Easy level tracks are also close to different amenities such as shops, restaurants, and public restrooms. This level is perfect for beginners who are just starting out as well as those who are hiking with children.
We recommend :
Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto, hands down, one of the most beautiful hikes that lead up to the sacred mountain of Fushimi.
Medium level: trails are starting to become a bit steeper and longer, more equipment and better hiking shoes are required.
We recommend:
Mount Fuji, the king of the mountains. Thousands of hikers attempt climbing the giant every year.
Difficult level: long and steep trails that require experience, navigation and professional equipment, not suitable for children.
We recommend :
Daigoji Temple, Kyoto, a steep mountain trail through lush and stunning forests.
Impressive places hidden in nature
When visiting the shrines and museums in Japan you already know what to expect and the thousands of photos on the internet can spoil first impressions. When it comes to nature in Japan, no view is the same. Great mountains, adventurous hikes, and stunning landscapes, nothing can beat a vacation like this.
Visit Tottori prefecture, 16 km long sand hills that have been forming for over 100 thousand years. Imagine sand boarding over sand mountains and having a marvelous view of the ocean, this is one of the most unique outdoor experiences in Japan;
Kabira Bay, Okinawa, for a tropical vacation at the beach, head to this travel destination. Rent a boat that has a glass floor or snorkel and check out the Japanese sea life;
Nachi Falls, Wakayama, is for those who can handle a little hike, it is worth climbing up and checking out the 133-meter tall waterfall as well as Seigantoji pagoda.
Those places that are harder to access are usually the most stunning, travel to Iya Valley, and go over the woven vine bridges, this is one of the most rural experiences and a perfect getaway from the city.
Japan climate and weather conditions
Japan is a perfect place to visit all year round, Winter is sunny and dry, although some places can experience heavy snowfalls. Winter season is good for those who prefer fewer crowds and cozying up in cute little cafes and tea houses. January and February are great for winter sports in Sapporo, Tokyo, and Takayama areas.
March comes with higher temperatures and a beautiful cherry tree blooming season. You might still be able to do some winter sports in Sapporo or have a picnic in Naha where the average temperature will be 20C.
In April the whole country is blooming in whites and reds, it is the peak of the cherry blossom season, thousands of visitors visit Japan in April just to snap photos of the beautiful Sakura.
May will come as the busiest travel season, with the perfect temperature and just the right amount of tourists. The temperature will be around 15-25 degrees, it is a pleasant temperature allowing you to do sightseeing and does not require any special clothing.
In June you will have to start preparing for the heavy heat season that is coming, June temperatures can be anywhere from 20-30 degrees. In July and August with heavy rainfall and scorching heat, the locals leave the city heading to the mountains to avoid melting in their apartments. You can expect the heat to continue even until September and early October.
