Best Hiking Spots in Japan

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Facts & Figures

I really like to explore the hidden and not so hidden hiking paths in Japan. The following list of my Top 10 Hiking Spots will give you a good start to explore one of the most fascinating countries in the world. The list covers mountain areas, islands, rough coastlines, lake areas and remote valleys. If this is not enough for you checkout hundreds of more destinations on this website.

1. Jomon Sugi (Yakushima), Kagoshima Prefecture

Plan the whole day for this exhausting but rewarding hiking tour on Yakushima Island to one of the oldest trees in the world.

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2. Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture

Yakushima island is a natural wonder. The waterfall Senpiro-no-taki was my starting point for a nice round-tour. The place is quite an impressive site.

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3. Hakone National Park, Kanagawa Prefecture

Lake Ashinoko located within the Hakone National Park offers a great hiking path along its shore line.

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4. Kiso Valley, Nagano Prefecture

The Kiso Valley is located in the Nagano prefecture. Plan 2 days for a tour from Tsumago to Magome. It is also worth to stay overnight in a Ryokan(traditional Japanese inn).

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5. Tanesashi Coast, Aomori Prefecture

This rocky coastline of the Aomori prefecture along the pacific ocean is a hiking paradise.

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6. Hakkoda Mountain Range, Aomori Prefecture

Easy accessible from the city Aomori the Hakkoda Mountain Range offers great nature and the highest point is Mount Ō with 1584m.

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7. Shiobara Valley, Tochigi Prefecture

This hiking and onsen area is very popular for stressed people from Tokyo. It is the perfect weekend getaway.

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8. Lake Chuzenji, Tochigi Prefecture

Close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nikko you will find this beautiful lake. Dont forget to make a stop at the Kegon Waterfall.

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9. Okutama, Tokyo Metropolis

Just 1,5hrs away by local train from Tokyo the hiking area along the river Tamagawa offers great views and beautiful nature.

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10. Mt. Takao, Tokyo Metropolis

Mt. Takao is only 599m high but offers great views over the Yokohama and Tokyo area. On the weekends it can be really crowded there, but it is definitely worth a visit.

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