Japan Walking Tours

Top 5 Places to Explore on Hiking Tours in Japan

1. Tokyo
The intriguing capital of Japan is a bustling metropolis where contrasts of old and new are everywhere you look. Ultra-modern architecture pierces the neon-lit skyline and history courses through the walls of temples, shrines and palaces. This a city where technology and modern culture rub shoulders with the past in an extraordinary fashion. And we can’t forget to mention the food scene too, as top-class sushi restaurants compete with Japanese street food stalls, inviting you to experience the vibrant East Asian flavors. We’d highly recommend visiting the Japanese gardens, Sensoji Temple, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a night-time view of the illuminated skyscrapers.

2. Kyoto
Fusing ornate temples, traditional teahouses and gardens filled with cherry blossoms, Kyoto is a mesmerizing city. Throughout Kyoto, there are approximately 2,000 shrines and temples where you can witness religious architecture and zen gardens. Just moments from this tranquility, Downtown Kyoto buzzes with local artisans, world-class restaurants and shops, while Central Kyoto is home to the impressive Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle. In the far west of the city, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most photographed sights. hiking through these giant bamboo groves that tower above you is a sensational feeling and unlike the usual tree tunnels you’ll have seen before.

3. Kumano Kodo
A hike along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is an experience like no other and offers an insight into the nature, religion and authentic culture of Japan. Along this countryside trail, you’ll discover traditional villages, tumbling waterfalls and the ancient forest of the Kii Mountains, which leads to the famous Kumano shrine at Hongu. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims, aristocrats and emperors who took this spiritual journey along centuries-old trails. Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three pilgrimage shrines that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its spellbinding views, sacred waterfall and vermillion pagoda.

4. Nakasendo Trail
This ancient hiking route connects modern-day Tokyo with Kyoto and runs for approximately 340 miles through the Central Mountains. Formerly used by travelers such as samurai, pilgrims and merchants, the trail is far less crowded today and offers an introduction to 17th-century history and spectacular scenery. This is a wonderful route for anyone that wants to escape the tourist crowd and bustling cities of Japan to explore the peaceful landscapes of forests, mountains and waterfalls.

5. Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail
Covering more than 600 miles, this epic trail meanders between 88 Buddhist temples on a spiritual journey once hiked by Kobo Daishi, who dedicated his life to Buddha. The scenery along the route is remarkable and to this day pilgrims hike the Shikoku Trail to visit the temples. Our tour guides you to some of the most beautiful parts of the trail in Tokushima, Kagawa and Ehime where you’ll stay in traditional minshuku and ryokan and feast on authentic Japanese dishes.

When is the best time for Japan walking tours?

Japan is home to a variety of landscapes that change with the seasons, making it suitable for hiking holidays throughout the year. However, the best seasons for hiking tours are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Throughout these months, you can enjoy milder temperatures, dazzling cherry blossoms in spring and fiery autumn foliage in autumn, creating a colorful backdrop for your hiking adventures.

What should I pack for trekking in Japan?

When preparing for trekking in Japan, it’s best to pack light but make sure you include necessary items to ensure your comfort and safety on the trail. Some essential items to pack include comfortable hiking shoes, breathable clothing suitable for fluctuating temperatures, a waterproof jacket, sun protection gear, a refillable water bottle, snacks and a camera or smartphone to capture your adventures along the way.