
Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Sakai, Japan
1. Kii Peninsula Trail (Kumano Kodo)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this trail takes you through ancient shrines and beautiful forests.
- Historical Significance: Walk on paths used since the 7th century
- Cultural Experience: Visit three Grand Shrines of Kumano
- Natural Beauty: Explore primeval forests and coastal scenery
2. Totsugi Gaeri Trail
A steep trail leading to a giant cedar tree with a breathtaking view of Sakai.
- Natural Marvel: Witness the largest living cedar tree in Japan
- Physical Challenge: Conquer a challenging ascent for an amazing view
- Local Connection: Experience the local legends and beliefs surrounding the giant cedar
3. Sakai River Trail
A flat and easy trail along the beautiful Sakai River.
- Accessibility: Ideal for families, elderly or disabled
- Nature Immersion: Enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature
- Historical Sites: Pass by several temples, shrines and historical sites along the way
4. Mt. Miwa Trail
A trail leading to a sacred mountain with a long history dating back to the Jomon period.
- Historical Significance: Walk in the footsteps of ancient Japanese people
- Spiritual Experience: Visit the shrine at the summit for a spiritual connection
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of Sakai city and surrounding mountains
5. Amanohashidate Trail
A trail leading to the famous 'Bridge to Heaven' land formation.
- Natural Wonder: Witness the unique landscape of the 'Bridge to Heaven'
- Historical Significance: Learn about the area's mythology and Shinto beliefs
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and mountains
6. Mt. Yoshioka Trail
A challenging trail leading to the summit of Mt. Yoshioka with panoramic views.
- Physical Challenge: Test your hiking skills on this steep and rocky trail
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the stunning views from the summit of Mt. Yoshioka
- Cultural Experience: Visit a shrine at the summit and learn about local folklore
7. Mt. Shigi Trail
A challenging trail leading to the summit of Mt. Shigi with an ancient shrine at the top.
- Physical Challenge: Conquer a steep and rocky trail for a sense of accomplishment
- Historical Significance: Visit the ancient Shigi shrine with a history dating back over a thousand years
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of Sakai city and surrounding mountains
8. Mt. Koya Trail
A trail leading to the famous Buddhist monastery town of Mt. Koya.
- Cultural Experience: Visit over a thousand-year-old Buddhist temple complex
- Historical Significance: Walk in the footsteps of samurai and monks throughout history
- Spiritual Journey: Experience a peaceful and spiritual journey in nature
9. Izumo Taisha Trail
A trail leading to the ancient Izumo Taisha shrine known for its mythical powers.
- Cultural Experience: Visit Japan's oldest and most sacred shrine
- Historical Significance: Learn about the area's mythology and Shinto beliefs
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains
10. Daisen-Oki Trail
A trail leading to the summit of Mt. Daisen with stunning views and a famous shrine.
- Physical Challenge: Test your hiking skills on this steep and challenging trail
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views from the summit of Mt. Daisen
- Cultural Experience: Visit the famous Daisen-in Temple at the summit
11. Mt. Myoken Trail
A challenging trail leading to the summit of Mt. Myoken with breathtaking views.
- Physical Challenge: Conquer a steep and rocky trail for an amazing view
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea
- Cultural Experience: Visit a shrine at the summit and learn about local folklore
12. Mt. Iwaki Trail
A challenging trail leading to the summit of Mt. Iwaki with stunning views.
- Physical Challenge: Test your hiking skills on this steep and rocky trail
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea
- Cultural Experience: Visit a shrine at the summit and learn about local folklore
13. Mt. Sefuri Trail
A trail leading to the summit of Mt. Sefuri with breathtaking views and a historical shrine.
- Historical Significance: Visit a historic shrine dating back over a thousand years
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea
- Cultural Experience: Learn about local folklore and myths surrounding Mt. Sefuri
14. Mt. Akami Trail
A trail leading to the summit of Mt. Akami with breathtaking views and a sacred shrine.
- Spiritual Experience: Connect with nature at this sacred mountain
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea
- Cultural Experience: Learn about local folklore and myths surrounding Mt. Akami
15. Mt. Takasaki Trail
A trail leading to the summit of Mt. Takasaki with breathtaking views and a historic shrine.
- Historical Significance: Visit a historic shrine dating back over a thousand years
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea
- Cultural Experience: Learn about local folklore and myths surrounding Mt. Takasaki