Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Tokyo, Japan
1. Mount Takao
A popular hiking spot close to Tokyo, Mount Takao offers scenic views and is accessible by a short train ride from the city. The trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
- Accessibility: Easy access by train from central Tokyo.
- Difficulty Level: Trails range from easy to moderate.
- Viewpoints: Offers beautiful views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji on clear days.
- Facilities: Restaurants and shops are available near the base.
- Crowds: Can be crowded during weekends and holidays.
2. Mount Mitake
This mountain is part of the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park and offers wonderful hiking opportunities. It's known for its lush forests and the Musashi-Mitake Shrine at the summit.
- Access: A train and cable car ride are needed, but it's manageable from Tokyo.
- Natural Beauty: Dense forests and a variety of plant species.
- Cultural Sites: Houses an ancient Shinto shrine.
- Weather Conditions: Can be misty; check weather before visiting.
- Wildlife: Possibility of encountering wildlife like birds and small mammals.
3. Mount Tsukuba
Located north of Tokyo, this twin-peaked mountain provides stunning panoramic views of the Kanto Plain. It's famous for its unique double peaks, Nyotai-san and Nantai-san.
- Climb Options: Two main peaks provide different experiences.
- Family-Friendly: Cable cars available for easier access.
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 800 meters of elevation.
- Observation Points: Observation decks facilitate stunning views.
- Seasonal Appeal: Beautiful seasonal changes, especially cherry blossoms in spring.
4. Okutama
Featuring numerous trails, Okutama is a gateway to Tokyo's truly wild hiking destinations. Lake Okutama and a variety of summit trails provide diverse experiences.
- Trail Variety: Multiple trails, catering to different skill levels.
- Scenic Waterfalls: Home to the scenic Hato-no-su Valley.
- Camping: Opportunities for overnight camping.
- Fishing: Fishing is popular in nearby rivers.
- Proximity to Water: Trails along riversides and near the lake.
5. Mount Kumotori
The highest mountain in Tokyo, Mount Kumotori offers a more challenging hike. It's part of the celebrated Okutama mountain range.
- Elevation: Over 2000 meters, suitable for experienced hikers.
- Remote Beauty: More isolated and less crowded.
- Long Distance: Full hike can be strenuous and time-consuming.
- Primitive Campgrounds: Some camping spots along the trail.
- Jaw-Dropping Views: Stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
6. Tanzawa Mountains
Though not within Tokyo, this range is easily reachable and offers numerous trails with varying difficulty levels and splendid views.
- Multiple Trails: Trails of various lengths and difficulties.
- Mountain Range Views: Sweeping vistas are a highlight.
- Year-Round Hiking: Trails are open throughout the year.
- Ecosystem Diversity: Rich plant and animal life.
- Day and Multi-Day Hikes: Options range from single-day hikes to multi-day treks.
7. Takao 599 Museum Nature Trail
Located near the base of Mount Takao, this museum focuses on the natural environment of the region and provides short educational walks.
- Educational Displays: Insights into local flora and fauna.
- Short and Easy: Suitable for all ages, including children.
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on learning experiences.
- Family Oriented: Ideal for family outings.
- Free Admission: No cost to enter, budget-friendly.
8. Kamakura Hiking Trails
South of Tokyo, Kamakura offers ancient temples and scenic trails that weave through hills and forests.
- Historic Temples: Trails pass through areas rich in cultural history.
- Ocean Views: Access to beach views along some paths.
- Moderately Difficult: Good for hikers with a medium skill level.
- Cultural Experience: Offers insight into Japan's ancient capital.
- Short Travel Time: Easily reachable within an hour from Tokyo.
9. Nokogiriyama (Sawtooth Mountain)
Known for its jagged cliffs and views of Tokyo Bay, this mountain provides a unique hiking experience.
- Dramatic Cliffs: Spectacular rock formations define the landscape.
- Cable Car Option: Cable cars are available for a less strenuous climb.
- Weather Influence: Views can be affected by cloudy weather.
- Trail Conditions: Rocky and steep in some areas.
- Historic Significance: The area has historical sites like the giant Buddha statue.
10. Hiking Around Lake Chuzenji
Near Nikko, though a bit farther from Tokyo, it offers scenic lake views and mountain backdrops.
- Lakeside Paths: Flat trails suitable for gentle walks.
- Seasonal Colors: Particularly stunning with autumn foliage.
- Access by Public Transport: Requires train and bus travel.
- Combines with Nikko Sites: Close to famous Nikko shrines.
- Tranquil Ambience: Less crowded than urban trails.
11. Takao Trail Network
Beyond the main trail, Mount Takao offers a network of lesser-known paths that showcase diverse flora and fauna.
- Diverse Ecosystem: Rich variety of wildlife and plant life.
- Secluded Paths: Offers more privacy away from crowds.
- Variety of Terrains: Forests, streams, and rocky areas.
- Well-Maintained: Trails are clearly marked and kept.
- Safety Features: Safe with adequate guideposts and railings.
12. Yakuoin Temple Path (Mount Takao)
A spiritual journey, this path leads to the historic Yakuoin Temple on Mount Takao.
- Cultural Significance: Spiritual and religious sites along the way.
- Moderate Challenge: Some steep sections challenge hikers.
- Cultural Insight: Offers a window into local traditions.
- Temple Exploration: Opportunity to explore an active temple.
- Friendly for All Ages: Suitable for family hikers.
13. Enoshima-Tennen Hiking Course
Located near the coast, this trail offers ocean and city views with a refreshing sea breeze.
- Ocean Views: Scenic coastal views throughout the hike.
- Proximity to Tokyo: Short day trip from Tokyo.
- Mild Terrain: Mostly gentle paths, easy for beginners.
- Coastal Features: Includes beach access and tidal pools.
- Nature and Urban Mix: Offers both natural and urban sights.
14. Hakone Trails
Slightly south of Tokyo, Hakone provides hot springs and views of Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji in the distance.
- Stunning Landscapes: Trails feature lake and mountain views.
- Hot Springs: Relaxing onsens for post-hike relaxation.
- Ferry and Cable Cars: Options for mixed transportation.
- Cultural Stops: Near the Hakone Shrine and museum.
- Accommodation Options: Availability of ryokans and hotels.
15. Aokigahara Forest (Sea of Trees)
Located at the base of Mount Fuji, this dense forest offers an eerie, quiet hiking experience.
- Mystical Ambience: Known for its legends and quiet serenity.
- Ground Conditions: Lava rock terrain can be tricky in spots.
- Navigation Importance: Dense trees require careful navigation.
- Scientific Interest: Diverse plant and animal life unique to the area.
- Clear Weather Preference: Best visited on clear days.
16. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
While technically in Kyoto, it's a top hiking destination that combines bamboo forest paths with gentle slopes and river views.
- Unique Atmosphere: Distinctive bamboo forest experience.
- Seasonal Appeal: Beautiful in all seasons, especially spring.
- Cultural Landscape: Proximity to historic sites and gardens.
- Tourist Popularity: Can be crowded during peak times.
- Relaxing Environment: Soothing natural sounds and sights.
17. Oigasaki Trail Circuit
Near Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, offers dramatic vistas and diverse trails, perfect for different hiking preferences.
- Diverse Trails: Includes varied paths for all levels.
- Viewpoints: Offers stunning panoramic views.
- Remote Beauty: Less crowded, offers peaceful solitude.
- Length Flexibility: Various entry and exit points.
- Ecological Richness: Home to diverse flora and fauna.
18. Shosenkyo Gorge
Known as one of Japan's most beautiful gorges, located in Kofu, offering an easy to moderate hike.
- Scenic Beauty: Renowned for stunning rock formations.
- Waterfall Views: Features waterfalls along the routes.
- Seasonal Variety: Gorgeous autumn leaves and spring flowers.
- Accessibility: Reachable by train from Tokyo.
- Photographer's Delight: Ideal for landscape photography.
19. Mount Nokogiri Cliffs (Chiba)
Offers a scenic hike with impressive cliffs and a giant stone Buddha carved into the mountain.
- Cliffside Paths: Walking near impressive rock faces.
- Historical Carvings: Features a giant stone Buddha.
- Moderate Hiking: Some climbing but mostly manageable.
- Cultural Integration: Rich with local history and temples.
- Various Terrains: Combines flat walks with some steep climbs.
20. Tama Hills
A natural area in western Tokyo, offering several trails that meander through peaceful forests and rolling hills.
- Accessibility: Convenient for hikers residing in Tokyo.
- Scenic Variety: Rolling hills and pretty forests.
- Wildlife Encounters: Occasional sightings of wildlife.
- Trail Options: Suitable paths for short and long hikes.
- Historical Value: Some trails linked to historical landmarks.