Hiking in the Japan Alps: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Lying just off the coast of continental Asia, Japan consists of approximately 6,852 islands, of which the four largest contain most of the population of 127 million. The majority of the nation’s terrain is rugged, mountainous, and volcanic, while being blanketed in thick forest. The large scale of territory, differences in geography, and varying climates also create a diverse ecology of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species.

Eastern natural treasures

Approximately 70 percent of the Japan archipelago is dominated by piercing mountains and volcanoes, where snow is permanently sprinkled across its summits. Its natural beauty makes it a fascinating place for hiking, an industry that has flourished along with its tourism sector. The eastern treasures are best explored in a couple of days, ideally a weekend, given the extensive terrain and rolling green landscapes.

Rich variety of hikes

The terrain of Japan is perfectly suited for thrilling and stunning hiking adventures within its wilderness. Traverse the Ushiro-Tateyama mountains on a challenging trip, conquer the exposed ridges of Mount Maehodaka, wander through the Japanese Alps on gentle routes, or head to the heights of dominant mountains that offer unrivalled panoramic views.

Sacred Japanese summits

There are three hugely iconic mountains that make up the three holy summits in Japanese culture. Mount Tate is home to incredible hot springs and clear-blue lakes. Mount Haku is contained with a UNESCO-listed site flush with forests, lakes and snow-capped volcanic peaks. And the great Mount Fuji, standing at 3,776 meters, is the highest peak in the country, and one of the most iconic symbols of Japan.

The north of the country receives a humid and continental climate, while the south experiences a subtropical and rainforest climate. While its coastal geography results in a high level of rainfall each year, that translated into snow at higher altitudes.

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Visit during the warmer months between May and October for ideal hiking conditions.