"Recommended for Foreigners! Japan's Mountain Climbing, Trail Running, and Outdoor Spots"

Hello, this time, I would like to introduce some hiking, trail running, and outdoor spots that foreign travelers should definitely visit when they come to Japan. I have carefully selected spots where you can enjoy Japan's beautiful nature and rich outdoor experiences.

1. Mount Fuji (Shizuoka Prefecture and Yamanashi Prefecture)

Overview Mount Fuji, which can be said to be a symbol of Japan, is a place of admiration for climbing enthusiasts around the world. At an elevation of 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan, and its beautiful conical shape is unforgettable once seen.

Recommended points

• Climbing Mount Fuji: During the climbing season from July to September, many climbers aim for the summit of Mount Fuji. The course starting from the 5th station is common, and the climbing paths are well maintained. Night climbing to see the sunrise at the summit, known as "Goraikou climbing," is also popular.
• Fuji Five Lakes: The five lakes (Kawaguchi Lake, Saiko Lake, Shojiko Lake, Motosuko Lake, Yamanakako Lake) spread out at the foot of the mountain, each offering beautiful scenery and a variety of activities such as camping, hiking, and kayaking.

Access From Tokyo to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji, it takes about 2 and a half hours to access by bus or train.

2. Mount Takao (Tokyo)

Overview Mount Takao is a popular mountain that is easily accessible from central Tokyo, allowing for a convenient way to enjoy nature. At an elevation of 599 meters, it is a low mountain, but it boasts rich nature and a variety of hiking courses.

Recommended points

• Trail Running: There are many courses around Mount Takao that are perfect for trail running. There are courses available for beginners to advanced runners, allowing you to experience the refreshing feeling of running through nature.
• Cable Cars and Lifts: If climbing is difficult, you can use cable cars or lifts to get close to the summit. The view from the top is spectacular.

Access It is very convenient to access, taking about 50 minutes from Shinjuku via the Keio Line.

3. Oze National Park (Gunma Prefecture, Fukushima Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture)

Overview Oze National Park is a natural park that features one of Japan's largest wetlands, offering beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. The flowers, especially from spring to summer, are magnificent and loved by many hikers.

Recommended points

• Hiking: The hiking trail along the wooden path in Oze Marsh is a course that can be enjoyed by beginners and experienced hikers alike. The flat path continues, making it safe and enjoyable even for those with children.
• Nature Observation: Oze National Park is known as a habitat for diverse plants and animals. You can enjoy nature observation in the wetlands and forests.

Access It is accessible from Tokyo in about 3 and a half hours by using the Shinkansen and bus.

4. Yakushima (Kagoshima Prefecture)

Overview Yakushima is a subtropical island located in Kagoshima Prefecture, and it is registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. It features a mysterious forest filled with ancient cedars, including Jomon Sugi, and its rich nature is a major attraction.

Recommended points

• Trekking: The trekking courses in Yakushima cater to everyone from beginners to advanced hikers. The Jomon Sugi course is particularly famous, allowing you to feel the ancient history.
• River Trekking: River trekking while going upstream is also popular, allowing you to enjoy adventures in nature.

Access About 2 hours by ferry or高速船 from Kagoshima mainland. By air, it takes about 40 minutes from Kagoshima Airport to Yakushima Airport.

5. Northern Alps (Nagano and Gifu Prefectures)

Overview The Northern Alps is a representative mountain range of Japan, featuring majestic mountains and beautiful scenery. Many climbers from both domestic and international locations visit to enjoy mountaineering and trekking.

Recommended points

• Mountain Climbing: Climbing famous peaks such as Yarigatake and Hotakadake offers a genuine mountain experience. There are also plenty of courses suitable for beginners, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful mountain ranges.
• Trail Running: There are many trail running courses developed at the foot of the Northern Alps. You can experience the refreshing feeling of running through nature.

Access It takes about 1.5 hours from Tokyo to Nagano Station by Shinkansen, and from there, it takes about 2 hours by bus.

summary

Japan has many attractive hiking, trail running, and outdoor spots for foreign travelers. Places like Mount Fuji, Mount Takao, Oze National Park, Yakushima, and the Northern Alps offer natural beauty and diverse outdoor experiences. Please use the door pass rental service to enjoy the outdoors comfortably and safely.