Where to hike in Japan: 10 best mountains to hike in Japan for Conquerors

Where to hike in Japan, Where should you go mountain climbing in Japan to both admire the beautiful scenery and challenge yourself? Discover 10 famous mountain climbing areas in Japan that are worth conquering through this blog: 10 best mountains to hike in Japan, best hiking places in Japan, best hiking spots in japan, best hiking areas in Japan below!

When mentioning Japan, many people will immediately think of Mount Fuji – the symbol of the land of cherry blossoms. But few people know that this country also owns countless other majestic mountains, from the majestic Japanese Alps to exciting short-term trekking routes. Whether you are a beginner or a passionate “backpacker”, Japan always has a suitable itinerary.

If you are looking for a mountain climbing destination in Japan worth conquering, let’s explore the list of 10 attractive destinations below!

Best mountains to hike in Japan: Discover the Iconic Beauty of Mount Fuji

One-Day Tour Exploring the Magnificent Views of Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is 3,776m high, the most famous mountain in Japan, located between Yamanashi and Shizuoka, only about 2 hours by train from Tokyo. Dubbed the national symbol and one of the “Three Holy Mountains”, Fuji has long been featured in poetry, paintings and has become a dream destination for every travel enthusiast.

The journey to conquer Mount Fuji usually lasts 2 days and 1 night, starting from Station 5 at an altitude of 2,300m. From here, you choose one of four main routes: Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba and Fujinomiya. Of which, Yoshida Trail is the most popular thanks to its easy access and many rest stops. On average, climbing to the top takes 6 – 8 hours and descending about 45 hours. The official climbing season is from July to early September, when the weather is stable and services are open.

Mt. Fuji Sightseeing Cable Car Day Trip with Lunch Option

The must-see activity is watching the sunrise on the mountain top, called “Goraikō”. Visitors often stay in wooden huts on the top, departing at midnight to catch the sunrise. Don’t forget to visit Lake Kawaguchi, relax in an onsen or visit the ancient village of Oshino Hakkai. Advice for you: prepare good climbing shoes and warm clothes, because the temperature at the top can drop below 0°C even in summer.

Experience Climbing Mount Takao Near Tokyo

Mount Takao (Takaosan), 599 m high, is located in the Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park, less than 1 hour by train from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi from central Tokyo. The mountain is famous for its Shugendō beliefs and the legends of Tengu, sacred mountain spirits worshiped in the Yakuo-in Temple built in the 8th century.

The climbing here is quite gentle and suitable for everyone. Visitors can choose from 8 adventurous or easy routes, of which Trail 1 (Nature Research Trail) is the most popular, with easy-to-follow concrete roads and many stops such as shops, tea houses, monkey cages, and even a cable car or funicular to shorten the time. After about 90 minutes to reach the top of the mountain, you will see panoramic views of Tokyo or further away, Mount Fuji if the sky is clear.

Keio 1-Day Ticket with Mt. Takao Cable Car and Chair Lift Ticket

Autumn and spring are the ideal times to climb Mount Takao, when the leaves are brilliant red or the cherry blossoms are in full bloom along the way up the mountain. A useful tip is to go early to avoid the crowds and rest after the journey with an onsen bath at Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu or visit the Takao 599 museum to learn more about the local ecosystem.

Conquering Mount Sanpoiwa With Wild Scenery

Mount Sanpoiwa (Sanpoiwadake), about 1,736 m high, is located along the picturesque Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road in Hakusan National Park, connecting Gifu and Ishikawa prefectures. The mountain is nicknamed “Three Points” because its peak stretches out in three directions – Hida, Etchū and Kaga, creating a 360° panoramic view of the Northern Alps, Hakusan and the primeval forested mountains.

Autumn is the perfect time to climb Sanpoiwa, when the maple leaves change color against the silvery mountain backdrop, creating a mesmerizing scene. After the journey, try a leisurely drive through the White Road, stopping at the observation deck to admire the mist, streams and Ubagataki waterfall, before arriving at the unique Shirakawa-go village with its famous gassho-zukuri architecture.

Hakusan National Park Trekking tour with native language interpreter

The Sanpoiwa ascent is not long, but the wild nature makes it worth it. You start from the highest parking lot on White Road, at an altitude of about 1,455 m, and it only takes about 50 minutes to reach the summit. The trekking route is not too difficult, you will pass through coniferous forests, ancient oak trees and drifting clouds, creating the feeling of being immersed in a magical mist.

Best places to hike in Japan: See the Panorama of Kobe from the Top of Mount Rokko

Located in the southeast of Hyogo Prefecture, Mount Rokko is a natural symbol associated with the city of Kobe. At 931m high, Rokko is not only famous for its panoramic views of Osaka Bay but also for its interesting history as a favorite resort for British traders in the late 19th century. Today, Rokko is an easily accessible climbing spot within an hour’s drive from Osaka or right in the center of Kobe.

The difficulty is not too high, suitable for beginners, however, you should still wear good sports shoes because the trail has many steep sections. The climbing time is about 2-3 hours, depending on the route. Autumn leaves and spring cherry blossoms are the best times to enjoy the scenery.

Himeji Castle, Arima Onsen, and Mount Rokko Day Trip | Departing from Osaka

A suggested itinerary is to combine a visit to the famous Arima Onsen, experience Rokko Farm with cheese-making activities, or visit the Alpine Botanical Garden to admire thousands of flowers. In the evening, don’t forget to enjoy Kobe’s “million dollar night light” from the Rokko Garden Terrace observation deck, one of the three most beautiful night views in Japan. Take the Rokko Cable Car to save energy and spend more time exploring the surrounding areas.

Best mountains to climb in Japan: Explore the Aso Volcano in Kyushu

Located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Mount Aso is a giant volcano with the world’s widest crater, nearly 25km in diameter. Nakadake Peak is still very active, creating a majestic scene when white smoke rises from the middle of the volcanic crater. Although access was restricted after the 2016 eruption, visitors can now get close to the crater by bus, car or on foot.

The typical trekking route to Mount Aso takes about 3–4 hours. Summer and early autumn are the best times, when the lush green Kusa-Senrigahama grasslands and grazing horses create a peaceful picture. In addition, visitors can visit the sacred Aso-jinja Shrine, soak in the Uchinomaki hot springs, or experience driving on the poetic Milk Road.

[Optional Takachiho Boat Ride] Mount Aso & Kusasenri & Takachiho Gorge Day Trip (From Fukuoka)

Useful tip: You should check the status of volcanic activity before going, as the entrance to Nakadake is sometimes temporarily closed due to toxic gas. Aso does not have a direct Shinkansen, renting a car from Kumamoto is the most convenient option to explore the entire UNESCO-recognized geopark.

Challenge Yourself on Mount Norikura

Mount Norikura, 3,026m high, straddles the border between Nagano and Gifu, in the majestic Japanese Alps. As the third highest mountain in the area, Norikura is both wild and accessible. Visitors take a bus to Tatamidaira Station at an altitude of 2,700m, then climb for about 1-2 hours to reach the highest point, Kengamine Peak.

This is one of the rare mountains over 3,000m high, suitable for the whole family, as the route is quite flat compared to other Alps peaks. The ideal time to climb is from June to early October, when alpine wildflowers bloom, creating a colorful carpet, and you can also encounter the rare white grouse. In summer, this place is also famous for unique skiing activities on the remaining snow.

From Takayama: Mt. Norikura, Alpine Flowers & Peaks Tour

In addition, there are many other attractive attractions around the area such as Zengoro Falls, Ushidomeike Mountain Pond, or Shirahone Hot Spring. Important note: Norikura prohibits private cars, so you need to take a bus or taxi. Don’t forget to bring a warm jacket, because the weather at high altitude can change in just a few minutes.

White Snow Winter on Hakkoda Mountain

eSIM Japan | NTT DOCOMO

Located in Aomori Prefecture, between Aomori City and Lake Towada, the 1,585m high Hakkoda Mountain is considered the winter paradise of the Tohoku region. This mountain is originally a cluster of volcanic peaks, now famous for its thick snow-covered landscape and the amazing natural phenomenon of “snow monsters”. This is a rare phenomenon, when water vapor instantly freezes on the trees, turning the entire forest into a surreal world that can only be seen in a few places in the world.

Aomori | Oirase Stream & Lake Towada & Mount Hakkoda Day Trip

Hakkoda is an ideal destination for skiers in winter, because the snow is thick and soft, creating the feeling of being lost in a pure white tunnel through the forest. The popular departure point is the Hakkoda Ropeway Station, about an hour’s bus ride from Shin-Aomori Station. From here, you can reach the top of Tamoyachidake and begin your mountain climbing journey, hiking through the forest or simply standing from the observation deck to admire the vast white snow scene.

In Hakkoda, there are trails leading to Lake Towada, Suirennuma Pond or Kenashitai Marsh to see the maple leaves and bushes changing colors brilliantly in October. In particular, do not miss the famous Sukayu hot spring with a large wooden bath, soaking after a long day of trekking will be an unforgettable experience. Prepare good hiking shoes, windproof jackets and check the weather before the trip, because Hakkoda is known for its fierce snowstorms.

Unzen Volcano Exploration Journey

On the Shimabara Peninsula, Nagasaki Prefecture, Mount Unzen is known as the most famous active volcano in Japan. With the cluster of peaks Fugendake, Kunimidake, Myoken-dake and many others, Unzen forms a magnificent mountain landscape and was designated as Japan’s first National Park in 1934.

Despite its history of violent eruptions, including a devastating one from 1990 to 1995, Unzen is now a popular tourist destination. In spring, the mountainside is ablaze with pink azaleas, in summer it is cool with lush green carpets, and in autumn it is awash with red and yellow leaves, often peaking from late October.

Visitors can drive to Nita-toge Pass and take a ropeway up to near the top of Myoken. From the ropeway station, a popular trekking route is to climb to Fugendake (1,359m) in about an hour. From here you will see Heisei Shinzan – the youngest peak formed after the eruption in the 1990s.

Nagasaki Chartered Car & City Day Tour

Unzen Onsen town at the foot of the mountain is also a great place to relax with sulfur hot springs, mixed with white steam rising around the geothermal springs. If you have more time, you should visit the Heisei Shinzan Nature Center to learn about the history of the eruption and the unique ecosystem of this volcano. Note that public transportation to Unzen is quite limited, so renting a private car will help you be more proactive in your tour.

Enjoy Summer at Tateyama Kurobe Kamikochi

If you want to find a place to escape the heat in the summer in Japan, the Tateyama Kurobe mountain range and Kamikochi valley are definitely a great choice. This area is in the Northern Japan Alps, famous for its majestic landscape, emerald green lakes and trails winding through pristine old forests.

With an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, the Tateyama range offers a cool climate even in mid-July, very suitable for hiking. A highlight that cannot be missed is Kurobe Dam – the largest hydroelectric project in Japan, where you can admire the white water flowing down the deep valley, both majestic and romantic.

2D1N Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Kamikochi Autumn Tour from Nagoya

Kamikochi has a different beauty, peaceful and poetic. This is a valley surrounded by towering peaks such as Hotaka and Yake, along with the clear and winding Azusa River. You can leisurely walk across the Kappa Bridge, visit the quiet Taisho Lake with its water reflecting the mountains. If you have experience climbing mountains and like challenges, the journey to climb Hotaka or Yake only takes 5-7 hours.

A small tip for the trip is to bring a light jacket because the night temperature is quite cold, even in summer. In addition, in Kamikochi there are many ryokan and onsen style inns, ideal for relaxing after a long day of exploring.

Climb Mount Inari and Check-in with the Red Torii Gate at Fushimi

Mount Inari in Kyoto is not high, only about 233 meters, but is one of the most famous spiritual and check-in destinations in Japan. This mountain is associated with Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine – the main shrine worshiping Inari, the god of rice and abundance. There are more than 10,000 bright red torii gates connected together, forming a magical tunnel leading to the top of the mountain. Legend has it that each gate was donated by merchants and believers to pray for good luck in business.

The route to the top takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your speed. You will pass many small shrines, stone fox statues of Inari, and rest stops with traditional teahouses. You should start your journey early in the morning or late in the afternoon, both to avoid crowds and to watch the moment Kyoto lights up or gradually sinks into the sunset from above. Don’t forget to prepare drinking water because the trail is quite steep, although not long.

The Fushimi area is also famous for sake, so visit the breweries near Fushimi Station to taste the traditional flavor. If you want to take pictures with the deserted torii gate, go deeper to the higher sections where there are fewer tourists. Mount Inari will definitely leave an unforgettable impression, because of the peaceful feeling when you step among thousands of red gates leading to the sacred land.

Mountain Climbing Experience in Japan for First-Timers

When you first come to Japan to climb a mountain, you should start with Mount Fuji. This is the peak season from July to September, the weather is stable and there are full support services. During this time, the climbing route is officially open, there are many rest stops and rescue teams on duty, making the journey safer.

Before the trip, you need to prepare climbing shoes with good grip to avoid slipping, and bring warm clothes because the temperature at high altitudes often drops sharply, even in summer. A light windproof jacket and gloves will help you feel more comfortable during the journey.

If you do not have much experience or lack equipment, you can refer to booking a package tour on Klook. The tours all include a guide, necessary equipment and transportation, helping you save time preparing. This is a convenient option, especially for first-timers who want to enjoy the journey without having to worry too much about the arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mountaineering in Japan

What clothes and equipment should you prepare when climbing mountains in Japan?

You should bring specialized climbing shoes, a windproof jacket, gloves, a flashlight, water and snacks. These items will help you move safely and keep warm on the road.

Are there English-speaking tour guides for international visitors when climbing mountains?

Klook offers many professional mountain climbing tours with guides. Notable among them is the 2-Day 1-Night Mt. Fuji Climbing Tour with a Licensed English-Speaking Guide to assist international visitors.

Are there any mountains near Tokyo?

There are quite a few mountains near Tokyo, suitable for day trips or weekends. The most prominent is Mt. Fuji, about 100 km from the capital. In addition, Mt. Takao, only about 50 minutes by train from central Tokyo, is popular for its easy climbing path and scenic cable car. If you want to see more wild nature, head to Mt. Kumotori, Tokyo’s highest peak, located in the west of the city.

Can you climb mountains in Japan in winter?

Yes, but only suitable for experienced and well-equipped people because the roads are slippery and the temperature is very low. Some famous destinations such as Mount Fuji, Mount Tateyama or Mount Hotaka are covered in white snow.

In Japan, what means of transport should you use to get to climbing spots?

You have two options: train or bus. Most climbing spots have direct connections from the city center.

When it comes to climbing spots in Japan, you will not only encounter challenging routes but also admire the majestic landscape, ranging from snow-capped mountains in winter to brilliant red leaves in autumn. Each mountain has its own story, making the journey more memorable and complete than ever.

“Pocket” the climbing spots in Japan and get ready for your conquest!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to

• Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
• Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
• Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
• Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
• Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
• Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
• SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
• TeamLab Planets Ticket
• TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
• Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
• Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
• JR Tokyo Wide Pass
• Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you looking for more Tokyo travel guide and top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo itinerary 3 days — What to do in Tokyo in 3 days?