The best weekend hikes in Japan (no car required)

Most tourists in Japan treat their mountains as if they were in the background rather than their destination. But it’s over 70% The country is mountainous terrain, most of which are accessible directly from Tokyo – without cars. This guide will focus on five-day hikes, each hike is enough to meet experienced hikers, but can be accessed by train or bus.

Strange mountain

Compared with the famous giant Mount Fuji, Japan’s second highest peak at 3,193 meters was at a peak of 3,193 meters, and it was surprisingly flying under the radar. But for many hikers, it offers something better: a panoramic view of Fuji itself, plus the ruggedness of the heart of the Southern Alps, a variety of trails. The summit can be reached within two to four days, depending on your pace and whether you want to include nearby peaks Notoridake (One of the 100 famous mountains in Yamanashi). These mountains, together with Mount Kitadake, are called Shirane Sanzan, or three white peaks.

On the weekend itinerary, aim for a two-day route and in Seedake Tatanokoya Hutperched below the top of the mountain. The cabin is loved for its pork steak.

difficulty: Moderate to difficult. Although this route is not technically required, it is length and durable, and this rating can test the absolute limits of your quad and Mavericks. Body endurance and aerobic exercise are necessary. There is also a high level of disease concern for anyone who is not used to imposing himself at high altitudes.

Right to use: The trail begins at Hirogawara, located in Minami Alps National Park, a protected area that prohibits private vehicles. The easiest route is through kofu, which is about 90 minutes from Tokyo’s Akai Station, with limited express trains. From Cofo Station, take a ride Yamanashi Kotsu Bus to Hirogawara (about two hours, ¥2,400 one way). Check seasonal bus schedules ahead of time, as services are limited, mainly operated in the summer.

Tsukuba Mountain

Just 877 meters away, Tsukuba Mountain is the lowest among the famous Japanese mountains, but its twin peaks (Nyotai Mount and Nantai Mountain) suddenly rise suddenly on Kanto Plain and extends to Tokyo Skytree and Fuji Mountains on clear days. The mountain is tailored for first time hikers and families: multiple marked trails for each fitness level, ropes and cable cars shorten or jump up completely, as well as basic areas around Tsukubasan Jinja shrine and spill over with cafes, souvenir Stalls and post-stimulating thermal spring bathrooms.

Although you can complete the round trip in half a day, you still have to linger in seasonal highlights (Plum blossoms in late February, azaleas in May, and colorful maples in November), or soak in Tsukubasan Onsen before returning to the city.

difficulty: Easy to be gentle. The mildest paths (Mukaeba and Mountaintop Connection Trail) are partly stone clocked and are perfect for family-friendly. Steep choices like Shirokumonashi can get your calf to exercise, but stay non-technical.

Right to use: From Asakusa Station, take Tsukuba Express to Tsukuba Station (about 45 minutes), then walk to nearby Tsukuba Center Bus Terminal and transfer to Tsukubasan shuttle Bind to Tsutsujigaoka. Get off at Tsukubasan Jinja Iriguchi (about 40 minutes). The buses accept IC cards and are once or twice an hour (depending on the season) between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. (weekends and national festivals). The return shuttle runs later and the last bus will leave Tsukubasan Jinja Iriguchi at 5:10 pm, be sure to check the shuttle schedule before departing for the updated time.

Direct highway buses are daily from Tokyo Station (Yaesu South Exit) to Tsukuba Center, where you need to transfer to the same bus to get the last leg.

Please note that there is no shuttle service between the last day of December 1 and February.

Yakedake Mountain

Yakedake crosses the borders of Nagano and Gifu counties and is the only active volcano in the northern part of the Alps. At a height of 2,455 meters, its southern peak (due to potential rock falls) is restricted to climbers – the vulcanized steam of sunlight enters the air. The North Peak is slightly lower at 2,444 meters but offers views of the surrounding ridges and the Kamikochi valley below.

Most hikers hike from Kamikochi, an amazing alpine basin surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is steep but short and reaches severe heights in just a few hours. For those looking to extend it to overnight hikes, the area has two cabins, one on the north side of Yakedake and the other at the bottom of Nishihotakadake Mountain, a hike of over three hours On the north side. Ambitious (experienced) hikers can continue to follow a tough technical ridge route to Nishihotakadake Mountain, a remote climb that requires scrambling for, exposure and helmets.

difficulty: Easing. While not technically difficult, the trail is ruthlessly steep and involves continuous climbing. The active state of the volcano adds extra awe and adrenaline, although this also means that the helmet is recommended and it is vital to stay alert about danger. Be sure to hike any volcano Check its status Passed by the Japan Meteorological Bureau.

Right to use: Yakedake Mountain can be approached from Kamikochi or Shinhotaka Onsen. Kamikochi can be accessed via Matsumoto’s bus, with private cars restricted to passing through the portal town of Sawando. On the other side, Shinhotaka can be reached from the mountain (Takayama) bus. A popular one-way route involves crossing the mountain from Kamikochi to Shinhotaka (and vice versa) and soaking in the hot springs on the other side.

Tsubakuro Mountain

Mount Tsubakuro is nicknamed “Queen of the Northern Alps”. It is 2,763 meters tall and is one of the most beautiful peaks in central Benshin. Its pale granite mountain range, views and relatively accessible trails make it a favorite for first-time Northern Alps hikers. Despite its beauty, the trail poses a real physical challenge, especially the steep rise of Kassen-One Ridge, one of the “three steep climbs” in the Japanese Alps.

There are no dangerous parts to this route and are perfect for confident beginners who want to go beyond basic day hiking. Just below the top of the mountain is historic Enzanso HutIt is one of the oldest mountain huts in Japan and is known for its cozy atmosphere and panoramic views. Down for about an hour, slower hikers can rest KassengoyaKnown for refrigerated watermelon and hearty udon noodles.

difficulty: Easy to be gentle. The trail is steep, physically demanding, but not technical. Snowfall may linger in early summer, while granite can become slippery in wet weather.

Right to use: From Crescent Station, bring JR Chuo Line Limited Express to Matsumoto Station (about two hours and 40 minutes). Transfer to the JR OITO line and ride to Hotaka station (30 minutes). Start from there Seasonal bus (approximately 60 minutes) or taxi to Nakabusa Onsen on the trail.

Tanigawanak Mountain

Mount Tanigawadake rises to 1,977 meters, giving everyone something from easy rope assisted hiking to some of the advanced ascents considered to be Japan’s steepest and most challenging. It is one of the most diverse and legendary peaks in the country, attracting leisure hikers and experienced Alpineists.

Tanigawadake is also one of Japan’s “three major rock faces”, with Tsurugidake in Toyama and Hotaka Mountain in the Northern Alps. Its notorious reputation stems from its history: Tanigawadake is the world’s most serious contender for rock climbing-related deaths, winning the nickname “Mountain of Death”. But rest assured – the real danger is mostly limited to Ichinokurasawa, a purely rocky face favored by technical climbers.

The most common route is the Tenjin-One Ridge Trail, which is a completely different experience – a safe, beginner-friendly hike that becomes more accessible with the help of Tanigawa Ropeway. For most visitors, Tanigawadake is not only approachable, but also beautiful, especially when autumn leaves exude color on the ridgeline.

difficulty: Various. Tanigawadake lets you choose your own adventure – hike from the rope station easily (ISH) or climb for experienced climbers. Standard handstands with Tenjin-One Ridge are suitable for beginners. Speaking of these elements, Tanigawadake forms part of the ridge, dividing the Pacific side of Japan from the Japanese seaside, so the weather changes are surprising. Be sure to prepare for anything and turn around at the first sign of a premonition.

Right to use: Take Joetsu Shinkansen (Toki or Tanigawa) from Tokyo Station to Jomo-Kogen Station. Take the bus from the station to Tanigawatak Rope Base (about 45 minutes). The entire journey takes about two hours from Tokyo Station to Trailhead.

Before moving forward: first of all

The mountains in Japan may be accessible, but they are still mountains – conditions may change rapidly. Always for sudden weather transfers, carry basic first aid kits and wear proper hiking footwear packaging (yes, people do try hiking on flip flops). Bring a paper map or offline GPS; YAMAP is a great option that allows you to plan your routes, track locations in real time, and check records and photos of other hikers. Always check prediction and tracking conditions before departure. For multi-day hiking, it is highly recommended (usually required) to submit a hiking plan (Tozan Todoke) Go to the local police, mountain cabins or trail security post office. And don’t forget about emergency situations: 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance. Stay safe, stay smart and enjoy the trail!

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