Top Trekking & Hiking Spots in Japan

I suggest checking the weather beforehand. It can change fast at Fuji, and a clear day makes a huge difference for views and pictures.

Wear good hiking shoes! I learned the hard way that flip-flops are a big no if you want to enjoy the trails without blisters

Start your hike early, like around 6 AM, to avoid the crowds and catch the beautiful sunrise from the trails. Trust me, it's breathtaking!

I recommend checking the weather before you go – it can change quickly! I went on a cloudy day and missed out on the stunning views. Make sure to pack a light jacket just in case.

If you're into hiking, tackle the trail to Kegon Falls early in the morning around 7 AM. You'll avoid crowds and get better photos without people in the way!

I suggest using the shuttle bus from Nikko to get to Lake Chuzenji. It's affordable and saves you the hassle of parking. Plus the views along the way are beautiful!

Bring plenty of water and some snacks, but also a lightweight backpack. The trails can get a bit steep, and you want to keep it as light as possible. I regretted overpacking my bag.

I suggest wearing layers. The weather changes quickly up there. I thought I'd be fine in a t-shirt but ended up freezing near the top!

I suggest starting your hike by 8 AM to avoid the crowds and really take in the views. Plus, you’ll have more time to enjoy the summit and relax before heading back down.

Bring some cash – there's a small hut along the trail that sells drinks and snacks. I didn't have enough on me and regretted missing out on the much-needed hydration!

I think it's a good idea to download an offline map before you go. The signal can be spotty once you're up in the mountains, and I got lost a bit trying to find my way back!

My advice is to pack your own lunch and snacks. The restaurants near the base can be pricey and they're not that great. I saved a bunch of yen just by bringing my own food!

Don’t forget to bring some cash! A lot of the local shops and even some trailheads prefer cash over cards. I made this mistake and had to skip out on some awesome snacks!

I recommend grabbin' a bus pass when you land in Yakushima. It saves you a ton versus single fares, plus the routes hit all the cool spots. I spent too much on individual tickets, learned the hard way!