Challenging but rewarding, Mount Tanzawa in Kanagawa offers a full-day hike across three peaks with breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. Covering 26 km with 1,859 m of elevation gain, this trail takes you through dense forests and open ridges — a perfect adventure for experienced hikers.

Explore the historic Yamanobe no Michi Trail in Nara, Japan — said to be the country’s oldest recorded road. This 16 km hike takes you through peaceful countryside, ancient temples, Shinto shrines, and quiet villages, offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s history and rural life.

Experience the annual Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival in Nara, Japan, where Mount Wakakusa is set ablaze in a breathtaking fire ritual. Explore temple grounds, local streets, and witness one of Japan’s most spectacular winter events.

I hiked Mt. Rokko from Higashi Otafukuyama, enjoying forest paths, a small river crossing, and panoramic views of Kobe and Osaka Bay. A perfect urban-adjacent retreat for a half-day adventure.

I set out for a short walk to Nunobiki Falls, but the trail tempted me higher — all the way up Mt. Maya. With nearly empty trails, steep forested climbs, and panoramic views of Kobe and Osaka Bay, the hike turned into an unexpected urban adventure. A rare moment of solitude at the summit reminded me that even in a bustling city, nature has its hidden surprises.

Hike the Kaze no Michi trail to Mt. Washu for scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea, historic railway remnants, and Kojima’s coastal charm.

I planned to start hiking at 8 a.m., but by the time I reached Konzoji it was already 9:15. After visiting the first few temples—Konzoji, Zentsuji, and Koyama—the real challenge began: a steep mountain trail crossing five peaks. The narrow, sandy paths tested my footing, and some sections had me crawling on all fours with chains to hold onto.

Reaching Mt. Gahaishi (481m) was a huge relief, but the descent remained tough. Along the way, I visited Shusshakaji, perched right on a cliff, where an older hiker generously shared chocolate and stories from over 50 years on this trail—an inspiring moment.

The final temples, Mandara and Iyadaniji, pushed my endurance even further, with Iyadaniji’s 500+ steps warning me of the difficulty. Surprisingly, I made it to the top without too much trouble and completed the hike at the train station, exhausted but elated. Today was far harder than I expected, but finishing it made it unforgettable.

I felt much better today thanks to the cooler weather. I took a train from Takamatsu to Kinashi Station, briefly panicking over whether IC cards would work—luckily, they did.

The route wound up a leafy mountain road, switching between trail and paved paths, leading first to Negoroji Temple, a quiet spot where I paid my respects. Halfway to Shiromine Temple, I discovered drinks left by a father in memory of his daughter—a touching gesture that kept me refreshed.

The final stretch to Tennoji Temple was tricky, with unclear signs, overgrown paths, and loose rocks, but I made it safely. With the next train approaching, I didn’t linger long, ending the day with a sense of accomplishment after a challenging but meaningful pilgrimage hike.

While in Shikoku, I decided to walk a section of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Though the full route spans 1,200 km, I focused on a small stretch around Mt. Yashima (293m), where Yashima Temple sits. The climb was steeper and sandier than expected, with a few tricky spots where the trail nearly led me the wrong way.

At the top, I met another pilgrim who was surprised to see a foreigner on the route in winter and kindly offered me a bottle of green tea. I spent some time at the temple before heading toward Yakuri Station, ultimately taking the train back to Takamatsu and walking to my accommodation. A short section, but a rewarding taste of the pilgrimage.

Ritsurin Koen in Takamatsu is a stunning Edo-period garden known for its ponds, teahouses, and views of Mt. Shiun. Even in winter, its calm beauty shines through. I explored its vast grounds, collected stamps, watched koi and ducks by the pond, and ended the visit with a small souvenir and a peaceful meal nearby.

Just behind Tokushima Station, the Tokushima Castle Ruins offer panoramic city views and a peaceful walk through historic grounds. I followed an unmarked trail to the hilltop, explored the ruins, and visited the Omotegoten Garden below — a National Historic Site since 1957 — before catching my train.

The Ocean Tokyu Ferry from Tokyo to Tokushima offered vending machines, cozy cabins, and even an onboard onsen. With no Wi-Fi, it was the perfect chance to unwind while watching the sunrise at sea and passing Cape Shionomisaki before arriving in Shikoku.

A train delay set me back this morning, but I still reached Sagamiko Station before 11 a.m. and walked through a quiet alley to the trailhead behind a temple. The climb started stiff and slow, with some muddy sections, but by Myouō Pass I had found my rhythm—and the view of Mt. Fuji was stunning.

At Jinba Peak, I stopped by the large concrete horse statue and the tea house to snap photos and refuel with a quick snack. The descent followed a new trail winding through tree roots, and by the time I reached the bus stop, I noticed a small scrape on my calf—a minor souvenir from a rewarding day on the trail.

Mt. Sengen in Hakone offers a mix of nature and history, from cedar-lined trails and small waterfalls to castle ruins and the Old Hakone Path. I explored multiple trails, including Chisuji and Hiryu Falls, before descending to Motohakone with views of Lake Ashi. A perfect day hike for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Mount Oyama is one of Kanagawa’s most sacred peaks, blending hiking and history. I started from Kawasaki, climbing via the Women’s Trail to the summit and descending toward Hinata Yakushi. The route offered a mix of crowded shrines, quiet forest paths, and panoramic views—an ideal blend of culture and nature.

Although it was a travel day, I squeezed in a hike up Mount Takao and Mount Kobotoke-Shiroyama. Trail 6 led me past streams, viewpoints, and Mt. Fuji panoramas, while Mount Kobotoke-Shiroyama offered peaceful forest trails and a historic fortress site. A quick soba stop and the spiritual waterfall capped off a perfect half-day adventure.

A relaxing day trip from Hanno to Nagatoro, blending cultural stops at Chichibu and Hodosan Shrines with a scenic hike up Mount Hodo and the Nagatoro Alps Trail.

Mount Mitake offers one of Tokyo’s most rewarding day hikes—blending history, mountain temples, and stunning nature. I took the cable car up to Mitakesan Station and hiked to Musashi Mitake Shrine before continuing toward Mount Odake. Along the way, I explored mossy trails, waterfalls, and sweeping mountain views, ending my journey with a well-deserved curry before heading back down.

A relaxed day hike through Hanno’s Mount Tenran and Mount Tonosu. From peaceful shrine paths to Atsuma Gorge’s cool riverside trail, this route blends local charm with quiet nature.

Just 35 minutes from Sendai, Rairaikyo Gorge is a peaceful spot lined with mossy rocks and a flowing river. The short 1 km trail winds right below onsen hotels and busy roads, yet feels completely quiet once you descend into the gorge. A quick, refreshing nature escape before heading back to the city.