Articles & Guides
Guides, tips, and insights for exploring Japan.
Mount Fuji Climbing Guide 2026: Routes, Season, and Tips
Everything you need to climb Mount Fuji in 2026. Compare all four routes, understand the reservation system, pack the right gear, and plan your summit sunrise.
Best Day Hikes Near Tokyo: 10 Trails Under 2 Hours Away
Escape the city without leaving your Tokyo hotel behind. These 10 day hikes are all reachable within 2 hours by train, offering mountains, forests, and stunning views.
Essential Hiking Gear for Japan: What to Pack
What gear do you actually need for hiking in Japan? From day hikes to multi-day mountain treks, this packing guide covers footwear, clothing, safety equipment, and where to buy gear in Japan.
Best Onsen Near Popular Hiking Trails in Japan
Nothing beats soaking in a hot spring after a long hike. This guide pairs popular Japanese hiking trails with nearby onsen, from the Japan Alps to Hakone and Yakushima.
Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail Guide: Routes, Planning & Tips
Plan your Kumano Kodo pilgrimage walk through the mountains of the Kii Peninsula. This guide covers the four main routes, multi-day itineraries, accommodation, and the dual pilgrim stamp system.
Winter Hiking in Japan: Snowshoe Trails & Cold-Weather Routes
Discover Japan in its quietest, most dramatic season. This guide covers winter hiking from gentle snowshoe walks to serious mountaineering, including the best cold-weather trails and essential gear.
Hiking with Kids in Japan: Family-Friendly Trails & Tips
Japan has wonderful hiking trails for families. This guide covers the best kid-friendly trails near major cities, what to pack, safety tips, and how to keep children engaged on the trail.
Japanese Alps Hiking Guide: Kamikochi, Tateyama & Beyond
The Japanese Alps offer world-class mountain hiking with dramatic ridgelines, alpine meadows, and an extensive network of mountain huts. This guide covers the Northern, Central, and Southern Alps.