13 Best Japan Hiking Tours for Nature Lovers
Japan is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering stunning landscapes from misty mountains to serene waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual hiker, these 13 hiking tours provide an immersive experience into Japan’s breathtaking wilderness. Let’s explore the best hiking adventures you can book right now.
1. East Hokkaido 1-Day Customizable Private Tour with Outdoor Expert Guide
Explore hidden gems of East Hokkaido with an expert guide. This customizable tour allows you to visit locations off the beaten path with insights from a local outdoor expert. Experience breathtaking nature scenes that are not typically found in guidebooks.
- Price: JPY 25,000 per person
- Highlights: Akan Mashu National Park, Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Shiretoko World Heritage site.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spectacular winter scenes.
- Ideal For: Wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature photographers.
2. Okinawa Hiking Tour to ASMUI (Daisenkirizan) and Cape Hedo with Lunch
Discover the natural beauty of Yanbaru National Park and hike the spiritual paths of ASMUI. This full-day adventure includes stunning views at Cape Hedo, spiritual hikes, and a delicious seafood lunch. Ideal for those who want to explore Okinawa’s rugged northern coast.
- Price: JPY 12,000 (Adults), JPY 10,000 (Children 6-15), JPY 5,000 (Children 3-5)
- Highlights: Cape Hedo’s panoramic views, ASMUI spiritual hikes, fresh seafood lunch.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather.
- Ideal For: Families, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers.
3. Kamikochi Hiking Day Trip from Matsumoto with 3-Hour Free Time
Enjoy a scenic alpine escape in Kamikochi with three hours of free exploration. Stroll along the Azusa River, visit the iconic Kappa Bridge, and admire the stunning reflections at Taisho Pond. Perfect for those seeking a serene nature escape.
- Price: JPY 30,000 per person
- Highlights: Kappa Bridge, Taisho Pond, Azusa River Trail.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn.
- Ideal For: Photographers and those who enjoy leisurely hiking.
4. Night Hike at Mt. Takao: An Evening Adventure with Flying Squirrels and Wildlife
A night-time nature walk where you can observe nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. Explore the peaceful forests of Mt. Takao, watch for flying squirrels, and learn about night wildlife. It’s an unforgettable evening under the stars.
- Price: JPY 8,000 (Adult), JPY 7,000 (Child)
- Highlights: Flying squirrel observation, insect exploration, wildlife encounters.
- Best Time to Visit: June 15 to October 15 for cable car access.
- Ideal For: Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and night hikers.
5. Ta Falls Private Hiking and River Trekking Adventure in Okinawa
Trek through lush forests and swim in the serene waters of Ta Waterfall. This private tour offers river trekking, swimming, and an opportunity to explore Okinawa’s untouched nature. Perfect for adventure seekers and those who love water activities.
- Price: JPY 7,000 (2 people), JPY 5,000 (3-5 people), JPY 4,500 (6 or more)
- Highlights: River trekking, waterfall swimming, and nature exploration.
- Best Time to Visit: July to September for warm weather and clear water.
- Ideal For: Adventure seekers, couples, and families.
6. Hakone Walking Tour to Sengokuhara Pond with Freshly-Brewed Coffee
A relaxing walking tour to the hidden gems of Sengokuhara. Wander through serene local paths and discover a beautiful pond not listed in guidebooks. Savor freshly brewed coffee while enjoying nature’s charm.
- Price: JPY 5,500 (Adult), JPY 3,500 (Child)
- Highlights: Local paths, Sengokuhara Pond, freshly brewed coffee.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
- Ideal For: Casual walkers and those who enjoy nature and relaxation.
7. Hakone Wildlife Walking Tour with Amazake Tea House Visit
Discover the wildlife of Hakone’s Otamagaike Pond and learn about conservation efforts. This guided tour also includes a visit to the historic Amazake Chaya, where you can taste traditional amazake. Ideal for those who love wildlife and cultural experiences.
- Price: JPY 8,000 (Adult), JPY 3,000 (Child)
- Highlights: Wildlife observation, conservation insights, Amazake Chaya.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.
- Ideal For: Wildlife enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
8. Hakone Dogashima Valley Trekking Tour with Retro Town Walk and Craft Experience
Trek through lush valleys and explore the retro streets of Miyanoshita. This unique tour combines nature trekking with a nostalgic town walk and hands-on craft experience. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee amidst nature’s serenity.
- Price: JPY 9,000 (Adult), JPY 3,500 (Child)
- Highlights: Moss observation, retro town walk, photo frame crafting.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.
- Ideal For: Families, couples, and craft lovers.
9. Hakone Kintokiyama Trekking Tour – Nature Observation and Summit Panoramic Views
Trek to the summit of Mount Kintokiyama and soak in breathtaking panoramic views. Along the way, explore Kintaro legend spots and enjoy a warm bowl of miso soup. This trek is ideal for those seeking beautiful landscapes and Japanese folklore.
- Price: JPY 10,500 (Adult), JPY 3,500 (Child)
- Highlights: Summit views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and miso soup at Kintaro Teahouse.
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn for clear views.
- Ideal For: Mountain climbers and panoramic view seekers.
10. Shirakawa-go 1-Day Guided Tour with Hirayu Great Falls Hike and Hot Spring Visit
Visit the historic village of Shirakawa-go and hike to Hirayu Great Falls. Explore Japan’s traditional thatched-roof houses, soak in a hot spring, and trek through lush forests. Perfect for those wanting to experience cultural history and natural beauty.
- Price: JPY 20,000 per person
- Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage site, hot spring relaxation, waterfall trekking.
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for snow-covered landscapes.
- Ideal For: History buffs and nature lovers.
11. Mangrove Kayak + Pinaisara Falls Trekking: Explore Iriomote’s Natural Wonders
Join a full-day adventure to Iriomote Island, where you can kayak through tranquil mangrove forests and trek to Pinaisara Falls, Okinawa’s tallest waterfall. This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts who want to explore Okinawa’s untouched landscapes. The experience also includes a picnic lunch by the waterfall, adding to the memorable journey.
- Price: JPY 16,500 (Adult), JPY 16,000 (Child 10-12)
- Highlights: Mangrove kayaking, jungle trekking, Pinaisara Falls, waterfall picnic.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn.
- Ideal For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and families.
12. Private Mangrove Canoe & Hidden Waterfall Hike in Amami Oshima with Local Guide
Explore the lush landscapes of Amami Oshima with a guided mangrove canoe ride and a hidden waterfall hike. Led by a certified guide, this private experience offers serene paddling through mangrove forests followed by an exclusive trek to a secret waterfall. Perfect for nature lovers seeking untouched beauty.
- Price: JPY 25,000 (Adult/Child)
- Highlights: Mangrove canoeing, secret waterfall hike, guided nature experience.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.
- Ideal For: Couples, families, and adventure seekers.
13. Amami Oshima Night Safari: Forest Walking Tour with Expert Guide
Discover the nocturnal side of Amami Oshima with a guided night safari. Explore lush subtropical forests after dark, spotting rare wildlife such as the Amami rabbit and Ishikawa frog. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts looking for a unique nighttime adventure.
- Price: JPY 20,000 (Adult), JPY 15,000 (Child)
- Highlights: Night safari, wildlife spotting, subtropical forest walk.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.
- Ideal For: Wildlife enthusiasts and nature explorers.
Discover More Hidden Trails and Scenic Adventures
Japan’s diverse landscapes offer endless possibilities for exploration. From snowy trails in Hokkaido to the lush valleys of Okinawa, there is a perfect hiking tour waiting for every kind of traveler. Discover even more outdoor adventures and hidden trails on VELTRA. Let your next journey be the adventure of a lifetime!
