5 Breathtaking Hiking Trails Near Tokyo You Can’t Miss
Japan’s diverse landscapes offer some of the most scenic and rewarding hikes in the world. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful forest walk, a cultural trek past ancient shrines, or a challenging hike with stunning Mount Fuji views, there’s a trail for every adventurer. From the iconic peaks of Tokyo’s outskirts to hidden gems in Kanagawa and Ibaraki, these trails blend nature, history, and breathtaking panoramas into one unforgettable experience. Going through the 5 great hiking trails, each with its unique charm and various difficulties suitable for both casual explorers and seasoned hikers, these journeys promise stunning views, fresh air, and a deep appreciation for Japan’s natural beauty. Ready to lace up your hiking boots? Let’s hit the trails!
Top 5 Great Hiking Trails Near Tokyo
Mount Mitake
Tucked away in the Okutama region at Tokyo’s westernmost edge, Mount Mitake offers an accessible yet refreshing hiking experience without leaving the capital. This picturesque trail is a fantastic choice, especially in early spring and autumn, when the foliage transforms the landscape into a painter’s palette of colors.
This trail will give you some of the best time of your life capturing the stunning autumn foliage. A 1,200-year-old Japanese Zelkova tree near the sacred Musashi Mitake Shrine, adds a touch of history and spirituality to your perfect seasonal photographs. If you're looking for a leisurely adventure, a cable car is available, making it easier to soak in the scenery without a strenuous climb.
Trail Overview
Difficulty: Beginner
Duration: Around 4 hours
How to Get There
- Take the JR Chūō Line / Ōme Line to Mitake Station
- Board a local bus to the cable car station
- Total travel time from Shinjuku Station: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Mount Takao
As Tokyo’s most famous hiking spot, Mount Takao draws over three million visitors annually, especially during autumn, when fiery maple leaves blanket the trails. Its charming red cable car has become an attraction in itself, offering a scenic ride up the mountain. Adding to the beautiful autumn foliage, perfect for leaf-peeping enthusiasts, a relaxing soak at Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, located near the station—a perfect way to unwind after your hike.
At the summit, you’ll find Yakuo-in Temple, a historic Buddhist site believed to have been founded in the 8th century. If you're up for a challenge, skip the main trail and take the Inariyama Trail for a more rewarding workout.
Trail Overview
Difficulty: Beginner to Advance
Duration: Around 2 hours to reach the summit
How to Get There
- Take the Keio Line Express from Keio Shinjuku Station
- Arrive at Takaosan-guchi Station in approximately 60 minutes
Mount Tsukuba
Rising in Ibaraki Prefecture, Mount Tsukuba is not just a hiking destination—it’s a part of Japan’s rich artistic and literary heritage. Unlike many mountains with a simple up-and-down route, this hike follows a circular trail, perfect for those who prefer variety in their trek.
With a manageable 7km course taking about 4.5 hours, this trail is a great choice for beginners while still offering impressive landscapes. Witness the unusual rock formations scattered along the trail, each with its legend, you will experience panoramic views of the Kantō Plain, stretching all the way to Tokyo on clear days
Trail Overview
Difficulty: Beginner
Duration: 4.5 hours (7km loop)
How to Get There
- Take the Tsukuba Express Line from Akihabara Station
- Transfer to a local bus to Tsukuba-san Jinja Iriguchi
- Total travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Mount Nabewari
For those seeking a more challenging yet rewarding hike, Mount Nabewari in the Tanzawa mountain range is a must-visit. Nestled in Kanagawa Prefecture, this 1,273-meter peak offers a 15km trail with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Despite being less famous than Mount Takao or Mount Mitake, its serene beauty and rugged terrain make it a personal favorite. That’s not to mention a well-deserved treat at the summit: a steaming bowl of nabe yaki udon, a local specialty perfect for refueling
Trail Overview
Difficulty: Advance (7-hour round-trip hike)
Distance: 15km, making it a more endurance-based trek
How to Get There
- Take the Odakyu Odawara Line to Shin-Matsuda Station
- Transfer to a local bus to reach the trailhead
- Total travel time from Shinjuku Odakyu Station: Approximately 2 hours
Hitachi Seaside Park
Perched along the Pacific coastline in Ibaraki Prefecture, Hitachi Seaside Park is a dreamlike escape just a short trip from Tokyo. While not a traditional hike, this expansive flower park offers a scenic stroll through meticulously landscaped gardens, making it an ideal day trip for nature lovers and families. With year-round flower displays, with seasonal highlights like hydrangeas in early summer and cosmos in autumn, the park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as you wander through colorful fields
Beyond its stunning floral displays, the park features a forest adventure playground, an amusement park, and BBQ areas, providing a mix of relaxation and recreation.
Trail Overview
Difficulty: Easy (Leisurely walking paths)
Duration: Flexible—explore at your own pace
How to Get There
- Take the JR Hitachi or Tokiwa Line to Katsuta Station
- Transfer to a local bus to the park entrance
- Total travel time from Shinagawa Station: 1 hour 45 minutes
Japan’s hiking trails are more than just scenic walks—they’re a gateway to breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures, and unforgettable experiences. No matter your hiking style—from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs—there’s always another adventure waiting!
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