Best 12 Easy Hiking Trails in Japan for Families with Teens

Japan offers breathtaking hiking trails perfect for families with teens seeking adventure without extreme difficulty. From the scenic routes of the Japanese Alps to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, these trails combine stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and accessibility for a stress-free experience.

We've handpicked the essential parts of these routes that won't tire you out. Along the way, you would experience everything from serene rural villages and lush bamboo groves to volcanic landscapes, ancient temples, and relaxing hot springs.

1. Hiking in Kamikochi

• Location: Nagano Prefecture, 1½ hours from Matsumoto
• Highlights: natural scenery throughout the Japanese Alps
• Distance and time: 9.2 km (6 miles), 3 hours

This is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Japan through the Japanese Alps. The mountainous area is cooler than the rest of Japan in the summer season. Therefore, it is a very good escape from the stifling Japanese summer.

We recommend the essential trail from Taisho Pond to Myojin Pond as the trail follows a clear river along a flat path, making it easy to walk. We could help you to adjust the distance based on your fitness level.

On the way, you would find crystal ponds and even wild monkeys in the birch/larch forest and snow peaks.

Kamikochi is close to Matsumoto, Takayama, and Nagoya, so it is very easy to extend your trip there from these locations.

Tips for planning a hike in Kamikochi:

• The route only opens from late April to early November.
• The best time is from May to July when the water in the river is deeper and clearer, and you could see snow mountains.
• The peak season is from July–August and late September to mid-October when there are more travelers on the route.
• To protect the natural environment, private cars are not allowed in Kamikochi. Visitors must use public transportation or hike to enter the area.

Recommended Tour: 14-Day Japan Family Adventure

2. Old Tōkaidō (Hakone Hachiri) in Hakone

• Location: Hakone, 2 hours' drive from Tokyo
• Highlights: Edo culture and views of Lake Ashi
• Distance and time: 1½–2 hours (3 km / 2 miles)

The Old Tōkaidō is an Edo period trail that connects Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo). This path still retains the charm of the Edo era. It offers a refreshing vibe from the bustling Tokyo.

The best hiking section is Hakone Hachiri, located in Hakone. The hike is easy and is suitable for most people. Along the trail, you would find historic post stations, checkpoints, and teahouses, as well as the longest preserved section of cedar wood path.

Hakone, close to Mount Fuji, is famous for its natural hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. Close to Tokyo, it offers a great side trip from Tokyo. While many people choose to have a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo, we recommend you stay overnight to experience its hot springs, explore the natural beauty, and also enjoy a refreshing walk along the Old Tōkaidō trail.

Tips for hiking along the Old Tōkaidō trail in Hakone Hachiri:

• Please note that the trail is at a higher elevation and consists of stone paving, which could become slippery when wet. If it rains, wear non-slip shoes.
• Recommended route: Amazake Teahouse → Hakone Hachiri → Hakone Checkpoint

The hike ends at the boat dock on Lake Ashi. If you have more time, you could hike in the morning and enjoy lunch before taking a boat ride.

• Travel duration: It could take 3 to 4 hours during holidays due to traffic. It's best to avoid peak seasons and weekends or consider staying overnight in Hakone to enjoy the hot springs.

3. Fushimi Inari Hiking Route

• Location: Kyoto
• Highlights: walking through thousands of torii gates
• Distance and time: 4–5 km (2–3 miles), 3–4 hours

Experience a captivating hike through thousands of red torii gates that form a stunning corridor leading up the mountain. The trail winds through beautiful forests, passing many small shrines and tea houses. It ends with stunning views of southern Kyoto from the top.

Tips for avoiding crowds:

• Visit early or late: Go to Fushimi Inari Shrine early in the morning or after 6pm to enjoy fewer crowds and beautiful sunrise or sunset light effects.
• Hiking outside the main viewing area: As you hike along the bamboo path or hike to the summit, the number of visitors decreases. You could shorten your hike if you don't want to reach the top.

4. Nakasendo Trail Hike (Magome to Tsumago)

• Location: 2 hours from Nagoya
• Highlight: experience the untouched beauty of Japan's countryside
• Distance and time: 8 km (5 miles), 2½ to 3 hours  

The Nakasendo Trail was a vital transportation route during the Edo period, connecting the old capital of Kyoto with the new capital of Edo (now Tokyo). The most scenic section is between Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku.

Along the way, you would encounter well-preserved traditional Japanese rural architecture, some of which is still inhabited by locals, and the pristine beauty of the countryside. Most of the hiking route winds through cedar forests, accompanied by small streams and rivers, providing a naturally cool environment.

You could reach Nagoya by Shinkansen from both Tokyo and Osaka and consider connecting the hiking routes with these cities.

Tips:

• Closure period: Winter (December to February) — some sections may be temporarily closed due to snow or ice.
• Hiking is not recommended in winter due to slippery snow-covered paths.
• If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in May and June (fresh green season) or early September to early October (early autumn).

5. Mount Koya Hiking Route

• Location: Wakayama Prefecture, 1½ hours' drive from Osaka
• Highlight: experience a tranquil and religious atmosphere
• Distance and time: 4–5 km (2–3 miles), 3–4 hours

Koyasan hiking blends natural wonders, religious art, and Zen monastic life, perfect for travelers seeking spiritual immersion and self-discovery.

The main attractions are connected by a 2 km (1 mile) trail, withmaple-lined paths as a seasonal highlight. The most iconic trails include theforest-covered mountain paths and theOkunoin pilgrimage route surrounded by towering cedar forests. Ancient cedars and moss-covered surfaces create amysterious and solemn atmosphere.

Along the 2-kilometer (1 mile) stone-paved road, over 200,000 tombstones and monuments line both sides, including those of numerous historical figures. You could joinmonk-guided night tours to walk moonlit paths illuminated by stone lanterns while listening toBuddhist teachings andlesser-known stories for the most unique experience.

Koyasan is typically accessed from Osaka with a 2-hour journey. If you are based in Osaka, you could easily visit Koyasan on a day trip.

Mount Koya and the Kumano Kodo are both religious attractions in Japan. Located close to each other, they could be easily combined in an immersive cultural itinerary for a deeper experience.

If you want a more immersive experience, we recommend our 4-Day Koyasan and Kumano Kodo Walking Tour.

6. Kumano Kodo: Imperial Pilgrimage Route

• Location: Wakayama Prefecture, 1½ hours' drive from Osaka
• Highlight: experience a tranquil and religious atmosphere
• Distance and time: 7–15 km (4–9 miles), 3–5 hours

The Kumano Kodo is an ancient pilgrimage route, linking the three grand shrines of Kumano.

When you walk along the ancient pilgrimage path that has been traveled for a thousand years, you would experience a unique blend of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs. Along the way, you could visit old shrine ruins and hike through the most beautiful sections of the trail, passing through dense forests, streams, and cedar groves.

In the coastal sections, you could relax in hot springs while enjoying stunning sea views and then savor authentic Japanese cuisine, which helps to ease your fatigue. This journey is perfect for family hiking trips.

It would take you 5–6 days to finish the entire route. However, if you wouldn't like to hike for such a long time, we could help you arrange a short hike to cover the highlights, ranging from half a day to 2 days.

For more details, visit: Asia Highlights — the Kumano Kodo

However, a day trip from Osaka is rushed, requiring at least 7 hours for travel and leaving only about 3 hours for exploration. We recommend at least 2 days for a more enjoyable experience. Feel free to contact us to customize your hiking adventure.

Tips for accommodation options:

Katsuura, Shirahama, and Hongu are great stopover locations offering hot spring hotels and convenient transportation.

7. Lakeside Hiking Trails Around Mount Fuji

• Location: Yamanashi Prefecture
• Highlight: experience Mount Fuji from various perspectives
• Distance and time: 8–9 km (5–6 miles), 2½–3 hours

When you hike the trails around Mount Fuji, it reveals breathtaking views of the mountain with stunning lake reflections for you.

In spring, the cherry blossoms along the lakeside create a stunning backdrop for Mount Fuji, making it a popular spot for visitors. Along the Lake Yamanaka trail, you might even see swans, enhancing the peaceful and natural atmosphere.

You could take the Kawaguchiko Tenjōzan Park ropeway for a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and the surrounding lakes. Hiking trails around Mount Fuji are easily accessible from nearby cities like Tokyo and Hakone. After your hike, you could relax in a hot spring in Hakone before heading to your next destination.

8. Yoshinoyama Hiking Route

• Location: Nara Prefecture
• Highlight: hiking journey in a sea of flowers
• Distance and time: 6.5 km (4 miles), 5–6 hours

Yoshinoyama is renowned for its extensive coverage of cherry blossoms across the entire mountain and its long blooming period, making it one of Japan's top destinations for viewing cherry blossoms.

There are scenic hiking trails from the foot of the mountain to the peak. The route is mostly stone-paved, with gentle slopes. Along the way, you would pass by temples and teahouses, and walk through cherry blossoms and bamboo forests.

Tips:

To save energy, it's recommended to combine the bus with hiking: walk from the start, then take a bus to the summit, or start with the bus and hike to the top.

9. Tateyama Kurobe Hiking

• Location: Toyama Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region
• Highlight: walking through snow walls and experiencing the charms of majestic peaks
• Distance and time: 2.5 km (2 miles), 2–3 hours

Tateyama is known as the Japanese Alps. Alongside Mount Fuji, Tateyama is one of Japan's most respected mountains, historically worshipped by the Japanese people.

There, you would find snow that doesn't melt even in summer at valley, breathtaking views from Daikanbo Peak, and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which rivals the landscapes of the Alps, creating a unique April scenery unlike anywhere else in Japan.

In autumn, Kurobe Lake and the Murodo Plateau wetlands are adorned with vibrant fall colors.

Tips:

• Kurobe Dam is the highest arch dam in Japan, where you could enjoy boat rides or scenic walks in June and July.
• You could enter the attraction from two sides:
• Toyama side: best for first-time visitors
• Nagano side: less crowded, ideal for off-peak travel
• Just follow the signage for transfers in Tateyama Kurobe and you would find it easy to get around.

10. Hakuba Mountain Hiking Trail

• Location: Toyama Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region
• Highlight: a dreamscape of snow streams and flowers
• Distance and time: 20 km (12 miles), 11½ hours, 2 days and 1 night

Hakuba Mountain, part of the Hakuba Range in Nagano Prefecture, central Honshu, is home to Japan's largest snow stream, the Hakuba Great Snow Stream. Renowned for winter skiing, it also attracts summer visitors with its stunning alpine flora and breathtaking views.

Summer hikers could walk along the snow stream but anti-slip spikes are essential. The descent features spectacular views of the Northern Alps and presents a challenging hike, requiring traversing ridges and rocky terrain.

Tips for the recommended classic route:

Sarukura → Great Snow Stream → Hakuba summit → Hakuba Big Pond → Tsugaike Nature Park, stay overnight at Hakuba Mountain Lodge

11. Shikoku's 88 Temples Pilgrimage

• Location: Shikoku
• Highlight: the longest Buddhist pilgrimage hiking route in Japan
• Distance and time: (part of Tokushima Prefecture): 55 km (34 miles), 3 days

The 88 temples of Shikoku, also known as the 88 Sacred Sites, are deeply connected to Japan's famous high priest, Kobo Daishi. This pilgrimage route spans four prefectures on the island of Shikoku and covers a total distance of 1,400 kilometers (870 miles).

Along the way, hikers could enjoy natural scenery, admire traditional Japanese temple architecture, experience Buddhist culture, and pray for peace. The entire journey usually takes 45 to 60 days on foot.

If you want to experience part of the pilgrimage, the "Hoshin Dojo" segment in Tokushima Prefecture is highly recommended.

This area has a dense concentration of temples and simple visiting processes, allowing you to enjoy Tokushima's pristine natural beauty and visit nine temples within 2 days.

Tokushima is accessible from Osaka by express bus and flights, as well as via direct flights from Tokyo.

Tips:

• The typical process for visiting a temple along this route includes ringing a bell, offering a lantern, burning incense, making a donation, and chanting sutras. Before leaving, invite the temple staff to handwrite a red seal in the pilgrimage book.
• For a more flexible travel experience, you could choose to use a private car along the route to assist with your hiking.

12. Daisetsuzan National Park Hiking

• Location: Hokkaido
• Highlight: close-up views of volcanic craters
• Distance and time (part of Tokushima Prefecture): 17 km (11 miles), 6–7 hours

Daisetsuzan National Park's main peak, Asahidake, is a highlight of the park and one of the first places in Japan to see autumn leaves. The park offers stunning views throughout the year, including stunning mountain peaks, deep canyons, forested lakes, colorful alpine flowers, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes.

The trail around the crater lets you see the black volcanic rock layers that look like the moon's surface, as well as the beautiful volcanic lake. Starting in November or early spring, you could enjoy the spectacular snow covering the mountains and experience walking in the snow.

For families, you could take a cable car to the middle of the mountain and then hike to the volcanic crater. This round trip is 3 km (2 miles) and takes about 1½ hours. It's not too difficult, making it suitable for children.

The easiest way to get there is from Asahikawa, which takes about 1–1½ hours. From Sapporo, it takes about 3 hours.

Tips:

• 1. Don't miss the cable car ride as it offers great views of the crater, sulfur fields, and the Daisetsuzan mountain range.
• The park is in a high-altitude area, so summer hiking is great but you should still dress warmly in summer.

Best Times to Hike in Japan

The best times to hike in Japan are April to May (spring) and October to November (autumn). The weather is stable and the scenery is beautiful.

Avoid hiking in these areas during the following times:

• June to early July: The rainy season brings wet and slippery trails, especially in Shikoku and Kansai.
• Mid-August: The Obon festival attracts large crowds and accommodation prices soar.
• September: It's typhoon season, especially on coastal routes like the Kumano Kodo and Mount Koya.
• December to February: In high-altitude areas (like Tateyama and Hakuba), there's heavy snowfall and some trails may be closed.

Let's Help You Arrange Your Hiking Tour in Japan

If you have any questions about planning your hiking trip or need assistance, feel free to contact us. We'll help you create your Japan itinerary based on your preferences.

We recommend tours that combine hiking with elements of Japanese theme parks or culture, especially for families.

• 13-Day Japan Family Vacation with Theme Parks
• 14-Day Japan Family Adventure