Adventure & Nature
Hiking and Cycling
Japan’s diverse landscapes offer both hiking and cycling adventures.
The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails weave through the spiritual forests of the Kii Peninsula, while the Nakasendo Trail leads through Edo-period post towns like Magome and Tsumago. For alpine scenery, the Japanese Alps provide wonderful treks, from Kamikochi’s valleys to the rugged Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. In Hokkaido, Daisetsuzan National Park features volcanic landscapes and unspoiled wilderness, while Yanbaru National Park in Okinawa offers subtropical forests rich in rare wildlife.
For cycling enthusiasts, the Shimanami Kaido offers a spectacular 70-kilometre route across the Seto Inland Sea, linking Honshu and Shikoku with wonderful island views. Hokkaido’s countryside is also a cyclist’s dream, with rolling hills and flower-filled fields. For adrenaline seekers, Nagano and the Fuji Five Lakes region feature mountain biking trails with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
Wildlife Encounters
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot brown bears and red foxes in Hokkaido’s Shiretoko Peninsula, while Yakushima is home to wild macaques and sika deer. In the Kushiro Wetlands, bird watchers can observe the red-crowned cranes, particularly in winter when they perform their elegant courtship dances.
From mountain trails and cycling routes to rare wildlife encounters, Japan’s natural wonders offer unforgettable outdoor adventures for all.