Best Hikes to Do in Japan in 2026

Japan is a land of contrasts, from ancient pilgrimage routes and lush mountain forests to rugged coastlines and subtropical shores. Whether you’re a traveller craving a deep cultural experience, sweeping natural beauty or an adventure immersed in history, Japan’s diverse long-distance trails offer something unforgettable for every traveller.

We’re Australia’s Japan experts, and have a team with decades of experience and deep knowledge and resources in the region. Here’s our guide to some of the best walking destinations in Japan, with different difficulty levels and both guided and self-guided options available.

Kumano Kodo: ancient paths through sacred mountains

For those drawn to spiritual landscapes and timeless trails, the Kumano Kodo stands out as Japan’s most iconic pilgrimage network. Winding through the sacred Kii Peninsula’s cedar forests and river valleys, these ancient paths have been walked by pilgrims for over a thousand years.

What makes Kumano Kodo special is the deep cultural immersion you’ll experience, with moss-covered shrines, mountain temples and the silence of old growth forests. There’s a sense of continuity here: centuries of pilgrims have followed these same routes to the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano. The terrain varies from gentle local paths to steeper ascents through remote ridges, making it rewarding without being overwhelming for moderately experienced hikers. The sacred Nakahechi route is the most popular and accessible of the Kumano Kodo routes and the most sacred walk in Japan. 

Kumano Kodo’s network of routes offers flexibility in both distance and difficulty while revealing some of Japan’s richest spiritual heritage. 

Kumano Kodo at a glance

• Trip length: 6-12 days, depending on the walk
• Best time to visit: March to April, October to November
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Highlights: Pilgrimage culture, forested mountain trails, historic shrines
• Best for: Cultural and spiritual walkers seeking a classic Japanese pilgrimage

Nakasendo Way: Japan’s historic highway

If you’ve ever wondered what it might have felt like to journey across Edo-period Japan, the Nakasendo Way is a step into the past. This historic trail links Kyoto and Tokyo through the Kiso Valley, a region that has preserved its historic character and quiet charm. Out of all of Japan’s hikes, the Nakasendo offers an authentic cultural journey through time.

Walking the Nakasendo Way is like stepping into a living history museum. Ancient post towns like Magome, Tsumago and Narai invite you to linger among wooden inns, cobblestone streets and local craft shops. The route itself combines pastoral countryside and gentle forest paths, with occasional moderate ascents that reward you with sweeping valley views.

Nakasendo Way is a must-do for walkers who love history, culture and long-distance walking.

Nakasendo Way at a glance

• Trip length: 5-8 days depending on the trip
• Best time to visit: March to May and September to November
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Post towns, cobbled paths, rural villages
• Best for: History lovers and those seeking cultural immersion without extreme terrain

Michinoku Coastal Trail: Japan’s longest hiking trail along Pacific shores

Stretching along the northeastern Pacific coast of Tohoku, the Michinoku Coastal Trail (MCT) offers a different type of Japanese walking adventure. Here, coastal panoramas, fishing villages and cedar-lined paths define an experience shaped by sea, land and local tradition.

The Michinoku Coastal Trail is ideal for those who enjoy an off-the-beaten path adventure and a challenging walk. You’ll hike cliff paths with ocean vistas, pass through quiet rice paddies and forests and discover small towns where traditional craft and culinary ways remain. With spectacular coastal scenery, the freshest seafood, oceanside accommodation, the region’s unique culture, and friendly locals, the Michinoku Coastal Trail continues to be one of Japan’s most rewarding yet lesser-known long-distance walks.

Michinoku Coastal Trail at a glance: 

• Trip length: 7-12 days depending on the trip
• Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging or Strenuous
• Highlights: Coastal cliffs, rural villages, ocean views
• Best for: Scenic coastal walking and travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path Japan

Dewa Sanzan: discover the three sacred peaks of Yamagata

For those seeking adventure, cultural immersion and a transformative journey, Dewa Sanzan offers an unforgettable encounter with Japan’s sacred traditions and natural beauty. Rather than a single long trail, this experience takes you through three sacred mountains – Haguro, Gassan and Yudono – each with its own significance in Shugendō, Japan’s mountain ascetic tradition.

Haguro’s cedar-lined stairway feels meditative and timeless, Gassan’s high alpine ridges are rugged and majestic and Yudono remains one of the most sacred and mysterious sites in all Japan. The opportunities here are about inner exploration as much as scenic hiking.

The pilgrimage is best experienced during the short summer season when all three peaks are open. For 2026, Dewa Sanzan is ideal for travellers seeking meaning, ritual and a deep connection with nature and spiritual history.

Dewa Sanzan at a glance:

• Trip length: 5 days
• Best time to visit: July to September (our trip runs from mid-September)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Sacred mountains, Yamabushi culture, alpine landscapes
• Best for: Spiritually curious travellers seeking a rare and meaningful pilgrimage

On two wheels: Shimanami Kaido, a cyclist’s dream

While not a hike, the Shimanami Kaido deserves mention for those looking to explore Japan on two wheels (and there are some great short hikes on some of the islands). Spanning across the Seto Inland Sea, the Shimanami Kaidō is one of the world’s most breathtaking cycling journeys. This route connects Honshu and Shikoku across a series of islands via bridges and coastal roads. It’s ideal if you want to combine physical adventure with scenic sea views and local island culture, especially if you’re planning a broader Japan itinerary that blends walking and cycling.

We offer e-bike itineraries on this route, allowing you to experience the Shimanami Kaidō at a relaxed, unhurried pace, with time to connect deeply with the landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality along the way.

At a glance

• Trip length: 5-7 days depending on the trip
• Best time to visit: March to May, September to November
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Island hopping, ocean views, cycling infrastructure
• Best for: Active travellers wanting to explore Japan by bike

Why walk in Japan with RAW Travel

Japan is one of the world’s most rewarding walking destinations, where ancient history, spiritual culture and beautiful scenery meet. From forested mountains and sacred pilgrimage routes to rugged coastlines and island trails, it offers diverse experiences within a single country.

If you’re unsure on what trip would be best for you, our team is here to help. We’ve got  deep on-the-ground knowledge of walking in Japan that goes far beyond guidebooks and well-trodden routes. As Australia’s Japan walking experts, our itineraries are shaped by long-standing local relationships, cultural understanding and respect for the landscapes and traditions you’re walking through.

Get in touch with our team to learn more about our hikes in Japan.