Mountains, volcanoes, rivers, lakes and ocean – these may not be the first things that pop to mind when you think of Japan. In fact, you are probably more inclined to think of Japan’s metropolises. You will be surprised to know that more of Japan is covered by mountains than cities and this means there is no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy.
With so many mountains in Japan, hiking has become a major activity for young and old alike. A hike up a mountain is a great way to enjoy the changing seasons of Japan. From the blossoming flowers in spring and early summer to the leaves turning in autumn, Japan's mountains offer exquisite scenery. Every year in July and August, thousands of Japanese and international visitors alike make the climb to the top of Mt. Fuji, Japan’s tallest and most revered mountain. From hiking the remote mountains of UNESCO World Heritage listed Shirakami Sanchi in Aomori and Akita prefectures to the Kamikochi highlands in Nagano prefecture, there is no shortage of mountains to conquer. If it is a religious pilgrimage you are interested in, there are 88 Buddhist temples that form part of a 40 day hike around Shikoku Island. Or travel to the spiritual Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, a set of World Heritage listed trails around Wakayama prefecture. The tranquil ambience will carry you away to another world. Recommended guidebook: “Hiking in Japan” published by Lonely Planet
For something a bit more fast-paced and adrenaline-producing, mountain biking in Japan is the way to go. Outdoor fun and adventures do not come to a halt when the ski season is over. So, what is there to do on the mountains of Hokkaido when the snow melts? Hokkaido is not just a winter destination. As the snow melts and the mountains show their face again each spring, it is the perfect time to jump on a bike and start exploring all over again. Mt Fuji is not just for climbing. At the base of the mountain you will find a myriad of trails for walking and biking. Hop on your bike and explore the local landscape of waterfalls and streams. Heading over to Nagano, you will find mountain biking trails to suit most levels around Hakuba. Mountain biking has grown in popularity here recently and there are new trail building projects, races and annual events to keep you entertained. When you are back sightseeing in the cities, why not cycle around and see Tokyo and Kyoto as the locals do? Cycling enables you to not only see, but smell, feel and experience cities in ways that you cannot do from inside a bus. It gives you the freedom to make new discoveries of your own.
Japan is surrounded by ocean, and lined with rivers and waterways. Kayaking and rafting the waters of Japan will give you a completely different perspective of the countryside. Up north in Niseko (Hokkaido), take to the rafts as the snow melts and floods the rivers in spring. For something a little less challenging, raft or kayak the rivers in summer when the water is much calmer. How about rafting the biggest river in Japan? For world-class rafting, head to the Tone River in the Minakami region of Gunma prefecture. From April to June the river provides consistent grade four rapids for over twelve kilometres. Kayak on Lake Aoki or navigate the rivers in Hakuba (Nagano). Alternatively, you may like to challenge yourself to the grade two rapids of nearby Hime River. Kumano River, in Wakayama prefecture is the world’s only UNESCO World Heritage listed waterway. Pilgrims once rafted down the river to reach Kumano Hayatama Shrine, one of the three grand shrines on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Nowadays you can enjoy half day or full day kayaking tours on the same river. The biggest rapids in Japan can be found on the Yoshino River in the Iyakei Valley, Tokushima, Shikoku. For more information on all of these locations, please see the links below.
For underwater adventures, head down to the southern islands of Okinawa. The crystal-clear waters and warm temperatures attract many divers, who come not only to see the marine life but also to explore underwater ruins and wrecks from World War II. The Izu Islands are a string of seven islands floating in the Pacific Ocean south of Tokyo. They form part of the Fuji volcanic belt. Their moderate climate makes them the perfect destination for lovers of marine sports, including scuba diving. The Ogasawara Islands are 25 hour boat ride away from Tokyo, south of the Izu Islands out in the Pacific Ocean. The islands’ remoteness provides some unique flora and fauna on land and underwater, the crystal clear waters will reveal spectacular marine life and beautiful coral reefs.
Surfing may be the last thing you would think to do in Japan. You will find plenty of waves without having to travel too far. Kujukuri-hama beach is in Tokyo’s neighbouring, Chiba prefecture and is a rare 66km kilometre coastline. The lack of reefs make for some consistent and powerful beach breaks. Kamakura in Kanagawa is another beach also close to Tokyo and is quite popular due to its accessibility. Okinawa is a chain of 160 islands scattered between Kyushu and Taiwan. The subtropical climate brings warmer weather and makes Okinawa the perfect place to enjoy many water sports, including surfing. Not as far away is Kochi prefecture, in the south of Shikoku Island. Kochi is well-known for its sandy beaches and powerful waves. Most of the best surfing spots can be accessed by driving along Route 55. Miyazaki prefecture spans the east coast of Kyushu Island, and is home to quite a few good surfing spots. Follow the Nichinan coastline to the south of Miyazaki city or head north to Hyuga and Nobeoka.
Fancy a few rounds of golf? You can do that too! You are never too far from a golf course in Japan.
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Adventure Japan