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Hiking in Hokkaido: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

4.20

(12 reviews)

Discover the natural beauty and diverse terrains of Japan’s second largest island!

Boasting one UNESCO World Heritage site, six national parks and more than a dozen other natural areas and protected spaces, there is a lot to see in Hokkaido. Hiking gets your out into the island’s incredible wilderness. Compare and book a certified guide for your trip on Explore-Share.com: 1500+ guides, 70+ countries and more than 8000 different programs to choose from. Take a pick from our selection of Hiking trips in Hokkaido. The mountains are calling!

Top hiking trips | Japan

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FAQs: Hiking in Japan

What should I know about Hiking Japan?

Situated just to the north of Honshu, Hokkaido is Japan’s second largest island and chock-full of incredible hiking opportunities. Outside of the aforementioned locations, there are plenty of other great parks and natural areas to explore on foot.

Other popular hiking spots include Shikotsu-Tōya National Park and Akan Mashu National Park. The former is home to Mount Yotei, which is the eighth tallest mountain on the island and among the most popular to climb. Shikotsu-Tōya is also home to Noboribetsu hot springs, which make for a great evening activity after a long day of hiking.

Meanwhile Akan Mashu National Park, one of the two oldest national parks on the island, is home to volcanic craters and forests. Hiking around the edge of Lake Mashu is quite popular as is climbing Mount Meakan and enjoying the views from the top.

Why should I choose Japan for my Hiking adventure?

Stunning scenery

The island of Hokkaido boasts some incredibly stunning scenery. Mountains, forests and alpine meadows dominate the interior of the island while tree-covered and rugged cliffs lead down to the sea on the island's coast lines. Hiking is a great way to get out and see all of the natural beauty that awaits on this incredible island.

Come for the culture

When you are not out on the hiking trails, take some time to enjoy the unique culture of Hokkaido. Numerous wineries and breweries operate on Hokkaido, making wine and beer tours a popular evening pastime once the hiking boots have been unlaced. Also, take some time to explore the local markets and try out some local cuisine too.

Amazing wildlife

Some of Hokkaido’s best hiking spots remain quite wild and undisturbed, which makes them perfect for wildlife watching. Shiretoko National Park, for example, is home to brown bears, deer, foxes, fish owls and eagles. Off the shores of Hokkaido, orca and sperm whale sightings are also not uncommon.

What can I expect from the weather during my Hiking trip in Japan?

During the summer, average daily temperatures on Hokkaido range from 15 ºC to 20 ºC. Summer is also the wettest time of year, with an average of 125 millimeters of rain falling each month.

How can I get to Japan?

Most trips to Hokkaido will begin with a flight into the New Chitose Airport (CTS), the largest one on the island. CTS can be easily reached by connection from Tokyo. From here, buses connect the city of Sapporo to many of the most popular hiking spots.

Which language is predominantly spoken in the Japan region?

Japanese

What's the country code for the Japan region?

+81

What currency is accepted around Japan?

Yen (JPY)

When is the best time to travel to Japan for Hiking?

June to September

What people are saying about Hiking |

Wim

4.00

Yuki Nagaya replaced Takao and did a perfect job. Daisetsuzan is very nice, scenery is tremendous and the trail is challenging. Onsen was available in all mountain huts. Apart from bring a great guide; Yuki prepares delicious food.

Christina

5.00

Had a great trip with Yasuko! The trip was well-organized and we were able to customize it to our preferences. Gorgeous scenery and delicious food--couldn't ask for anything more.

Chloe

5.00

Our two guides have been really great and showed us the beauty of Rishiri and Rebun Island by sharing their knowledge and passion. We did learn a lot about the flora on Japan's most Northern islands! Rishiri-Zan was a great, pleasant summer hike and must be beautiful and fun for ski touring in Winter time. thanks again!

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Our knowledgeable team is here to assist you at any moment throughout your adventure.

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