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Best Advanced Hiking Spots near Tokyo

Why enjoy an advanced hiking experience near Tokyo?

If you are an adventure seeker looking for a challenge, the mountains near Tokyo offer some of the most thrilling hikes in Japan.

From the sacred slopes of Mount Nantai in Nikko to the rugged peaks of Tanigawadake in Minakami, these trails promise breathtaking views and demanding terrain best suited for experienced hikers.

Explore our recommendations below to plan your next hiking adventure in Japan or explore our outdoor activity page for more ideas!

1 ) Mount Tanigawa (Tanigawadake)

2hrs from Tokyo
Japanese: 谷川岳

6hrs 45min 

9km

Highest Point: 1,977m

Average Trail Grade: 16.4%
(9.3 degrees)

Elevation: 1,379m

Conquer the Clouds on Mount Tanigawa!

Details

Why Hike Mount Tanigawadake?

Mount Tanigawa offers an unforgettable adventure with its rugged trails, breathtaking alpine views, and the thrill of conquering one of Japan’s most revered peaks.

If you are up for the challenge, hike the steep ascent to the peak for stunning seasonal landscapes and panoramic vistas. (You can also take the ropeway if you are not an advanced hiker)

*Parts of the hike involves vertical hikes using a chain so please watch the videos above and do research in advance.

Important notes.

Please beware as the weather changes quickly on this mountain. You may need to register before hiking this mountain and fill in a Tozan todoke (登山届).  Please watch this English Hiking  Documentary of Mount Tanigawadake by NHK before hiking this mountain.

Mid May-Mid Oct

External Website (Japanese)

External Website (PDF Hiking map in Japanese)

External Website (English hiking website with hiking information about Tenjin pass route)

External Website (English hiking website with hiking information about Tenjindaila Loop)

JR Doai Station
Start your walk from Shinkyo Bridge (10min bus from Tobu & JR Nikko Stations) *You can also drive to the closest parking and walk 20min to the waterfall from there for a very easy hike.

This information was correct at the time of publishing, but please check with the attractions and/or the tourist board before traveling.

2 ) Mount Nantai (Nantaisan)

3hrs from Tokyo
Japanese: 男体山

7hrs 45min

15km

Highest Point: 2,486m

Average Trail Grade: 8.7%
(5 degrees)

Elevation: 1,295m

Climb the Sacred Heights of Mount Nantai!

Details

Why Hike Mount Nantai?

Mount Nantai offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning summit views of Lake Chuzenji and the surrounding Nikko National Park. At the peak, you’ll find a sacred samurai sword enshrined at the summit shrine, adding a unique cultural touch to the adventure and deepening the mountain’s spiritual significance.

*Parts of the hike can be tough so please watch the videos above and do and research in advance.

Important notes.

Please beware as the weather changes quickly on this mountain. You may need to register before hiking this mountain and fill in a Tozan todoke (登山届).  Please watch this English Hiking  Documentary of Mount Tanigawadake by NHK before hiking this mountain.

April-June,
Sep-Mid Nov

External Website (Japanese)

External Link (PDF map inJapanese)

External Website (English hiking website with hiking information about Mount Nantai)

JR Matsuida Station
Walk or take a taxi.
Start of hike is 45 min walk from JR Matsuida Station
External Website (Japanese)
Tel 0274-67-7500

This information was correct at the time of publishing, but please check with the attractions and/or the tourist board before traveling.

🥾⛰️ Map of Hiking Spots near Tokyo 🚶🏻‍➡️⛰️

Looking for more Outdoor Activities near Tokyo?

Discover all The Best Outdoor Activities Near Tokyo here. 

Why not also check out the best Cycling  Activities  near Tokyo as well!

(click on the pink links to see more)

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