Hiking and Trekking in the Japan Alps and Mt Fuji
The Japanese have long understood the pleasures of the outdoors – from admiring koyo(“colorful autumn leaves”) to goraiko (“watching the sunrise from a mountain top”). It’s little surprise that hiking features prominently in Japanese culture, since Japan is home to so many amazing landscapes, offering fantastic opportunities for exploration.
This guide by Tom Fay and Wes Lang, presents a selection of 14 walks and 13 short treks in the magnificent mountains of the main island of Honshu. As well as the four main trails to the summit of iconic Mt Fuji – Japan’s highest peak at 3776 meters – the routes cover the North, Central and South Alps, taking in some of Japan’s most famous mountains and following dramatic ridgelines offering spectacular views.
The graded routes range from gentle walks on well-maintained paths to challenging mountain traverses, some involving scrambling and exposure. The treks make use of the area’s excellent network of mountain huts and campsites, full details of which are presented in the guide.
Alongside comprehensive route description and mapping, you’ll find all the information you need to plan a successful walking holiday, with advice on travel, accommodation, bases, equipment and safety. There are also notes on Japanese history and culture, recommendations in case you want to sample some local delicacies and tips on bathing etiquette (since several of the mountain huts boast the luxury of a hot-spring bath).
Useful contacts, mountain hut listings and a Japanese glossary are included in the appendices. The stunning colour photography will fill you with the urge to put on your boots and discover these breathtaking mountains.
