Hiking Tokyo: Top 8 Easy Trails for Beginners to Enjoy Nature Walks

Looking for a quiet escape near Tokyo? You can enjoy nature without a long drive. Explore forested mountains, peaceful lakes, or scenic temple trails.

These hikes are perfect for those seeking a gentle adventure with a touch of nature. For a bit more excitement, try a less-known trail and discover the quiet beauty of Japan's countryside.

Here are our favorite hiking trails near Tokyo, perfect for travelers who want to slow down, recharge, and explore beyond the city.

1. Mount Takao: Mountain Forests and Views of Mt. Fuji

• Distance: About 1.5-hour drive
• Duration: 3-4km, 2–3 hours round trip
• Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Best Time to Visit: Late Oct. to late Nov.for colorful autumn leaves

Mount Takao is famous for its colorful forests, peaceful temples, and clear views of Mt. Fuji. The trail takes you through cedar and maple trees to Yakuoin Temple, where you can draw a fortune slip, pray, and enjoy the calm mountain atmosphere.

At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and try local treats like freshly made tengu dango (sweet rice dumplings).

The mountain has seven hiking trails suitable for families, kids, and seniors. Trail No. 1 is the most popular and easy to follow.

If you visit in summer and want something cooler and more active, try Trail No. 6. It follows a stream and a small waterfall, perfect for a refreshing hike.

Tips:

1. After your hike, relax at the nearby Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu or enjoy local soba noodles at a traditional restaurant.
2. In autumn, arrive before 8 a.m. to avoid weekend crowds.

2. Mount Mitake: Cool Forest Trails and Autumn Colors

• From Tokyo: 1.5-hour drive from Tokyo
• Duration: about 6–8 km, 3–4 hours trip
• Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Best Time to Visit: May to September and October to November

Hiking Mount Mitake offers a refreshing escape from Tokyo's heat in summer and vibrant red leaves in autumn.

Begin your adventure with a scenic cable car ride up the mountain, then follow peaceful forest paths lined with cedar trees. Visit Musashi Mitake Shrine, one of Japan's oldest mountain shrines, where locals often bring their pets for blessings.

The shaded trails keep the summer hike cool. The mountain is about 41°F (5°C) cooler than central Tokyo. Streams along the paths are perfect for a refreshing break.

At the summit, tea houses offer a place to rest and enjoy forest views. You can take the cable car directly to the top, making the hike easy for families.

Tip: Wear non-slip hiking shoes, as some paths can be wet or uneven.

3. Lake Okutama: Hike Through Forest Paths and Crystal Waters

• From Tokyo: About a 2-hour drive
• Duration: about 8–10 km, 4–5 hours round trip
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: May, July to September, and October to November

Lake Okutama is a peaceful retreat surrounded by mountains and forest.

In May, when spring turns to summer, you can walk through river valleys, cross a floating bridge, and even try a bit of waterfall climbing.

In autumn, you'll walk along trails glowing with red and gold leaves reflected in the calm lake.

October brings cool, pleasant weather for easy hikes and lakeside walks. Fall colors peak in early November, but by late October you can already spot red and yellow leaves along the forest trails. You can choose an easy 8 km walk around the lake or a longer 15 km loop through the woods.

Tip: In autumn, days get shorter, so start before 9 a.m. and plan to return by 6 p.m. for safety.

4. Kamakura Hiking: A Peaceful Escape Between Mountains and Sea

• From Tokyo: About a 2-hour drive
• Duration: About 5.5 km, 2–3 hours
• Trail Difficulty: Easy
• Best Time to Visit: April to May and October to November

If you need a break from Tokyo's busy streets, hiking in Kamakura offers a peaceful mix of temple visits and family-friendly trails.

You could see the ancient Great Buddha, walk through quiet forests and bamboo groves, and enjoy ocean views along the way.

We recommend starting with the Daibutsu Hiking Trail, from the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple to Hase-dera Temple. The walk is especially beautiful during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season.

If you have more energy, continue on the Tenen Trail behind the Great Buddha. It leads to Gokurakuji Temple through forest tunnels that feel like something from My Neighbor Totoro. The path is easy and charming, with wooden steps, tree roots, and occasional deer along the way.

Or head to Shichirigahama Beach, where you can surf and watch the sunset in summer, or see Mount Fuji across the sea in the cooler months.

Tip: After your hike, you could go to Komachi Street, Kamakura's lively shopping area, to try local sweets like dorayaki and browse for handmade souvenirs.

5. Mount Fuji: Hike Japan's Iconic Peak in Summer

1. • From central Tokyo: About a 2.5-hour drive
   • Duration: about 1.5-5 km round trip, take 1.5-4 hours.
   • Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate
   • Official Hiking Season: only from early July to early September
   The Fifth Station Mt Fuji

   Ready to experience Mount Fuji? Our top pick is the 5th Station (2,305 meters), the perfect spot to get close to the mountain and feel its spirit without doing a tough climb. On clear days, you can enjoy close-up views of the summit and explore short trails that match your energy level.

   You can take a gentle walk up to the 6th Station from the 5th Station. It takes about 1 hour for a round trip. The path is wide and sandy, with open views of the lakes and forests below. You'll see how the green forest slowly changes into rocky volcanic slopes.

   Past the 6th Station, the trail becomes steeper with loose rocks, and you may need to use your hands to climb. If you continue to the 7th Station, it is about 1.5 kilometers farther one way, adding around two to three hours for a round trip back to the 5th Station.

   It's the easiest 5th Station to reach from Tokyo by car. The Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station offers Japan's highest post office for sending postcards and a variety of souvenir shops to explore.

   Tips:

   1. The weather at the 5th Station changes quickly. In summer, it is about 10°C (18°F) cooler than in Tokyo, and the wind can be strong. Dress in layers, wear a windproof jacket, and bring a hat, sunscreen, and warm clothes.
   2. If you do not plan to climb to the mountain, try light hiking around Lake Kawaguchiko. The 2–3 km trails are easy and offer clear views of Mount Fuji's reflection on the water, a relaxing option for families and couples.

   6. Lake Chuzenji: Easy Lakeside Trails with Views of Waterfalls

   • From Tokyo: About a 2.5-hour drive
   • Duration: 6km or 10 km, take 2-3 hours
   • Trail Difficulty: Easy
   • Best Time to Visit: May to June, mid-October to early November
   Lake Chuzenji

   Set among the mountains of Nikko, Lake Chuzenji welcomes you with the sight of water spilling from the lake and cascading down the cliffs below.

   You could walk the classic lakeside trail. Along the way, you'll see waterfalls, the open grasslands of Senjogahara, and the reflections of Mt. Nantai on the lake.

2. In late October, it is the best time to enjoy the autumn colors here. The trail is about 10 km long and takes three to four hours. From late September to late October, the marsh at Senjogahara glows with golden grasses.

   For a shorter and quieter walk, start from the Nikko Natural Science Museum parking lot on the south shore. Follow the gentle lakeside path past the Italian and British Embassy villas to Akechidaira.

   This 6 km route takes about two hours and is perfect for couples or families with kids who want a relaxed walk away from the crowds.

   Tip: During the fall season, try to arrive before 8 a.m. to avoid traffic on the winding mountain roads.

   7. Hakone Old Tokaido Trail: Edo Culture and Views of Lake Ashi

   • From Tokyo: About a 2-hour drive
   • Duration: 3 km, around 1.5–2 hours
   • Trail Difficulty: Easy
   • Best Time to Visit: Late March to early May, and late October to mid-November
   Hakone, Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji

   Looking for a hike that feels like old Japan? The Old Tōkaidō Trail still keeps the charm of the Edo period. You'll pass stone paths, small teahouses, and peaceful forests that feel a world away from the bustle of Tokyo.

   The best section to walk is the Hakone Hachiri. Besides the forests and teahouses, this trail also offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days.

   Here's a simple route to follow, start at Amazake Teahouse, walk through Hakone Hachiri, and finish at the Hakone Checkpoint near Lake Ashi. The trail ends right by the lake, where you can have lunch and take a boat ride to enjoy the view.

   Tip:

   Staying overnight is a better choice, giving you time to relax in an onsen and enjoy a peaceful walk on the trail. Many people visit Hakone as a day trip from Tokyo, but during holidays the trip can take 3-4 hours because of traffic.

   8. Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage Trail: For Hikers Seeking Peace and Culture

   • From Tokyo: About a 1.5-hour drive
   • Duration: 5-6 km and takes around 3–4 hours
   • Trail Difficulty: Easy
   • Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
   Chichibu, Japan at the Mitsumine Shrine approach on the summit of Mount Mitsumine.

   If you want a calm hike with a touch of tradition, the Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage in Saitama is a great choice for a full-day cultural walk.

   This old trail connects 34 temples. Along the way, you could visit Mitsumine Shrine, where wolves are seen as guardian spirits. You'll walk through forests and hills and might see pilgrims wearing traditional clothes.

   Even if you don't complete all 34 temples, you'll still enjoy the spiritual calm. At the temples, you can collect temple stamps, climb stone steps, explore small caves, and follow mountain paths.

   Recommended Route: Start at Mitsumine Shrine, hike to the Inner Shrine (Okumiya), pass through the Zuishin Gate, and end at the Main Hall (Haiden).

   If you want a more immersive experience, visit temples and take a spiritual pilgrimage hike on our 4-Day Koyasan and Kumano Kodo Walking Tour

   Packing & Clothing Tips for Tokyo-Area Hikes

   • Shoes: Wear comfortable, sturdy, and non-slip hiking shoes. Trails may have roots, stone steps, or wet surfaces.
   • Clothing: Dress in layers. Mountain mornings and evenings can be cool, even in summer. Bring a light jacket or fleece.
   • Rain Gear: Carry a small waterproof jacket or poncho; sudden showers are common in mountain areas.
   • Sun Protection: Use a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, even in autumn or winter.
   • Water & Snacks: Bring enough water for the hike and small snacks like energy bars.
   • Backpack: Carry a small backpack for your belongings, camera, and any temple passes or permits.
   • Extras: For longer hikes, consider gloves, trekking poles, and a map or GPS device.

Let's Help You Arrange Your Hiking Tour in Japan

If you have any questions about planning your hiking trip or need assistance, feel free to contact us. We'll help you create your Japan itinerary based on your preferences.

We recommend tours that combine hiking with elements of Japanese theme parks or culture, especially for families.

• 13-Day Japan Family Vacation with Theme Parks
• 14-Day Japan Family Adventure