-
Tokyo, Japan
Use Tokyo as your base to acclimatize before heading into nature. Day-trip to Mount Takao (Takaosan) for an easy but rewarding hike with great views. Explore the lush Shinjuku Gyoen gardens and fuel up on ramen in Shinjuku.
-
Nikko, Japan
Nikko National Park offers stunning mountain trails, waterfalls like Kegon Falls, and the beautiful Lake Chuzenji. Hike the Senjogahara Marshlands trail for sweeping highland scenery. The ornate Toshogu Shrine is a cultural highlight nestled deep in cedar forests.
-
Hakone, Japan
Hakone sits within a dramatic volcanic caldera with iconic views of Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi. Hike the Old Tokaido Road through forested ridgelines and visit the Owakudani volcanic valley. The Hakone Open Air Museum and onsen ryokans make evenings equally rewarding.
-
Kyoto, Japan
Hike the Fushimi Inari trail through thousands of torii gates up into the forested hills — best done at dawn. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji garden are peaceful green escapes. Grab tofu kaiseki cuisine and explore the atmospheric Higashiyama district on foot.
-
Kumano, Japan
The Kumano Kodo is one of Japan's most sacred and scenic pilgrimage trails through ancient cedar forests and mountain passes. Hike sections between grand shrines like Kumano Hongu Taisha and soak in remote riverside hot springs at Yunomine Onsen. The rugged Kii Peninsula coast offers dramatic cliffs and sea views.
-
Yakushima, Japan
Yakushima is a UNESCO-listed island covered in ancient cedar forests that inspired Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke. Hike to the legendary Jomon Sugi cedar tree, thought to be over 2,000 years old, through moss-draped trails. The island's rocky coastline and sea turtles make it equally magical beyond the forest.
-
Busan, South Korea
Busan is South Korea's great coastal city with beautiful beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli framed by forested hills. Hike Geumjeongsan Mountain for panoramic views of the city and sea, passing an ancient fortress wall. Feast on fresh seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market and explore the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village.
-
Gyeongju, South Korea
Gyeongju is surrounded by gentle hills perfect for cycling and hiking between ancient Silla Kingdom burial mounds and temple ruins. Hike up to Namsan Mountain to discover hidden stone Buddhas and pagodas carved into rocky outcrops. The nearby Bomun Lake and Bulguksa Temple add scenic and cultural depth.
-
Jeju, South Korea
Jeju Island is South Korea's natural crown jewel with volcanic landscapes, coastal cliffs, and lush forests. Summit Hallasan, South Korea's highest peak, through dense forest trails that open to a stunning crater lake at the top. Explore the dramatic Jusangjeolli basalt columns along the ocean and the wild Olle walking trails hugging the coastline.
-
Seoul, South Korea