Hiking Japan and the Northern Alps
Inn-Based Hiking Tours
10 Days, 9 Nights 33 MI/53 KM
Trip Highlights
Get ready for adventure! While Japan is best known for its big cities, on this Wildland trip, we will take you off-the-beaten-track and into the more wild and remote places of Japan.
After a brief overnight in Tokyo, you’ll depart by bullet train for the coast of the Japan Sea. We’ll hike into the heart of Japan, following the historic Shio-no-Michi trail or “Salt Road”, where couriers portered goods from the coast deep into Nagano. Along the way, revel in the gorgeous countryside with stunning views of the Japanese Alps and partake in a slice of real Japanese small-town life as you’ll hike through forests and farms, with sights of thatched-roof houses, and Buddhist stone statues.
After 4 days of hiking into the beautiful Hakuba valley, pivot and ascend into the Northern Alps in dramatic fashion via the Kurobe-Tateyama Alpine Route and its seven forms of transport, to the base of Mt. Tateyama. Here, a final day of climbing takes you from the sulfurous valley of Murodo to the summit of one of the 3 most sacred peaks of Japan. The spiritual reward is complemented by an earthly one, soaking in the area’s exceptional natural hot spring baths. In the last leg of the trip, descend back to sea level and continue by train to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital – the final destination and the completion of this epic 10-day journey.
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Japanese Northern Alps Hiking
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Historic Shio-No-Michi Trail (Salt Trail)
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World-Renowned Japanese Cuisine
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Natural Hot Spring Onsens
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Tokyo, Kyoto, and remote Japanese towns
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Incredible Mountain Views
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Sake Brewery Visit
Book This Trip
View Dates
Trip Details
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Trip Type
Inn-Based Hiking Tours -
Trip Length
10 Days, 9 Nights -
Daily Hiking Distance
Up to 8 miles -
Group Size
4-12 Guests
Receive a PDF info packet via email which includes:
- day by day itinerary
- logistical and travel information
- gear and clothing lists and more
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Is This Trip Right For me?
This trip features moderately distanced hikes with significant elevation changes (up to 3,336 but mostly below 1,000 ft.)), but with light day packs only. There are a few areas with moderate heights exposure. Expect trails to be moderately rugged with uneven terrain and sometimes with large rocky steps. The weather can range from very hot and humid to quite cold with high winds.
Difficulty Level
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Solitude Level
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Trip Itinerary
Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.
Day 1
Accommodation: Hotel in Tokyo
Kon’nichiwa and welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival into Tokyo, we will have a driver waiting for you to take you to our hotel in the vibrant Ueno district. Once you’ve settled in, feel free to unwind in your room, take a refreshing shower, or explore the area at your own pace. Ueno offers convenient access to iconic attractions like Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum, and the city’s subway and train systems. At 5:30 pm, we’ll gather downstairs for an orientation meeting. This will be a great opportunity to introduce ourselves, review the itinerary, distribute gear, and answer any questions you may have. Afterward, we’ll head out together to enjoy our first Japanese meal, izakaya-style, a tapas-style dining experience that’s perfect for sharing and savoring the flavors of Japan. As the evening unfolds, we’ll take a stroll through Tokyo’s dazzling streets, soaking in the city’s vibrant lights, a perfect way to kick off our journey.
Please plan to arrive into Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) no later than 2:30 pm today. If you are interested in arriving a day or two early to get ahead of the jet lag and to explore Tokyo further, please contact our Adventure Consultants for information regarding pre-trip lodging and airport transfers.
Day 2
Hiking Mileage: 5.2 mi./8.4 km.
Elevation Gain: 702 ft./214 m.
Elevation Loss: 660 ft./201 m.
Travel Time: 3 hours
Accommodations: Ryokan near Itoigawa
Ohayō gozaimas! Good morning! After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on an exciting journey aboard the Shinkansen — Japan’s famous bullet train. This high-speed marvel will take us from Tokyo, on the Pacific Ocean, to Itoigawa, nestled along the Sea of Japan. In just a few hours, we’ll arrive at the starting point of the historic Shio-no-michi trail. Our adventure begins with a visit to the Magna Fossa Museum, where we’ll get a fascinating introduction to the area’s unique geography and geology. From there, we’ll set out on our first hike along the Shio-no-Michi. This gentle trail winds its way inland toward the scenic Seaside Valley. After the hike, we’ll pause for a special treat – a visit to a local sake brewery. Here, we’ll learn about the traditional brewing process and enjoy a tasting of this iconic Japanese beverage. Tonight, we’ll stay at a modest yet charming hotel in this remote and less-traveled region, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the tranquil surroundings.
Day 3
Hiking Mileage: 6.7 mi./10.9 km
Elevation Gain: 733 ft./223 m.
Elevation Loss: 678 ft./207 m.
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodations: Ryokan in Hiraiwa
After breakfast, we’ll set out for the Shio-no-Michi Oami Pass hike, while our luggage is transported to our next accommodation. Before departing the small town of Nechi, we may visit the Salt Trail Museum to gain insight into the lives of those who have lived along this historic route. Today’s hike takes us through rolling terrain shaded by a serene Sugi (Japanese Cedar) forest. Along the way, keep an eye out for frogs, tanuki (Japanese racoon dog), and footprints of wild pigs as we make our way through the dense, quiet woods. As we ascend, we’ll pass by some tranquil ponds often shrouded in mist. For lunch, we’ll enjoy a traditional Japanese bento box. After descending into the village of Hiraiwa, nestled along the Himekawa River, we’ll arrive at our next accommodation, a cozy Japanese-style ryokan.
Day 4
Hiking Mileage: 7.7 mi./12.4 km
Elevation Gain: 1969 ft./600 m.
Elevation Loss: 722 ft./220 m.
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodations: Hotel in Tsugaike
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a short and scenic ride aboard a “one-man” train from Hiraiwa to Nakatsuchi. From there, we’ll continue our journey, weaving through a series of small, scattered towns on our way to Otari, now a quaint ski resort town on the outskirts of the famous Hakuba area. Today’s trek on the Shio-no-Michi will take you through some beautiful countryside and a walk through a remarkable stand of 100 stone Bodhisattva statues quietly watching over travelers as they have for centuries. Along this section of the 100-Jizo trail, we’ll delve deeper into the practices of Shintoism and Buddhism, discovering the cultural and spiritual significance of these sacred guardians. Tonight, settle into a comfortable hotel known for its warm hospitality and excellent meals crafted with fresh, local ingredients. This will be our home for the next two nights, allowing us to relax and fully immerse ourselves in the serene surroundings.
Day 5
Hiking Mileage: 4 mi./6.5 km.
Elevation Gain: 650 ft./198 m.
Elevation Loss: 659 ft./201 m.
Trekking Duration: 2.5 hrs.
Accommodations: Hotel in Tsugaike
Today, we will take a break from the Shio-no-Michi, having completed the lion’s share, and we will explore the local area. Enjoy a gondola and ropeway ride up to the Tsugaike Nature Park area, an alpine meadow environment rich with flowing streams, plants, and wildlife. Stroll around on raised wooden paths and relish in the views of the valley and iconic “Kita Alps” peaks. After a relaxed half-day of light trekking, and a lunch of local soba noodles, we will head to a fabulous hot spring soak at one of the nearby resorts in the nearby town of Hakuba. This evening, enjoy another beautiful dinner at our accommodation.
Day 6
Hiking Mileage: 2 mi./3.2 km.
Elevation Gain: 108 ft./ 33 m.
Elevation Loss: 154 ft./47 m.
Highest Elevation: 7,909 ft./2,411 m.
Trekking Duration: 2 hrs.
Travel Time: 1 hr.
Accommodations: Mountain Hut
Today, we’ll send our main luggage to the final destination so that we can travel light into the Japanese Alps. We’ll pack our backpacks with just the essentials for the next 2 nights. The day starts with a visit to the headwaters of the Himekawa River, our companion since Itoigawa. We’ll enjoy a last bit of countryside, meandering around the edges of beautiful Aoki and Kizaki lakes before departing the Hakuba Valley by vehicle.
From here, we’ll pivot and head for Ogizawa at the foot of the “Kita Alps”. This is the start of the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route and its famous seven (yes, seven!) types of transport. We’ll drive into the mountains (literally!) via electric bus, traverse massive Kurobe Dam and learn about its construction, and take a stunning gondola ride looking back across the dam and mountains from high above. Finally, we’ll arrive in Murodo, a high-altitude valley. Here, the simple mountain hut accommodation is classed up with gorgeous views, great food, and incredible hot spring baths – fed by the sulfur springs just outside. There are women’s and men’s rooms at the hut and within each room, each guest has a private curtained tatami mat to themselves, which includes a light, outlet, futon mattress, and warm comforter. Shared bathrooms will be just down the hall.
Day 7
Hiking Mileage: 7.5 mi/12.1 km
Elevation Gain: 3,366 ft./1,026 m.
Elevation Loss: 3,366 ft./1,026 m.
Highest Elevation: 9,892 ft./3,015 m.
Trekking Duration: 8 hours
Accommodations: Mountain Hut
Today is our most challenging on the docket but absolutely well worth the effort! We will set out from our hut after breakfast and make our way up Mount Tateyama, one of Japan’s three sacred peaks, at 3,015 m. tall. In eras past, this mountain was an important spiritual focal point and ascending to the peak was a religious pilgrimage.
We have a couple of options today, depending on the group and weather conditions. If the full Tateyama-Bessan loop at 12 km. is too ambitious, we can hike to either the Tateyama Summit, or perhaps, the neighboring Mount Jodo. Regardless of which route we take, we’ll enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery and (weather permitting) views as far as Toyama, the Noto Peninsula, and the Sea of Japan. If we’re extra lucky, we may spot a raicho (thunder bird), aka Ptarmigan among the rocks in their native environment.
Afterward, soak yourself back to contentment with a long dip in the Hut’s excellent hot spring waters, and enjoy another great dinner at the accommodation.
Day 8
Travel Time: ~4 hours of scenic travel
Accommodations: 4-star hotel in Kyoto
Congratulations! The hard work is done, relax today and enjoy the views as we descend the remainder of the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route and travel on to our final destination, Kyoto. As we transit through the seaside town of Toyama, why not try some super fresh sushi at Toyama Station? The quality to price ratio might just shock you. After lunch, set off by train for the journey to Kyoto. This lengthy leg includes both Japan’s newest Shinkansen (bullet train) section, as well as the scenic Thunderbird Limited Express, which skirts the shoreline of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake. On arrival in Kyoto, we’ll take taxis to the final hotel where you will be reunited with your luggage. Tonight’s dinner is intentionally left open as there is so much variety to choose from in Kyoto – your guide is available to help with recommendations.
Day 9
Hiking Mileage: Expect lots of walk through the city today
Accommodations: 4-star hotel in Kyoto
Today, head out for sightseeing around the highlights of Kyoto, which is the former capital where Japan forged its identity over 1,100 years ago. Your guide will show you a selection of the main destinations, as well as lesser-known gems. Expect to see temples, shrines, exquisite gardens, and lots of beauty. At the end of the day, come join the group for one final, celebratory group meal at a favorite local restaurant.
Day 10
Today, on our final morning, we bid each other farewell after breakfast. Our driver will pick you up from the hotel and take you to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), if the first leg of your journey is an internal flight. We hope your adventure into the heart of Japan was an unforgettable and inspiring journey! Thank you for choosing Wildland Trekking!
Trip Dates
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What's Included
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A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
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Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
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Entrance tickets to Magna Fossa, Salt Road museums, Hakuba Onsen Resort day pass, and Kyoto entrance fees as part of the tour
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9 nights of accommodations including lodges, ryokans, mountain huts, and 4-star hotels
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Transportation for the duration of the tour including Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets, train tickets, private vehicles, Kurobe Dam transportation, subways, gondolas, and taxis
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Airport pickup upon your arrival to Toyko-Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT)
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Airport drop off to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka Itami Airport (ITM)
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Most meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 10 (excludes lunch on Days 6 and 9 and lunch and dinner on Day 8)
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Luggage transfer (1 carryon-size bag permitted)
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Use of a backpack and trekking poles
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Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device
What's Not Included
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Transportation to Tokyo and from Osaka, Japan -
All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
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Certain meals (lunch on Days 6 and 9 and lunch and dinner on Day 8)
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Bar bills, drink bills, telephone bills, Wi-Fi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
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Snacks: Japan's snack scene is legendary, and we want you to have the freedom to explore!
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Clothes, rain gear, and footwear
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Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
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Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
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Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 5-10% of the total trip cost. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated.
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Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (strongly encouraged)
Accommodations
* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno
1 Night
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno has excellent proximity to many popular Tokyo landmarks and fantastic public transportation. The rooms include a flat screen TV, air conditioning, a refrigerator, and Wi-Fi. This is a “western style” hotel with ensuite toilet and showers.
Hotel White Cliff
1 Night
In the mountain town of Yamaguchi, we stay one night in the Hotel White Cliff. This hotel offers very basic accommodations and is the most modest of our hotels on this trip as it’s in a more rural area, with few tourists. While modest, the rooms are clean and cozy and are perfectly located for our Japan adventure. Shared bathrooms are in the hallway, as well as the relaxing and beautiful onsen you can enjoy in the evening. Wi-Fi is available.
Kunitomi Suisenkaku Ryokan
1 Night
Kunitomi Suisenkaku Ryokan is a wonderful hotel with outdoor baths (onsen) fed by natural hot springs. This is a traditional Japanese Ryokan with clean rooms and absolutely fantastic cuisine in its in-house restaurant. Toilets are ensuite and bathing is downstairs in the gorgeous onsen. Wi-Fi is available.
Tsugaike Kogen Hotel Berghaus
2 Nights
Hotel Hakuba Berghaus is a fantastic onsen (hot spring) hotel in the mountainous area of Otari-mura. Rooms include a refrigerator, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The natural hot springs at this hotel are a delicious way to relax after our daily hikes, and the restaurant offer exceptional, local cuisine. Toilets are ensuite and bathing is downstairs in the onsen. Wi-Fi is available.
Mikurigaike Onsen Hutte
2 Nights
We spend two nights in the stunning Mikurigaike Onsen Hutte in the Northern Alps of Japan. This remote lodge is home to the highest elevation onsen (hot spring bath) in Japan. With basic but cozy and clean accommodations, Mikurgaike offers us a fantastically unique mountain experience. Rooms are dormitory style, separated by gender. Each bed is on a tatami mat with a thick mattress and includes sheets and comforter for extra warmth. Each space also has curtains for complete privacy, a light, and an outlet. Bathrooms are down the hall and the most spectacular onsen is downstairs. Earplugs are recommended as it is a shared space with other hikers. Wi-Fi is available.
Good Nature Hotel Kyoto
2 Nights
Located in the soul of Kyoto Kawaramachi, this hotel is an impressive, sustainable hotel that equally prioritizes the well-being of people and the environment. Incorporating nature in surprising and delightful ways, the hotel features a lot of natural wood, plants and water features. It also features a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Trip Logistics & FAQs
Where Do We Meet?
We will pick you up from the Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) on Day 1. Your driver will be waiting for you just outside of the arrivals hall holding a Wildland sign with your name on it.
Our pre-trip support team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed information about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Travel to Japan
Trip Start: Tokyo, Japan. We recommend flying into Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) where we will provide airport pick up upon your arrival.
Trip End: Kyoto, Japan. We recommend flying out of Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) in Osaka, Japan (just outside of Kyoto) where we will provide airport drop off on the final day.
Transporation to/from Tokyo and Kyoto is the guest’s responsibility.
Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging
We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Tokyo and Kyoto as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.
Guides
Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.
Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 12 and older to join scheduled or private trips
Trip Insurance
Field evacuation, repatriation, and medical insurance is highly recommended on all trips (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD).
We recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance.
For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here.
If you already have insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.
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