Hiking Japan and the Northern Alps
Fall Hiking Trips
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
Fall Hiking Trips -
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 mostly below 1,000ft of elevation gain, but up to 3,904 ft. on the Alpine adventure day (Category 4, optional), 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 Map & Location Details
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 the Land of the Rising Sun! Upon arrival at Tokyo’s Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT) airport, a private driver will greet you and transfer you to our hotel in the vibrant Ueno district. After settling in, you’ll have time to relax, freshen up, or explore the neighborhood at your own pace. Ueno is a cultural hub, home to Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum, and excellent access to the city’s subway and train systems.
At 5:30 PM, we’ll meet in the hotel lobby for a welcome orientation. This is a great chance to get acquainted with your guides and fellow travelers, review the itinerary, distribute gear, and answer any questions. Afterward, we’ll head out for our first dinner together—an authentic izakaya-style meal, featuring a variety of shareable dishes that showcase Japan’s incredible flavors. To cap off the evening, we’ll take a short stroll through Tokyo’s dazzling streets, soaking in the neon lights and vibrant energy—a perfect start to our adventure.
Arrival Details:
Please plan to arrive at Haneda or Narita no later than 2:30 PM on Day 1. If you’d like to arrive early to adjust to the time zone or explore Tokyo further, our Adventure Consultants can assist with 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 in Hiraiwa
Ohayō gozaimasu! Good morning! After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we’ll board the iconic Shinkansen, one of Japan’s legendary bullet train. In mere hours, this engineering marvel will whisk us from bustling Tokyo, perched on the Pacific coast, to Itoigawa, a charming city along the Sea of Japan. Here, our journey along the historic Shio-no-michi—the “Salt Road”—begins.
Our first stop is the Magna Fossa Museum, where we’ll uncover the fascinating geology and cultural heritage that shaped this region. Then, lace up your boots for a gentle hike on the Shio-no-michi trail, winding through serene forests and picturesque valleys toward the tranquil Seaside Valley.
By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Hiraiwa, a riverside village embraced by the Himekawa River. Tonight’s stay is at a traditional Japanese ryokan, where soothing onsen baths and an exquisite multi-course dinner await—an authentic taste of Japan’s hospitality and culinary artistry.
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 a hearty breakfast, we’ll set out for the historic Shio-no-Michi (Salt Road) Oami Pass hike while our luggage is transported to the next accommodation. Before leaving the charming town of Nechi, we may stop at the Salt Trail Museum to learn about the fascinating history of this ancient trade route and the people who lived along it.
Today’s hike winds through rolling terrain shaded by a tranquil Sugi (Japanese cedar) forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife—frogs, tanuki (Japanese raccoon dogs), and even footprints of wild boar—as we make our way through the quiet woods. As we ascend, we’ll pass mist-shrouded ponds that add an ethereal beauty to the landscape.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy a traditional Japanese bento box, a perfect complement to the day’s adventure. After completing this exceptional hike, we’ll return to our ryokan for a second night of relaxation, hot spring baths, and exquisite Japanese cuisine.
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 board a charming “one-man” train for a short, scenic ride from Hiraiwa to Nakatsuchi. From there, our journey continues through a series of picturesque villages as we make our way to Otari, a quaint ski resort town nestled on the edge of the renowned Hakuba Valley.
Today’s trek along the Shio-no-Michi (Salt Road) reveals some of Japan’s most enchanting countryside. One of the highlights is a walk through a remarkable stand of 100 stone Bodhisattva statues, silent guardians that have watched over travelers for centuries. Along this section of the 100-Jizo Trail, we’ll explore the intertwined traditions of Shintoism and Buddhism, uncovering the spiritual significance of these sacred figures and the cultural heritage they represent.
This evening, we’ll settle into a welcoming hotel celebrated for its warm hospitality and meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients—a perfect way to end a day steeped in history and natural beauty.
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’ll take a break from the Shio-no-Michi, having completed the lion’s share of this historic trail, and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Northern Alps region. Our adventure begins with a scenic gondola and ropeway ride to Tsugaike Nature Park, an alpine meadow rich with flowing streams, vibrant flora, and diverse wildlife. Elevated wooden walkways make for a leisurely stroll as we soak in panoramic views of the valley and the iconic Kita Alps peaks.
After a relaxed half-day of light trekking and a delicious lunch in town, we’ll indulge in a rejuvenating hot spring soak at one of Hakuba’s renowned onsen resorts—a quintessential Japanese experience. Weather permitting, today offers our first breathtaking glimpse of the majestic summits of the Northern Alps and sweeping views across the Hakuba Valley.
This evening, savor another exquisite dinner at our accommodation, featuring fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors.
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 pivot toward Ogizawa, the gateway to the legendary Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, famous for its seven (yes, seven!) unique modes of transport. We’ll journey deep into the mountains via electric bus, cross the impressive Kurobe Dam while learning about its engineering marvel, and ascend on a spectacular gondola ride, offering sweeping views of the dam and surrounding peaks.
Our final destination is Murodo, a high-altitude valley surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery. Tonight’s accommodation is a mountain hut with a twist—simple yet elevated by stunning views, hearty meals, and soothing onsen baths fed by natural sulfur springs just outside. Rooms are separated by gender, and each guest enjoys a private curtained tatami space equipped with a light, outlet, futon mattress, and warm comforter. Shared bathrooms are conveniently located 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: 9,852 ft./3,003 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 3,003 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—Kyoto offers an endless array of culinary delights, from traditional kaiseki to modern fusion. Your guide will be happy to provide recommendations and help you make the most of your evening in this cultural capital.
Day 9
Hiking Mileage: Expect lots of walk through the city today
Accommodations: 4-star hotel in Kyoto
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Today, we’ll immerse ourselves in the timeless beauty of Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and cultural heart, where traditions have flourished for over 1,100 years. Your guide will lead you through a curated selection of the city’s highlights—along with a few hidden gems. Expect to explore ornate temples, serene shrines, and exquisite gardens, each offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and artistry.
As the day winds down, we’ll gather for one final celebratory group dinner at a favorite local restaurant—a chance to savor Kyoto’s renowned cuisine and share memories of an unforgettable journey.
Day 10
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your guides and fellow travelers. A driver will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) if your first leg is a domestic flight.
We hope your adventure into the heart of Japan has been unforgettable and inspiring—filled with cultural discoveries, breathtaking landscapes, and lasting memories. Thank you for choosing Wildland Trekking, and we look forward to welcoming you on another journey soon!
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.
Kunitomi Suisenkaku Ryokan
2 NightS
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?
On Day 1, we will pick you up from Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT). Your driver will be waiting directly outside the Immigration doors, holding a Green Tomato sign with your name on it.
If you don’t immediately see the sign upon exiting, please check in front of the other exit, as there are two Immigration doors.
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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