Japan hiking trip: the Japanese Alps

Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel. Settle in, soak up the city’s energy, and unwind, or take a relaxed stroll through nearby lively streets.

Meet your local planner to shape an authentic, tailored Japan travel experience and pick up practical tips for the days ahead, from gear and trail timing to local dining and easy walks to shake off jet lag.

Begin at Meiji Shrine, a tranquil sanctuary tucked into lush woodland. Pass beneath towering torii gates, follow quiet forest paths, and experience Shinto traditions by making an offering, writing a wish, or choosing a protective amulet to personalize your Japan itinerary.

Continue to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace for an unhurried walk across wide grounds, stone bridges, and historic walls, with time to photograph the palace exterior. End at Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo’s historic heart, where vibrant gates, incense-scented air, and Nakamise street stalls invite you to sample local snacks and soak up the atmosphere.

Begin at Oshino Hakkai, a serene spring-fed pond village perfect for quiet photos and close-up views of Mt. Fuji, with time paced to your interests. Then climb to Arakurayama Sengen Shrine for the classic pagoda viewpoint overlooking the Kawaguchiko area with Fuji rising beyond.

To finish, choose the experience that fits your mood. Take a calm cruise on Lake Kawaguchiko or ride the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for sweeping mountain panoramas.

Spend a relaxed morning in Hakone with time for an onsen soak, a visit to the Open Air Museum, and a cruise on Lake Ashi for postcard views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Your local guide keeps the pace comfortable and shapes the stops around your interests.

Then continue to Kyoto to wander temple-lined streets, join a private tea ceremony, and enjoy kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal that reflects the season and the region’s culinary heritage.

Start at Kinkaku-ji Temple and watch the gilded pavilion glow as it reflects across the still pond. Continue to Nijō Castle to explore its ornate chambers, where painted screens and gold leaf details reveal the elegance of the shogunate era. Then head to Fushimi Inari Shrine and walk beneath the famous vermilion torii gates as the path winds up a forested hillside.

In the evening, step into historic Gion. Dress in a kimono for an intimate tea ceremony, then finish with a kaiseki multi-course dinner served in a traditional townhouse.

Spend a relaxed morning exploring Kyoto at your own pace. Wander lively lanes toward Kiyomizu dera, pause in quiet temple gardens, then head to Arashiyama to stroll through the bamboo grove and along the Ōi River, discovering tucked-away heritage corners as you go.

In the late afternoon, take a scenic train ride of about two hours to Kanazawa, an ideal gateway for the next stage of your trip. Here you can begin to compare coastal samurai and geisha traditions with the mountain landscapes and adventures ahead.

Discover Kanazawa, often considered one of the best places to visit in Japan for its beautifully preserved heritage. Begin with a guided walk through Kenroku-en, taking in tranquil ponds, stone lanterns, and seasonal blooms while your guide explains the principles behind traditional Japanese garden design. Then visit Kanazawa Castle to explore the grounds and climb up for broad views across the city.

Continue to Higashi Chaya District to step inside atmospheric wooden teahouses for a private tea ceremony and stories from the geisha era. Finish in the Nagamachi Samurai District, wandering narrow lanes and touring a preserved samurai residence with a local guide.

Explore the mountain village of Shirakawa-go, starting with panoramic views over Ogimachi’s famous thatched roof farmhouses from the observation deck. Step inside preserved gasshō zukuri homes such as Wada ke or Kanda ke to learn about clever timber joinery, winter living, and everyday village routines.

Continue to Takayama to stroll beautifully preserved Edo period streets, sample Hida beef, and browse the lively morning markets for local crafts and seasonal treats.

Begin at the Miyagawa River Morning Market, where riverside stalls offer local crafts, fresh produce, and small, distinctive souvenirs. Chat with vendors, sample regional snacks, and get a genuine feel for everyday Hida life.

Then wander the Old Township’s atmospheric lanes to see Edo-era sake breweries, merchant houses, and lattice-fronted facades. Stop at Nakabashi Bridge for photos, and continue to Sakurayama Hachimangū Shrine.

Round out the day at the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan and the nearby Nikkōkan to admire the intricate festival floats and centuries-old woodworking that the Hida region is known for.

Depart Takayama for a scenic, self-guided hike in Kamikochi. Begin at Taishō ike Pond, where the silhouette of Mount Yake sets a dramatic backdrop, then follow forest paths through ancient larch, cypress, and cedar as you breathe in crisp, pine-scented air.

Continue along the Azusa River to the iconic Kappa Bridge, a perfect spot to pause for photos and take in the alpine views. Later, transfer to Matsumoto for an overnight stay near its historic castle.

Travel the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route by cable cars, ropeways, and trolley buses, with sweeping highland panoramas and well-paced stops for short walks and standout photo views.

Stand at the base of Kurobe Dam, admire the rugged presence of Mount Tate at 3,015 meters, and, from April to June, walk beside the famous Snow Walls for a truly unforgettable alpine scene.

Spend the morning enjoying a walkable Matsumoto. Visit Matsumoto Castle and its dramatic black keep, then stop by the Matsumoto City Museum of Art to see works by local artist Yayoi Kusama. Continue to the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum to admire a remarkable collection of woodblock prints.

In the afternoon, take the train to Nagano and connect to the Shinkansen back to Tokyo. You will arrive in about three hours, then transfer to your hotel and settle in for the evening.

Enjoy a final, unhurried morning. Savor a local breakfast, wander a nearby market, and revisit your favorite moments as you take a few last photos of mountain views and village scenes.

When it is time to leave, a private airport transfer with flexible timing and personal assistance keeps your departure smooth and relaxed. Head home with lasting memories of authentic encounters, quiet discoveries, and breathtaking landscapes.