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Writer's pictureSakuraJapan
Nov 104 min read

Best Places for Walking in Japan: A Guide to Urban and Countryside Walks

Introduction

Japan is a country where vibrant urban landscapes and serene countryside trails coexist beautifully. Whether you enjoy walking through bustling cityscapes or peaceful rural paths, Japan offers diverse walking experiences. This guide highlights Japan’s top walking spots for city lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, each offering unique views, cultural insights, and natural beauty.


1. Urban Walks: Exploring Japan's Lively Cities

  • Tokyo

    • Shibuya to Omotesando: Walk from the energy of Shibuya's iconic crossing to the chic, tree-lined Omotesando. Along the way, enjoy the blend of modern architecture, trendy shops, and serene parks in one of Tokyo's most dynamic neighbourhoods.

      A scenic view of Omotesando’s famous tree-lined avenue, showcasing a blend of nature and modern architecture.

    • Ueno to Asakusa: Starting from the museum and temple-rich Ueno Park, take a stroll to historic Asakusa and its famous Sensoji Temple. Along the way, you can enjoy views of Tokyo Skytree from certain points near the Sumida River and around Sensoji, blending the old and the new in one walk.

      A serene view of Ueno Park with the iconic Tokyo Skytree visible in the distance, representing a mix of natural and urban beauty.

  • Kyoto

    • Philosopher's Path: Stroll along this tranquil, cherry-tree-lined canal path. Stop by hidden temples, small cafes, and teahouses along the way for an authentic taste of Kyoto’s slower pace.

      Cherry blossoms lining the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto, creating a peaceful springtime setting.

    • Gion to Kiyomizu Temple: Enjoy the traditional streets of Gion, known for geisha culture, followed by stunning views of Kyoto from the famous Kiyomizu Temple, which is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

      A glimpse into Kyoto’s historic Gion district, featuring traditional wooden architecture and narrow streets.

  • Osaka

    • Dotonbori to Namba Parks: Experience Osaka's vibrant nightlife and iconic street food along Dotonbori, then unwind at Namba Parks, a shopping mall with rooftop gardens that offer a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

      Vibrant neon lights reflected on the canal at Dotonbori, Osaka, capturing the lively nightlife of the area.

2. Scenic Countryside Walks

  • Hakone

    • Old Tokaido Road: Walk part of this historic route, enjoying views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji along the way. This trail was once a critical route connecting Tokyo to Kyoto, and it offers a glimpse into Japan’s history and natural beauty.

      A quiet, tree-lined path along the historic Tokaido Road in Hakone, surrounded by nature.

    • Hakone Open-Air Museum Area: Stroll among sculptures in this unique fusion of art and nature, with hot springs nearby to relax after a day of walking.


  • Kumano Kodo

    • Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails: A UNESCO World Heritage route that winds through forests and mountains, leading to sacred shrines. Walking the trails is a spiritual experience and a chance to see rural Japan’s landscapes and villages up close.

      A scenic section of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, nestled within lush forest.

  • Nikko

    • Nikko Nature Trails: Discover waterfalls, lakes, and historical shrines. This walk combines both natural beauty and cultural heritage, with famous sites like the UNESCO-listed Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

      Majestic waterfalls in Nikko, capturing the area’s natural beauty and tranquility.

  • Hokkaido

    • Shiretoko Five Lakes: A gentle trail around five scenic lakes with views of mountains and wildlife, especially beautiful in spring and summer. Shiretoko is known for its untouched nature and serene landscapes, a perfect escape into Japan's northern wilderness.

      A stunning summer landscape of Shiretoko Five Lakes, surrounded by greenery in Hokkaido.

3. Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Walking Spots

  • Shikoku Henro

    • Pilgrimage Walks Among Temples: This spiritual route covers rural villages, forests, and coastal paths across Shikoku Island. Even a short section offers a glimpse into Japan's religious history and countryside charm.

      One of the historic temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage, reflecting traditional Japanese architecture and spirituality.

  • Takayama

    • Old Town Walks: Stroll through well-preserved Edo-period streets, passing traditional sake breweries, morning markets, and historic houses. This area feels like stepping back in time to Japan’s past.

    Takayama’s old town with preserved wooden buildings, showcasing Japan’s Edo period architecture.

  • Nakasendo Trail

    • Magome to Tsumago: This scenic trail connects two beautifully preserved post towns, offering a journey through Japan’s historical countryside. With quaint inns and local shops along the way, this walk is a must for history lovers.

Traditional post towns on the Nakasendo Trail, with scenic streets reminiscent of Japan’s historic travel routes.

4. Best Time to Enjoy Japan’s Walks

  • Spring (March to May): Cherry blossoms bloom across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Yoshino, making spring ideal for walking tours. Popular trails and city streets alike are adorned with pink blossoms, adding an extra layer of beauty to any walk.

  • Summer (June to August): Escape the heat in the cool mountain areas of Hokkaido and Nagano, where summer walks are refreshing and provide a chance to see vibrant alpine flowers.

  • Autumn (September to November): Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path, the forests of Nikko, and Kumano Kodo are stunning with autumn foliage. The blend of vibrant leaves and traditional scenery creates a picturesque atmosphere.

  • Winter (December to February): Winter walks through snowy Shirakawa-go and Hakodate offer magical, quiet landscapes. These areas are transformed into peaceful winter wonderlands, perfect for an introspective walk.


5. Tips for a Great Walking Experience in Japan

  • What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

  • Safety First: Follow local trail markers, respect local rules, and check weather conditions, especially in mountainous areas. It’s also a good idea to carry a map or download offline navigation for remote locations.

  • Getting Around: Japan’s public transportation system is convenient, with JR trains or local railways taking you to trail starting points. Consider getting a Suica card or regional travel pass for easy transit access.


Conclusion

Japan offers diverse walking experiences, from vibrant urban strolls through Tokyo and Osaka to serene nature trails in Hakone and Nikko. With such unique city energy and natural beauty, Japan’s landscapes are waiting to be explored on foot. Plan a walking trip to fully immerse yourself in Japan's captivating scenery and rich cultural experiences.


Additional TipsEnhance Your Trip with Japanese Lessons: Learning basic Japanese phrases can enhance your walking experience, helping you understand signs, ask for directions, and connect with locals along your journey. Our lessons are tailored to travellers, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

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