What is hiking? Introducing must-see information for beginners, such as what to wear, what to bring, and how it differs from trekking!

What is hiking? Introducing must-see information for beginners, such as what to wear, what to bring, and how it differs from trekking!
Update date:
Activity Japan Editorial Department

On this page, we will introduce the great outdoor leisure staple " hiking (Hiking) ” Special feature!

Clothes, things to bring, differences from trekking, mountain climbing, or walking, etc. Thorough introduction of information for hiking beginners To do.

In addition, we will focus on the Kanto area including Tokyo and Kanagawa. Check out popular experience tours across Japan Let's do it.

What is hiking?

What is hiking? Introducing must-see information for beginners, such as what to wear, what to bring, and how it differs from trekking!

First of all" hiking What? We will review the basic knowledge of hiking for beginners.

What is hiking? Outdoor sports that you can enjoy while walking through nature such as mountains and forests and the scenery of unknown lands. It is a general term for.

Also, for the purpose of observing nature at night. ``Night tours'' and ``snow hikes'' in snowy areas are also sometimes called ``hiking.'' Masu.

Depending on the purpose and course, it may also be called walking, which is a full-fledged You can enjoy it with lighter clothing compared to trekking and mountain climbing. That's what makes it so appealing.

In addition to being expected to be effective in maintaining health and resolving lack of exercise, immersing yourself in nature also has the benefit of relieving daily stress. there is.

Ranking of popular hiking experience tours nationwide

1 rank

[Go by night special bus! Oku-Nikko Night Safari] You might even see nocturnal animals and a sky full of stars! ? [Tochigi/Oku-Nikko]

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
3,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.8
  • (39 reviews and experiences)

The bus route from Akanuma to the final stop, Senjugahama, is perfect, and at night it's truly an animal paradise! Let's secretly observe the wild night where nocturnal animals such as sika deer hide. If you shine a flashlight on it, the eyes of the animals will sparkle! In this area, the chance of encountering deer is particularly high from April to May and from October to November as they migrate to their wintering spots.

2 rank

[Asahikawa departure/arrival] Snowshoe hiking around Asahidake with a professional guide<初心者OK・レクチャー付>

Guide Office Pika
Asahikawa/Sounkyo
16,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.9
  • (4 reviews/testimonials)

Departing from Asahikawa Station! This is a snowshoe hiking tour that takes you around Mt. Asahidake from Daisetsuzan Ropeway Sugatami Station. A professional guide will give you various lectures on the key points of winter mountain hiking. This tour is recommended for those who want to make their snowshoeing debut. After arriving at Sugatami Station using the ropeway, put on your snowshoes and take a walk through the vast, pure white snowfield. The weather is

3 rank

Enjoy Hokkaido in winter! One-day bus tour from Sapporo, Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo + Shirohige Falls + Hokkaido local gourmet buffet lunch <Departure from 1 person / Departure and return from Sapporo city>

Y.H International Travel Co., Ltd.
Toya, Noboribetsu, Tomakomai
11,000 Yen~ (tax included)

旭山動物園冬季1時間30分滞在で生き生きとした動物たちの姿をしっかりと観察できMasu.美瑛では美しい白髭の滝やニングルテラスへご案内。昼食は北海道のご当地食材を使ってのバイキングをご用意しています♪【催行期間】12月1日~4月7日※旭山動物園休園期間(12月30日~2025年1月1日)は催行なし【所要

Difference between hiking and trekking/climbing

What is hiking? Introducing must-see information for beginners, such as what to wear, what to bring, and how it differs from trekking!

" hiking What is the difference between trekking and trekking? "or" What is the difference between mountain climbing and hiking? I think there are many people who have questions such as:

As mentioned above, the appeal of hiking is that in many cases Easy to enjoy with light clothing There is a particular thing.

Courses with fewer ups and downs have become mainstream compared to trekking and mountain climbing. The purpose is to walk a certain distance as an extension of sightseeing or walking. is.

Therefore, in many cases there is no need for equipment such as trekking boots or special wear. You can also enjoy it with casual clothes such as sneakers is.

on the other hand, The line between hiking and trekking or hiking and mountain climbing is blurred However, the name may change depending on the course or tour.

Related article

Appropriate clothing for hiking

What is hiking? Introducing must-see information for beginners, such as what to wear, what to bring, and how it differs from trekking!

Next, hiking Clothes suitable for enjoying I would like to introduce you to

I mentioned earlier that you can enjoy hiking in your casual clothes, but it goes without saying. The basics are clothes that are easy to move in and don't mind getting dirty. It becomes.

for example, It is best to refrain from wearing high-heeled shoes or skirts. Probably.

Also, it is easy to put on and take off in case of sudden changes in weather or temperature. It is also essential to wear layers and prepare rain gear. is.

The list below is an example of clothing suitable for hiking.

List of clothing suitable for hiking

  • sneakers/trekking shoes
  • quick drying innerwear
  • long sleeve tops
  • long pants
  • Rainwear (waterproof/windproof jackets, etc.)
  • hat
  • sunglasses
  • Such

T-shirts, etc. to be worn when trekking For innerwear, it is recommended to use quick-drying synthetic fibers regardless of the season. It has been.

As a basic equipment, it is used regardless of the season, considering safety aspects such as preventing injury and protecting yourself from pests. Wearing long sleeves and long pants is recommended. (No skirts allowed)

Also, to protect yourself from the sun. Hats, sunglasses, and rainwear made from waterproof and windproof materials in case of sudden rain and wind. is also a required item.

Related article

Things you need for hiking

Continuing with “ hiking List of items needed for ”.

What you should bring will vary depending on where you go hiking, but The basic idea is to carry it in a rucksack (backpack) so that both hands are free. is.

List of items needed for hiking

  • rucksack (backpack)
  • Change of clothes
  • gloves (work gloves)
  • towel
  • Water bottle
  • behavioral food
  • Plastic bag
  • Health insurance card
  • emergency medical equipment
  • whistle
  • Such

For example, when enjoying a hike in an outdoor field such as a mountain or forest, Change of clothes, towels etc. A mobile phone is required.

You can also put it in a water bottle or plastic bottle. Action food that you can easily eat when you are hungry or have a drink Make sure to carry it with you.

If you would like to participate in a trial tour accompanied by an instructor, Check out recommended items from the shop Let's prepare.

Related article

Recommended spots for hiking

" hiking Where should I do it? "or" Where are the famous hiking spots? I think there are many people who are looking for recommended hiking courses such as ``.

From here on, we will introduce " Recommended spots for hiking ” We will introduce the trial tour plan.

Recommended hiking experience tours in Kanto

[Saitama/Tokigawa] A hiking tour where you can eat udon noodles made with locally produced ingredients while visiting tourist attractions in Tokigawa town! 3 hours experience! Tour photo gift!

sherpa
Higashimatsuyama/Sakado
4,500 Yen~ (tax included)

This is a walking tour in Tokigawa Town, Saitama Prefecture. For those who like walking, those who like nature, and those who want to be healed by nature. Individuals are also welcome. We will guide you while walking along the sidewalk with little difference in height while looking at the scenery such as the mountains and streams of Tokigawa Town. For lunch, you can eat udon and soba noodles made with locally sourced ingredients. ~Flow of the day~10:00 Meeting time base

[Tochigi, Oku-Nikko] The forefront of autumn foliage in Oku-Nikko! Odashirogahara "Kusa Momiji" guided walk [Super easy walking on a low-emission bus]

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
1,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.8
  • (14 reviews/testimonials)

The "grass autumn leaves" of Odashirogahara begin to change color before the trees of Oku-Nikko. This spectacular view, known only to those in the know, is filled with various natural attractions. Enjoy the magnificent scenery while listening to the explanations of a nature guide at the forefront of the autumn leaves of Oku-Nikko. In this project, you will board an environmentally friendly "low-emission bus" from Akanuma Depot and travel along city roads where general vehicles are prohibited from entering.

Senjogahara Guided Walk [Oku-Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture] [Everyone is welcome to join!]

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
1,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.8
  • (21 reviews/testimonials)

☆☆☆Autumn tours have also been confirmed! ☆☆☆Our guides will show you how to enjoy Oku-Nikko beyond just viewing the autumn leaves♪September 8th (Sun), 13th (Fri), October 20th (Sun), 28th (Mon), 30th (Wed), 10:00-11:30Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes per tour*It takes about 30 minutes to walk back to Akanuma from the end point. 〇Capacity: 30 people per tour

[Tochigi/Oku-Nikko] Buddha photo experience & hiking to the tip of Hatcho Dejima ~ A journey to feel the wind of the seasons, history, and culture ~

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
4,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.8
  • (20 reviews/testimonials)

This is a hiking project that combines history and nature, which is very popular every season! The tip of Haccho Dejima is called "Teragasaki" and is one of the sacred places associated with Shodo Shonin, the founder of Nikko. It is located on the grounds of Chuzenji Tachiki Kannondo, a branch temple of Rinno-ji Temple, but we received special permission to go there on a tour! We will pass by the shores of Lake Chuzenji and enjoy the magnificent views of Haccho Dejima.

Recommended hiking experience tours in Kansai

Recommended hiking experience tours in Hokkaido

[Hokkaido/Iburi] Day hike with a professional guide in Mt. Date Monbetsu<初心者OK>

Guide Office Pika
Toya, Noboribetsu, Tomakomai
14,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.5
  • (1 review/experience)

Departing from and arriving at Sapporo Station! This is a one-day hiking tour of Mt. Date Monbetsu, located to the east of Date City. As you pass through the gentle forest and reach the ridgeline, the view opens up. From there, walk along the ridge with a nice view! If you have a good view from the top, you can see Funka Bay below. You can see Mt. Usu, Mt. Yotei, and Mt. Komagatake. After descending the mountain, it's time to take a hot spring in the neighborhood. Professional guide explains various points of mountain walking

[Hokkaido/Niseko] Niseko Annupuri hiking tour with a professional guide

Guide Office Pika
Niseko Rusutsu
18,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (3 reviews/testimonials)

Departing from and arriving at Sapporo Station! This is a one-day hiking tour that takes you to Niseko Annupuri, the main peak of the Niseko Mountain Range, which is counted as one of Japan's 300 famous mountains. First, we will climb through the Betula birch forest. The view opens up from Cairn 930. The view from the top of the mountain is outstanding! In front of you is Mt. Yotei. You can see beautifully from the Niseko Mountain Range to the Sea of ​​Japan. After descending the mountain, it's time to take a hot spring in the neighborhood. pro guide

[Hokkaido/Sorachi] Uryu Marshland tour with a professional guide

Guide Office Pika
Ishikari/Sorachi/Chitose
22,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (1 review/experience)

Departing from and arriving at Sapporo Station! This is a one-day hiking tour that takes you through Uryunuma, a high-rise wetland called the Oze of the North. As you cross the varied mountain trail, what awaits you is a paradise of flowers! You can relax and enjoy nature while enjoying the colorful flowers. Along the way, you can see the mighty flowing Hakuryu Falls. In autumn, the wetland glows golden yellow with the changing leaves of the grass. Ta

Recommended hiking experience tours in Okinawa

[Okinawa/Naha] 2nd part of the town series "Discovering Shuri's nature" Enjoy Shuri while experiencing history and nature!

Okinawa Educational Travel Agency Co., Ltd.
Naha
4,500 Yen~ (tax included)

Part 2 of the series on enjoying the city! This program is held in and around Sueyoshi Park, located in Shuri, Naha City, close to the monorail station. The park is full of lush forests, so you can enjoy a short hike. Would you like to enjoy Shuri while experiencing history and nature? The journey takes approximately 120 minutes.

"SALE!" [Okinawa, Onna Village] Private tour for one group! No need to bring a swimsuit! Walking tour to a deserted island ★ Star sand ★ Feeding experience

feel okinawa
6,000 circle 5,500 Yen~ (tax included)
Discount campaign in progress!
  • 5.0
  • (12 reviews and experiences)

[Hiking the sea in Onna Village] You can enjoy the sea even if you can't swim. You don't even need a swimsuit for this tour. You can easily participate even if you wear casual clothes or bring children. We will guide you to an uninhabited island that you can walk across only during low tide! The uninhabited island floating in the beautiful sea of ​​Onna Village is deep, and you can walk through shallow water that is about knee-high for adults while enjoying encounters with various creatures.

National hiking experience tour popularity ranking

Finally, based on Activity Japan's latest reservation data, Nationwide hiking Experience tour popularity ranking ” will be introduced.

Please refer to the tour contents and fees (prices), as well as reviews and word-of-mouth testimonials, to help you compare and choose a plan.

POINT!
We expect a large number of reservations and inquiries for each plan during weekends, holidays, and long vacation seasons such as Golden Week, Summer Vacation, and Silver Week. We recommend checking schedule availability and making early reservations.
1 rank

[Go by night special bus! Oku-Nikko Night Safari] You might even see nocturnal animals and a sky full of stars! ? [Tochigi/Oku-Nikko]

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
3,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.8
  • (39 reviews and experiences)

The bus route from Akanuma to the final stop, Senjugahama, is perfect, and at night it's truly an animal paradise! Let's secretly observe the wild night where nocturnal animals such as sika deer hide. If you shine a flashlight on it, the eyes of the animals will sparkle! In this area, the chance of encountering deer is particularly high from April to May and from October to November as they migrate to their wintering spots.

2 rank

[Asahikawa departure/arrival] Snowshoe hiking around Asahidake with a professional guide<初心者OK・レクチャー付>

Guide Office Pika
Asahikawa/Sounkyo
16,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.9
  • (4 reviews/testimonials)

Departing from Asahikawa Station! This is a snowshoe hiking tour that takes you around Mt. Asahidake from Daisetsuzan Ropeway Sugatami Station. A professional guide will give you various lectures on the key points of winter mountain hiking. This tour is recommended for those who want to make their snowshoeing debut. After arriving at Sugatami Station using the ropeway, put on your snowshoes and take a walk through the vast, pure white snowfield. The weather is

3 rank

Enjoy Hokkaido in winter! One-day bus tour from Sapporo, Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo + Shirohige Falls + Hokkaido local gourmet buffet lunch <Departure from 1 person / Departure and return from Sapporo city>

Y.H International Travel Co., Ltd.
Toya, Noboribetsu, Tomakomai
11,000 Yen~ (tax included)

旭山動物園冬季1時間30分滞在で生き生きとした動物たちの姿をしっかりと観察できMasu.美瑛では美しい白髭の滝やニングルテラスへご案内。昼食は北海道のご当地食材を使ってのバイキングをご用意しています♪【催行期間】12月1日~4月7日※旭山動物園休園期間(12月30日~2025年1月1日)は催行なし【所要

4 rank

★All entrance fees included★ [Departing from Naha, Okinawa] Let's go to Yanbaru! Tour the Rail Forest and Oishirinzan Mountain, Yanbaru National Park Nature Enjoyment Course (Course C)

Jumbo Tours Co., Ltd.
Naha
12,000 Yen~ (tax included)

[Recommended points] ▼Registered as a World Natural Heritage Site▼Enjoy the rich nature of Yanbaru, which spreads across the two Yanbaru villages of Kunigami Village and Ogimi Village! All stopover facilities include admission fees♪Let's go to Yanbaru! A course to enjoy Yanbaru National Park's nature, touring the rail forest and Daisekirinzan★Enjoy hiking in the rich nature of Daisekirinzan, an area designated as Yanbaru National Park.

5 rank

[Niigata, Tokamachi, Snowshoeing] Take a leisurely snow hike in the heavy snow area of Tokamachi! Includes tea time and hot springs (half day)

astral orange
Minamiuonuma, Tokamachi, Tsunan (Muikamachi)
7,000 Yen~ (tax included)

The setting is Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, known as one of the snowiest areas in Japan. There are many scenery that can only be seen in winter. Put on snowshoes and go exploring in areas that are usually off-limits to people. Anyone can walk briskly. Enjoy a walk on the snow while enjoying the snowy scenery and winter nature. In the midst of nature that has been nurtured over time,

6 rank

Lake Chuzenji Cafe Tour Ride (approx. 14km) [E-bike self-guided tour, Nikko Natural History Museum departure and arrival]

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
5,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 2.5
  • (2 reviews/testimonials)

This is a self-guided tour using an e-bike. This is the lightest and easiest course to take, starting from the Nikko Natural History Museum and visiting cafes, cultural facilities, and scenic spots along the shores of Lake Chuzenji. First, we toured the British Embassy Villa and the Italian Embassy Villa, then cycled along the shores of Lake Chuzenji, and visited Coffee House Yukon, the cafe at the Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel, and across the street.

7 rank

[Hokkaido, Asahikawa] Snowshoe hike with a professional guide <半日(午前・午後)・初心者OK・レクチャー付>

Guide Office Pika
Asahikawa/Sounkyo
8,000 Yen~ (tax included)

This is a snowshoe hiking tour up Arashiyama near Asahikawa. Just stepping on the fluffy powder snow is fun! Why not try hiking through a quiet winter forest? You can also enjoy the snow slide! A spectacular winter view awaits you at the observation deck at the summit! If you time it right, you might even encounter animals that live in the forest. A professional guide will introduce you to the winter

8 rank

[Fukuoka/Chikushino] Wildflower walk and outdoor cooking

Yamabito Club
Fukuoka City (Hakata/Tenjin)/Dazaifu
4,500 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (1 review/experience)

Wildflower walk according to the season! This is a 60-minute nature walk in the beautiful Satoyama area where you can experience nature with all five senses and pick edible wildflowers while hiking through the beautiful Satoyama area. Nearby are Yamagami Dam, Lake Tenbai, Chikushino City General Park, Mt. Tenbai, and a stream where you can play in the stream. If you need it, we can also give you advice on how to spend your afternoon. seasonal wildflowers

9 rank

[Nagano/Togakushi] Meet at Kurohime Station, 1-day snowshoe hiking Beginners welcome!

Shinano Discovery
Nagano/Togakushi/Obuse
12,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.8
  • (2 reviews/testimonials)

Shinano Discovery's snowshoe experience tour. Wear snowshoes and take a walk through the beautiful snow-covered forests around Togakushi Shrine Okusha and Kurohime Highlands. The sound of your own footsteps and breathing on the snow in the silence, the footprints of rabbits and foxes left on the snow surface. In winter, when everything is covered in snow, you can roam freely in the forest, which is the only time you can go.

10 rank

[Nagano/Hakuba Village Ochikura Plateau] Guide you to a beautiful and fantastic world! Sengenyama snowshoe hiking

NPO Ochikura Backcountry Field
Hakuba/Otari
6,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (2 reviews/testimonials)

Why not enjoy snowshoeing in the backcountry field of Ochikura Highlands, which has an outstanding view and is full of nature? Hakuba meisters and local guides will take you to a beautiful and fantastic world while also observing nature.

*The contents of this article are current as of November 2023.

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