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

[Tochigi Prefecture, Oku-Nikko] Senjogahara Night Hike - A Night Immersed in Primitive Nature

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
4,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (4 reviews/testimonials)

Immerse yourself in the primordial nature of Senjogahara in the darkSenjogahara is a place visited by many people during the day, but at night it is pitch black with no lights. Try not to use a flashlight as much as possible to allow your eyes to get used to it, and observe nocturnal creatures such as fireflies and bats. On clear days, you can enjoy the vast night scenery of Senjogahara as well as the starry sky. A cool summer night in Oku-Nikko

3 rank

[Izu, Shimoda] Aloha! Sea kayaking & snorkeling experience tour (discount for elementary school students available)

KAI'TO Sea Kayaking School
Shimoda and Shirahama
9,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.7
  • (28 reviews and experiences)

[Conditions for participation] To ensure safety, all participants must be able to speak either Japanese or English.

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.

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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

Senjogahara Guided Walk (Summer Edition) [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)
  • 4.9
  • (17 reviews/testimonials)

Let's go with a guide to find the hidden charms and fun of the cool Senjogahara! Oku-Nikko is cool even in the scorching summer! A nature guide will show you the hidden charms and ways to enjoy Senjogahara that are hard to notice just by walking. 〇 Dates Every Saturday and Sunday in August 2024 August 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 2024 Morning session 10:00

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!
  • 4.9
  • (6 reviews/testimonials)

[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

[Tochigi Prefecture, Oku-Nikko] Senjogahara Night Hike - A Night Immersed in Primitive Nature

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
4,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (4 reviews/testimonials)

Immerse yourself in the primordial nature of Senjogahara in the darkSenjogahara is a place visited by many people during the day, but at night it is pitch black with no lights. Try not to use a flashlight as much as possible to allow your eyes to get used to it, and observe nocturnal creatures such as fireflies and bats. On clear days, you can enjoy the vast night scenery of Senjogahara as well as the starry sky. A cool summer night in Oku-Nikko

3 rank

[Izu, Shimoda] Aloha! Sea kayaking & snorkeling experience tour (discount for elementary school students available)

KAI'TO Sea Kayaking School
Shimoda and Shirahama
9,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.7
  • (28 reviews and experiences)

[Conditions for participation] To ensure safety, all participants must be able to speak either Japanese or English.

4 rank

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!
  • 4.9
  • (6 reviews/testimonials)

[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.

5 rank

[Hokkaido/Shiretoko] Shiretoko Pass Downhill Tour

Shiretoko cycling support
Shiretoko/Abashiri/Kitami
7,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 4.5
  • (3 reviews/testimonials)

This is an active tour that involves driving up to Shiretoko Pass, which is 740 meters above sea level, and then cycling down. Since no physical strength is required, even women and children can easily enjoy the great outdoors of Shiretoko. If you add trekking or hiking as an option, you can enjoy the rich and beautiful Hokkaido's great outdoors even more. Enjoy downhill riding while taking photos.

6 rank

[Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture] Iwaki Walk 2024 [Low mountain climbing for beginners - Climbing Takifuji]

Activity Japan Tohoku (Iwaki Tourism Bureau)
Iwaki and Futaba
2,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (1 review/experience)

== ...

7 rank

Nikko Kaisan Spiritual Ride (approx. 16km) [E-bike self-guided tour, starting and ending at Nikko Natural History Museum]

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
5,000 Yen~ (tax included)

※※This tour is scheduled to start in late April※※This is a self-guided tour using an e-bike. It focuses on the history and culture of Oku-Nikko, the most sacred place of Shugendo in eastern Japan, and takes you around temples, shrines and scenery associated with the founding of Nikko. It also includes a long hill climb to see the magnificent view overlooking Lake Chuzenji, and combines cultural experiences with challenging activities.

8 rank

Odashirohara & Senjugahama Forest Ride (approx. 18km) [E-bike self-guided tour/Akanuma Nature Information Center departure/arrival]

Nikko Natural History Museum Co., Ltd.
Nikko, Kirifuri Kogen, Oku-Nikko, Lake Chuzenji, Imaichi
5,000 Yen~ (tax included)
  • 5.0
  • (1 review/experience)

※※This tour is scheduled to start from late April ※※This is a self-guided tour using an E-bike. More than 90% of the course runs on Nikko City Route 1002, which is closed to general vehicles, making it a comfortable and safe course that is perfect for a wide range of people to enjoy the great nature of Oku-Nikko by cycling. During the course, you can enjoy walking along the wooden path of Odashirogahara and

9 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

10 rank

[Gunma / Minakami] Half-day canyoning ☆ Great value plan with delicious lunch included!

ZIGGIES ADVENTURE JAPAN
Minakami
8,500 circle 6,000 Yen~ (tax included)
Discount campaign in progress!

Canyoning is an exhilarating activity where you can jump, slide, hike, and spend a comfortable time in a refreshing valley! It may look hard at first glance, but the guide will provide you with solid support. As long as you have normal physical strength and a desire to have fun, there's no problem! All equipment, including wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets, can be rented from Ziggy's Adventure Japan.

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

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