What's the difference between paragliding and hang gliding? Learn about their differences and recommended tours!
On this page, we will introduce the two giants of sky activities, Paragliding "and" hang gliding " Special feature!
Learn about the charms and differences of each festival, and the festivals held all over the country. Experience Flight Tour Recommended Plans & Popularity Rankings We will introduce it in detail.
In addition, the difficulty, fees, costs, etc. Paragliding vs hang gliding? Let's check out the information for those who are worried about this.
What is paragliding?
Paragliding What is Gliding is an outdoor sport in which participants fly through the air using parachute-like wings called gliders.
In addition to gliders, harnesses, flight suits, helmets, emergency parachutes, etc. The appeal is being able to fly through the sky wearing special equipment. .
Compared to hang gliding and skydiving, there are many enthusiasts. The most popular and well-known sky activity is.
Floating experience, tandem flight, motor paragliding, etc. There are many experience tours available that even beginners can enjoy. Another feature is that it is
Popularity ranking of paragliding experience tours
- 4.8
- (124 reviews and experiences)
Flying in the sky while looking out at the majestic Sea of Japan is an exhilarating experience! We are constantly improving our facilities so that even children, the elderly, and those who are not confident in their physical strength or athletic ability can fly safely. "The paragliding experience at Tottori Sand Dunes is the same no matter where you experience it - do you think so?
- 4.6
- (27 reviews and experiences)
We will teach you how to fly about 100m by yourself, starting from a beginner's slope with a difference in altitude of 30m. At first, you will fly in a straight line, but gradually you will be able to control your flight left and right, and in a short time you will be able to enjoy a floating walk in the air. This is an easy course that takes 2-3 hours. *Clothing: Generally, long sleeves, long pants, gloves (
- 4.5
- (12 reviews and experiences)
Take on the challenge of flying with a professional pilot from an altitude difference of 300m! Even first-timers can participate with confidence. Not only can you enjoy the vast view of Mount Nasu, but you can also experience the thrill of letting go of your feet and the refreshing feeling of the wind on your face. [Plan Outline] ① Check-in (5 minutes) ② Walking along the mountain path to the takeoff point (15 minutes) ③ Brief explanation and preparation (5 minutes) ④ Fly
- 4.9
- (33 reviews and experiences)
Let's try flying! Everyone who wants to fly in the sky, come join us! You'll take a two-seater flight with an instructor. You can enjoy the spectacular view from the sky. You can also take photos in the air. *Please consult if you are 75 years old or older. *Please consult if you weigh 85 kg or more.
Spectacular views of Aso 450m Paragliding experience with two people
- 4.9
- (4 reviews and experiences)
The two-person paragliding experience allows you to see the bird's-eye view, something you would never see in your everyday life. This is the true experience of aerial photography, where you can experience the incredible scenery of the majestic Aso Mountains and the sounds of the sky. This is the only 100% moving, extraordinary experience you can have!! *This experience involves flying with an instructor. *Starting from August 12th during the Obon period.
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What is a hang glider?
hang gliding What is It is an outdoor sport in which you fly through the air using wings (gliders) made of a metal frame and cloth (sails).
Control the control bar on the aircraft This allows you to change direction and adjust speed.
During flight The greatest appeal is the freedom of operation and sense of speed .
Similar to paragliding, there are tandem flights with an instructor. Experience tours that even beginners can enjoy are held It has been done.
Hang gliding experience tour popularity ranking
[With a view of Mt. Fuji] Towed hang glider
- 5.0
- (5 reviews and experiences)
It is pulled by a wire like a kite and flies along a guide wire connected by a pulley, making it an innovative system that allows anyone from children to the elderly and people with disabilities to fly while sitting down. Flight time is approximately 10-15 seconds (depending on wind and weight), flight distance is approximately 100m, altitude is approximately 3-4m (depending on wind and weight), and each person can fly two times.
- 4.7
- (27 reviews and experiences)
You can enjoy a casual flight experience after a two-hour sightseeing tour. You can choose between morning and afternoon flights, and you can basically experience three flights. We accept reservations from elementary school children to seniors, so it is an activity that can be enjoyed by friends, couples, and families. Participation in groups of more than 10 people is also welcome.
Tandem hang gliding with a view of Mt. Fuji! Beginners welcome!
- 4.8
- (6 reviews and experiences)
You will fly from a height of 360m in a two-seater with an instructor. The flight time is about 5 minutes, and the total time required for each person is about 90 minutes, with participants taking turns flying. There is only one instructor, so there is a limit of one person per slot and up to five people per day. For example, if two people are participating, we cannot accept them unless there are two or more consecutive slots available. If you weigh more than 80kg,
- 4.8
- (5 reviews and experiences)
This is a recommended course for those who want to learn more about hang gliding and want to fully experience the sensation of gliding. In the morning, you will learn about the structure and assembly of the glider, followed by a flight experience. After a lunch break, you will experience controlling the glider in the afternoon. You can experience it throughout the day, so if you are confident in your physical strength, please fly as much as you like.
This course will help you obtain an official license from the Japan Hang and Paragliding Federation (JHF), a public interest incorporated association. To be able to fly from mountains, you must first take the A-level course. You will first learn how to handle the equipment on flat ground, and gradually practice takeoffs and landings on gentle slopes, until you are able to take off, fly in a straight line, and land independently.
The difference between a paraglider and a hang glider
Known as the two giants of sky activities, Paragliding "and" hang gliding ".
Both are outdoor activities that involve flying But what is the difference?
In the following, Comparing the differences between paragliding and hang gliding point by point We will continue to do so.
Tools and equipment
Paragliding
- canopy
- Harness
- line
- Break Code
- helmet
- Gloves
- flight suit
- Rescue Parachute
- Flight vessel shape
- radio
- etc.
hang gliding
- aircraft
- Harness
- emergency parachute
- Variometer
- GPS
- radio
- flight suit
- etc.
The above professional Rental fees for tools and equipment are generally included in the price of the experience tour. is.
Long sleeves, long pants, etc. Prepare clothing and belongings recommended by the shop/school Please enjoy.
flight attitude
Paragliding and hang gliding The biggest difference is the "flight attitude" There is.
Paragliding involves sitting in a chair-like cockpit called a harness. and fly in the sky.
on the other hand Hang gliders are wrapped in a tubular harness and lie face down. and fly in the sky.
Some experience tours also offer flying positions different from those mentioned above. there is.
Difficulty
Paragliding and hang gliders Relatively difficult activities It is known as.
In addition to proper knowledge of equipment and operation methods, skills such as proper judgment on whether or not to carry out the operation due to weather conditions on the day are required. is required.
Generally speaking, it is more popular than paragliding. Hang gliding is more difficult It is said that...
In this experience tour, beginners can participate and learn how to Both can be enjoyed as leisure activities. is.
Experience fee price
Paragliding and hang gliding The tour fee varies depending on the shop or school. is.
Below, based on Activity Japan's published plan data, Ranking of each fee and price in order of lowest price We will introduce you to the following.
Paragliding experience tour price ranking
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and experiences)
Paragliding is the easiest of all sky sports. Even beginners can try it. You will actually put on the paraglider, practice basic operation methods, and experience the feeling of floating at low altitude. The key to success is to keep looking forward. You can try floating once within 30 to 40 minutes from the morning check-in.
- 4.6
- (6 reviews and experiences)
Even if you don't have much time or aren't confident in your physical strength, you can still participate. After experiencing the fun of paragliding, you can relax and enjoy nature, eat your way around, and spend some time at your leisure. After participating in a half-day course, you can also switch to a full-day course!
Paragliding is the easiest of all sky sports. Even beginners can try it. You will actually put on the paraglider, practice basic operation methods, and experience the feeling of floating at low altitude. The key to success is to keep looking forward. You can try floating once within 30 to 40 minutes from the morning check-in.
- 5.0
- (1 review/experience)
You can easily try out the floating experience! After a brief explanation from the instructor and some practice beforehand, head up to the hill! Run along with your wings and your feet will lift off the ground! You might become addicted to this feeling!
- 4.7
- (3 reviews and experiences)
You can easily try out the floating experience! After a brief explanation from the instructor and some practice beforehand, head up to the hill! Run along with your wings and your feet will lift off the ground! You might become addicted to this feeling!
Hang gliding experience tour price ranking
[With a view of Mt. Fuji] Towed hang glider
- 5.0
- (5 reviews and experiences)
It is pulled by a wire like a kite and flies along a guide wire connected by a pulley, making it an innovative system that allows anyone from children to the elderly and people with disabilities to fly while sitting down. Flight time is approximately 10-15 seconds (depending on wind and weight), flight distance is approximately 100m, altitude is approximately 3-4m (depending on wind and weight), and each person can fly two times.
- 4.7
- (27 reviews and experiences)
You can enjoy a casual flight experience after a two-hour sightseeing tour. You can choose between morning and afternoon flights, and you can basically experience three flights. We accept reservations from elementary school children to seniors, so it is an activity that can be enjoyed by friends, couples, and families. Participation in groups of more than 10 people is also welcome.
This course will help you obtain an official license from the Japan Hang and Paragliding Federation (JHF), a public interest incorporated association. To be able to fly from mountains, you must first take the A-level course. You will first learn how to handle the equipment on flat ground, and gradually practice takeoffs and landings on gentle slopes, until you are able to take off, fly in a straight line, and land independently.
- 4.8
- (5 reviews and experiences)
This is a recommended course for those who want to learn more about hang gliding and want to fully experience the sensation of gliding. In the morning, you will learn about the structure and assembly of the glider, followed by a flight experience. After a lunch break, you will experience controlling the glider in the afternoon. You can experience it throughout the day, so if you are confident in your physical strength, please fly as much as you like.
Tandem hang gliding with a view of Mt. Fuji! Beginners welcome!
- 4.8
- (6 reviews and experiences)
You will fly from a height of 360m in a two-seater with an instructor. The flight time is about 5 minutes, and the total time required for each person is about 90 minutes, with participants taking turns flying. There is only one instructor, so there is a limit of one person per slot and up to five people per day. For example, if two people are participating, we cannot accept them unless there are two or more consecutive slots available. If you weigh more than 80kg,
Which is better, paragliding or hang gliding?
So far, Paragliding and hang gliding Differences I hope you understand.
Together with " Which is better, paragliding or hang gliding? " is also one of the most frequently asked questions.
Both are attractive sky activities with many enthusiasts, I can't say which is better .
Both offer experience tours that allow even inexperienced and beginners to experience their charm. The best way to do this is to actually participate is.
Flying like a bird─These are the most accessible sky activities that will make your dream come true. Enjoy an exciting flight experience with
Paragliding and hang gliding safety
As mentioned above, Paragliding and Hug Glider teeth Both are sky activities where you fly in the sky is.
To enjoy not only the sky but also nature, Always a risk of accident is pregnant.
To enjoy paragliding and hug gliding safely, Choosing the right shop with licensed instructors is important This is a key point.
Weather conditions on the day, maintenance of tools and equipment, etc. Experienced instructors will guide you to the utmost safety. will be done.
Refer to reviews and word-of-mouth ratings Choose a paragliding or paragliding experience tour.
*The content of this article is current as of August 2025.
