If you’re heading on a holiday to Japan, one of the best ways to get around in the country, exploring all the regions and areas, is by foot.
Some locations around the country are obviously not only going to be accessible by foot, but you should be able to walk around or go on a trek once you get there.
Walking around Japan can be one of the best and most rewarding ways to experience more about the life and culture of residents there. You’ll be able to get a unique insight into Japanese society if you take a trip around the back roads of some of the cities, exploring hidden areas which are off the beaten track.
If you’re heading to the country in the east Asian monsoon season, it makes sense to be armed with mens waterproof jackets to keep you dry along the way. There’s nothing worse than getting soaked through when you’re walking around a place where air-conditioned buildings are the norm, so it’s advisable to carry waterproof jackets with you if you’re expecting rain.
One of the most popular and well-known walks in Japan takes in the Nakasendo Way. You’ll probably need to be a fairly capable walker to do this and you should be able to cope with some short, steep climbs along the route, which usually starts out in Kyoto and heads to Tokyo. It goes along one of the oldest roads in Japan, which passes through the mountains, providing some great views en route.
Those of you who feel fairly confident about trekking should try the Kunisaki Trek. You’ll need to be reasonably fit, as there are a few steep climbs along the way, as well as a bit of rock scrambling thrown in. If you do the walk, you’ll be following in the footsteps of many monks before you, heading along amazing forests to the edge of high, towering cliffs.
Wherever you choose to go, you need to have some suitable clothing to hand – it’s best to be prepared for whatever the weather can throw at you to have the most fun.