Japan | Japan Alps Hiking Trek
Tokyo, Nakasendo Trail, Tateyama, Kamikochi
Trip Highlights:
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Walk the historic Nakasendo Trail through preserved Edo-period post towns
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Summit alpine peaks in the Central and Northern Japan Alps by trail and gondola
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Soak in traditional onsen after each day's hike, from Kiso Valley to Kamikochi
Hiking in Japan reaches its most dramatic expression in the Japanese Alps, where rugged peaks rise above deep river valleys, alpine plateaus stretch toward the horizon, and centuries-old trails wind through cedar forests, mountain villages, and sacred landscapes shaped by both nature and tradition. Often considered the heart of Japan’s mountain culture, this region offers a remarkable blend of striking scenery, refined hospitality, and deeply rooted history, where walking remains one of the most meaningful ways to experience the land.
Ryder-Walker’s first-ever guided journey through the Japanese Alps was designed by guide Erik Larsen together with our Japan-based partner, Takuma Matsutani, following an extensive research trip through the Northern and Central Alps. The result is a route that combines historic walking trails, true alpine hiking, outstanding cuisine, and the distinctive hospitality for which Japan is known. Some hikes explore historic pilgrimage paths and preserved post towns, while others reach high elevations via gondola, revealing expansive ridgelines, volcanic landscapes, and sweeping mountain vistas.
Our journey begins in Tokyo before traveling by bullet train into the mountains of Aichi Prefecture, where forested trails climb Mt. Horaiji past ancient temple grounds and towering cedar trees. From here, we continue into the Central Alps, ascending by gondola into dramatic alpine terrain for a rewarding high-mountain loop beneath jagged peaks and wide skies.
In the Kiso Valley, we walk one of Japan’s most storied routes along the Nakasendo Trail, following a beautifully preserved section between the historic post towns of Magome and Tsumago. Stone paths, waterfalls, and quiet forest corridors create an experience that feels both timeless and deeply connected to Japan’s past.
High in the Northern Alps, a remarkable series of mountain transport delivers us into the Tateyama alpine zone, where broad volcanic plateaus, glacial features, and sweeping ridgelines define the landscape. Our journey concludes in Kamikochi, one of Japan’s most iconic mountain valleys, where pristine rivers, golden larch forests, and dramatic peaks provide a fitting finale to this unforgettable alpine experience.
A highlight of this journey through the Japan Alps is the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese onsen—natural thermal baths fed by mineral-rich hot springs. Nearly every hotel on this itinerary features an in-house onsen, and in some cases, private baths are available right in your room.
We’ve carefully selected each property with this experience in mind, allowing you to unwind each day in soothing waters while taking in mountain or forest views. It’s a deeply rooted aspect of Japanese culture and an ideal complement to days spent on the trail—restorative, quiet, and distinctly memorable.
Trip Itinerary
Welcome to Japan! Arrive in Tokyo where modern energy meets deep tradition. Gather with your guides and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner; the perfect introduction to the journey ahead. Enjoy your first taste of refined Japanese cuisine as we prepare to explore the mountains, culture, and landscapes of the Japan Alps.
Travel by bullet train to Nagoya and continue by shuttle to Magome. After lunch we head into the countryside and step back in time along the historic Nakasendo Trail. Our afternoon walk links the beautifully preserved Edo-period villages of Magome and Tsumago, in the Kiso Valley. We follow forest paths, stone walkways, and quiet rural lanes, passing waterfalls, small farms, and mountain scenery before transferring to our hotel tonight where we enjoy a traditional dinner followed by a cultural show.
Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain: 600/800 ft.
A morning transfer takes us to the Komagane Mountains. Access to our trailhead begins by taking a gondola high into the Central Alps where dramatic granite peaks and sweeping alpine views surround us. Hike a spectacular loop beneath Mount Kiso-Komagatake across rocky ridgelines, alpine meadows, and glacial terrain before returning to the valley and our peaceful mountain retreat.
We follow the Senjojiki Cirque to Mt. Kiso-Komagatake (2956 m/9698 ft), the tallest mountain in the Central Alps. We complete our loop hike back at the gondola, descend from here to the van and transfer to our next hotel. Our hotel tonight offers a rich cultural experience, including a traditional dinner enjoyed while dressed in a yukata (a casual kimono), adding an authentic touch to your stay.
Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain: 2100 ft.
A short transfer brings us to the gondola for quick access to the trailhead on Mount Ontake, Japan’s second-highest volcano after Mount Fuji, where we follow a well-maintained out-and- back route through alpine terrain with sweeping views across the Central Alps. We return along the same route to the gondola and transfer to our next hotel.
Distance: 5.5 miles. Elevation gain: 2900 ft.
Spend the day discovering the beautifully preserved mountain town of Takayama. Walk through the narrow streets of its historic district lined with traditional wooden merchant houses, temples, markets, and quiet nature paths surrounding town. Enjoy time to explore at your own pace and settle in for a second night in our same hotel.
Distance: 4.6 miles. Elevation gain: 690 ft.
A short transfer brings us into the scenic Gifu and Nagano Prefectures for a hike to Mount Norikura, a volcano in the Northern Japan Alps, where we follow a well-maintained route to Kengamine Peak (3,026 m / 9,928 ft) with expansive alpine views. We return via the same route to the trailhead and transfer to our next hotel.
Distance: 3.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.
Enter the dramatic Northern Japan Alps where jagged peaks and rugged alpine scenery dominate the skyline. Ride the gondola into
the high mountains and hike toward Mt. Nishihotaka. Strong hikers may continue higher toward the summit route while others enjoy a rewarding ridge hike. Tonight, settle into a true alpine setting at Nishiho Hut, in the heart of the Northern Japan Alps surrounded by towering peaks.
Easy Option: Distance: 2.6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2230/1575 ft.
Challenging Summit route: Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2523/2000 ft.
Our final day on the trail is a longer one as we leave the lodge and traverse the wild, rocky slopes of the Japan Alps, passing the volcano, Mt. Yakedake. We descend into the pristine Kamikochi Valley, one of Japan’s most scenic alpine regions, following the Azusa River along the valley floor. We end the day with a short transfer to our final hotel.
Distance: 7.5 miles. Elevation loss: 2560/5250 ft.
Ryder-Walker will provide a morning group transfer to Matsumoto Train Station where you will continue on your journey or head back to Tokyo.
