Hiking Tips for Each Season

Spring Hiking Tips (March ~ June): Spring is ideal for exploring lower-altitude mountains under 1500m, as they are the first to shed their winter snow. March and April are especially beautiful for cherry blossom hikes, while May and June bring vibrant highland flowers, like the azalea beds in Kyushu. However, spring also brings a surge in insect activity, particularly aggressive black flies. Be sure to carry insect repellent and wear protective clothing. June marks the start of Japan’s rainy season, so be prepared for sudden weather changes with waterproof gear.

Summer Hiking Tips (July ~ August): Summer is the prime season for tackling Japan’s 3000m peaks, especially in the Japan Alps. However, lower mountains under 2000m can become uncomfortably hot. Rain is frequent, and weather forecasts are less reliable. Hokkaido is a great summer hiking destination with cooler, more stable temperatures.

Autumn Hiking Tips (September ~ November): Autumn brings stable, pleasant weather, making it a great time for hiking. However, be aware of typhoon season, which affects Honshu with 1-2 storms per month until October. Peaks of 3000m mountains can get very cold and even experience early snowfall by October. The autumn foliage is a spectacular sight, especially at elevations above 2500m, with colors peaking from late September to early October. Lower-altitude mountains and cities showcase their autumn colors by early November, making hiking a great way to enjoy the changing leaves.

Winter Hiking Tips (December ~ February): Winter transforms Japan’s mountains into a snowy wonderland, offering a completely different hiking experience. For experienced hikers, winter hikes in the Japan Alps or other high-altitude areas provide breathtaking views, but they require serious preparation, including crampons, ice axes, and knowledge of avalanche safety. Low-altitude mountains can still be hiked in winter, though they may have snow and ice on the trails above 1000m. Winter is also when I prefer to hike mountains near Fuji, as it offers stunning views of the snowcapped peak of Mount Fuji.