Culture and History of Hiking in Japan

Unlike in the West, where mountain climbing often began as a pursuit of conquest or sport, Japan's relationship with its mountains has been shaped by spiritual and cultural practices that date back centuries.

Ancient Roots: Mountains as Sacred Spaces

In ancient Japan, mountains were revered as sacred spaces, seen as the dwelling places of gods and buddhas. The Japanese people practiced a form of nature worship, where they believed that divine beings resided in all aspects of nature, but particularly in the mountains. Climbing these peaks was not merely a physical challenge but a spiritual journey—a way to honor and coexist with the deities and spirits believed to inhabit these natural sanctuaries.

Mountain ascetics, known as yamabushi, played a central role in these practices. They would climb mountains as a form of ascetic training, seeking to attain spiritual enlightenment and power through their rigorous journeys. This tradition of mountain worship and asceticism laid the foundation for the spiritual significance of mountain climbing in Japan.

Edo Period: The Rise of Recreational Climbing

During the Edo period (1603-1868), mountain climbing began to evolve beyond its religious roots. While it retained its spiritual significance, it also became a popular recreational activity. People started climbing famous and sacred mountains not just for religious purposes but also for leisure and enjoyment. To accommodate this growing interest, efforts were made to develop mountain trails and provide accommodations, making the mountains more accessible to a broader population.

Modern Times: Climbing as a Hobby and Sport

The transformation of mountain climbing into a modern hobby and sport began in earnest after World War II. The establishment of organizations like the Japanese Alpine Club and local climbing circles helped to formalize the activity, emphasizing skill development, safety, and the joy of climbing. As more people took up the sport, there was an increasing demand for mountain-related services, including guides and accommodations, which helped to attract foreign climbers as well.

Japan's unique natural environment and rich mountain culture gained international recognition, further boosting the popularity of mountain climbing trips in the country. Today, hiking and climbing are enjoyed by people from all walks of life, with various styles and objectives—whether as a means to reconnect with nature, maintain physical health, or simply find a moment of peace and solitude.

The Father of Modern Climbing: Walter Weston

A significant figure in the development of modern climbing in Japan is Walter Weston (1861-1940), an English missionary who introduced the concept of recreational climbing to the Japanese public. Before Weston's influence, climbing in Japan was not widely regarded as a popular sport or leisure activity. His 1896 book, "Mountaineering and Explorations in the Japanese Alps," chronicled his adventures in the Japan Alps and played a pivotal role in sparking interest in climbing as a form of recreation. Weston's contributions are still celebrated today, with the annual Weston Festival held in Kamikochi, Nagano, every June in his honor.

Geography: The Unique Formation of Japan's Mountains

Japan's mountainous landscape is the result of its unique geological positioning at the convergence of four tectonic plates. This dynamic environment has given rise to both volcanic mountains, such as Mount Fuji, and non-volcanic mountain ranges like the Northern and Southern Alps.

Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest peak, was formed through a series of volcanic eruptions, with its iconic shape emerging after three major eruptions. In contrast, the Northern and Southern Alps were formed through tectonic activity, specifically the folding and wrinkling of the Earth's crust. These ranges were created by the collision of the Japanese archipelago with the Izu Peninsula, resulting in some of Japan's most striking and diverse mountainous landscapes.