Best Forests & Mountains Spot List

Autumnal colors grace this area earlier than any other spot in Japan

The powerful scents and sounds of a hot spring area

The Kirifuri-kogen Highlands is a plateau with an elevation of about 1,200 meters on the slopes of Mt. Akanagisan. Its scenery and leisure facilities make it a popular destination.

Founded by Kobo-Daishi Kukai, this is a sacred place of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, boasting a history of 1,200 years. Scattered across the mountain at approximately 900 meters above sea level are 117 temples, including Kongobu-ji Temple, forming a large religious town. With Danjogaran and Okuno-in at its core, this sacred territory has been visited by large number of Kukai's followers. Since the town is surrounded by forests, Mt. Koya is a great place to enjoy some hiking while visiting the temples.

This is a continuous stretch of land from the forest, marsh, and mudflat to the sea that remains in its natural state.

It's an ideal place for beginner climbers and as a day trip. While slowly climbing the mountain, you can enjoy abundant nature throughout the year.

You can enjoy the nature of the mountain and the view it presents on a day trip from central Tokyo. You can indulge in a historical ambience at the mysterious temple. You can enjoy traditional tofu dish there.

The Aokigahara Forest was formed by the volcanic eruption of Mt. Fuji about 1,200 years ago. There are guided walking tours in the great nature.

Famous for being one of Japan's Three Most Sacred Places

Owakudani is filled with clouds of volcanic smoke and a sulfurous smell. Tasting the famous black eggs is a must.

The Iroha-zaka Slopes refer to two mountain roads with a total of 48 hairpin turns. The roads are famous for their great views.

One of the four metropolitan parks at Sayama hill. Enjoy walking in the thicket that stretches through the entire park.

Activities in all seasons: hiking in summer, skiing in winter, and a whole lot of tengu masks

A massive and beautiful panorama awaits you at the top of the ropeway

Towering about 700 meters high, Mt. Maya lies in the central part of Rokko mountain range. The night view of Kobe seen from Kikuseidai near the mountaintop is famous as one of new three best night views in Japan. Legend has it that the name comes from the fact that Kobo-Daishi enshrined the statue of Shaka’s mother, Maya, on the mountain.