The best hikes in Chugoku take you through some of the region's breathtaking, pristine natural landscape. The hiking regions of Chugoku aren't as well known as some of the more famous regions in Tohoku, Kanto, and Kansai, but Japan truly is a hiker's wonderland from end to end, and our top picks for the best trekking trails in Chugoku will bring a smile of joy to the face of any nature-loving traveler. Trails can be found in the region to fit the skill level of any hiker, and the timely beauty found while climbing its mountains make Chugoku a delight in any season. In Tottori prefecture we have Mount Daisen - one of Japan's most famous mountains and a pilgrimage site to those looking to delve deeper into Japanese Buddhism or Shugendo. A perfect trail for challenging hikers, Daisen can be climbed in any season, but is the best in the summer when the mountain is layered in green. Over in Hiroshima, you have Mount Misen, the highest mountain on Miyajima Island. Although Miyajima is chiefly known for the enchantingly Floating Gate of Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen is a rewarding climb for hikers looking for some amazing views. Be wary of the cute little Sika deer grazing along the mountain routes, these wild yet friendly climbing companions usually give very little problem to groups of hikers. From the obervatory on Mount Misen, its even possible to see all the way to Hiroshima on a clear day. While looking for the best hikes in Japan, consider these exquisite hikes in the Chugoku region.
Mount Daisen, also called Hoki-daisen, is one of Japan's most famous mountains, and spiritually connected both to the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism as well as the Shugendo folk religion. The trail up the mountain's side is of an average level, taking roughly 6 hours from top to bottom for most hikers. While on the path, take time to discover the Buddhist temple Daisenji, about halfway up to the summit. The trail can be accessed in any season, and visitors will be treated to the sight of Daisen's snow-capped peak in winter and fields of wildflowers in summer. Hikers may ascend as high as Mount Misen, about two-thirds of the way to the trail, but the rest of the path is off-limits due to erosion. On a clear day, impressive views of the expansive valley below await those who take the route up Mount Daisen.
Mount Daisen
Mount Misen is located outside Hiroshima City on Miyajima Island, and is the island's highest point. Hikers explore the island primarly to view sights of stunning Itsukushima Shrine and its captivating torii gate, standing so far out at sea that at times it seems to float over the water. But when climbing Mount Misen itself, visiting hikers search for the remains of the legendary Seven Wonders of Misen. Though some are lost to ancient folklore, remaining ones include an "eternal flame" lit by the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi, which is now sheltered by a small shrine. Three possible hiking trails lead up Misen, ranging from moderate to difficult, with the more difficult routes winding through the mountain's primeval forest.
Mount Misen
