Trails that will make Japan your new love

Japan is about cherry blossoms, interesting food, and Tokyo lights, yes. But that is not the end of it. A truly zen nation (remember their FIFA 2018 courtesies), it has much to woo and keep you hooked forever. And while it is a nation of much wonders, it has some very well-kept secrets for the lovers of nature and trekkers as well. Stunningly beautiful, these treks are the stuff that Instagram fantasies are made of. Our word would be to go totally off the grid though, sans Instagram or all the filters that we are so hooked to. If you love the idea of going on a trekking trip to Japan, this is where you will find zen.

Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail As its name suggests, Shikoku is a trail lined with more than 80 pilgrimage sites. While there are trains connecting a number of these sites, we urge to put on your hiking shoes and get going. While the trail to all the sites takes more than a month, you can go for a weekend hike or two. Most of the basecamps are very well-connected with taxis and other forms of regional transport. These trails wind through dense forests and are the perfect detox therapy if you are seeking some.

Mount Hotakadake
This one is for the more ardent trekkers out here. At 10466 ft, this mountain is often compared to Japanese Alps. You will take around two days to summit one of the many peaks on the mountain. The trek to Mount Oku Hotaka is, of course, one of the most popular here, though you can choose any of the treks for the summit. Quite cut off, this is best done in some company.
Mount Fuji
Oh yes, what can be bigger than a trek to Mount Fuji. The two day trail is the real stuff that all those Mount Fuji postcards are made up of, just that it makes for a more awe-inspiring sight in real. The trek is usually accessible from July to September, and has multiple trails leading to the summit. A fairly easy trek, this is best done by staying overnight in one of the guest lodges on the trail.

Basho Trail
If you love haikus, you must have oodles of love for Matsuo Basho, and if you are nodding in delight, this trail is for you. While most people go for guided tour, you can explore the wild side by going for an unguided one. It will take you from deep within the forests and mountains. Take your camera along for some great panoramic shots as the trail will take you high up in the mountains and get great views. Add around 10 days to your trip if you are keen for a complete tour.

Some other beautiful trails in Japan are the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, Shiretoko, and Yarigatake. More reasons to go exploring Japan if you have been ideating on the same.