5 popular outdoor activities in Japan

Japan is a country that has a lot to offer in terms of outdoor activities. With a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, lakes, and oceans, there are many options to explore the great outdoors, especially if you’re traveling around the country by motorhome or RV! Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities to try on your travels…

1. Hiking

Japan is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails and mountains to explore. One of the most popular hiking destinations in Japan is Mount Fuji, which is the highest mountain in the country. The hiking season for Mount Fuji is from July to September, and thousands of people climb it every year.

Other popular hiking spots include the Kumano Kodo, a network of ancient pilgrimage trails in the Kii Peninsula, and the Nakasendo Trail, which runs through the Japanese Alps.

2. Skiing and snowboarding

Japan is known for its excellent ski resorts, which offer some of the best powder skiing in the world. The country has over 500 ski resorts, with the most popular ones located in Hokkaido, Nagano and Niigata.

Hokkaido is especially popular, with its cold and dry climate providing excellent snow conditions. The resorts in Nagano hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and have a wide range of runs suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

3. Scuba diving and snorkeling

As Japan is surrounded by the sea, scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities for those who want to explore its underwater world. Some of the best diving spots in Japan are located in Okinawa, which has clear waters, coral reefs, and a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays.

Other popular spots include the Izu Peninsula, which is a short trip from Tokyo, and the Kii Peninsula, which is a short trip from Osaka.

4. Cycling

Japan is a great country for cycling, with its well-maintained roads and beautiful scenery. One of the most popular cycling routes in Japan is the Shimanami Kaido, which is a 70-kilometer route that runs across a series of islands in the Seto Inland Sea.

Another popular route is the Hokkaido Scenic Byway, which takes you through the stunning landscape of Hokkaido.

5. Cherry blossom viewing

Cherry blossom viewing, or hanami, is a popular outdoor activity in Japan. Every year, from late March to early May, cherry blossoms bloom across the country, and people flock to parks and gardens to enjoy the beautiful flowers.

Some of the best places to view cherry blossoms include Ueno Park in Tokyo, Maruyama Park in Kyoto, and Hirosaki Castle in Aomori.

Ultimately, Japan has a lot to offer in terms of outdoor activities, so if you are planning a campervan trip across Japan, make sure to include some of these popular outdoor activities on your itinerary.