Earth Hostel Nikko · Trail Guide

Hiking
Nikko
Japan

From one-hour valley walks to two-day summit expeditions — all trails accessible from our doorstep on the Daiya River.

26
Trails listed
5
Difficulty grades
1 hr
Min. hike time
2 day
Max. hike time
Scroll to explore
// Difficulty scale
Grade
I
1 – 2 hours
Short, accessible walks. Suitable for all fitness levels.
Grade
II
Half day
Moderate trail with some elevation. Basic fitness needed.
Grade
III
Half day
Longer route with varied terrain. Good fitness required.
Grade
IV
Full day
Challenging mountain routes. Experience recommended.
Grade
V
2 days
Multi-day expedition. Mountain hut stays, 4WD may be needed.
I
Grade I
Short walks & easy loops
1–2 hr · Suitable for beginners · All seasons
II
Grade II
Half-day trails
Under half a day · Moderate fitness
III
Grade III
Highland plateaus & lake circuits
2.5 – 5 hr · Good fitness · Mostly flat highland
01
Senjogahara
National ParkClass 1
6.3 km2.5–5 hr
03
Lake Sai (Sainoko)
National ParkClass 2
7.0 km+3 hr
05
Mt. Hangetsu
National ParkClass 2
~5 hr
06
Takayama
National ParkClass 2
IV
Grade IV
Full-day mountain routes
4 – 8.5 hr · Experienced hikers · Demanding terrain
01
Nantai Mountain
National ParkClass 3Southern trailhead
5 km6.5 hr
03
Lake Chuzenji Circuit — Sec. 1
Class 3Shobugahama → Senjugahama
~4 hr
05
Shirane Mountain
National ParkClass 3
8.5 hr
V
Grade V
Two-day expeditions
10 hr each day · 4WD may be required · Free mountain hut overnight
02
Nyoho Mountain
Class 3Sleep: Shizu Hut
10 hr
Trail maps
// Free PDF downloads