Japan Northern Honshu Lakes & Mountains Hiking
Tokyo, Japan to Tokyo, Japan
Highlights:
- Escape to northern Japan and hike its unspoiled lakes, high-altitude wetlands, and lush gorges
- Discover Japan's "mountain faith" — Shugendo, with deeply rooted spiritual traditions, in sacred Dewa Sanzan
- See Nikko's UNESCO-listed sites, unwind in natural hot springs, and overnight in traditional ryokans
Important Trip Details:
You will be on your feet for much of each day, including hikes of 3-6 hours and up to 8 miles a day on flat paths and mountain trails through the Japanese countryside, visiting idyllic villages, ancient temples, and traditional inns. Elevations are between 500 and 3,500 feet. There are some steady climbs that require stamina, and some trails involve portions over tree roots and stone steps that can be slippery when wet. You need to be in good health and physical condition for this trip.
Minimum Age: 13
- Adventure and Active
- Hiking and Trekking
- UNESCO Site
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating award-winning adventures in Asia since 1969, working with the best local guides to ensure an immersive and unforgettable adventure.
Reason #02This well-paced 13-day hiking adventure takes you from Tokyo and Nikko to northern Honshu, combining rewarding valley and mountain hikes with the wonders of cultural touring.
Reason #03Our local expert guides go the extra mile and are the perfect travel companions. Gain a unique understanding of the Japanese relationship with mountains and how this imbues Shintoism and the Shugendo faith.
ActivitiesModerately paced hikes up to 8 miles a day on paved and dirt trails, plus cultural touring, linked by scenic train rides plus a ride on a bullet train.
LodgingRejuvenate at traditional ryokans (inns) — many with onsen (hot springs) — set in scenic mountain locations.
ClimateLate July to September is very hot (75°F to 95°F) and humid in Tokyo, cooling as you head north and into the mountains.
Who will meet me on arrival?You will take a pre-booked shared taxi from either Narita or Haneda Airport to the hotel, where your MT Sobek guide will meet you in the evening for a trip briefing and dinner.
What days will I be without my luggage during this trip?On this trip we enjoy an authentic experience, traveling as many Japanese people do on the excellent train and bus system. Large bags are not accommodated on public transportation so we make use of a clever bag forwarding system known as "takuhaibin," unique to Japan.
We are unable to guarantee 100% gluten-free meals, as there is some gluten in soy sauce and in miso, which are core seasoning ingredients in Japan and very difficult to avoid. That said, we are happy to request meals that don't include wheat noodles, tempura, breaded items, or bread. Please let us know your needs as soon as possible so we can manage your request.
Can you manage vegetarian meals, or meals without fish or shellfish?
We are more than happy to request meals with no apparent animal products, but meals without any traces of fish are not possible to arrange due to the ubiquitous nature of dashi (broth flavored with dried fish flakes). Dashi is foundational to Japanese cuisine and is a small component of many dishes. We are not able to arrange for all dishes to be prepared without dashi; you can decide not to eat them but may then need to supplement meals with snacks that you supply yourself. Many of our vegetarian guests who have doubts about dashi before coming to Japan find that they enjoy the delicious dishes made with this subtle flavoring.
What is staying in a ryokan, minshuku and shukubo like?
A shukubo is an authentic Buddhist temple lodging attended by young monks in training, and you'll have the chance to stay at a shukubo for two nights (Days 6 and 7) at Mount Haguro. These have simple guest rooms with sliding screens and you sleep on futons atop tatami mat floors. There are shared bathroom facilities - separate for men and women. You'll dine on Buddhist vegetarian food and will have the opportunity to attend morning prayers with the monks, as well as to enjoy traditional gardens.
Ryokans and minshuku vary significantly, but usually have tatami mat floors, futon beds, and shared bathing facilities (divided by gender). Some of the ryokans have private toilet and sink en-suite in the rooms, with only the bathing facilities shared; at other ryokans and all minshukus, all bathroom facilities are shared.
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.Will I need to bring hiking poles?
Yes, hiking poles are recommended for several days of hiking.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Day: 1, duration: 2
Park Hotel
Park Hotel is a luxury hotel ideally located in Shiodome, a bustling center of Tokyo's business and culture. The hotel's art theme is reflected in the 17 artist-designed guest rooms, the various art installations and exhibitions the hotel displays, and the creative cuisine served in its many restaurants. The Park Hotel Tokyo offers traditional Japanese hospitality in a modern setting.
Day: 3, duration: 2Itaya Ryokan
Itaya Ryokan is an onsen with both a 250-year-old traditional side and a modern side. The property is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and the natural, milky-white spring water in the communal baths contains sulfur, which is purported to have skin-smoothing and healing properties. Japanese-style guest rooms have futons on tatami-mat floors and en suite bathroom facilities.
Day: 5, duration: 1Takimikan
This hidden onsen's peaceful, open-air bath has stunning views of Ginzan Onsen area, and all rooms face the spectacular mountains. Indoor and outdoor communal hot spring baths are segregated by gender. Japanese-style rooms have futon bedding and en suite facilities, and the ryokan's renowned restaurant serves fresh buckwheat noodles, seasonal local vegetables, and fish at night.
Day: 6, duration: 2Saikan
Perched near Mt. Haguro's summit, this atmospheric pilgrimage lodge was once part of a Buddhist temple. Immerse yourself in tradition, soaking in gender-segregated communal baths (onsen). You may have the opportunity to join an early morning religious service. Stay in Japanese-style rooms divided by paper screens, with futons on tatami-mat floors, and separate toilet facilities. Delight in shojin-ryori, the vegetarian cuisine of Buddhist monks, to complete your authentic cultural experience.Day: 6, duration: 2
Sankoin
Staying in the beautiful Sankoin Shinto shrine lodging, originally part of a Buddhist temple, is a wonderful experience, and may include the opportunity to join the early morning religious service. Communal baths are segregated by gender, and toilets are not in-room. Rooms are Japanese style with futons on tatami-mat floors and divided by paper screens. The food is excellent vegetarian shojin-ryori cuisine.
Day: 8, duration: 1Hakkoda Hotel
At the base of Mt. Hakkoda's western slopes this charming hotel is surrounded by the pristine beech forests of Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Classic log cabin architecture combined with cozy interiors creates a welcoming atmosphere at this Japanese mountain retreat. Western-style rooms feature large picture windows so you can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. The traditional hot spring baths allow you to unwind while looking out on the tranquil surrounding forest.Day: 9, duration: 1
Oirase Keiryu Hotel
The Oirase Keiryu Hotel is a lovely Hoshino Resorts property with a unique location on the shore of the scenic Oirase Gorge, part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Surrounded by clear streams, mossy rocks, and deciduous broad-leaved forests, the resort features an outdoor bath that overlooks mountain streams, for a soothing soak surrounded by the sounds of water murmuring and birds chirping. Japanese-style rooms feature large picture windows to appreciate the lush surroundings.Day: 10, duration: 1
Shinzantei
This ryokan is located on the shore of Lake Towada, a caldera lake created by an ancient volcanic eruption. All rooms are Japanese style with futon bedding on tatami-mat floors. Rooms also have en suite bathrooms. Guests may enjoy the onsen's communal hot spring bath, which is available 24 hours a day.
Day: 11, duration: 2Park Hotel
Park Hotel is a luxury hotel ideally located in Shiodome, a bustling center of Tokyo's business and culture. The hotel's art theme is reflected in the 17 artist-designed guest rooms, the various art installations and exhibitions the hotel displays, and the creative cuisine served in its many restaurants. The Park Hotel Tokyo offers traditional Japanese hospitality in a modern setting.
Naomi Honda
Naomi earned her master’s degree in sports tourism and marketing to complement her travel agency background and expand her knowledge of the tourism industry. During her study, she organized and managed events for international students for the purpose of cross-cultural exchange. In 2014, she passed the national tour guide exam and since then, she has been working as a guide. She is interested in Japanese history, food, culture and sports. Currently, she is studying to be qualified as a Kikisake-shi (Master of Sake).
Tomomi Shimazu
Tomomi was born and raised in Tokyo. After completing her degree in international relations, she studied in the UK and the US. Later she lived in Hawaii and Israel for years and traveled extensively in Europe, the US and Middle East. She now lives in Tokyo, close to its center and loves gardening, walking, cycling and yoga. Tomomi enjoys guiding and sharing her knowledge of both traditional and urban cultures of Japan. Meet Tomomi on MT Sobek's adventures in Japan.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating award-winning adventures in Asia since 1969, working with the best local guides to ensure an immersive and unforgettable adventure.
Reason #02This well-paced 13-day hiking adventure takes you from Tokyo and Nikko to northern Honshu, combining rewarding valley and mountain hikes with the wonders of cultural touring.
Reason #03Our local expert guides go the extra mile and are the perfect travel companions. Gain a unique understanding of the Japanese relationship with mountains and how this imbues Shintoism and the Shugendo faith.
ActivitiesModerately paced hikes up to 8 miles a day on paved and dirt trails, plus cultural touring, linked by scenic train rides plus a ride on a bullet train.
LodgingRejuvenate at traditional ryokans (inns) — many with onsen (hot springs) — set in scenic mountain locations.
ClimateLate July to September is very hot (75°F to 95°F) and humid in Tokyo, cooling as you head north and into the mountains.
Who will meet me on arrival?You will take a pre-booked shared taxi from either Narita or Haneda Airport to the hotel, where your MT Sobek guide will meet you in the evening for a trip briefing and dinner.
What days will I be without my luggage during this trip?On this trip we enjoy an authentic experience, traveling as many Japanese people do on the excellent train and bus system. Large bags are not accommodated on public transportation so we make use of a clever bag forwarding system known as "takuhaibin," unique to Japan.
We are unable to guarantee 100% gluten-free meals, as there is some gluten in soy sauce and in miso, which are core seasoning ingredients in Japan and very difficult to avoid. That said, we are happy to request meals that don't include wheat noodles, tempura, breaded items, or bread. Please let us know your needs as soon as possible so we can manage your request.
Can you manage vegetarian meals, or meals without fish or shellfish?
We are more than happy to request meals with no apparent animal products, but meals without any traces of fish are not possible to arrange due to the ubiquitous nature of dashi (broth flavored with dried fish flakes). Dashi is foundational to Japanese cuisine and is a small component of many dishes. We are not able to arrange for all dishes to be prepared without dashi; you can decide not to eat them but may then need to supplement meals with snacks that you supply yourself. Many of our vegetarian guests who have doubts about dashi before coming to Japan find that they enjoy the delicious dishes made with this subtle flavoring.
What is staying in a ryokan, minshuku and shukubo like?
A shukubo is an authentic Buddhist temple lodging attended by young monks in training, and you'll have the chance to stay at a shukubo for two nights (Days 6 and 7) at Mount Haguro. These have simple guest rooms with sliding screens and you sleep on futons atop tatami mat floors. There are shared bathroom facilities - separate for men and women. You'll dine on Buddhist vegetarian food and will have the opportunity to attend morning prayers with the monks, as well as to enjoy traditional gardens.
Ryokans and minshuku vary significantly, but usually have tatami mat floors, futon beds, and shared bathing facilities (divided by gender). Some of the ryokans have private toilet and sink en-suite in the rooms, with only the bathing facilities shared; at other ryokans and all minshukus, all bathroom facilities are shared.
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.Will I need to bring hiking poles?
Yes, hiking poles are recommended for several days of hiking.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Day: 1, duration: 2
Park Hotel
Park Hotel is a luxury hotel ideally located in Shiodome, a bustling center of Tokyo's business and culture. The hotel's art theme is reflected in the 17 artist-designed guest rooms, the various art installations and exhibitions the hotel displays, and the creative cuisine served in its many restaurants. The Park Hotel Tokyo offers traditional Japanese hospitality in a modern setting.
Day: 3, duration: 2Itaya Ryokan
Itaya Ryokan is an onsen with both a 250-year-old traditional side and a modern side. The property is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and the natural, milky-white spring water in the communal baths contains sulfur, which is purported to have skin-smoothing and healing properties. Japanese-style guest rooms have futons on tatami-mat floors and en suite bathroom facilities.
Day: 5, duration: 1Takimikan
This hidden onsen's peaceful, open-air bath has stunning views of Ginzan Onsen area, and all rooms face the spectacular mountains. Indoor and outdoor communal hot spring baths are segregated by gender. Japanese-style rooms have futon bedding and en suite facilities, and the ryokan's renowned restaurant serves fresh buckwheat noodles, seasonal local vegetables, and fish at night.
Day: 6, duration: 2Saikan
Perched near Mt. Haguro's summit, this atmospheric pilgrimage lodge was once part of a Buddhist temple. Immerse yourself in tradition, soaking in gender-segregated communal baths (onsen). You may have the opportunity to join an early morning religious service. Stay in Japanese-style rooms divided by paper screens, with futons on tatami-mat floors, and separate toilet facilities. Delight in shojin-ryori, the vegetarian cuisine of Buddhist monks, to complete your authentic cultural experience.Day: 6, duration: 2
Sankoin
Staying in the beautiful Sankoin Shinto shrine lodging, originally part of a Buddhist temple, is a wonderful experience, and may include the opportunity to join the early morning religious service. Communal baths are segregated by gender, and toilets are not in-room. Rooms are Japanese style with futons on tatami-mat floors and divided by paper screens. The food is excellent vegetarian shojin-ryori cuisine.
Day: 8, duration: 1Hakkoda Hotel
At the base of Mt. Hakkoda's western slopes this charming hotel is surrounded by the pristine beech forests of Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Classic log cabin architecture combined with cozy interiors creates a welcoming atmosphere at this Japanese mountain retreat. Western-style rooms feature large picture windows so you can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. The traditional hot spring baths allow you to unwind while looking out on the tranquil surrounding forest.Day: 9, duration: 1
Oirase Keiryu Hotel
The Oirase Keiryu Hotel is a lovely Hoshino Resorts property with a unique location on the shore of the scenic Oirase Gorge, part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Surrounded by clear streams, mossy rocks, and deciduous broad-leaved forests, the resort features an outdoor bath that overlooks mountain streams, for a soothing soak surrounded by the sounds of water murmuring and birds chirping. Japanese-style rooms feature large picture windows to appreciate the lush surroundings.Day: 10, duration: 1
Shinzantei
This ryokan is located on the shore of Lake Towada, a caldera lake created by an ancient volcanic eruption. All rooms are Japanese style with futon bedding on tatami-mat floors. Rooms also have en suite bathrooms. Guests may enjoy the onsen's communal hot spring bath, which is available 24 hours a day.
Day: 11, duration: 2Park Hotel
Park Hotel is a luxury hotel ideally located in Shiodome, a bustling center of Tokyo's business and culture. The hotel's art theme is reflected in the 17 artist-designed guest rooms, the various art installations and exhibitions the hotel displays, and the creative cuisine served in its many restaurants. The Park Hotel Tokyo offers traditional Japanese hospitality in a modern setting.
Naomi Honda
Naomi earned her master’s degree in sports tourism and marketing to complement her travel agency background and expand her knowledge of the tourism industry. During her study, she organized and managed events for international students for the purpose of cross-cultural exchange. In 2014, she passed the national tour guide exam and since then, she has been working as a guide. She is interested in Japanese history, food, culture and sports. Currently, she is studying to be qualified as a Kikisake-shi (Master of Sake).
Tomomi Shimazu
Tomomi was born and raised in Tokyo. After completing her degree in international relations, she studied in the UK and the US. Later she lived in Hawaii and Israel for years and traveled extensively in Europe, the US and Middle East. She now lives in Tokyo, close to its center and loves gardening, walking, cycling and yoga. Tomomi enjoys guiding and sharing her knowledge of both traditional and urban cultures of Japan. Meet Tomomi on MT Sobek's adventures in Japan.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
