When people think of Tokyo, they often picture large skyscrapers, big flashing lights and Shibuya Crossing. However, there is more to the biggest city in the world besides its urban center.
Did you know it’s only an hour-long train ride from Shinjuku to Mount Takao? Mount Takao has lush forests and rivers that many tourists overlook. Or you can go to Ome, where you can hike through wooded forests and glimpse breathtaking views of the Kanagawa mountains in the Japanese countryside.
Highlights of Hiking in Western Tokyo
The past two weekends of hiking, both in Ome and Mount Takao, have been immensely rewarding. In addition to the breathtaking views, hiking has had positive benefits on my mental and physical health. I also had the opportunity to improve my Japanese by talking to other hikers.
Practicing My “Five-String Harp”
Whenever I have been on trails, I always practice my “five-string harp.” I don’t play the harp, but the “five strings” represent the senses of touch, taste, smell, sight and sound. I learned this mindfulness skill during my previous study abroad program at a peace center in Northern Ireland.
For example, I take note of how many green hills I can see in the distance, or how many types of bird songs I hear while walking on the trail. Analyzing my five senses helps me develop my mental strength by focusing on the nature around me and tuning in to the present moment. Focusing on the present moment allows me to let go of my thoughts about upcoming assignments and, instead, focus on the large, tall trees surrounding the trail.
Physical Challenges with Benefits
I will be honest and say that the trails I picked for the past two weeks were physically challenging. I hiked five miles on each trail and gained more than 1,000 feet of elevation during each hike.
Challenging myself to complete these long hikes has been extremely beneficial in building up my endurance as a runner. I feel more energized and confident when I run through the neighborhoods of Chofu during the week after one of my weekend hikes.
Hiking has improved my stamina for walking long distances. This is especially helpful when I travel to the center of Tokyo and want to walk around the city to explore my next favorite ramen restaurant or stroll around the Sumida River.
Building Skills to Be Independent
There is more than getting from the start of a hiking trail to the end. In my case, I must be certain that I get off at the correct train station closest to my hiking trail. I also must ensure that I have enough time to finish my hike before sunset and locate the nearest bus stop or train station relative to the end of the trail.
All these tasks require me to download my maps offline. Before each hike, I write down the time the sun sets and public transportation departure times in my notes app.
I also stop at the Konbini (“convenience store”) to buy a chicken sandwich, onigiri and water before embarking on a hike. Most importantly, I must remember when to take breaks during my hikes and sit down to enjoy the views, so I don’t get tired too quickly.
Culture Shock on the Trails
This is my second time visiting Japan, so I know what to expect regarding greetings and mannerisms from people here.
However, one interaction that led me to experience a small culture shock was when a hiker said “Konnichiwa” (“hello”) to me. I said hi back. Then, another hiker who passed me said, “Konnichiwa.”
I was surprised. It’s common to greet every person you encounter in the Japanese countryside due to its isolated setting, but I didn’t think the same custom would apply to hiking trails with many hikers. From that moment on, I made sure to smile and say “Konnichiwa” to every passing hiker.
Japanese Conversations on the Trails
My favorite part about hiking in Japan is practicing Japanese with local hikers. After studying Japanese for almost three years, I will admit it is still very challenging. However, people always compliment me on my Japanese and are eager to learn more about me. This was especially true when I met a group of hikers going to Mount Takao.
The hikers nicknamed me “Texas Boy” after I told them how hot Texas was compared to an 80-degree day in Tokyo. To my surprise, the hikers invited me to join their group picture when we reached the summit. I became an honorary member of their group. After the picture, we ate lunch on top of Mount Takao and chatted about the beauty of Japanese nature.
This is only the beginning of my series of hikes in Japan. I am beyond thrilled that I have three more months to explore the vast number of hiking trails here. I can’t wait for summer weekends with warmer weather. I’m also excited to venture outside the Tokyo prefecture to other hiking trails in Nagano or Hiroshima. Most importantly, I’m ready to make connections with fellow hikers.
This post was contributed by David Perez, a Global Ambassador for Spring 2025. David is a junior studying abroad in Tokyo, Japan.
