Exploring Japan's popular tourist spots and off-the-beaten paths
Final part of my Daisetsuzan hike - managed to reach the summit of Akadake (2,078m) on the 3rd day albeit taking a longer time than most people. The fall colors here in Ginsendai and on the trail towards Akadake were probably the brightest among the three hikes.
Daisetsuzan enjoys autumn the earliest in Japan and through my hike to Kurodake, I was able to witness the nation's first autumn foliage in mid September. The hike to Kurodake is easily accessible thanks to the Kurodake ropeway and chairlift that takes you to the 7th station at 1,520m.
Hiking Asahidake, one of the peaks in Daisetsuzan, known as Kamui Mintara in the indigenous Ainu people language which translates into a garden where the Gods play. At 2,290m, Asahidake is the tallest mountain in Hokkaido and is one of the earliest places to see autumn in Japan.
Final post on my Michinoku Coastal Trail (Hachinohe Section) hike where I explored the Yodo-no-Matsubara (Yodo Pine Grove) and Tanesashi Natural Lawn.
Part 4 of my Michinoku Coastal Trail (Hachinohe Section) walk, where I passed through the Fukakubo Fishing Harbour Area, walked along Cape Tamurazaki, and marvelled at the sight of the Shiraiwa Rock.
Part 3 of my Michinoku Coastal Trail (Hachinohe Section) walk, exploring the floral shore - Nakasuka, and the singing beach - Osuka Beach.
Part 2 of my Michinoku Coastal Trail Walk (Hachinohe Section) where I headed to Ashigezaki Observatory.
Walking the Hachinohe Section of the 700km Michinoku Coastal Trail which runs along the Tohoku Pacific Coast. In this post, I cover the start of the trail to Kabushima Island known for being a breeding ground of black-tailed gulls, to Samekado Lighthouse.
In Part 2 of my coverage on the Yamanobe no Michi hike, I explored the rest of the shrines and temples after Omiwa Jinja, all the way to Isonokami Jingu.
A pleasant hike from Omiwa Jinja to Isonokami Jingu along what is said to be Japan's oldest road - the Yamanobe no Michi which is mentioned in the Nihon Shoki.
Aside from the ropeway, another good way to explore Kankakei is by one of the hiking trails between Kountei (lower station) and the Sancho Summit Station. I opted for the Omote 12 Scenes Trail, passing by some amazing views and interesting rock formations, which was amplified by the beautiful autumn foliage during the season.
Japan's Wonders 