Japan Opens New 350km Hiking Trail in Popular Tourist Region
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Japan has opened the "Hitachinokuni Long Trail," a new 350-kilometer circular hiking route in Ibaraki Prefecture, about 90 minutes from Tokyo. The trail connects six municipalities through mountains, villages, and historical sites, offering a rural experience popular with tourists. Officially completed on September 19, the route can be hiked in sections and is accessible from the capital, aiming to showcase the region's natural beauty and culture.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- A new 350km circular hiking trail, the Hitachinokuni Long Trail, has opened in Japan's Ibaraki Prefecture.
- The trail connects six municipalities and passes through mountains, villages, and historical sites.
- It is located approximately 90 minutes from Tokyo, making it accessible for day trips or longer hikes.
- The route is divided into sections, allowing hikers to choose shorter or longer segments.
- The trail aims to showcase rural Japan and its unique "satoyama" landscapes to tourists.
- Japanese runner Yuhei Tanaka was named the trail's official ambassador at the opening ceremony.
Japan has unveiled a new 350-kilometer (approximately 217 miles) circular hiking route in Ibaraki Prefecture, located about 90 minutes from Tokyo. The "Hitachinokuni Long Trail" traverses mountains, villages, rivers, and historical sites, connecting six local municipalities. While the full trail was officially completed and opened on September 19 with the inauguration of its final 75-kilometer segment, it was initially announced in 2019. The route is designed to offer visitors a glimpse into rural Japan, a growing attraction for international tourists, including Israelis.
The trail winds through characteristic Japanese "satoyama" landscapes, which are rural areas situated between settlements, fields, and mountains. It incorporates existing mountain paths and walking trails, with some previously abandoned paths being restored. The route is divided into sections, allowing hikers to complete portions rather than the entire distance. A central part of the trail is considered more challenging, featuring steep ascents and descents and river crossings, making it suitable for experienced hikers.
Accessibility from Tokyo is a key feature, with entry points reachable within 1.5 hours by train, car, or express bus. The trail's official website emphasizes its aim to connect hikers with rural life, local scenery, and historical landmarks, blending nature walks with visits to towns and villages off the typical tourist track.
At the opening ceremony, Japanese endurance runner and adventurer Yuhei Tanaka was appointed the trail's official ambassador. Kazuhiko Uigawa, Governor of Ibaraki, stated that the route allows hikers to "fully experience the beauty of Ibaraki" and expressed the prefecture's hope to develop further tours showcasing the region's nature, culture, and history.