Japan Opens Hitachinokuni Long Trail, Nation's Longest Hiking Route

Japan has completed and fully opened the Hitachinokuni Long Trail, the country's longest circular hiking route, spanning approximately 350 kilometers in the northern Ibaraki Prefecture. The trail, which officially opened in September, connects six cities and towns and is located about a 1.5-hour train ride from Tokyo. The timing is particularly opportune for Israeli travelers, as Arkia is launching a direct flight to Tokyo at the end of the month, simplifying access to the trail.

While about one-third the length of Israel's National Trail, the Hitachinokuni Long Trail is not intended to be hiked in one continuous journey. It is divided into five distinct regions, allowing hikers to choose segments ranging from easy day hikes to multi-day treks. The final section, a roughly 75-kilometer stretch between the towns of Daigo and Hitachiomiya, was completed and inaugurated last month. The concept for the trail was first proposed in 2019 by the prefecture and a local trails club, involving the connection of existing mountain paths and the restoration of abandoned routes.

The trail's unique feature is its passage through "Satoyama" areas, which are rural villages nestled among mountains, forests, rice paddies, and ponds. This offers a glimpse into a quieter, more traditional side of Japan often missed by tourists focused on major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. Ibaraki Prefecture aims to attract tourists to its northern region, promoting the area's nature, culture, and history as an alternative to crowded destinations.

The central part of the trail is the most challenging, featuring steep ascents and descents and river crossings, making it suitable for experienced hikers. It leads to attractions such as the Fukuroda Falls, one of Japan's most famous waterfalls, rocky peaks, and the Ryujinkyo Gorge. The trail is accessible year-round due to the region's moderate climate and lack of heavy snowfall. Travelers can reach different sections via public transport, car, or express bus. However, hikers should be prepared for limited resupply points in some segments and challenging terrain, necessitating appropriate gear and pre-trip planning.