Grand Opening: Japan's Longest Circular Hiking Trail
Imagine an unbroken, 350-kilometre hiking loop that takes you deep into the heart of traditional Japan. That vision is now a reality with the grand opening of the Hitachi-no-kuni Long Trail on 19 September 2026. Spanning six municipalities in northern Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan's longest circular trail is a stunning new gateway connecting pristine mountain wilderness with vibrant local cultures.
It's been about eight years since the course was established in 2019. Over 5,000 citizen volunteers have contributed by mowing grass and clearing fallen trees, and the approximately 350-kilometer-long trail connecting the mountains and villages is now open for use.
Japan-san has been involved in the product development side since 2023, working with local community members to create immersive and meaningful cultural experiences for the travel trade, together with a "proper hike" (lots of Japanese hiking trails can be quite sedate), and traditional, characterful accommodation.
Please do check out our product list below and our Product Library which contains pretty much everything else you need to know about the options along the trail.
The Sacred Trail
Oiwa Shrine, a revered spiritual site, has been a destination for pilgrims for centuries. 200-300 years ago, millions visited annually for ascetic training and prayer. Today, it remains a sacred “power spot”, known for its unique aesthetic, serene woodland trails, and stunning views from the summit of Mt. Oiwa.
This 8.2 km moderate hike delivers a quintessential Japanese cultural experience, featuring majestic sacred monuments, moss-covered forests, towering pines, and friendly local encounters. Visitors will meet villagers and the Shrine Maiden of Oiwa. Learn more...
A Village Journey
Venture into a hidden village, virtually unknown to both Japanese and international travelers. This experience is made extraordinary by the exclusive insider access provided by Ikeda-san, a respected community leader. Her café-restaurant and community space have become a catalyst for local revitalization.
With Ikeda-san as your guide, explore the village, engage with locals, pick wildflowers for ikebana, enjoy farm-to-table vegetarian cuisine, and sample sake and wine brewed by her charismatic neighbour. This is a day to explore at your leisure or take a hike into the surrounding mountains to enjoy spectacular views of this charming rural community enclave. Learn more...
Shinrin-Yoku Path
This nature-centric experience revolves around the majestic Fukuroda Falls, celebrated for centuries and recognized as one of Japan’s top three waterfalls. Two hiking options cater to different adventure levels:
1. A 5 km gentle hike for deep forest immersion around the falls.
2. A challenging and sometimes thrilling ascent up the “Gendarme of Ibaraki”, Mount Namase-Fuji, featuring panoramic views and steep cliffs to either side of the ridge.
The journey includes tea and pastries by the riverside with the charming owners of a renovated water mill guesthouse, followed by a stroll through Daigo Town’s nostalgic streets. Then it's time to hop on the train for a 90 minute journey back to Tokyo. Learn more...
The Book of Tea Tour
More than 100 years ago, Okakura Tenshin, author of The Book of Tea, introduced Japanese aesthetics to the world with pride and clarity. His writings sparked a lasting curiosity for Japanese culture, a fascination that continues to bring travelers to Japan today.
This two-day journey in Kita-Ibaraki follows in Tenshin’s footsteps: beginning at Izura, where the sea inspired his vision of beauty and harmony, and continuing inland the next day to meet artists who live out that same philosophy, where art, nature, and everyday life are inseparable.
From quiet temples and windswept shores to living art communities in the hills, this journey reveals how Tenshin’s ideals still echo through the people and landscapes of northern Ibaraki. Learn more...
Accessing the Trail
The journey from Tokyo could not be any easier. It is direct run from Tokyo to Hitachi station on the way. On the return is also on train, roughly 20 minutes from Daigo will get you to Mito station, where you hope on the express train for a 70 minute journey back to Tokyo.
Connecting to the trail starting points requires a bit more planning. Although it is possible to use the public buses at certain points, it is far more efficient to use taxis or chartered vehicles arranged by the guide. The journey lengths are all under an hour along mainly rural road networks where the rustic charms of Ibaraki are evident in abundance.
There are several options for accommodation bases, mainly in/around Hitachi Ota and Daigo Town. Each have options suited to FIT and group travel.
For more information on the experience please access our Product Library, which includes tour information as well as imagery that can be used for client itineraries and marketing collateral.
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