May 19, 2023
Did you think you could simply step onto the trail in Japan and hike as you would in your own country? Not so fast! Hiking in Japan comes with its own set of rules that can catch you off guard. I've learned some of these lessons firsthand, and I'm here to share them with you so that you don't embarrass yourself, avoid troublesome situations, and show proper respect to the local customs and culture.
1. Ascending hikers have the right of way.
Descending hikers are expected to yield to ascending hikers due to their better visibility and maneuverability. When yielding, it is important to choose a wide and safe area, moving towards the mountain side to avoid contact. Physical contact is considered impolite in Japan, so it should be strictly avoided.
2. Greet others with "Chiwa".
While Japanese people typically avoid talking to strangers in urban areas, you should greet fellow hikers on the mountain, where encounters are fewer. It also helps improve your ability to remember other hikers, which can be crucial in emergency situations. If you want to sound like a local, say "Chiwa" (short form for Konnichiwa).
3. Take home your trash.
It is customary to pack out your own trash as there are few to no trash bins on the trail. What about leftover instant noodle soup, you ask? Well, you have two options: finish it or bring it back home with you. Personally, I prefer bringing instant rice soup, such as instant curry rice, where the rice absorbs the soup.
4. Learn to use the washrooms.
Some washrooms may require a fee, so it's a good idea to keep 100 yen coins on hand. Additionally, some washrooms may not provide toilet paper, and others are portable washroom boxes where you bring your own kit and take the stuff back with you instead of flushing it down.
5. Touching or disturbing nature is bad manner.
In addition to refraining from capturing animals or plucking flowers, it may come as a surprise that collecting fallen leaves, sticks, and stones is also considered unacceptable in Japan. The intention is not to deprive you of enjoyment (or at least I hope not), but rather it originates from the deep-rooted belief in Japan that everything within nature possesses a life force, and any disruption is regarded as impolite and lacking respect.
Now, there are actually many more hiking etiquette rules in Japan. You can also refer to "Hiking Etiquette in Japan" by Hikes in Japan, written by my friend Matt, for his list of top recommendations so you can hike with confidence and earn respect from fellow hikers.
Now go out there and hit the trails!