No matter where you are in Japan, chances are there’s a scenic walk near you. These are my top 5 walking paths in Japan!
5. Snow Monkey Park – Nagano
One of the lesser-known aspects of Nagano’s famous Snow Monkey Park is the intimate walking routes that surround its main attraction. During the cold winter months, the walking trails are well maintained to allow people to pass through the mountains blanketed in snow.
Along the way, you may even be lucky enough to see snow monkeys leaping from tree to tree on the left and right-hand sides of the trail. Other than the beautiful tall trees and adorable little monkeys along the way, you will also pass through some stunning temple structures covered in pure white snow.
4. Inokashira Park – Tokyo
One of the most scenic parks in Tokyo that definitely doesn’t get the recognition it deserves is Inokashira Park. Located in western Tokyo in the city of Musashino, you will find plenty of serene walking paths here that surround the Inokashira Pond.
Known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring and its colorful red and yellow trees in autumn, Inokashira Park offers a level of aesthetic appeal that is hard to come by. For a more intimate experience of the area, you can jump on one of the swan boats and cruise along the Inokashira Pond.
3. Fukuurabashi Bridge – Matsushima
Located on the outskirts of Sendai, Matsushima Bay’s Fukuurabashi Bridge walk is one of the best walking paths in Japan. The iconic structure links the coast of Matsushima city to Fukuura Island and overpasses the beautiful bay where many islands can be seen scattered across the water.
The best part of this walk is easily the crossing of the low bridge itself, as this is where you get to enjoy a feeling of “walking on water” so to speak. However, the walking path does not end here, as you will find continuity as you embark on the trails of Fukuura Island, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the many islands of Matsushima Bay.
2. Dotonbori River – Osaka
The Dotonbori River is the iconic waterway that Osaka is most known for, running through the prefecture’s main city of Dotonbori. While it’s primarily known for its vibrant nightlife and glowing neon signs, I will always vouch for walking along the river during the daytime hours.
One of the reasons for this is I believe the river’s beauty is underappreciated during the daylight when you can clearly see and admire its tranquil waters. This walking path is also far more relaxing on the senses during daylight, as you won’t be confronted with blaring neon lights and noisy crowds.
1. Kamo River – Kyoto
Taking the top spot by a long notch is none other than the Kamo River walk, located in Kyoto’s city of Sanjo. Not far from Kyoto station, this walk passes through stunning walkways that are accompanied by a calming flowing river and the natural beauty of green trees and shrubs.
There are many overpasses and bridges along the Kamo River, one of which is the famous Sanjo Bridge, where hundreds and thousands of tourists and locals can be seen moving to and from the surrounding cities of Kyoto station.
Of course, I much prefer the quieter aspects of this walk as you move along the river and away from Sanjo Bridge, soaking in the natural ambiance of the air and contemplating the beauty of the mountainous background. Without a doubt, the Kamo River walk is the perfect combination of adventurous excitement and serene tranquility, making it one of the greatest walking paths in Japan!
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