Mountain Archives - Have Ya Seen Japan

Mt. Hiei Hike (winter revisit) – climbing the snowy slopes of Hieizan!

Few hikes come close to the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto’s Mt. Hiei route, but when hiking in winter, be prepared for a whole new experience!

I’ve hiked up Mt. Daimonji before in the hot days of summer, but this time we are doing a 360 and trekking through the icy trails of winter!

Kyoto did not see much snowfall last winter, but now, we are seeing the first signs of snow in 2025 in Kyoto’s mountains.

Standing at 599 meters tall, Mt. Takao overlooks the city of Hachioji in the western region of Greater Tokyo.

Kyoto is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Here are 5 of my most memorable viewing points across the prefecture!

Preserving the natural environment has always been a strong suit of the Japanese; that’s why the Otowa River Erosion Control Dam was built.

Located between Kyoto’s iconic Kiyomizu-dera temple and Shiga’s beautiful Lake Biwa, Mt. Otowa offers breathtaking scenery at the summit!

Despite its name, the Romon Falls have nothing to do with Rome, but rather is the name of a beautiful waterfall site in the forests of Kyoto.

Called the Zuiko-in Temple, this mesmerizing landmark is better known as the temple nestled in the forests of Mt. Daimonji.

If you’ve ever wanted to run through thick forests and mountains like in the Lord of the Rings, then Mt. Daimonji is the hike for you!

It’s called the Land of the Rising Sun for a reason. These 5 sunset spots in Japan will completely take your breath away!

Mt. Fuji is easily Japan’s most iconic natural landmark. Having visited Mt. Fuji many times over the years, here are my top 5 must-do’s!