Mountain Archives - Have Ya Seen Japan

Japan’s Nature – Genuine Tranquility or Placebo?

The natural scenery of Japan’s rivers, lakes, and mountains carry a certain aesthetic associated with calmness, but is it a placebo effect?

At 3,776 meters tall, Mt. Fuji stands alone in its majestic beauty, taking on new looks and giving off different aura in every season of the year.

Japan may be an island nation, but its major cities tend to be quite inland. That’s why Kitakyushu stands out for its seaside aesthetic.

Japan is the land of mountains, rivers, and lakes, so I thought I’d piece together my 5 favorite spots in Japan to enjoy views of the water.

Mt. Hiei or “Hieizan” is one of the strongholds of Buddhism in Japan, offering scenic views, historic temples, and tough hiking trails!

There are many reasons NOT to hike during the Japanese summer – it’s hot, it’s humid, and it’s damn difficult, so keep these tips in mind.

Mt. Hiei is easily my favorite hiking trail in Kyoto, not just for the challenging route, but also the perfect picnic spot at the summit!

Kyoto is easily Japan’s most scenic prefecture featuring stunning nature-city hybrid views. Here are Kyoto’s 5 most scenic picnic spots!

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.