Hikes around Kiji
Mt. Kosha
The iconic conical mountain overlooking Kijimadaira.
​
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 3.5 – 4.5 Hours (Round trip)
Elevation: 1,351m (Peak)
Terrain: Forested switchbacks leading to a 360° summit.
Best For: Panoramic views of the Northern Alps and Chikuma River.
Kayanotaira Kogen
The "Most Beautiful Forest in Japan." A high-altitude plateau of 300-year-old beeches.
​
Difficulty: Easy / Family-Friendly
Time: 1 – 2 Hours (Loop)
Elevation: ~1,500m (Cooler than the valley)
Terrain: Flat, well-maintained boardwalks and soft forest floors.
Best For: Photography, forest bathing, and escaping the summer heat.
​
​
Shin-etsu Trail
Section 3: The Samurai Pass
-
Distance: 12.7 km
-
Time: 5 – 6 Hours
-
Highlight: Historic Tomikura Pass and views from Mt. Kuroiwa.
​
Section 4: The Heart of the Trail
-
Distance: 8.5 km
-
Time: 5 – 6 Hours (Steeper terrain)
-
Highlight: Mt. Nabekura and the "Valley of Giant Trees." Views of the Sea of Japan.
-