Japan has a new long-distance hiking destination, and it’s a big one. After seven years of development, the Hitachinokuni Long Trail officially opened in its entirety on September 19, creating a 217-mile route through the mountains, forests, villages and coastal landscapes of northern Japan.
Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, the new trail is now Japan’s longest loop hiking trail. The route connects six cities and towns, allowing hikers to explore everything from traditional Japanese villages and rice fields to rugged mountain ridges, ancient shrines and the Pacific coastline.
The Ibaraki Prefectural Government confirmed the completion of the route, which connects Hitachi, Hitachiota, Takahagi, Kitaibaraki, Hitachiomiya and Daigo. The final 47-mile section completed the loop in September, with an official opening ceremony held September 19 in Hitachiomiya.
A 217-Mile Journey Through Japan’s Mountains And Villages
Unlike long-distance hiking routes that primarily traverse remote wilderness, the Hitachinokuni Long Trail was designed to connect the natural environment with Japan’s traditional rural communities.
Much of the trail passes through landscapes known as satoyama, a Japanese term describing areas where forests, mountains, agricultural land and villages coexist. The route allows hikers to move between mountain trails and inhabited communities, experiencing the region’s culture and history along the way.
Among the notable attractions along the route are Fukuroda Falls, one of Japan’s most celebrated waterfalls, and the scenic mountains of the Okukuji region. Other sections feature forested ravines, historic shrines, unusual rock formations and views of the Pacific Ocean.
The trail also incorporates destinations such as Hananuki Gorge, known for its suspension bridge and colorful autumn foliage, and Oiwa Shrine, a historic religious site surrounded by forested mountains.
The official trail website describes the route as an opportunity to experience the traditional landscapes and communities of northern Ibaraki while encouraging environmentally sustainable tourism.
Seven Years Of Work To Connect The Entire Route
Development of the Hitachinokuni Long Trail began in 2020, with the first approximately 9-mile section opening in March 2021. Additional sections were gradually developed through a partnership between the prefectural government, local communities and the volunteer-led Hitachinokuni Trail Club.
The project was designed not only to create a major hiking destination but also to encourage visitors to spend more time exploring the region’s smaller communities.
The Japan Long Trail Association confirmed that the completed route was celebrated with an official opening ceremony and inaugural group hike on September 19. Professional adventure racer Yoki Tanaka, known for his extensive journeys across Japan’s mountains, was among the special guests invited to mark the occasion.
The completed trail offers a variety of hiking opportunities, from shorter outings to challenging mountain traverses. Because the route forms a loop, visitors can begin at different access points rather than committing to the entire 217-mile journey.
Hikers Don’t Have To Complete All 217 Miles
Despite its impressive length, the trail isn’t exclusively intended for experienced long-distance hikers. The route’s organizers encourage visitors to explore individual sections based on their experience, available time and interests.
The official trail guide explains that the region’s relatively low elevations make much of the route accessible throughout the year, including winter, when heavy snowfall is generally less common than in Japan’s higher mountain ranges.
That doesn’t mean every section is easy. Some portions involve steep climbs, rocky terrain and long stretches with limited opportunities to obtain food or water. Organizers recommend carrying appropriate hiking equipment, checking conditions and carefully planning each day’s route.
Visitors can download official trail maps and GPS files covering the completed route. The trail also has multiple access points reachable by public transportation, making it possible to explore individual sections without attempting a lengthy backpacking trip. Camping is restricted, so overnight hikers should research permitted accommodations in advance.
With the final section now open, the Hitachinokuni Long Trail adds another major destination to Japan’s growing collection of long-distance hiking routes. For visitors willing to venture beyond the country’s more familiar tourist destinations, the new 217-mile loop offers an opportunity to experience a very different side of Japan.
