Once you've conquered the introductory routes like Noboribetsu Jigokudani and Mt. Hakodate, the true mountain wilderness charm of Hokkaido finally begins to reveal itself. For hikers seeking a deeper experience, the central and eastern regions hold challenge-level trails known only to seasoned adventurers—these routes not only test your endurance but also let you experience Hokkaido's most pristine natural landscapes.
In recent years, as Chinese outbound tourists have surged (exceeding 175 million in 2026), popular Hokkaido destinations are crowded, but these advanced routes still maintain rare tranquility. Especially against the backdrop of tense China-Japan diplomatic relations and numerous flight cancellations, these deep trails反而成為避開人潮、專心與自然對話的絕佳選擇。
Central Challenge: Mount Yotei Manneri Trail
Known as the "Mount Yotei," Hokkaido's most challenging single-day summit route is the Manneri Trail. The 12-kilometer round trip with 1,600 meters elevation gain takes 8-10 hours to complete. Compared with the other three trails, the Manneri route has the steepest gradient and most diverse vegetation, climbing from beech primeval forest to alpine meadows. June through September is the optimal challenge period, but even in August, summit temperatures can hover near freezing.
044-0131 Hokkaido Abuta-gun Manneri Village
From the volcanic crater's edge at the summit, Lake Toya and Mt. Usu come into full view. More importantly, hikers on this route number less than one-tenth of those at Onuma Park—you will very likely enjoy the 360-degree panorama alone at the summit.
Eastern Wildness: Mount Shakotan Numa-no-hira Trail
Located at the southern tip of the Shiretoko Peninsula, Mount Shakotan is one of the most underrated Hyaku-mei-san (100 famous mountains) in eastern Hokkaido. The Numa-no-hira Trail spans approximately 14 kilometers with 1,547 meters of elevation gain, featuring a climb from subalpine coniferous forest to rocky summit terrain. This route's unique feature is the simultaneous views of the Sea of Okhotsk and Nemuro Strait, and on clear days, you can even glimpse Kunashiri Island.
099-4100 Hokkaido Shakotan-gun Shakotan Town
The autumn foliage season from September through October is the optimal challenge timing, with the entire mountain dyed in golden-red maple and white birch. However, be aware that brown bears are frequently encountered here—bear bells are essential, and hiking in groups is mandatory.
Northern Secret: Mount Rishiri Otatomari Trail
Japan's northernmost Hyaku-mei-san, Mount Rishiri's Otatomari Trail is the most scenic among its four routes. The approximately 12-kilometer route with 1,721 meters elevation gain climbs from coastal native gardens to the volcanic cone summit. July through August's alpine flower season is the optimal hiking period, with the entire hillside carpeted with Rishiri thistle and Ezo gentian alpine flowers.
097-0401 Hokkaido Rishiri-gun Rishiri Town Otatomari
Mount Rishiri's uniqueness lies in being a solitary海上 independent峰, with completely open视野 during the hiking process, offering 360-degree views of the Sea of Japan and Sea of Okhotsk. However, due to this geographic location, weather changes rapidly, with afternoon fog often shrouding the summit—starting the climb at 4 AM is recommended.
Eastern Depth: Mount Me-Akandake Ononoyu Onsen Trail
Compared with the popular Mount Me-Akandake, the Ononoyu Onsen Trail of Mount Female Mt. Akandake is better suited for hikers pursuing tranquility. The 8-kilometer route with 1,499 meters elevation gain features close-up observation of active volcano geothermal landscapes. The summit crater lake "Penke-to" has a diameter of approximately 200 meters, with its sulfur-rich waters displaying a mysterious emerald green color.
085-0467 Hokkaido Kushiro City Akan Town
This route's additional advantage is the combination with Akan Lake Onsen hot spring—direct hot spring relaxation after descending the mountain. Particularly noteworthy is that this area is the traditional homeland of the Ainu people, with the mountain name "Akan" meaning "immovable lake" in the Ainu language.
Practical Hiking Information
Transportation Connections: Except for Mount Rishiri, which requires a ferry (Wakkanai-Otatomari route, ¥4,800 round trip), other mountains can be reached by rental car directly to the trailhead. However, be aware that during periods of winter road closures, rental companies typically adjust pricing—advance reservations are recommended.
Hiking Fees: Hokkaido mountain hiking is essentially free, but parking fees are approximately ¥300-500/day. Registration at the town office is required before Mount Rishiri hiking—free but mandatory.
Accommodation Strategy: Minshuku and hot spring ryokan near these advanced routes are relatively affordable, at ¥8,000-15,000/night. However, influenced by global tourism recovery, weekends and peak seasons require reservations 1-2 months in advance.
Equipment Reminders
Hokkaido mountain weather changes extremely rapidly—even in summer, waterproof jackets and保温 layers are essential. Particularly for Mount Rishiri and Mount Yotei, at elevations exceeding 1,500 meters, temperature differentials can exceed 15 degrees.
Bear bells are essential gear, particularly in the eastern region. In recent years, with global climate change, bear activity ranges have expanded—even on traditional "safe routes," vigilance must be maintained.
Navigation devices recommend using the "YAMAP" or "Yamareco" apps—these platforms feature detailed offline maps and real-time reports from other hikers. Mobile signals are unstable in mountain areas, making offline functionality critical.
Finally, with recent geopolitical tensions and frequent natural disasters, mountain rescue resources are limited. Be sure to inform family and friends of your hiking plans, and thoroughly complete the registration forms at trailhead registration desks. The allure of these advanced routes lies in the wildness and challenge they maintain—but accordingly, hikers must bear corresponding responsibility and preparation.
