Kanagawa Prefecture is a diverse region south of Tokyo offering everything from the cosmopolitan port city of Yokohama to the ancient temples of Kamakura and the volcanic hot springs of Hakone. It combines urban sophistication with natural beauty, including stunning views of Mount Fuji and the rugged Shonan coastline.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Kamakura Daibutsu Hiking Trail
Kamakura's most popular hiking route, connecting major temples through forested ridge trails. The classic route runs from Kitakamakura to the Great Buddha, passing Engakuji, through bamboo groves, over forested hills, and emerging at Kotoku-in Daibutsu. Spectacular in every season.
Trailhead: Kitakamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line)
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2
Ten'en Hiking Trail
A longer ridge trail circling Kamakura's forest hills from Kenchoji Temple to Zushi Beach. The trail passes through cedar and broadleaf forest, offers distant sea views, and connects several lesser-visited shrines. Quieter than the Daibutsu Trail.
Trailhead: Kenchoji Temple, Kamakura
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3
Owakudani Volcanic Hiking Trail
A short trail through Hakone's most active volcanic zone, passing steaming vents, sulfurous pools, and observation decks with views of Mt. Fuji (on clear days). One of Japan's most dramatic geological walks.
Trailhead: Owakudani Ropeway Station
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4
Mount Komagatake Trail
Mt. Komagatake (1,356m) overlooks Lake Ashi and offers some of Hakone's finest Mt. Fuji panoramas. A cable car from Hakone-en runs most of the way up, with a short summit walk. Hikers can also ascend on foot via forested trails.
Trailhead: Hakone-en (Lake Ashi) for cable car; road access via bus
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5
Oyama Hiking Trail (Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park)
Mt. Oyama (1,252m) in the Tanzawa range has been a sacred mountain pilgrimage site for over 1,200 years. The main trail passes the Oyama Afuri Shrine and continues through cedar forest to the summit with panoramic views over Sagami Bay and Mt. Fuji.
Trailhead: Isehara Station (Odakyu Line), then bus to Oyama cable car
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6
Shonan Coastal Cycling & Walking Path
A flat coastal path running along the Shonan shoreline between Enoshima and Kamakura, with views across Sagami Bay to Mt. Fuji on clear days. Ideal for cycling (rental bikes available at Enoshima). The sunsets here are legendary.
Trailhead: Enoshima Island
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.