Blog

Japanese gear, written from the field

Selected posts translated from Japanese — Montbell and other brands you can only buy here, plus trails within reach of Tokyo.

2026.09.04

6 Montbell Bags Compared | From 39g to 599g, for the Commute, Travel and Town

Six Montbell bags side by side — U.L. Knapsack, Pocketable Light Pack 20, Pocketable Light Shoulder M, Versalite Pack 20, Delight Pack 20 and Colorado Daypack — compared for everyday use rather than the mountains, with weights, capacities, materials and prices, plus an autumn/winter outfit built around each one.

2026.08.24

How Accurate Is a GPS Watch Under Tree Cover? | Suunto Vertical 2, Measured on Mount Nikko-Shirane (2,578m)

Under a dense forest canopy, how far can you trust the position on a GPS watch? A full day on Mount Nikko-Shirane, the highest peak north of Tokyo, with the Suunto Vertical 2 — deviation from the planned route, altitude without calibration, and battery drain, all pulled from the day's log.

2026.08.14

NEEWER LT39 Honest Review | The Four Shots a 1.2 kg Carbon Tripod Earns Its Place For — and Three It Doesn't

An honest review of the NEEWER LT39 carbon travel tripod (158 cm max height, 49 cm folded, about 1.2 kg, 10 kg load rating). The four situations where it genuinely earns its weight — sunrise, stars, night cityscapes and locked-off video — the three where you should leave it at home, one honest weakness with the fix, and my actual timelapse settings.

2026.08.07

Why Montbell Isn't Raising Prices | I Asked, at the 2026 Fall/Winter Launch

Several of Montbell's 2026 fall/winter pieces cost less than last year — and the contents are better, not worse. I went to the press launch and asked why. The answer took five years. Plus the things printed nowhere: the zipper fix, the underwear colour that doesn't show through, and the real reason your rain shell stopped beading.

2026.07.31

Do You Really Need a GPS Watch for Hiking? | 5 Features, Tested on Mount Amagi

Is a GPS watch actually necessary for hiking? A full day on Mount Amagi with the Suunto Vertical 2 — screen visibility in fog, position without any signal, and whether it really warns you off-route. An honest ranking of the five features that mattered.

2026.07.27

WUBEN G5 Honest Review | Can a 52 g Keyring Light Get You Up a Mountain After Dark?

An honest review of the WUBEN G5, tested on a night hike up Shonandaira in Oiso, Kanagawa. How far does a 52 g keyring light with a claimed 400 lumens actually get you on a dark trail — the measured figures, the honest drawbacks, and how it sits alongside the X4 and X1 Pro.

2026.07.17

A Whole Summer in 10 Montbell Pieces | An Honest Minimal Wardrobe

A hiking model spends the entire summer in just 10 pieces from Montbell, Japan's best-known outdoor brand. Why each piece earned its place — the KAMICO pullover, Cliff Easy Fit Pants, the WIC. dress — plus 6 ways to restyle them. Honest notes from someone who has worn a lot of clothes for a living.

2026.07.07

Takatoriyama Felt Like Another World | 139 m, Vast Quarried Cliffs and an 8 m Buddha Carved in Rock

Takatoriyama (139 m) in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, is a low mountain that feels like another world. Huge cliffs left behind by quarrying and weathered into a honeycomb, a Buddha some 8 m tall carved straight into the rock, and Jinmuji's Yakushido hall with a ridge tablet dated 1598. An honest report on a history-rich walk from Higashi-Zushi to Oppama station, including how the open-ear SOUNDPEATS UU2 earcuffs performed.

2026.07.03

Norikuradake Day Hike | A Bus to 2,702 m, and an Honest Report from Kengamine, Japan's Easiest 3,000 m Peak

A day hike to Kengamine (3,026 m), the high point of Norikuradake in the Northern Alps, starting from Tatamidaira. How the route goes on Japan's most accessible 3,000 m peak — a bus takes you to 2,702 m — plus the snowfield still lying in June, chain spikes, and a summit that turned completely white. Honest notes from a hiking model who walked it.

2026.06.26

Five Houses at BESS Fujisawa LOGWAY | A Room Tour Asking "What If I Lived Here?"

A room tour of the five show homes at BESS Fujisawa LOGWAY in Kanagawa: Hodohodo no Ie, COUNTRY LOG, G-LOG Natsu, BESS DOME and WONDER DEVICE. No reservation needed and you wander at your own pace, so I spent the visit imagining the life I'd have in each one. An honest impression of all five, for anyone drawn to timber houses, log homes or splitting life between two places.

2026.06.19

8 Montbell Small Goods That Lighten Everyday Life | An Honest Review

A hiking model reviews the eight Montbell items she carries into town — Batik Sarong, titanium bottle, Aquapel Stuff Bag, O.D. Garbage Bag, Light Pouch, Flat Bag, Micro Towel and U.L. MONO Bag — with prices. All of them her own, all in constant use.

2026.06.12

Tateshinayama Day Hike | From the Seventh-Station Trailhead to the 360° Panorama of "Suwa Fuji"

A day on Tateshinayama (2,531 m), one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, out and back from the seventh-station trailhead. Around four and a half to five hours, the loose boulder climb just below the summit, and the full 360-degree view you only get on a free-standing peak — reported from the trail.

2026.06.05

DNSYS X1 Honest Review | What a Powered Exoskeleton Does to Your Legs on a Hike

A full day of field testing the DNSYS X1 powered hiking exoskeleton on the Jinbasan to Takaosan traverse. What 1.6 kg of hip assist actually feels like, how quickly it goes on, the difference between Economy and Sport modes, the battery question — and what happens after the battery dies. Honest notes from a hiking model.

2026.05.12

COALAX RANGER In-Depth Review | A Hiking Pack with a Camera Arm That Films You Even on a Chain Section

An honest review of the COALAX RANGER, a hiking backpack with a built-in camera arm, put through a proper day on Mt. Iyogatake in Chiba and its chain sections. The 360° arm that extends to 1.5 m, 31 litres of capacity, and the caveats — 3 kg of weight and what IPX5 water resistance really means.

2026.05.01

A 2 a.m. Night Hike up Takaosan | Trail 1 to Sunrise, Down via the Jataki Route

Setting off at 2 a.m. to climb Takaosan (599 m) by Trail 1 and meet the sunrise from the summit. The 108 steps of the "Demon's Staircase," Yakuoin temple at night, hot beef udon at the top, and the Jataki route on the way down — plus what you actually need in terms of light and warm layers.

2026.04.24

Workman's 2026 Hot-Weather Range, Judged as Hiking Kit | X-SHELTER, Peltier Vests and Fan Vests

A hiking model tests Workman's newest UV and cooling products for 2026 and asks one question without flattery: would I actually use this on a mountain? From the ¥2,900 X-SHELTER Heat-Alpha Hoodie to a Peltier vest that chills your back directly and a fan-powered vest — an honest buy-or-skip verdict on each.

2026.04.17

Mt. Bonoreyama (Bonomine) Day Hike | The Shirayazawa Gorge Is the Whole Point — Plus an Honest Test of Heart-Rate Hiking with the Suunto Vertical 2

A day hike up Mt. Bonoreyama (also called Bonomine, 969 m) in Hanno, Saitama, via the Shirayazawa route: a stream walk through a gorge, waterfalls, then Iwatakeishi and Gonjiri Pass to the summit. Plus what happened when I used a Suunto Vertical 2 GPS watch to manage my heart rate and climb with less fatigue.

2026.04.10

Is a Dress Actually Viable for Hiking? A Model's Honest Take on Montbell's Sun-Protection Outfit

If you've written off wearing a dress on the trail, read this. A hiking model explains why a sun-protection outfit built around the Montbell WIC. Dress makes sense on gentle low mountains — where it works, where it doesn't, and how to deal with wind and stride.

2026.04.03

Montbell Spring Sun Protection, Part 2: The Active Setup | Shorts × Leg Covers for Movement and Coverage

Part two of a Montbell sun-protection series, built for rocky ground and routes with real elevation gain. A hiking model explains the WIC. UV Tect Long Sleeve T with Canyon Shorts and leg covers, and how to adjust coverage on the move.

2026.03.27

6 Montbell Pieces for Sun Protection | Covering Neck, Arms and Legs on the Trail, Honestly Reviewed

A hiking model reviews six Montbell sun-protection pieces with prices — the Crushable Hat, UV Tect Neck Gaiter, Trail Leg Cover Light, Arm Fit Shirt and more — clothing that physically blocks UV on neck, arms and legs. Includes the three to buy first.

2026.03.20

Is UNIQLO Good Enough for Hiking? A Full Outfit, Tested

A hiking model's honest test of a head-to-toe UNIQLO outfit on a maintained low mountain — DRY-EX, AIRism UV pieces, and where they fall short of dedicated gear. Two outfits, with the limits stated plainly.

2026.03.13

Hypershell X Ultra Review | Does an Exoskeleton Really Help on a 2,600 m Snow Climb?

Testing the Hypershell X Ultra, a powered exoskeleton built for hiking, on a steep snow climb at 2,600 m. What 1,000 W and 1.8 kg actually deliver, how to fit it, Eco / Boost / low-speed stability modes and app tuning, and the difference in heart rate and next-day fatigue. An honest review from a hiking model.

2026.03.06

Suunto Vertical 2 Review | Testing GPS Navigation on a Snowy Oyama — An Honest Take on a Hiking Smartwatch

A full review of the Suunto Vertical 2, tested on a snow-covered Oyama (1,252 m, Tanzawa). How accurate the GPS route navigation is (I left the route deliberately to find out), plus heart rate, sleep and sport logging, battery life, the LED light and the design — honest impressions from real winter use.

2026.02.27

3 Grown-Up Outfits with Montbell's New Wickron for Spring/Summer 2026 | Mountain Function That Doesn't Look Out of Place in Town

A hiking model builds three grown-up outfits around Wickron (WIC.), the quick-drying fabric developed by Montbell, the Japanese outdoor brand. Stripes with Cool Pants, a minimal WIC.T, UV Tect with shorts — how to let mountain function settle quietly into everyday clothes.

2026.02.20

5 Tanzawa Mountains for Beginners | Day-Hike Routes Sorted by Fitness Level

Five approachable mountains in the Tanzawa range, about ninety minutes from Shinjuku, ranked by how much fitness they ask of you. Ononyama, Bukkasan, Oyama, Oomuroyama and Tonodake compared with timings, distance and total ascent — a day-hike guide for finding the one that fits you.

2026.02.10

Workman X-SHELTER Might Be the Best Summer Kit Going | Heat-Shield Pants to a 100,000 g Rain Shell, and a ¥6,900 Head-to-Toe Outfit

A close look at Workman's new X-SHELTER fabric technology for spring/summer 2026, seen at the launch. Heat-shield climbing pants (¥2,500), the hoodie, and a premium rain jacket with breathability rated up to 100,000 g (¥9,800). A hiking model on the fit and the function of a summer mountain outfit that costs ¥6,900 in total.

2026.02.06

3 Standout Lightweight Montbell Pieces | A 28 g Wallet, a Camera Wrap and a Pouch, Honestly Reviewed

A hiking model reviews three quietly brilliant lightweight pieces from Montbell — the Flat Wallet, the CLIMABARRIER Camera Wrap and the U.L. MONO Pouch. A 28 g wallet, a cloth that wraps and doubles as a mat, and a pouch that stops a bag descending into chaos.

2026.01.31

A Complete Guide to the Koboyama Hike | Hadano Station to Tsurumaki-Onsen Station, Three Gentle Hours with Binoculars

A first-person guide to the 3-hour low-mountain hike from Hadano Station over Sengenyama, Gongenyama, Koboyama and Azumayama to Tsurumaki-Onsen Station. Views of Mount Fuji and Sagami Bay, birdwatching with binoculars, the cherry-lined Babamichi ridge, and the onsen and food waiting at the end — a beginner-friendly weekend route.

2026.01.23

How to Dress for Fall and Winter Hiking | The 4-Layer System That Stops Sweat Chill

How to dress for hiking from autumn through winter on low mountains. A hiking model explains what each of the four layers does, how to handle the wide temperature swings of fall, the lower body and footwear people overlook, and how to keep sweat from chilling you.

2026.01.16

Montbell's Four Fleeces Compared | Why CLIMAAIR Is the One I Move In

A hiking model compares Montbell's four main fleeces — Chameece, CLIMAPLUS, CLIMAAIR and windproof fleece — and explains how to choose between them. Includes a detailed review of the CLIMAAIR Jacket and how brushing the pile brings its warmth back.

2026.01.10

Oonoyama (723 m) | A Beginner's Winter Hike from Yaga Station, with Mt. Fuji and How I Stay Warm

My first hike of the new year: Oonoyama (723 m) in Yamakita, Kanagawa, walked from Yaga Station down to Yamakita Station. A snow-covered Mt. Fuji with a lenticular cloud above it, a well-kept route with plenty of toilets, and the winter layering I actually use — plus a few things worth knowing about cold-weather hiking.

2026.01.04

An Honest Review of Montbell's O.D. Pants Insulated | Warm Without Base Layers, and Machine Washable

A hiking model reviews Montbell's insulated O.D. Pants honestly — why Stretch Exceloft keeps you warm without thermal tights underneath, how they differ from down pants, and the two weaknesses worth knowing about: static and overheating indoors.

2025.12.26

The 5 Mountains That Stayed With Me This Year | Nokogiriyama, Bukosan, Akadake, Hirugatake and Mount Fuji

From Nokogiriyama in Chiba at just 329 m to Mount Fuji at 3,776 m, a hiking model looks back on the five mountains that left the deepest impression this year. What each one is like, how hard it actually felt, how to get there, and what each mountain taught me — including the days when the summit was nothing but white cloud.

2025.12.19

Mt. Bukkasan and Mt. Takatoriyama Day Hike | Lake Miyagase and the Tokyo Skyline from Two Observation Towers, and a Day Spent Thinking About Expiry Dates

A day traverse of Mt. Bukkasan (747 m) and Mt. Takatoriyama (705.7 m) in eastern Tanzawa, Kanagawa. Lake Miyagase from the observation towers on both summits, the towers of Tokyo in the distance, what to do when your knee starts hurting on the descent, and the book I couldn't stop thinking about while walking.

2025.12.07

The "Three Necks" Rule for Winter Warmth, and 5 Montbell Pieces That Do It | Neck, Wrists, Ankles

A hiking model explains the three-necks approach to staying warm, and reviews five cold-weather pieces from Montbell, the Japanese outdoor brand. Cover the neck, wrists and ankles and you warm up more efficiently than by adding another expensive down jacket. Balaclava, merino socks, Chameece gloves, knit cap and a merino base layer — honest notes, with prices.

2025.11.29

Kinpusan Day Hike | A 2,599 m Hyakumeizan Peak Beginners Can Climb, from Odarumi Pass

A day hike up Kinpusan (2,599 m), one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, as an out-and-back from Odarumi Pass. The shortest route — only about 300 m of net climbing — the ridge past Asahidake, the giant summit rock Gojoiwa, access notes, timings, and honest advice on late-autumn cold and bear precautions, from a hiking model.

2025.11.23

Oyama's Autumn Foliage Light-Up by Cable Car | Night Views, Crowds and What to Know Before You Go

A guide to the autumn-foliage light-up on Oyama (1,252 m) in Tanzawa, reached by cable car rather than on foot. The momiji festival at Afuri Shrine and Oyama-dera, how busy it gets even on opening night, the last cable car down, the best spots and the things worth knowing in advance — reported from an actual visit.

2025.11.18

Tonodake by the Omote-One Ridge | Do Bear Bells Backfire? I Carried Firecrackers to Find Out

From Yabitsu Pass to Tonodake along the Omote-One ridge — about 14 km with 1,200 m of ascent, reported by a hiking model. With bear sightings on the rise in Japan, I carried firecrackers alongside the usual bear bell and tried them out. Plus the Mt. Fuji view from Nino-To and the reality of descending the Okura ridge.

2025.10.30

How to Choose Hiking Boots: The Decisions That Actually Matter

Which boot decisions change your day on the trail and which are noise. Hiking vs trekking vs alpine, cut height, sole stiffness, and the fitting check most beginners skip — from someone who got it wrong first.

2025.10.18

A Day Trip to Osaka by Overnight Bus, 20 Years On | Genuinely Hard Going — but Dotonbori Was Worth It

Taking an overnight bus from Shinjuku to Osaka and back in a day, for the first time in over 20 years. Roughly ¥5,500 each way and nine hours on a low-ceilinged double-decker — honestly punishing. But the food in Dotonbori (kushikatsu, dote-yaki, takoyaki, mixed juice) more than made up for it. An honest account of both.

2025.10.13

Montbell Plasma 1000 vs UNIQLO Ultra Light Down | An Honest 8-Point Comparison

Montbell's Plasma 1000 Down Jacket against UNIQLO's Ultra Light Down, compared on price, weight, warmth, packability and value. The price gap is roughly threefold — is it justified? A hiking model reviews both without flattering either.

2025.10.03

Tanigawadake by the Tenjin Ridge | A Day-Hike Guide to Timings, Difficulty and Clothing

Tanigawadake, one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, climbed from the Tenjindaira ropeway along the Tenjin ridge to its twin summits, Toma-no-Mimi and Oki-no-Mimi. Timings, difficulty and what to wear for a snow-free day hike a beginner can manage — plus an honest look at why it's called the mountain with the most fatalities in the world, and how to stay safe.

2025.09.26

4 Montbell Autumn and Winter Outfits | Outdoor Clothing That Doesn't Look Out of Place in Town

A hiking model builds four autumn and winter outfits entirely from Montbell, the Japanese outdoor brand — using the Merino Wool O.D. Shirt, the Plasma 1000 Down Jacket, the Climaair Jacket and more. Grown-up combinations that work in the city and outdoors, with prices.

2025.09.14

5 Low Mountains Near Tokyo With Big Views, All Reachable by Train

Five low mountains in the Kanto region you can reach from central Tokyo by train and bus, ranked by a hiking model. Kintokiyama, Oyama, Tsukubasan, Takaosan and Mitakesan — with access, a suggested route, and where to eat and bathe afterwards. Everything a beginner needs for a weekend hike.

2025.09.05

Two Standout Autumn/Winter Pieces from Workman | X-SHELTER, "Insulation You Wear," and ¥1,900 Merino

An honest look at the two best pieces in Workman's autumn/winter range: X-SHELTER, the wearable insulation now offered in a new β version with 50,000-class breathability, and merino wool at ¥1,900 that warms as it absorbs moisture, resists odour and feels genuinely good on the skin. How each one prevents the chill that follows sweat, and whether they hold up on a mountain.

2025.08.22

Mystery Ranch Coulee, Reviewed in Full | The Carry the US Military Trusts, and How to Get the Size Right

A hiking YouTuber reviews the Coulee, the classic backpack from Mystery Ranch. The Load Carriage philosophy behind how it carries, the Futura Yoke and the 3-Zip design, how to choose between the four sizes (20/30/40/50), and the things worth knowing before you buy — honestly.

2025.08.14

Why Montbell's Wickron T-Shirt Is Hard to Beat | 4 Honest Reasons It Handles Sweat, Odour and Years of Washing

Summer stickiness, the smell that comes with it, a neckline that goes slack after a few washes — one T-shirt in Wickron, the fabric developed by Montbell, the Japanese outdoor brand, deals with all of it. A hiking YouTuber reviews the four reasons honestly: a cotton-like hand, three years of wear without sagging, near-permanent odour control, and over 90% UV protection — including a side-by-side drying test against cotton.

2025.08.04

"Easy to Climb" Is What Makes Mt. Fuji Dangerous | Turning Back in a Storm, and the Risks Nobody Mentions

"Fuji is an easy mountain" — that idea is the dangerous part. After being caught in a storm on the Fujinomiya Route and giving up the summit, a hiking YouTuber sets out honestly what beginners actually need to know: hypothermia, the gap in official weather data, the rules that changed for the 2025 season, and how to make the call that keeps you alive.

2025.07.26

Mt. Akadake Two-Day Traverse, Part 2 | Sunrise, the Yokodake Ridge and the Blast Crater of Mt. Iodake

Part 2 of the Mt. Akadake traverse in the Yatsugatake range. A sea of cloud and sunrise from Akadake Tenbo-so, the chains and ladders of the Yokodake rock ridge, Okunoin (the true high point of Yokodake), and the huge blast crater of Mt. Iodake. An honest report on an intermediate-to-advanced ridge walk, with the gear and safety points that matter.

2025.07.16

Mt. Akadake Two-Day Traverse, Part 1 | Minotoguchi to Bunzaburo Ridge and the Summit of the Yatsugatake

Part 1 of a two-day traverse to Mt. Akadake (2,899 m), the highest peak of the Yatsugatake range and one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. From the Minotoguchi trailhead through the moss forest of the Minamisawa route to Gyoja Hut, up the steep "Mammut staircase" on the Bunzaburo Ridge, and on to the summit. An honest report of a day of rain and cloud, plus notes on the route, the difficulty and the gear you need.

2025.07.02

4 Hidden Montbell Gems Under ¥3,000 | An Honest Review from a Hiking Model

Four quietly brilliant Montbell items you can buy for under ¥3,000 — the Stainless Mirror, the WIC. Cool Headband, the Tatami Pad Mini and the Squeeze Bottle — reviewed honestly by a hiking YouTuber who has actually used them in the mountains, with a clear answer on which to buy first.

2025.06.06

A Beginner on the Chains of Kentokusan | The Famous 20 m Hogan Pitch and the Ohira-Kogen Route

My first proper chain sections, on Kentokusan (2,031 m) in Yamanashi. The famous 20 m chain pitch at Hogan, the Higesoriiwa squeeze, and how the exposure actually felt — reported honestly. Plus parking and access for the Ohira-Kogen route, timings, and the gear that makes rock feel safer, from a beginner's point of view.

2025.05.25

Nokogiriyama Day Hike, Chiba | Hell's Lookout, Quarry Cliffs and a Beginner-Friendly Loop from Hamakanaya

A day-hike guide to Nokogiriyama (329 m) in Chiba, looping from Hamakanaya Station. Edo-era quarry workings, the Shariki-michi stone-haulers' path, the "Earth Looks Round" viewpoint, the 96 m cliff face, and the Hyakushaku Kannon and Hell's Lookout at Nihon-ji temple. About three hours, with a ropeway if you want it — plus honest notes on what to wear.

2025.05.16

3 Pieces of Gear for Summer Heat, Sun and Sweat | An Honest Review

Three pieces of gear that solve the three problems of summer hiking — sweat, heat and glare — reviewed honestly by a hiking model. The Finetrack Dry Layer that moves sweat off the skin, the Karrimor Sudare Hat with UPF50+ and real ventilation, and goodr polarized sunglasses that clear up the view. Easy to adopt even if you're new to hiking.

2025.05.05

Mt. Bukozan Day Hike | The Omotesando Route in Chichibu, the Famous "Water Carry", and an Honest Look at a Mountain Being Quarried Away

A day loop up Mt. Bukozan (1,304 m) in Chichibu, Saitama, via the Omotesando route. Taxi access from Yokoze Station, the famous "water carry" that keeps the summit toilet running, the limestone quarrying that keeps changing the mountain's shape, and the view from Mitake Shrine. Whether a beginner can manage it, with times and things to watch for.

2025.04.25

Oomuroyama, West Tanzawa | Moss, Clear Streams and Mt. Fuji on a Quiet 16 km Loop

A day hike on Oomuroyama (1,587 m), on the Kanagawa–Yamanashi border, taking the roughly 16 km loop from the Nishi-Tanzawa Visitor Center via Inukoshiji. Stream crossings, moss and clear water, a snow-white Mt. Fuji from the pass, and a muddy descent. An honest report on one of West Tanzawa's quietest mountains.

2025.04.11

Montbell EX Light Thermawrap Jacket Review | About 200 g, and Hard to Beat for the Money

A hiking model reviews Montbell's EX Light Thermawrap Jacket honestly — the 200 g weight, the warmth, how small it packs, and the things that gave her pause, including the fact that it isn't fully windproof. A good first mid layer if you're new to hiking.

2025.04.04

Hirugatake Day Hike | Kanagawa's Highest Peak from the Aone Trailhead in Late Snow

A day-hike report on Hirugatake (1,673 m), the highest peak in Kanagawa, from the Aone trailhead in mid-March with snow still on the ground. The shortest realistic route, timings, the section from Hatchozaka-no-Kashira to Himetsugi, my first time on chain spikes, a whiteout summit, and the excellent curry at Hirugatake Sanso.

2025.03.22

Two of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains in a Day | Tonodake and Tanzawasan, an 18 km Round Trip from Okura

From the Okura bus stop in Kanagawa over Tonodake (1,491 m) to Tanzawasan (1,567 m), one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. An 18 km round trip up the relentless "Baka-one" ridge, walked by a hiking model — the Mt. Fuji views, meeting the man who has climbed this mountain 8,000 times, lunch at the summit, and honest notes on timings and kit.

2025.03.08

Takaosan by the Inariyama Trail | Choosing a Route and Eating Well, Guided by a Hiking Model

About an hour by train from central Tokyo, Takaosan (599 m) climbed by the Inariyama trail. How to choose between Trails 1 to 6, the 3.1 km route with 400 m of ascent, coming down via Trail 4 and Trail 1, Yakuoin temple and the famous tororo soba — an honest beginner's guide from a hiking model.

2025.02.22

How to Reach the Frozen Waterfall at Tawaramine Otaki | A Guide to the Mafujisan Area, Shizuoka

A route guide to Tawaramine Otaki, a waterfall in the Abe River valley of Shizuoka that freezes solid in winter. Access from the Mafujisan trailhead, the parking and forest-road walking, the sections where it's easy to lose the path, the roped traverse, and the timing, temperatures and winter kit that make the difference — reported honestly by a hiking model.

2025.02.15

4 Montbell Pieces Worth Using Off the Mountain | An Honest Review

A hiking model reviews four Montbell items that earn their place in everyday life — the Big Bandana, the Travel Sun Block Umbrella 50, the Titanium Alpine Thermo Bottle and the Merino Wool Glove Touch — and why gear you can use for 15 years is worth paying for.

2025.02.08

Kintokiyama Day Hike | A Hakone Loop to Otome Pass, with Mount Fuji Views and the Famous Summit Teahouse

A winter hike up Kintokiyama (1,212 m) in Hakone: up from the Kintoki trailhead via Yagurasawa Pass to the summit, then down over Nagaoyama to Otome Pass. The Mount Fuji view from a peak tied to the Kintaro legend, the summit teahouse's nameko miso soup, oshiruko and giant purple beans, and the wall of boards recording how many times the regulars have climbed it — an honest report from a hiking model.

2025.01.24

Tsukubasan for Beginners | How to Choose Between the Miyukigahara and Hakuunkyo Routes

A route-choosing guide to Tsukubasan (877 m, Ibaraki), one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains and one of the friendliest for a first hike. The difference between the Miyukigahara and Hakuunkyo routes, when to use the cable car or the ropeway from Tsutsujigaoka, the views from both summits, the Toad Rock, access and difficulty — explained honestly by a hiking model.

2024.12.30

8 Pieces of Gear I'm Glad I Bought in My First Year of Hiking | An Honest Best-Buy List

I spent about ¥270,000 on gear in my first year of hiking. These are the 8 pieces that earned their keep after being used hard in the mountains — boots, rain shell, headlamp and more — plus what I got wrong along the way and the three things a beginner should buy first.

2024.12.15

Mt. Daibosatsurei Day Hike | A Beginner-Friendly Loop from Kamihikawa Pass over the Karamatsu Ridge to Daibosatsu Pass, with the Best Mt. Fuji View I've Had

An early-winter day hike on Mt. Daibosatsurei (2,057 m), one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, as a loop from Kamihikawa Pass. Up the Karamatsu Ridge from Fukuchan-so to Kaminari-iwa, over the summit, then along the ridge to Daibosatsu Pass — where Mt. Fuji looked better than on any mountain I've climbed. The route, timings, what to wear in winter and what to look out for, from a beginner's point of view.

2024.11.30

Kumotoriyama via the Kamosawa Route | A Day-Hike Guide to Tokyo's Highest Peak, in Autumn Colour

Kumotoriyama (2,017 m) — the highest point in Tokyo and one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains — as a day hike from Kamosawa. Over Nanatsuishiyama and Bunazaka onto the open Ishione ridge in autumn colour, with honest notes on timings, difficulty, access and what a one-day round trip really asks of you.

2024.11.02

Mt. Akagi Day Hike Guide | An Autumn Loop over Kurobiyama and Komagatake, from a Beginner's Point of View (Gunma)

Mt. Akagi in Gunma is one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains and an easy day trip from Tokyo. A loop from its highest peak, Kurobiyama (1,828 m), across to Komagatake — the Nekoiwa viewpoint, autumn colour around Lake Onuma, the summit view, and Akagi Shrine on the lakeshore, all explained for first-timers.

2024.10.05

Senjojiki Cirque to Kisokomagatake | A Beginner-Friendly 2,956 m Peak You Reach by Ropeway

Climbing Kisokomagatake (2,956 m), one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, from Senjojiki Cirque. The Komagatake Ropeway lifts you to 2,612 m, then it's Hatchozaka and Nakadake to the highest point in the Central Alps. How to route around Hokendake's chains, plus access, clothing and managing altitude sickness.

2024.09.24

Hokendake and Kisokomagatake | A Two-Day Traverse of the Central Alps from Senjojiki Cirque

A two-day traverse in Japan's Central Alps including Hokendake (2,931 m). Up to the Senjojiki cirque by the Komagatake Ropeway, then Hatchozaka to Nokkoshi-Jodo and the chained rock ridge of Hokendake, with Kisokomagatake the following day. Drone views of the cirque, plus honest notes on access, difficulty and what to carry.

2024.09.19

Mitakesan to Otakesan Traverse Guide | The Rock Garden, Nabewariyama and Okunoin — an Honest Report from Okutama, Tokyo

A loop traverse in Okutama, Tokyo: cable car up Mitakesan, then Nanayo Falls, Tengu Rock and the mossy Rock Garden on the way to Otakesan (1,266 m), Nabewariyama and Okunoin-mine — four summits in a day. The faith surrounding Musashi-Mitake Shrine, the highlights, the difficulty, what to pack, and the hot spring at the end.

2024.09.07

Nabewariyama to Tonodake Along the Ridge | The Nabewari Ridge, Down the Okura Ridge, and a Descent Far Longer Than Expected

A traverse from Nabewariyama (1,272 m) in Tanzawa, Kanagawa, along the Nabewari ridge toward Tonodake, then down the Okura ridge — the "Fool's Ridge" — via the Kanabirashi junction. The summit of Tonodake had to wait for another day, and the descent ran into darkness and headtorches. An honest guide to the ridge views, the huts, and what to watch for on the way down.

2024.08.30

Nabewariyama Day Hike | Walking from Okura to the Famous Nabeyaki Udon — An Honest Guide to a Tanzawa Favourite

A day hike on Nabewariyama (1,272.5 m) in the Tanzawa range, Kanagawa, starting from Okura. The goal is nabeyaki udon, the noodles served at the summit hut: a long forest road, the water-carrying volunteers at Futamata, stream crossings and the steep climb from Ushirozawa-nokkoshi. A hiking model reports honestly on racing the hut's opening hours, and on bears, water and toilets.

2024.08.17

To the Summit of Mt. Fuji | Sunrise at the Seventh Station, the Crater Rim Loop and Kengamine — Day 2 on the Yoshida Route

The summit day on Japan's highest mountain. Day 2 of a two-day climb of the Yoshida Route: goraiko (sunrise seen from the mountain) at Toyokan hut on the seventh station, the last steep climb, ohachi-meguri (the loop around the crater rim) and finally Kengamine, the true summit at 3,776 m — reported honestly by a hiking model, including what to wear at the top and where the descent trail can catch you out.

2024.08.10

Your First Mt. Fuji on the Yoshida Route | Two Days, a Hut at the Seventh Station, and the Climb Toward Sunrise and the Crater Rim

A first attempt at Mt. Fuji, Japan's highest mountain, by the Yoshida Route: two days with a night at Toyokan, a hut at the seventh station, aiming for goraiko (sunrise from the mountain) and ohachi-meguri (the loop around the crater rim). The climb from the Fifth Station, endless switchbacks in sand and gravel, dust and gaiters, altitude sickness, and the new wristband system — an honest account from a hiking model.

2024.08.05

Tsubakurodake to Otenshodake | Two Days on the Finest Ridge of Japan's Omote-Ginza

The signature traverse of Japan's Northern Alps: Tsubakurodake to Otenshodake. Up the Kassen-One ridge from Nakabusa Onsen, a night at Enzanso, then out along the ridge to Otenshodake (2,922 m) the next morning. White granite, Yarigatake in view the whole way, and morning in a mountain hut — a hiking model's account of walking it.

2024.07.28

Tsubakurodake to Otenshodake on the Omote-Ginza | A Two-Day Guide to the Kassen-One Climb, Enzanso and the Ridge

A two-day route guide to the Omote-Ginza traverse in Japan's Northern Alps, from Tsubakurodake to Otenshodake. Up the Kassen-One ridge from Nakabusa Onsen — one of the range's three great climbs — with watermelon at Kassen-goya and a night at Enzanso. Itinerary, rough timings, and honest notes on walking at altitude from a hiking model.

2024.07.13

Myojogatake and Myojingatake Day Hike | A Beginner's Guide to the Hakone Outer Rim Loop from Gora

A hiking model guides a day loop from Gora Station in Hakone, linking Myojogatake (924 m) and Myojingatake (1,169 m) along the ridge of the Hakone outer crater rim. About 11.4 km with 999 m of cumulative ascent, the trailhead at Miyagino, the daimonji fire festival that gives Myojogatake its other name, and why an early start matters in early summer — reported honestly for beginners.

2024.07.02

Hinokiboramaru Day Hike | The Tsutsuji Shindo Trail from Nishi-Tanzawa in Early Summer

A day-hike report on Hinokiboramaru (1,601 m), the fourth-highest peak in the Tanzawa range in Kanagawa, out and back on the Tsutsuji Shindo trail from the Nishi-Tanzawa Visitor Center. The stream crossing at Gorasawa Deai, the long steep climb, times and access, and what to watch for in a Tanzawa summer — heat, land leeches and bears — plus why it makes such good training for Mt. Fuji.

2024.06.23

Oyama Day Hike, Tanzawa | From Yabitsu Pass to a Sacred Peak in Early Summer, and Down the Otoko-zaka

A day hike up Oyama (1,252 m), the sacred mountain of the Tanzawa range, starting from Yabitsu Pass. Over Harutakeyama to the summit, then down via Miharashidai and the steep Otoko-zaka. Access from Hadano Station, the new green of early June, and an honest warning about what that descent does to your legs.

2024.06.07

The Jinbasan to Takaosan Traverse | A Complete Guide to 18 km of Ridge Walking

A guide to the 18 km, 7-8 hour traverse from Jinbasan (855 m) over Kagenobuyama and Kobotoke-Shiroyama to Takaosan (599 m), in Hachioji, western Tokyo. Access from the Jinba-Kogen-Shita bus stop, times and elevations for each peak, the steep start, bypass trails, bears, and the 3 p.m. rule — written for beginners.

2024.05.26

A Mitosan Loop from Tomin no Mori | The 33 m Waterfall and Old Beech Forest, on a Beginner-Friendly Trail

A hiking model's guide to the beginner-friendly loop around Mitosan (1,531 m), starting from Tomin no Mori in Hinohara Village, Tokyo. The 33-metre Mito Otaki waterfall, the wood-chip Forest Therapy Road, old-growth beech forest up to Mushikari Pass and the summit — with honest notes on access and what to wear.

2024.05.18

Tonodake by the Okura Ridge | Up and Down the "Baka-one" for a Clear Head, with Timings and the View from the Top

A day hike on Tonodake (1,491 m) in the Tanzawa range, Kanagawa, out and back from the Okura bus stop along the Okura ridge — the one nicknamed "Baka-one," the relentless ridge. Timings, the mountain huts including Horiyama-no-Ie, the 360-degree summit view, and the history behind the name — honestly guided by a hiking model.

2024.04.18

Kintokiyama Day Hike | The Kintoki Shrine Route, Where the Kintaro Legend Meets a Mount Fuji View

A spring day hike up Kintokiyama (1,212 m) in Hakone, starting from Kintoki Shrine. The landmarks tied to the Kintaro legend — including the huge Kintoki Yadoriishi rock — plus the route, difficulty and access for the shrine trail, walked and honestly reported by a hiking model.