Anastasia Smith
If what you want this summer is a bit of adventure... strolling through forests of green, exploring lakes and walking down wooden footpaths, Niseko is certainly the place you ought to explore. Let's take a look at a few hiking trails in Niseko that you simply cannot miss if you are an avid hiker.
Moulded by nature in the shape of a half moon, thus, the name "Hangetsu", this volcanic lake is one of the most popular destinations among hikers. Situated at the foot of Mount Yotei, this trail takes you through clusters of oak trees and other beautiful plant species including painted maple and mountain birch. If you are on a holiday in Niseko between May and mid-October, this would be the ideal time to embark on a hike to Hangetsu Lake. If you do plan on hiking in winter, you'll need to be prepared with snow shoes. The trail is about 3.5 km long and includes a scenic promenade that leads the way to the shore of the lake. Completing the trail would take 15-20 minutes and it is recommended for all fitness levels. One can easily reach the trail from hotels like Chatrium Niseko Japan located around an 11-minute drive away.
Not only is Japanese culture fantastical but so is the island's nature. Surrounded by a thick forest of silver birches and Japanese maple trees, this volcanic lake located below Mount Annupuri is truly an other-worldly sight. During summer, this pool of water dries up and resembles an eye, particularly the eye of a dragon, so, this body of water is also affectionately known as the Dragon's Eye. In winter, the small lake is always frozen over, however, when spring arrives, the lake is full of still water that acts as a mirror reflecting the stunning natural scenery around; this is the reason it has been given the name "Kagami" in Japanese, which translates to "mirror". You can reach Kagami Numa by taking the Mount Hachimantai trail. You will hike up a gentle slope through most of the trail and will find a steeper slope when you reach the last 5 minutes of the hike.
Being a prominent stratovolcano which is 1898 m in height, the sight of Mount Yotei is unmissable when you visit Niseko. It is also known as Ezo Fuji as it looks similar to Mount Fuji. The Makkari hiking trail is a challenging one with a 13.7 km path taking about 7 hours and 48 minutes to complete. The terrain along the way offers a wonderful experience for avid hikers taking you through scree slopes, meadows and volcanic rock. As the altitude changes fast, it is advised that you attempt the hike in tip-top physical condition. The best time for such an adventure would be between June and September and it should definitely be on your list of Niseko things to do if you plan on visiting during this period.
This is one of the easiest hikes in Niseko and if you are planning a hike with your family, this trail would be ideal. This small peak is located between Makunnai dake and Chinsenupuri of the Niseko range in southwestern Hokkaido. While this hike is not tough, keep in mind that temperatures may fluctuate along the way.
Yet another family-friendly hiking trail can be found at this peak, tucked away in the eastern part of the Niseko range. The name of this mountain originates from the Ainu term "Iwao-nupuri" which translates to "sulphur mountain". The mountain range stays true to its name with hints of volcanic ash and crystals of yellow sulphur found across the slopes. The 4.8 m hike takes about 2 hours to complete taking you to an altitude of 350 m. The trail ends at Goshiki Onsen where hikers can opt for a relaxing dip in the warm springs after the hike.
