ODAITO NEST おだいとうネスト
-野付半島まで10分の個室ゲストハウスー
ODAITO NEST おだいとうネスト
-野付半島まで10分の個室ゲストハウスー
Hokkaido is a paradise for hikers, with everything from serious alpine climbs to gentle, well-marked trails perfect for first-timers. In the eastern region of the island—known for its open landscapes and rich biodiversity—you’ll find a variety of beginner-friendly mountains with moderate elevation gains (typically 300–700 meters).
While most peaks rise to around 1,000 meters, several offer rare alpine plants more commonly found on 2,000-meter-class mountains in mainland Japan. Depending on the mountain and the day, you might catch sweeping views of the Sea of Okhotsk, drifting clouds below your feet, or even a glimpse of the Northern Territories far off on the horizon.
Here are eight rewarding yet approachable hikes across Eastern Hokkaido—ideal for anyone looking to experience the outdoors at a relaxed pace.
Mount Musa is a gentle twin-peaked mountain that locals hold dear. From its summit, you can gaze out over vast farmland grids, the curve of the Notsuke Peninsula, and even Kunashiri Island on a clear day. It’s the only peak in the region that looks down on Kaiyōdai, a famous panoramic lookout often called the best viewpoint in the area.
The trail begins just outside Nakashibetsu, climbing steadily through birch forest and open grasslands. While there are a few steep sections, there are no dangerous areas, and the path is well maintained. A simple mountain hut near the trail provides basic shelter (though water quality is unconfirmed—boiling or filtration recommended).
Hiking season starts in mid-June, and in July and August, you’ll pass through blooming fields of soba (buckwheat flowers) near the trailhead. On the way up, keep an eye out for alpine flowers like Ezo rhododendrons, lingonberries, and—if you’re early enough—cherry blossoms in bloom near the ridgeline.
At the summit, take in an unforgettable view of the Eastern Hokkaido coastline, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the massive grid of windbreak forests stretching across the Nemuros Peninsula. Mount Musa isn’t just a great hike—it’s the best seat in the region.
Trail Overview
Elevation: 1,005 m
Elevation gain: approx. 671 m
Time required: ~2.5 hr up / ~2 hr down
Trail type: Out and back
Mount Shibetsu offers wide-open views from the top, including panoramic sights of Shari-dake, Mashu Lake, and the Shiretoko mountain range. But one of the best parts is what waits at the base: the traditional hot spring village of Youroushi Onsen. After your hike, you can soak in mineral-rich waters surrounded by nature.
The trail begins about 6 km up an unpaved road from the onsen. It starts off gently but becomes steeper near the middle section. Along the way, you’ll pass through refreshing birch forests and a water source called Shimizu-sawa, which is a good place to take a break (note: bring your own water treatment if needed).
Mount Shibetsu is especially popular in summer when the clear air offers unobstructed views. Fewer hikers come here, making it ideal if you want a quiet route with wide-angle scenery and a relaxing hot spring to end the day.
Trail Overview
Elevation: 1,061 m
Elevation gain: approx. 739 m
Time required: ~3 hr up / ~2.5 hr down
Trail type: Out and back
Mount Mokoto is one of the easiest peaks to climb in Eastern Hokkaido, with several trail options taking less than an hour to reach the top. Despite the short climb, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Lake Kussharo and the surrounding caldera landscape.
The most popular route starts at Highland Koshimizu 725, a small mountaintop station accessible by car. The trail winds through flower-filled alpine meadows in summer, where you might spot species like Chishima-fuuro, Hakusan ichige, and lingonberries. On clear mornings, you may even witness a sea of clouds spreading across the lake basin.
If you want more of a workout, there’s a longer loop trail that takes about 3.5 hours in total. After your hike, grab a bowl of local ramen or soft-serve ice cream at the trailhead cafe (open May–October).
Trail Overview
Elevation: 1,000 m
Elevation gain: 275 m (Skyline trail) / 195 m (Ginrin-sui trail)
Time required: 30 min–1 hr up / ~1 hr down (3.5 hr loop available)
Trail type: Out and back or loop
Mount Mashu offers a rare chance to walk alongside one of the most pristine caldera lakes in Japan—Lake Mashu. The trail follows the edge of the lake for much of the route, offering open views and constant visual connection to the deep blue water below.
The route is mostly gentle, becoming steeper near the final ascent to the summit. Along the way, golden grasslands and subalpine flowers such as black lilies and Chishima gentians line the trail. From the summit, you’ll see Shari-dake, Musa-dake, and even the distant Shiretoko peaks on a clear day.
Although not technically difficult, the hike is long (about 7 km one way), so bring plenty of water and plan accordingly.
Trail Overview
Elevation: 857 m
Elevation gain: approx. 341 m
Time required: ~3 hr up / ~2.5 hr down
Trail type: Out and back
Mount Nishibetsu is known for its vibrant alpine flora and gently sloping ridgeline trail. The main route begins from Nishibetsu Hut and leads through forests, open meadows, and a steep section known as “Gaman-zaka” (“Perseverance Hill”)—a straight, uphill path that lives up to its name.
Despite the effort, the trail is peaceful and rewarding. Seasonal flowers like Ezo azaleas, Miyama odamaki, and iwabukuro bloom along the path, offering color and motivation all the way up.
From the summit, you’ll have excellent views of Lake Mashu, Shari-dake, and the distant volcanic ridges of Akan and Shiretoko. If you’re up for a challenge, a connecting trail allows for a full-day traverse between Mount Mashu and Mount Nishibetsu.
Trail Overview
Elevation: 800 m
Elevation gain: approx. 465 m
Time required: ~1.5 hr up / ~1 hr down
Trail type: Out and back (traverse to Mashu available)
Mount Meakan is an active volcano and one of Hokkaido’s most iconic peaks. It’s not an easy climb for beginners, but for those with basic hiking experience and proper gear, it’s a one-of-a-kind adventure.
You’ll hike through dense coniferous forests and enter high-altitude scrubland, where unique volcanic flora like Meakan kinbai and Meakan fusuma grow. Higher up, the forest disappears, replaced by red-brown scree and steam-belching craters such as Pon-machineshiri and Aka-numa.
From the summit, you’ll see a vast panorama of Lake Akan, Mount Oakan, and the surrounding wildlands. If you’re feeling energetic, you can continue to Mount Akan-Fuji in about an hour.
Trail Overview
Elevation: 1,499 m
Elevation gain: 764–854 m (depending on route)
Time required:
• Onnetō route: ~3 hr up / ~2 hr down
• Nonaka Onsen route: ~2 hr up / ~1.5 hr down
• Lake Akan route: ~3 hr up / ~2 hr down
Trail type: Out and back (with optional side hike to Mount Akan-Fuji)
Mount Hakuto is one of the most accessible hikes near Lake Akan. The trail begins at a ski resort, and as you climb the open slope, you’ll have constant views of Lake Akan and Mount Oakan.
One of the highlights is “Bokke,” a series of bubbling mud volcanoes that release steam and a rhythmic plop plop sound from underground.
It’s a miniature version of a volcanic hell valley, and the contrast between steam and wildflowers makes this trail truly unique.
A wooden observation deck near the summit provides sweeping views—including a rare backside view of Mount Meakan. With a modest elevation and well-maintained path, it’s perfect for hikers who want a mix of scenery and geologic interest without a long day.
Trail Overview
Elevation: 916 m
Elevation gain: approx. 318 m
Time required: ~1.5 hr up / ~1 hr down
Trail type: Out and back
Trailhead access: Akan Lakeside Ski Area (5 min from Lake Akan Onsen)
Mount Pekere is a hidden gem between Lake Akan and Kawayu Onsen. The trail climbs steadily through mixed forests—starting in spruce and fir plantations, then transitioning to open hardwoods like oak and birch.
The trail is short but scenic, and you’ll likely have it all to yourself. Along the way, look for mountain wildflowers like hakusanchidori and one-flowered wintergreen, especially in early summer. There’s no dense forest cover, so you’ll enjoy good light and visibility the entire way.
At the summit, a triangulation point marks the peak, and the views open up dramatically: Lake Kussharo, Mount Meakan, Mount Oakan, and the full sweep of the caldera landscape.
Trail Overview
Elevation: 732.3 m
Elevation gain: approx. 482 m
Time required: ~1.5 hr up / ~1 hr down
Trail type: Out and back
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