This site uses cookies to analyze site usage, to optimize content and advertising, and to provide social media functions.
In order to access this site, you need to agree to the use of cookies.
Manners and Precautions While Hiking
There are rules and proper manners that need to be followed in the mountains. This will help protect the environment and ensure that everyone can continue enjoying the great outdoors. Some precautions may be different from those of your own country. Please keep the following points in mind and enjoy your hike.
| Leave plants, animals, and stones alone | Do not catch animals or pick flowers. Collecting things like fallen leaves, sticks, and stones is also unacceptable. |
|---|---|
| Do not feed wild animals | Feeding can lead to the presence of non-native animals in the high mountains. Such behavioral changes can disrupt the ecosystem. Do not feed wild animals or leave food unattended. |
| Pets are usually not allowed | Parasites, ticks, and various animals are found in nature parks. As pets may carry or catch infectious diseases, bringing them hiking is not allowed in most places. If you’re accompanying your pet to a pet-accepted place, always keep him/her on a leash and be sure s/he stays with you. Also, be sure to pack out any pet droppings. |
| Be careful not to introduce non-native species | If there are seeds on the sole of your shoes, you'll carry them into the mountains. To protect the ecosystem, be sure to change your footwear or thoroughly remove seeds from your soles before entering the high mountains. |
| Pack out trash | To leave a beautiful natural environment for all to enjoy, don't leave anything behind. Pack everything out with you on your return. Don't leave leftover food behind either as it may attract animals like monkeys and martens that aren't native to the high mountains, threatening the wildlife that inhabits them. |
| Use caps on trekking poles | When using trekking poles, be sure to use protective caps on the tips to prevent trail erosion. Also, be careful the caps don't fall off as you hike. |
| Be careful not to cause rocks to slide or fall | Pay attention to the trail and where you step to avoid causing falling rocks. You need to be especially careful on trails with lots of loose stones. If you cause stones to slide or fall, shout out "Rock!" as a warning to those on the trail below you. |
| No camping or open fires outside of designated areas | Camping outside designated areas is generally prohibited. Open fires are also for the most part prohibited in the mountain areas. If you do have a fire in a permitted location, take good care of it to prevent forest fires. |
| Passing people on the trail | If you encounter other hikers on a narrow trail, you’ll need to stop and make room for each other to safely pass. As you wait, stand to the side along the mountain and keep an eye on the other hikers, making sure your pack isn't in their way. Those ascending typically have priority, but this may vary with trail conditions, the number of people in a party, etc. Use your judgement and adjust as needed for smooth and safe passage. Others on the trail will do the same for you. |
| Check requirements before using the toilet | In many cases, toilet waste is carried out by helicopter for disposal, so toilets in the mountains often cost 100 to 500 yen per use to cover the maintenance costs. Have some coins ready for when you want to use the toilet. At some facilities you'll need to dispose of toilet paper in a bin rather than in the toilet. Whenever you use the toilet, confirm how to use first. |
| Keep your cell phone in battery saver mode | When in the mountains it's best to assume your phone will be out of range. Batteries drain very quickly when reception is unstable. It's a good idea to save battery power for when you need it by turning off your phone or setting it to flight mode. |
