Recommended gear for summer hiking
- In the Northern Japan Alps, the weather can change suddenly and temperatures can drop quickly even during the summer. Having appropriate gear with you is therefore important to enjoy a safe and comfortable hike.
1.Underwear
- Choose a breathable synthetic or wool material that dries quickly as opposed to cotton that will stay cold and damp when wet.
2.Hiking Shirt
- A breathable, quick-drying shirt is recommended. A shirt with long sleeves and a collar is even better for sun protection.
3.Hiking Pants
- Stretchable, light weight hiking pants or shorts worn over hiking tights are comfortable especially during the hot summer months.
4.Hiking Boots
- High-cut hiking boots with good ankle support and traction is recommended for the Northern Japan Alps where you’ll often be hiking along rocky ridges.
5.Trekking Poles
- Trekking poles will help you with balance and also reduce the stress on your knees. Strong and durable aluminum poles are recommended for beginners.
6.Backpack
- A backpack with a 20-30L capacity is sufficient for day hikes. A 30-50L backpack if staying at a mountain hut and 50-70L if bringing a tent.
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Rainjacket & Pants
A waterproof-breathable rain jacket and pants are must-have items when hiking in Japan where you’ll encounter a lot of rain and humidity.
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Warm jacket
A versatile down or synthetic jacket or a light fleece jacket are good items to have in the mornings and evenings when the temperatures drop.
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Helmet
Wearing a lightweight, breathable mountaineering helmet is recommended when hiking in the Northern Japan Alps for your safety.
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Other small items
Bring sunglasses and sunblock to protect you from the strong sun up in the alpine mountains. Don’t forget to bring your emergency first aid kit as well!
HIKING GEAR LISTFor an overnight stay at a mountain hut
| Hiking shirt | ○ | Hiking pants | ○ | Socks | ○ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gloves | △ | Hat | ○ | Warm clothing/jacket | ○ |
| Hiking shoes/boots | ○ | Gaitors | △ | Change of clothes | ○ |
| Rain jacket & pants | ○ | Backpack | ○ | Backpack cover | ○ |
| Headlamp | ○ | Spare batteries | ○ | Toiletries | ○ |
| Towel | ○ | Sunglasses | △ | Sunblock | △ |
| Knife | △ | Map | ○ | Compass | ○ |
| Writing utensil (pen) | ○ | Emergency first aid kit | ○ | Toilet paper | ○ |
| Camping stove & fuel | △ | Dishes & cutlery | △ | Food/snacks | ○ |
| Tselt * | △ | Garbage bag | ○ | Trekking poles | ○ |
| Mobile phone | ○ |
○ Mandatory △ Recommended
*A "tselt" is a lightweight emergency shelter/tent.