Hiking Etiquette in Japan: Why Greetings Matter
Hiking in Japan is a unique experience, not only because of the beautiful trails and well-maintained paths but also due to the cultural etiquette that hikers follow. One of the most important customs is greeting others on the trail with a friendly "Konnichiwa" (こんにちは). But have you ever wondered why this practice is so common in Japan?
The Importance of Greeting Others on the Trail
In Japan, exchanging greetings on the mountain is not just about politeness. It has a deeper purpose: safety and awareness. By acknowledging each other, hikers create a subtle but important network of observation. If someone encounters trouble, having been seen and recognized earlier by fellow hikers can help in locating and assisting them.
For this reason, it is good practice to briefly observe the people you pass—their clothing, backpacks, and even general demeanor. If an accident or emergency happens, this awareness can be crucial for search and rescue efforts.
Additionally, if you encounter someone who seems lost or in trouble, don’t hesitate to offer help. A simple question like “Daijoubu desu ka?” (大丈夫ですか？ – Are you okay?) can make a big difference.
Right of Way: Uphill Hikers First
Another essential rule in Japanese hiking culture is giving priority to those hiking uphill. If you are descending and meet someone coming up, it is proper etiquette to step aside and let them pass first. Climbing requires more effort, and stopping can break their rhythm, making it harder for them to continue.
When waiting, the person going downhill should stand on the mountain side of the trail, not the valley side. This prevents accidental slips or falls that could lead to dangerous situations.
Other Important Hiking Manners
- Stay on the trail: Protect nature and avoid causing erosion by keeping to marked paths.
- Take your trash home: Japan follows a strict “leave no trace” policy. Always carry out what you bring in.
- Keep noise levels low: Many people hike to enjoy nature and silence, so be mindful of loud conversations or music.
- Respect mountain facilities: If you use a hut or restroom, follow the posted rules and leave it clean for the next person.
Why We Start Early in Japan
In Japan, depending on the season, the sun can set quite early—even in summer, it may start getting dark after 6 p.m. in the mountains. Unlike some parts of Europe where it can stay bright until 10 p.m., Japan’s daylight hours are shorter. That’s why Japanese hikers often start early in the morning.
INo matter the season, it’s wise to plan your hike so that you can be down from the mountain by around 4 p.m. Even if you run a bit late, you will still have some daylight left. Once it gets dark, even if you have a headlamp, unfamiliar trails become much more difficult to navigate. The psychological pressure also increases in the dark, making everything feel more challenging and sometimes even scary.
Final Thoughts
Hiking in Japan is not just about reaching the summit. Everyone has their own way of enjoying the mountains—soaking in the beauty of nature, chatting with fellow hikers, or discovering cultural traditions along the way. But in the end, we all share the same wish: to return home safely.
So next time you pass a fellow hiker, don’t forget to say "Konnichiwa!" and keep the spirit of the mountains alive.