Walking through Japan’s abundant nature is more than just exercise; it’s a profound experience that nourishes your mind and body. By walking through Japan’s diverse landscapes—from forests and rural villages to coastlines—you can escape the daily hustle and find a quiet moment to reflect on yourself. By combining this with earthing, where you walk barefoot to feel the earth, you can deepen your connection with nature and balance your mind and body.
This page introduces the specific health benefits of walking in Japan’s nature and the walking culture that the Japanese have long practiced in harmony with nature.
Bringing Harmony to Your Mind and Body
Walking in Japan’s forests stimulates your five senses and promotes harmony between your mind and body. Natural elements like the rustling of trees, the chirping of birds, and the scent of the soil work on your autonomic nervous system through your senses, guiding you into a state of relaxation.
- Refreshing Your Five Senses: By walking and breathing deeply in Japan’s rich natural environment, you can reduce mental tension and fatigue and enhance positive emotions. Taking a deep breath of fresh air invigorates your mind and body. The green scenery also provides visual comfort, which has a calming effect on your mind.
- Balancing Your Autonomic Nervous System and Reducing Stress: Scientific studies have shown that walking in the forest can suppress the secretion of the stress hormone cortisol and help regulate your autonomic nervous system. This helps you regain emotional stability and feel a deep sense of peace. The simple, repetitive motion of walking encourages mindfulness and helps you distance yourself from daily worries.
- Preventing Lifestyle-Related Diseases: Regular walking is an effective aerobic exercise that burns fat and helps maintain and improve cardiovascular health. It can also improve blood lipids and blood sugar levels, making it effective in preventing lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Incorporating walking into your trip to Japan will help you maintain a healthy mind and body.
- The Benefits of Earthing: Some studies suggest that earthing, or walking barefoot on sand or soil, can balance your body’s electrical state. There is also a view that physical contact with the earth contributes to emotional stability. By walking on a Japanese beach or the soil of a rural village, you can directly feel the earth’s energy and refresh your mind and body.
Japan’s Walking Culture and Wellness Experiences
In Japan, walking has long been considered a sacred act for purifying the mind and body. Pilgrimages like the Shikoku Pilgrimage and the Kumano Kodo have been cherished not just as a way to reach a destination but as a journey to confront yourself and look deeply inward. Walking these paths is a valuable opportunity to experience Japan’s spirituality and deep wellness.
Walking Historic Pilgrimage Routes
- Kumano Kodo (Wakayama, Mie, Nara): The Kumano Kodo, a sacred site and pilgrimage route in the Kii Mountains, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been visited by many people since ancient times. Walking on the stone paths in the forest gives you a chance to retrace the spiritual journey that people in the past experienced.
- Shikoku Pilgrimage (Shikoku region): This pilgrimage route follows in the footsteps of Kobo Daishi Kukai, visiting 88 sacred temples*1. The journey of these pilgrims (Ohenro-san) is a wellness experience that allows you to rediscover yourself and enrich your heart through interactions with others.
Walking to Feel the Power of Nature
- Yakushima (Kagoshima): A UNESCO World Heritage site, Yakushima offers a chance to walk through primeval forests with ancient Jomon cedars. The moss-covered forest is filled with a mystical atmosphere, and you can feel your mind and body revitalized by the energy of ancient life.
- Mount Fuji Foothills (Yamanashi, Shizuoka): The vast base of Mount Fuji offers a variety of walking courses, including the mysterious Aokigahara Forest and beautiful lakeside trails. Walking while looking at Mount Fuji, the symbol of Japan, gives you a sense of peace and vitality.
- Ogasawara Islands (Tokyo): A UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Galapagos of the East,” the Ogasawara Islands are home to untouched nature. You can go trekking and experience earthing on the beaches while observing unique flora and fauna.
Coastal Walks for Earthing
- Okinawa Beaches (Okinawa): With their transparent waters and white sand, Okinawa’s beaches are perfect for walking barefoot and experiencing earthing. Listening to the sound of the waves and enjoying the feel of the sand provides a deep sense of relaxation.
- Shonan Coastline (Kanagawa): The Shonan coast, close to the city, offers a great place to enjoy a casual beach walk. Walking while feeling the sea breeze allows you to escape daily stress and refresh your mind and body.
Experience a Unique Japanese Walk
Walking in Japan is not just about physical activity; it is a valuable experience to deeply connect with Japan’s rich nature, culture, and yourself. SHIZUKU offers various information, including recommended walking courses in each region and wellness experiences with local guides. Let’s embark on the wellness walk your mind and body are seeking in various parts of Japan.
Reference
*1 Agency for Cultural Affairs Japan Heritage Portal Site
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