There are many opportunities to be close to nature in Japan, even in a metropolis like Tokyo. Before we officially start classes at Keio and Waseda, a few of us went to climb Mt Tanzawa (丹沢山). The whole trip was actually 4 mountains because we went up and down several peaks before the highest peak. It was also raining heavily on our way up so I got really grouchy on the ascend. We were lucky to find Miyama-sansou (みやま山荘), a hut which we were able to stay at overnight. It was expensive- about 7700円 per person, which includes a place to sleep, dinner and breakfast. There are no shower facilities but there's a toilet bowl that warms up. You could tell we were newbies to mountain climbing because all our clothes were soaked even though they were in our backpacks (all except for Mas' stuff cos he put all his stuff in plastic bags because his bag is not waterproof).
So here are the top 3 tips for newbies like myself (will sound stupid to experienced hikers)
Tip 1: Put EVERYTHING in plastic bags. Bring extra plastic bags just in case.
Tip 2: Bring water and lots of snacks because it will be a long hike
Tip 3: Bring a lighter (or salt) because there are leeches on this trail and you might need these things to get rid of them
I definitely recommend doing this climb but be warned that you might not be able to walk for 2-3 days after the climb because your legs will feel like jelly. I live on the 4th floor of Hiyoshi Int. House and those stairs were my enemy for the next 2 days after our climb.
Here are also some of our pictures of the climb. You can see Mt Fuji from here and it's beautiful.
Also check out the website below for more info about this hike or if you want to look for more hiking and mountain trails. The author is an excellent climber so when he says it's 3/5. It's damn hard...
http://japanhike.wordpress.com/2008/04/08/mt-tanzawa/
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