Exploring the great outdoors and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature is a special experience for us and many adventurers alike. With diverse landscapes and awe-inspiring mountains in Asia, many scenic hikes here will leave hikers breathless in more ways than one!
From the serene mountains surrounding Tokyo to the majestic peaks of Busan, Seoul, and beyond, Asia boasts an impressive array of trails that promise unforgettable journeys. So, today, let’s delve into some of the most picturesque mountain hikes in Asia, giving you a glimpse of the breathtaking beauty that awaits you!
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Mount Rinjani
Country: Indonesia
Height/Elevation: 3,726 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 13+
Towering over the Indonesian island of Lombok, Mount Rinjani is an active volcano that presents an extraordinary hiking experience. After all, it’s the 2nd highest volcano in all of Indonesia!
If you’ve read our article on the best Instagram story templates for your travels, you’ll have seen that we’ve enjoyed hiking through Mount Rinjani National Park. The waterfalls (Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep) were probably the most impressive we’ve ever seen!
The trek to the summit is challenging but immensely rewarding. The hiking trails typically wind through lush forests, past picturesque waterfalls, and ascend steep slopes.
As you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the caldera, with the turquoise waters of Segara Anak Lake and the neighbouring volcanic cone. Camping near the rim and witnessing the sunrise is a magical experience that will stay with you forever.
Mount Takao
Country: Japan
Height/Elevation: 599 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 8
Our next stop takes us near the Japanese capital city of Tokyo to the peaceful Mount Takao!
Located just an hour away from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, this mountain provides a serene escape from the urban jungle. With its well-maintained trails and diverse flora, Mount Takao offers a delightful hiking experience for nature enthusiasts of all levels.
The summit rewards hikers with panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline, and on clear days, even Mount Fuji can be seen in the distance. Whether you choose the steep and challenging trails or opt for a more leisurely stroll, Mount Takao is sure to leave you with memories to cherish.
Mount Kongo
Country: Japan
Height/Elevation: 1,125 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 10+
Next, let’s venture to the vibrant Japanese city of Osaka via the train from Tokyo to Osaka, where Mount Kongo beckons with its majestic presence!
Standing at a height of 1,125 meters, it is the highest peak in Osaka and offers a beautiful hike for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail is lined with ancient cedar trees, providing shade and a sense of tranquility along the way.
The view gradually unfolds as you ascend, revealing Osaka’s sprawling cityscape below. On clear days, the panoramic vista extends all the way to the distant mountains.
Mount Kongo offers a hiking experience that combines natural beauty with cultural exploration, making it a must-visit for any avid hiker in Osaka.
Geumjeongsan
Country: South Korea
Height/Elevation: 802 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 5+
Moving further east, we find ourselves in the picturesque coastal city of Busan in South Korea, home to the sprawling Geumjeongsan (or, Mount Geumjeong).
Known as the “golden mountain,” Geumjeongsan stands tall as an icon of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The hike up this mountain presents a fascinating blend of history and scenery. You’ll encounter ancient fortresses and temples nestled amidst lush greenery!
The trail offers panoramic vistas of Busan’s cityscape, with the sparkling ocean in the distance. The hike to Geumjeongsan’s summit is both invigorating and enriching, leaving hikers with a profound appreciation for the Korean outdoors.
Bukhansan National Park
Country: South Korea
Height/Elevation: Baegundae (836.5 meters), Insubong (810.5 meters), Mangyeongdae (787.0 meters)
Number of Hiking Trails: 10+
Our journey via the Busan to Seoul train now takes us to the vibrant capital city of Seoul, South Korea, where Bukhansan National Park awaits with its striking beauty.
Renowned for its granite peaks and lush forests, Bukhansan (or “Bukhan Mountain”) is a hiker’s paradise. With a variety of trails catering to different skill levels, there’s something for everyone here. As you traverse the well-marked paths, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of Seoul’s skyline juxtaposed against the rugged mountains.
The park’s highlight is Baegundae, the highest peak, which rewards hikers with a breathtaking view of the sprawling capital city below. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice adventurer, Bukhansan National Park promises an unforgettable experience that combines natural splendour with urban allure!
Mount Everest
Countries: China and Nepal
Height/Elevation: 8,849 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 17, but 2 “main” routes (Southeast Ridge from Nepal, or North Ridge from Tibet)
No list of mountains in Asia would be complete without mentioning the mighty Mount Everest!
Towering at an awe-inspiring height of 8,849 meters, it is the highest peak in the world. The trek to Everest Base Camp offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of the Himalayas up close.
As you traverse rugged terrain, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, cascading glaciers, and pristine valleys. The Sherpa culture and warm hospitality along the way add a unique cultural element to this remarkable, but dangerous journey.
Sadly, 322 people have died whilst hiking Mount Everest. 🙁
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Country: China
Number of Hiking Trails: 7+
Made famous by the movie “Avatar,” Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a surreal and otherworldly destination.
Its towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery create a mesmerizing landscape that feels like a fairytale. The park offers a network of well-maintained trails that wind through the forest, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the park’s ethereal beauty.
The view from the glass-bottomed Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Bridge is a thrilling highlight not to be missed.
Mount Kinabalu
Country: Malaysia
Height/Elevation: 4,095 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 2 main trails (Ranau Trail and Kota Belud Trail)
Rising majestically in the heart of Borneo, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia!
Standing at an impressive height of 4,095 meters, Mount Kinabalu is not only the tallest mountain in Malaysia but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a rich biodiversity and serving as a haven for unique and endemic plant and animal species.
The trek to its summit offers an exhilarating experience as hikers navigate through diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to alpine meadows. As you climb on, you’ll witness the changing landscape and encounter unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. The sunrise from the summit is a sight that will forever be etched in your memory.
Annapurna Circuit
Country: Nepal
Height/Elevation: 8,091
Number of Hiking Trails: 1
For those seeking a longer and more challenging trek, the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal presents an unforgettable adventure.
The circuit encompasses a vast range of landscapes, from lush valleys and terraced fields to arid high-altitude plateaus. Hikers are treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna I, the tenth-highest mountain in the world.
Along the way, you’ll encounter remote villages and experience the warm hospitality of the local Nepalese people.
Mount Fuji
Country: Japan
Height/Elevation: 3,776 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 4 (Yoshida, Fujinomiya, Subashiri and Gotemba trails)
A true icon of Japan, Mount Fuji holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Scaling this majestic mountain offers a spiritual journey like no other. From the moment you set foot on the trail, you’ll be immersed in the rich cultural heritage surrounding Fuji-san.
As you make your way to the summit, you’ll witness the changing landscapes, from dense forests to barren volcanic slopes. The view from the top is a reward in itself as you behold the vastness of the surrounding landscape and witness the spectacular sunrise.
Mount Tai
Country: China
Height/Elevation: 1,533 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 4+
Located in Shandong province, Mount Tai, also known as Taishan, is one of China’s Five Great Mountains and holds immense cultural significance.
Climbing its peaks, you’ll follow in the footsteps of emperors, scholars, and pilgrims who have revered this mountain for centuries. The hike to the summit is a journey through history, passing by ancient temples, stone inscriptions, and majestic gateways!
The panoramic views from the top are genuinely awe-inspiring, especially at sunrise when the mountain is bathed in ethereal hues.
Mount Bromo
Country: Indonesia
Height/Elevation: 2,329 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 15+
Nestled in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Mount Bromo offers a surreal and otherworldly hiking experience.
The journey begins with a 4×4 jeep ride through a lunar-like landscape, leading to a viewpoint where you can witness the majestic sunrise over the volcanic peaks.
As you hike across the vast sand sea and climb the steep steps, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the smouldering crater and the surrounding Tengger Caldera. The raw beauty and otherworldly atmosphere make Mount Bromo a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Mount Siguniang
Country: China
Height/Elevation: 6,250 metres
Number of Hiking Trails: 3
Situated in Sichuan province, Mount Siguniang, also known as Four Sisters Mountain, is a hidden gem for avid hikers.
The mountain range is characterised by its jagged peaks, deep valleys, and pristine alpine scenery. The hikes here range from moderate to challenging, offering diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rocky terrains!
The summit views are simply spectacular, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. Mount Siguniang is a paradise for nature lovers and a haven for those seeking a rugged and rewarding hiking adventure.
Mount Khuiten
Country: China/Mongolia border
Height/Elevation: 4,356 metres
For those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, Mount Khuiten in Mongolia is a hidden gem.
Located in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, this remote peak offers a challenging and rewarding trek. The journey takes you through vast open landscapes, pristine alpine valleys, and glacier-fed rivers. The summit ascent is a test of endurance, but the panoramic views of the Altai Mountains and the neighbouring peaks of Russia and China make it worth it.
Mount Huangshan
Country: China
Height/Elevation: 1,864
Number of Hiking Trails: 3 (Eastern, Western and West Sea Grand Canyon)
Known as the Yellow Mountain, Mount Huangshan is renowned for its otherworldly beauty and mystical landscapes.
The trails here lead hikers through a landscape of granite peaks, surreal rock formations, and ancient pine trees. You’ll pass by scenic viewpoints such as the famous Lion Peak and the breathtaking Cloud Dispelling Pavilion.
The sea of clouds that often blankets the mountain adds an ethereal touch to the scenery, creating a genuinely enchanting hiking experience!
So, are you ready to hike any of these mountains in Asia?
As you can see, Asia is a treasure trove of scenic hikes that will captivate the hearts and minds of adventurous souls. From the serene mountains in Japan to the majestic peaks of South Korea, Indonesia and beyond, each hike offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.
Whether you find yourself gazing at the towering peaks of Mount Everest or traversing the surreal landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, these hikes are bound to leave an indelible mark on your soul. So, lace up your boots, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic wonders of Asia!
