Japan Alps: This post provides cost, budget and logistical details for our 5-day hut-to-hut trek in the Japanese Northern Alps.
All in Asia
Stage 1: Murodo to Goshiki-ga-hara Hut
Day 1 of our five day Japan Alps Trek started at 8,000+ feet above sea level, with no acclimatization. It was up-and-down over steep, rocky terrain for the next several hours, with swirling mist, rugged ridge tops, and juniper-covered Alpine meadows…
Stage 2: Goshiki-ga-hara Hut to Yakushi-dake
Day 2 of the Japan Alps Trek was the longest and most strenuous section, with several rock scramble peaks, steep descents, and a final ridge-back climb to Mt. Yakushi, one of Japan’s “100 Most Famous Mountains”…
Stage 3: Yakushi-dake to Kurobegoro-dake
Day 3 of the Japan Alps Trek was the highlight of our trek, traversing broad highland meadows with magnificent views. A long descent into the cirque of Mt. Kurobegoro was brilliant with the first blazes of the Fall foliage. Lots of photos in this stage…
Stage 4: Kurobegoro Hut to Sugoroku-goya Hut
Day 4 of the Japan Alps Trek was short and wild as we hiked through gale force winds in a whiteout! Sugoroku-goya Hut offered a festive, safe shelter to weather the storm…
Stage 5: Sugoroku-goya Hut to Shin-Hotaka Onsen
Day 5 of the Japan Alps Trek was a descent to Shin Hotaka hot springs resort area, with a fantastic cloud show and a peak at Yari-ga-dake…
Kamikochi in Chubu-Sangaku National Park
Kamikochi in Chubu Sangaku National Park is the most iconic tourist destination in the region. We spent our last day in the Japan Alps walking a forest path, soaking in the sights, and planning our return trip…
Day Trip from Seoul to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
North and South Korea are, technically, still at war. To appreciate Korea's recent history and internalize the tense relationship with North Korea, a trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and Panmunjeom is essential. Organized tours provide a one day trip from Seoul…
A Day of Solitude on Muui Island
Muui Island (무의도 "Mu-ee-do") is just across the bay from Incheon airport, but totally immune from Seoul's urban vibe. This tiny rustic island is a terrific place for a day of rest or exercise, with beaches, hiking trails and incredible sunset views.
Off the Beaten Path Day Trip from Seoul: Ganghwa and Seokmo Islands
There are a series of little islands just west of Gimpo that offer fresh air, calm natural beauty, naval history and UNESCO world heritage dolmens. Ganghwa Do and its satellite islands are definitely off-the-beaten tourist path, but accessible via bus, car, and ferry from Seoul or Gimpo.
Explore the Past and the Present at Gyeomjae Jeong Seon Art Museum (Seoul)
Jeong Seon pioneered the notion of realistic “true-view” landscape painting in Asia. For viewers in the modern age, his paintings provide a glimpse back in time. See also the companion exhibit by contemporary digital artist Lee Lee Nam.
Two Days in Gyeongju, South Korea
If you like history (or a calmer quality of life beyond Seoul), you will LOVE Gyeongju! This area was once the capital of the Shilla Kingdom, where King Munmu in the 600 AD period was able to unify three kingdoms into one central state. Tomb parks, temples, beaches and food!
Weekend Zen in Suncheon
A weekend of relaxation and contemplation is just 3 hours from Seoul on the KTX high speed train to Suncheon, in South Jeolla Province. This get-away is zero stress! Activities include deeply inhaling the sweet smell of pine, listening to the entrancing sway of bamboo, sipping green tea, and embracing silence.
Exploring the Yeongnam Alps Region of Ulsan, South Korea
Ulsan is just north of Busan on South Korea’s east coast. This lovely town on the banks of the grand Taehwa River is typically off the typical tourist radar, yet has so much to offer for outdoor enthusiasts!
Beaches of Busan, South Korea
From Seoul, a high-speed train criss-crossing the country to Busan in the southeast takes only 2.5 hours. Yes, it’s possible to build sandcastles and dip your toes in the East Sea by lunch time when traveling from Seoul! Read about the local beaches…
Hiking, History and Street Art on Namhae Island in Hallyeohaesang National Park
Namhae Island in Hallyeohaesang National Park sits among a sea of 76 other islands scattered off the southern coast of South Korea. See terraced rice paddies, village street art and turtle ships (the world’s first iron-clad war ships).
Korean Eden: Geoje Island and Oedo Garden Park
With dramatic seascapes, secret gardens, and pebble beaches, Geoje Island in Hallyeohaesang National Park is just 40 minutes west of Busan. Visit Oe Garden Park, Hakdong Pebble Beach and the cliffs at Heageumgang…
Hike Suraksan in the Nowon District of Seoul
The hike to the summit of Suraksan is fun, with some crazy steep slopes and interesting rock formations. Expect hand-over-hand cables at the top, stair climbs, and sweeping views.
Hike in Gyeryong National Park, South Korea
Just two hours south of Seoul by bus, the eight scenic views of Gyeryongsan National Park await your discovery. Gyeryong Mountain has been held sacred for over a thousand years and its claim to fame is…
Summit Bukhansan's Baegundae Peak like a Local (via the Bamgol Route)
There are many routes to the summit of Bukhansan’s highest peak, Baegundae. This route begins at the Bamgol entrance on the western side of the park. It is tough, wild, and extremely picturesque…