Hinata Yakushi Hiking Course - 日向薬師

In mid April, a friend, who had been watching my hikes on the blog, asked if we could go for a hike together. The area we chose was near Isehara city, in Kanagawa -- Hinata Yakushi hiking area. We began the trail near Ooyama, hiking in a reverse loop. Please enjoy the photos!

The area is accessible by bus from Hon Atsugi station, on the Odakyu line, so it's convenient for those living in the Kanto area. Trails are very well marked and maps were seen at trail heads. If you bring your car, there is free parking, vending machines and clean toilets available before starting your hike.

Trail head, map with approximate hiking times, 

the trail follows a large stream: 

At the top of the above trail is an old temple, which is currently being rebuilt. I didn't take any photos, but if you are interested in seeing temple re-constructions, this trail will allow you to see construction work taking place. After the temple, you can follow the trail to Ooyama, or turn left, following the road down. We took the latter, leading us past some camping areas and a pagoda.

Map showing our current location, 

a river crossing, 

follow the kanji in the circle to hike the hinata yakushi trail:

 Once off the road and on the proper trail, we hiked through a large forest. On a hot day, this is the perfect hike, as the trees offer great protection from the strong sunshine. Near the end of the trail, you'll come across numerous cabins, which can be rented from Isehara city. This is a long, full day hike, so come prepared with cooking materials to make lunch, lots of water and an emergency kit in case of injury.

Cutenekko loves hiking! A forest deity,

 a sign post & cutenekko near the camping area:

The hike was all downhill from this point. Following the stream, I was surprised to find a fisherman fly fishing on the banks. The end of the trail has a large center for hikers with information, clean toilets and vending machines. We chatted with two volunteers there who were very friendly and helpful. This is a moderately difficult trail, as it's long and very isolated. Most hikers prefer the more popular Ooyama route.

Fly fishing, Isehara city hiking center information, 

cutenekko at the end of the trail:

I loved this hike so much, I plan to go again. There are numerous trails in the area, so it's worthwhile to give them all a try. Enjoy hiking in Japan!


~ Information ~ 

Hinata Yakushi Hiking area is located near Isehara city, in Kanagawa. 

Access: 
Odakyu line to Isehara station. Tranfer to the Kanchu bus #20, near the north exit. A timetable is HERE. A hiking guide from Isehara city is HERE. 

OR 

Travel on the Odakyu train to Hon Atsugi station. Transfer to the Kanchu bus #9. City information on the hiking trails in this area is HERE.  

A professional hiking map is HERE (PDF)