This season, for those who want to hike but hesitate at snow, the "Numazu Alps" are recommended.
Many may never have heard of them—the ridge running south from Mount Kagami in southern Numazu city through Yokoyama, Tokura-yama, Shimoyama-yama, Kozu-to-yama, Washi-to-yama, and Taihei-yama. The highest, Washi-to-yama, is only 392 m, but the terrain is rugged with chained sections, giving a mountaineering feel.
The views are superb: Mount Fuji close enough to touch, and hiking while looking down on Suruga Bay. The full traverse takes six to seven hours, with escape routes at each pass. Afterward, soak in a hot spring and try sushi at Numazu fish market—why not?
Senior hikers who often visit mountaineering shops in Jimbocho and Ochanomizu—please do give it a try.