The trail is a mixture of different surfaces – sealed and unsealed – and, once you have completed the initial climb to the ridge-line, the track then undulates.
As you can see in my attached links, the 39km track is next-to-improbable to complete in one day, unless you attempt it about the longest day of the year and are very fit. So, like I did, I did it in two parts. Also included, in the links, is a short hike on one of the other 23-courses.
As mentioned in my summary, the track is well signposted in most parts Ikoma-sanke Hiking Course but, towards the end (for whatever reason) the signs become scarce. But, if you don’t mind taking risks, follow-your-nose and you will reach your goal.
The tracks are well maintained and, in most parts, well signposted with facilities, like toilets, benches and vending-machines dotted throughout.
The views, in some places, are nothing short of spectacular – to the West the sprawling city of Osaka and,on the opposite,the rolling hills and countryside of Nara Prefecture.
As the transport system in Japan is second-to-none, getting to and from the area, is a piece-of-cake. You just have to know what train line to catch, and what station to alight at or join.
Trail Map
Photos
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- Overlooking the Yamato Plains, Nara Prefecture.
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- Chogosonshi-ji Temple, at the end of the course,in winter.
Suggested Lodging
Accommodation? Well, as you are so close to the cities of Osaka and Nara, and Kyoto for that matter, you are just a stones-throw away from the course. There is a campground in the final third of the course - http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=ja&u=http://camp-narukawa.com/&prev=search (my apologies if the page appears in Japanese). Booking.comSuggested Dining
In Japan, about every second building is a dining establishment so you are never far from somewhere to dine. I would suggest though that you bring adequate food and drink with you on your hike.
Suggested Bike Rental / Repair
As cycling on the track is forbidden, I won't include any information.
Companies That Provide Tours on This Trail
Am unaware of any tour company that would guide you but, if you are keen to experience some, or all, of this course, touch-base with me and ,if available, would be more-than-happy to accompany you. http://theoutdoorholic.blogspot.jp/
