While we may be able to avoid the snowy touch of winter here in Hong Kong, our northern-nation neighbors are not so lucky, but with Spring but already sprung now is the perfect time to hop a plane and pack your hiking boots for a trip northward. Indeed, with a boundless amount of hiking trails in Northern Asia, it can be difficult to narrow down which ones should top our to-do lists in a world never before so friendly for travel. Fortunately, we’ve had the time to climb a mountain or two for you and report back with our top results.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

China

Now just a quick train ride of five or so hours, thanks to the high-speed train from West-Kowloon station, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park appears to be right out of a lucid dream. However, the national park is indeed a sure thing with a beauty arguably unmatched, so much so that it was featured in the James Cameron blockbuster Avatar (2010). The unique geological formations are plentiful, with rushing rivers and trails for days. You won’t want to exclude Zhangjiajie from your bucket list, but be sure to go during off season as the sudden fame of the park has propelled visitors into the millions.

The Imperial Route to Kumano

Japan

A cherished park in Japan for over 1,000 years, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is now a registered UNESCO world heritage site and for good reason. Enjoy a stroll down the same trails that once were taken by retired emperors and aristocrats, offering routes for both short walks and multi-day treks. To give your feet a deserved break, treat yourself to one of the many traditional accommodations of the area and take a dip into the hot springs.

Odaesan National Park

South Korea

For those eager to explore South Korea’s North-Eastern region, you best start with Odaesan Nation Park found some 144 kilometers east from the nation’s capital of Seoul. As the place to be for anyone looking to be at one with nature, Odaesan is chock-full of well-marked trails and even child-friendly. Enjoy the calming sounds of the river, and make sure to stop into the Sangwonsa Temple before calling it a day.  

Taroko National Park

Taiwan

Bearing its name from the local Truku aboriginal tribe, Taroko National Park is not only one of the most beautiful sights in Taiwan, but in the world. For those searching for a truly marveling view which has been scantily touched by man, will be delighted to learn that Taroko is sacredly protected by Taiwan’s environmental protection movement. Sure to be a splendid way to immerse yourself into nature, the park is home to several hiking trails, a wide range of wildlife many of which are unique to the region and relaxed county of Hualien just minutes away.

Text: Bailey Atkinson