The descent on the Gotemba or Subashiri trail will include passing through an area with a soft sandy surface made of volcanic ash.
Called the Osunabashiri (“Great Sand Run”), this is a challenging but fun way to go down the mountain and usually allows for a much quicker way down. Experienced hikers will be seen literally running down the trail.
Only a small percentage of all hikers use the Gotemba or Subashiri trails, meaning that even in the peak climbing season it won’t be too crowded.
