Story:
Paul leads our extraordinary Japan’s Ancient Salt Road Walk and here, we learn why he loves what he does.
Paul’s journey as a guide is deeply rooted in a lifelong love for the outdoors. Growing up, he spent countless days camping with his family and exploring snow sports during high school. However, it wasn’t until he moved to Japan in 2003 that his passion for hiking truly flourished.
In 2009, a job change granted Paul a significant increase in time off, and he devoted this newfound freedom to exploring the world’s most stunning trails. Over the next decade, he spent up to 10 weeks annually trekking through extraordinary places such as Iceland, Nepal, northern India, Tasmania, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, and Morocco. These experiences not only gave Paul a lifetime of memories but also deepened his appreciation for Japan’s wild places. The idea of sharing these landscapes with others eventually became a natural extension of his passions for Japan, travel, and the outdoors.
Image Caption: Paul guiding in Kyrgyzstan
Essentials for the Trail
Over the years, Paul has refined what he carries on his hikes, especially when trail running or fastpacking. One essential piece of gear that he has relied on since 2020 is the Macpac Nitro Pullover: it’s lightweight yet incredibly efficient at keeping him warm while preventing overheating and continues to perform flawlessly.
Of course, hiking isn’t just about the essentials—it’s also about the small joys. For Paul, that means always packing sour gummies, a simple treat that never fails to brighten the journey. Whether he’s chasing sunrises or navigating steep, technical trails, Paul finds inspiration in both the quiet moments of reflection and the adrenaline of challenging terrain.
Yet, his most treasured memories are those shared with others, where connections with people enhance the connection to nature.
The Timeless Appeal of the Salt Road
When Paul moved to Nagano in 2018, he was introduced to the historic Salt Road, a trail rich in history and natural beauty. Initially, he joined walks led by local guides, learning about the fascinating stories tied to the route. Over time, Paul found himself returning again and again to explore its quiet paths and uncover its secrets.
Among his favourite sections are the well-preserved trails in Otari, the village he now calls home. Walking through these serene forests, it’s easy to imagine the lives of those who once carried heavy loads of salt along these paths centuries ago. This historical perspective adds a profound layer of appreciation to every step.
Keep reading or Enquire about hiking Japan’s Ancient Salt Road.
An Immersive Experience Off the Beaten Path
The Salt Road offers an adventure that takes travellers beyond Japan’s typical tourist destinations. On this tour, guests can expect to traverse diverse landscapes, explore charming villages, indulge in regional cuisine, and relax in natural hot springs. The journey culminates with a visit to Matsumoto Castle, but the heart of the experience lies in the quiet trails and authentic cultural encounters along the way.
This is not a tour of crowded landmarks; it’s a meaningful exploration of Japan’s countryside, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection to the country’s heritage and natural beauty.
Embracing the Adventure
Hiking in Japan offers a chance to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences.
From trying unique foods like fermented soybeans or squid to soaking in a traditional nude onsen, these moments can feel unfamiliar but are often incredibly rewarding.
Paul emphasises preparation as key. Reliable rain gear is essential for tackling trails where weather can change quickly. But most importantly, he encourages an open mind and a willingness to immerse oneself fully in the journey to ensure a rich and unforgettable adventure.
