Japan’s longevity is often linked to diet, community, and healthcare. But as a medical student into hidden wellness secrets, I see another factor—Japan’s ancient, towering staircases.
More than just tourist spots, these steps have shaped daily life, pilgrimages, and fitness for centuries. Today, I’ll be exploring Japan’s five longest staircases and how many calories you burn climbing them!
Spoiler: It’s the same as a cheeseburger—but with a much better view!
Climbing Stairs: The Ultimate Hidden Workout
We all know stair climbing is good for you, but let’s break it down scientifically.
1. Heart health
The latest is an analysis of nine studies that followed nearly half a million people and found that climbing stairs is linked to a 24% lower risk of early death from any cause, and a 39% lower likelihood of death from cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes.
2. Leg and core strength
Your quads, calves, glutes, and core muscles work harder than in regular walking. Plus, it’s a weight-bearing exercise, helping with bone health.
3. Energy burn
Every step burns 0.17 kcal. It might not sound like much, but over thoursands of step, it adds up fast.
But Is It for Everyone?
If you have knee pain, arthritis, or balance issues, tackling thousands of stairs might not be ideal. But don’t worry—some of the places I’ll introduce today have alternative ways to reach the top, like cable cars or buses!
Top 5 Longest Staircases in Japan
🥇Nokogiri-yama (2,639 stairs) – Chiba Prefecture
One of Japan’s most breathtaking staircases, Nokogiri-yama leads to a giant Buddha statue carved into the cliffs. The climb is tough, but the reward? An unbelievable panoramic ocean view. Cable car available if you prefer to skip the climb!
🥈Haguro-san (2,446 stairs) – Yamagata Prefecture
Part of the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains, this staircase winds through a beautiful ancient cedar forest. It’s been a pilgrimage route for centuries, leading to a historic shrine at the top.
🥉Konpira-san (1,368 stairs) – Kagawa Prefecture
A famous Shinto shrine staircase in Shikoku, known for its challenging climb and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
4. Shosan-ji (1,333 stairs) – Tokushima Prefecture
One of the most difficult sections of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. It’s a physically demanding climb, but pilgrims have been taking on this challenge for centuries.
5. Fushimi Inari Taisha (1,276 stairs) – Kyoto Prefecture
You’ve probably seen pictures of this famous Kyoto shrine with endless red torii gates. The staircase leads up Mount Inari, and while it’s a long walk, the mystical atmosphere makes it unforgettable. A train station halfway up for those who don’t want to do the full climb.
Ancient Stairs vs. Modern Stairs—A Key Difference
While researching the longest staircases in the world, I noticed something interesting. Many of the longest staircases in other countries were built relatively recently, often as fitness challenges or modern hiking trails.
But in Japan? Many of these long staircases have been around for centuries, originally built for religious pilgrimages or to access sacred sites. This deep-rooted tradition of climbing thousands of steps may have played a small but fascinating role in keeping people active throughout history.
How Many Calories Do You Burn Climbing Nokogiri-yama?
Let’s take Nokogiri-yama (2,639 steps) as an example. Climbing to the top burns 415 calories, which is equivalent to:
🔥 50 minutes of jogging
🔥 1 hour of cycling
🔥 1 cheeseburger or 2 slices of cake
I know—that’s way less than the effort it takes to climb all those stairs. But trust me, the real reward is in the view, the history, and the sense of accomplishment.
So, Do You Feel Like Climbing?
If you’re up for a challenge, Japan’s ancient staircases are waiting. Whether for fitness, history, or just an unforgettable view, they offer one of the most unique wellness experiences in Japan.
A few tips before you go:
✅ Wear good shoes—your knees will thank you.
✅ Bring water & salty snacks!—one of my readers pointed out how important they are since you can get dehydrated quickly. Thanks for the great tip!
✅ Take breaks—enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Also, is there a long staircase near your home? Maybe you’ve already got your own secret longevity hack!
Want Help Planning a Wellness Trip to Japan?
I offer a free 30-minute itinerary consultation for paid subscribers, so if you’re thinking about visiting Japan, let’s plan your perfect trip together!
Also, feel free to reach out with any general questions—I’d love to help! 😊
P.S. If you know of any super long staircases where you live, please let me know! I’d love to hear about them.
Wonderful! New challenge accepted! 🤭
Last summer when in Sendai we went to visit the Yamadera temple - « only » 1000 steps, and what a treat! I sincerely admire the postman who does this route every day (no cable car). He is well positioned to become Japan’s longest living man…