Advice for new event organizers

[Andy OCJ]

More when time...

Hiking Information & Maps
There is a lot of information on the internet these days about routes, even in English.  You can see photos and time taken. The map is still the best though. Japanese hiking maps will tell you where difficult or dangerous places are (I use Shoubunsha hiking maps). Also shelter huts, water places, campsites etc.

Anyone can do an easy hike like Takao San, Jimba San, Mitake San in Okutama and Ooyama in Tanzawa. You do not need special knowledge to do those routes. Often free map copies are available at the station and many people will be on the trail.

If new then try hikes that are less than 4 hours with limited climbing and wide paths (examples above). People in the group will help out - its not just you on your own.

Do not try to lead harder hikes until you feel confident and have done several similar routes  with other people.
You do not have to do the route before leading others. As long as you know the details of the path (any dangers) and have experience at that  level. Do not take people on routes that you do not have similar experience of.

Always check people have water, snacks and good footwear. On the simplest hikes maybe not needed but I ask people to always carry an LED headlight and raincoat.