COMMUNITY
Yamatomichi HLC is a community that shares the joy of ultralight hiking, pursues its possibilities, and builds its culture.
Activities are carried out at eight locations, including seven across Japan and one in Taiwan, with each area managed by local ambassadors. Various programs are conducted to build richer connections between hiking, life, and community.
Ultralight isn’t just about picking lighter gear. Sure, a lighter pack matters. But what matters more is the thinking behind it: why you lighten up, how you do it, and how you decide what stays and what goes—until your kit stops feeling like a checklist and starts feeling like yours.
That’s what we dig into in this course: the roots of ultralight, the philosophy, and the way of making choices—not by copying someone else’s answers, but by building your own.
There’s that Laozi line: don’t just hand someone a fish—teach them how to fish. That’s the goal here. Not quick fixes, but the methods and wisdom that help you think for yourself, and carry ultralight in your own way.
And the truth is, that mindset doesn’t end at the trailhead. Ultralight is practice for life: choosing with care, staying flexible, trusting what’s essential.
Take it deeper, in your own rhythm—and see if it makes the days, not just the miles, a little richer.
AREA
HLC locations
PROGRAM
Upcoming programs
Currently the below application forms are only available in Japanese. Please view the page with a translating engine of your choosing or with a good friend who reads Japanese.
Although all our events are of course open to anyone regardless of your Japanese level, please understand that English might not be spoken. If you are interested in signing up but not sure which event is for you, feel free to contact us and we will help you out.
PROGRAM CATEGORY
7 different programs categories to choose from
BASIC
The first step to joining Yamatomichi HLC is the 'Ultralight Hiking Lecture for Beginners,' an introductory classroom-style course on ultralight hiking. After completing the lecture, participants gain access to the 'Ultralight Hiking Workshop for Beginners,' a 1-night, 2-day hiking experience.現在登録中のプログラム41PRACTICE
PRACTICE is the climax event of our HLC programs. In this program, ambassadors and participants collaborate, tackling challenging ultralight style hikes as a team. Completion of the BASIC program is required to join.現在登録中のプログラム10AMBASSADOR'S SIGNATURE
A program that combines ultralight hiking with other outdoor activities in each ambassador’s area of expertise, such as bike packing, fastpacking, backcountry skiing, Tenkara fishing, etc.現在登録中のプログラム5GUEST SEMINAR
A variety of guest speakers are invited to share valuable knowledge and techniques for hikers, covering topics such as meal preparation, DIY gear creation (MYOG), and insights from long-distance trail experiences.現在登録中のプログラム4LOCAL STUDY HIKING
‘LOCAL STUDY HIKING’ offers fresh insights and perspectives on trails by exploring the history and background of the area. This program takes place on the trail, with participants learning as they hike.現在登録中のプログラム4LIFE & COMMUNITY
This category highlights programs about life and community. We organize 'MEET UP' events and other initiatives focused on lifestyle and community building, all with a strong connection to ultralight hiking.現在登録中のプログラム19SHOP/STAFF/PRODUCTS
A category featuring programs centered around Yamatomichi products and our shop, as well as programs that leverage the unique personalities of our staff.現在登録中のプログラム3
HLC Program Reports
Journals showcasing Yamatomichi HLC activities
NEWS
HLC news
