Hiking Plan Forms and Why They Matter
Where to file one, and the minimum you should share even if you don't.
What is a tozan-todoke (hiking plan form)?
A tozan-todoke is a written or digital record of when, where, with whom and on what route you plan to hike. If something goes wrong, it becomes the key clue rescue teams use to narrow down where to search. The exact name varies by region - sometimes called a "climbing plan" or "mountain entry notice" - but the purpose is the same everywhere.
Why some areas require it
Certain prefectures and national parks make filing a tozan-todoke mandatory by local ordinance, usually for routes with a history of accidents or for winter mountaineering, where the risk is highest. Even where it's not mandatory, it's almost always strongly recommended. A faster search start is linked to a better survival outcome, so filing one is really a safeguard for the hiker's own life, not just paperwork.
Where and how to submit one
There are generally three ways to file: dropping a paper form into a "tozan post" box at the trailhead, submitting through an online portal or app run by the prefecture or police, or handing it in directly at the nearest police station. Which options are available depends on the mountain area, so check the trailhead information or the local government/police website before you set out.
While you're checking submission details, the hiking packing list can help make sure your gear matches your route and the season too.
Even without filing, tell someone these three things
Plenty of light day hikes don't call for a formal tozan-todoke at all. Even then, tell a family member or friend three things before you leave: the route you plan to walk, what time you expect to be back, and when and who to contact if they don't hear from you. Just these three details make a real difference if something goes wrong.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a tozan-todoke required for every mountain?
Only some areas make it mandatory, but filing one is strongly recommended even where it isn't.
Where can I submit a tozan-todoke?
At a tozan post box near the trailhead, through a prefecture or police online portal or app, or directly at the nearest police station.
Is a "climbing plan" the same as a tozan-todoke?
Yes, the name just varies by region - the purpose is the same.
Do I need one for a day hike?
It depends on the area. Even if it's not required, tell someone your route and expected return time.
What's the minimum I should share if I don't file one?
Your route, your expected return time, and who to contact and when if they don't hear from you.
What does filing one actually change?
It helps rescue teams narrow down where to search if something goes wrong, speeding up the response.