10 Best National Parks in Japan
Japan is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the world. From Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to Jigokudani, home of the snow monkey, there are ten amazing national parks in Japan that are worth exploring. From ancient cedar trees to majestic mountain peaks, hot springs and volcanoes, a unique tropical island ecosystem, and a paradise for winter activities, these parks have something to offer to everyone. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the ten best national parks in Japan.
Table of Contents
Overview of National Parks in Japan
Japan is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, many of which are protected and preserved in its numerous national parks. Spanning across the country, these parks feature beautiful forests, mountains, and coastline, along with a variety of wildlife, plants and geological features. The Japan National Parks system consists of 34 national parks, with more than 100 sub-parks, covering a total area of over 100,000 hectares.
Popular parks include the Chubu Sangaku National Park, which is home to some of Japan’s highest peaks, and the Ogasawara National Park, which consists of over 30 remote islands. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil stroll through nature or a thrilling outdoor adventure, Japan’s national parks offer something for everyone.
Shirakami-Sanchi: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Shirakami-Sanchi is one of the most spectacular natural sites in Japan and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the northern part of the country, the area is renowned for its breathtaking mountain ranges, lush forests and diverse flora and fauna. Shirakami-Sanchi is one of the largest national parks in Japan and is home to some of the most remarkable trees in the world.
It is also the habitat of more than 200 species of birds and several species of mammals, including the Japanese serow, Japanese macaque and brown bear. The area is also known for its stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear streams, offering visitors a unique chance to experience nature at its best. Shirakami-Sanchi is a truly remarkable and remarkable site and offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty of Japan’s natural environment.
Shiretoko National Park: Home of the Ezo Brown Bear
Shiretoko National Park is located in Japan and is home to the Ezo brown bear. This stunning park is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. With picturesque mountain views, serene lakes, and lush forests, the park is a must-visit for travellers looking to explore Japan’s natural beauty. Visitors can experience a variety of activities, such as hiking and fishing, while encountering the unique wildlife, including the Ezo brown bear and over 190 bird species. With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, Shiretoko National Park is an ideal destination for those looking to explore Japan’s natural wonders.
Daisetsuzan National Park: Japan’s Largest Park
Daisetsuzan National Park is the largest national park in Japan. Located in the central part of the country, the park spans over 2,300 kilometres, making it one of the largest protected areas in the world. The park is home to a number of unique species of plants and animals, as well as stunning natural scenery. Visitors come from all over to experience the breathtaking views, including stunning volcanoes, mountain ranges, and valleys. Within the park, there are various activities available, such as hiking, camping, skiing, and snowboarding. Daisetsuzan National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty of Japan’s nature.
Yakushima: Home to Ancient Cedar Trees
Yakushima is a subtropical island located in the south of Japan, and is one of the country’s most beautiful national parks. The island is a paradise for nature lovers, as it is home to some of the world’s oldest cedar trees. The most famous tree is the Jomon Sugi, which is believed to be over 7,000 years old. Many hikers come to Yakushima to trek through the lush, green forests, and to marvel at the ancient trees. The island also has a number of beautiful beaches, rivers, and waterfalls. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure or relaxation, Yakushima is the perfect destination for any nature-lover.
Akan National Park: A Paradise for Winter Activities
Akan National Park is a paradise for outdoor winter activities. Located in the Hokkaido region of Japan, Akan National Park is a popular destination for visitors who want to take part in a variety of winter activities. From snowshoeing and skiing to ice skating and snowmobiling, Akan National Park offers something for everyone. The park is also home to Onuma, one of the largest lakes in Japan. With its spectacular views and wide range of winter sports, Akan National Park is the perfect destination for an unforgettable winter adventure.
Asahidake Onsen: Home to Hot Springs and Volcanoes
Asahidake Onsen is a popular national park in Japan located in the northern island of Hokkaido. This area is known for its hot springs, volcanic activity, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hot springs here are said to be some of the most relaxing in Japan, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can also explore the volcanic terrain, with the possibility of seeing some of Japan’s famous volcanoes. Asahidake Onsen is the perfect spot to relax and bask in the natural beauty of Japan.
Ogasawara Islands: A Unique Tropical Island Ecosystem
The Ogasawara Islands, also known as the Bonin Islands, are a Japanese archipelago located in the western Pacific, 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) south of Tokyo. The islands are part of the Ogasawara National Park and are renowned for their pristine and unique tropical environment. The islands have a wide variety of ecosystems, including tropical rainforest, mangrove swamps, coral reefs, and alpine forests. Home to numerous endemic species, the Ogasawara Islands are a paradise for nature lovers and scientists alike. The archipelago is also a popular destination for divers, as its warm waters are home to a stunning array of marine life. It is no wonder that the Ogasawara Islands are considered one of Japan’s most precious national parks.
Chubu Sangaku National Park: Majestic Mountain Peaks
Chubu Sangaku National Park is a scenic reserve located in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan. It is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who come to marvel at the majestic mountain peaks and lush forests. The park is home to some of Japan’s highest peaks, such as Mount Yari, the country’s third highest mountain. With over 200 peaks and more than 900 waterfalls, Chubu Sangaku National Park offers spectacular views and an abundance of nature. Here, visitors can explore old shrines and castles, hike to mountain summits or take a leisurely stroll along the park’s rivers and streams. Chubu Sangaku National Park is the perfect place to experience the beauty of Japan’s remarkable landscapes.
Jigokudani: Home of the Snow Monkey
Jigokudani is one of Japan’s most iconic national parks, widely known for its population of wild snow monkeys. Located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, the park is the only place in the world where you can observe the Japanese macaque, or snow monkey, bathing in the hot springs. With its stunning alpine scenery, Jigokudani is one of the most visited national parks in Japan, attracting thousands of tourists each year. Aside from the monkeys, visitors can also enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and skiing in the area. Jigokudani is truly a unique and unforgettable experience, and is one of the must-see destinations in Japan.
From the majestic mountain peaks of Chubu Sangaku National Park to the hot springs and volcanoes of Asahidake Onsen, Japan is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the world. From the ancient cedar trees of Yakushima to the unique tropical island ecosystem of the Ogasawara Islands, Japan’s national parks are filled with a wealth of natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Shirakami-Sanchi, Shiretoko National Park, and Akan National Park are just a few of the highlights, and Jigokudani is home to the famous snow monkeys. No matter what kind of adventures you seek, Japan’s national parks offer something for everyone.
