Explore National Parks of Japan
Japan's natural bounty is preserved in these regions.
Let's enjoy a journey into the great nature!
National parks aim to protect Japan's exceptional natural sites and preserve them for future generations so the latter can experience these with the same sense of wonder and joy as our generation.
To achieve these objectives, national parks are designated, protected and managed by the government under the Natural Parks Act.
Coming in contact with nature can be a deeply moving experience and yield a sense of peace. National parks, in particular, not only contain beautiful natural landscapes but also abound in wildlife and cultural history. A distinctive feature of Japan's national parks is that they include a diverse range of natural environments such as forests, agricultural land and small villages. While they offer opportunities to explore natural sites that have remained virtually intact over the years, they also contain scenic spots that blend traditional lifestyles with the surrounding natural environment, allowing visitors to experience Japanese history and culture.
There are currently a total of 34 national parks in Japan.
Among these, here are eight national parks that many tourists come to visit from all around the world in anticipation of witnessing the magnificent natural beauty in each season.
1. Akan-Mashu National Park
Beautiful views of the seasons woven by forest and lake appeal
The lakes attract many visitors and are also known as Goshikinuma (five-colored lake), as the shades of the lake surface changes according to the weather and view. If lucky you may also encounter wild animals such as the Yezo deer or Japanese red foxes.
Summer is the perfect season for camping, mountain climbing and fishing, while casual outdoor activities can also be enjoyed during the winter such as skiing and ice festivals.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
2. Towada-Hachimantai National Park
A spa where tasty landscapes remain, a park with mountains and lakes and mountain streams where the virgin forest is colored
Various nature observation events and nature workshop programs involving the local environment are held. There are several hiking trails within the park offering visitors authentic experiences in nature. The trails lead to destinations such as Oirase, the summit of Mt. Hachimantai/ Mikaeri Pass, Hakkoda Ropeway/ Tamoyachi, Sukayu/ Jigokunuma, Tsutanuma, and Goshougake etc., with hiking times ranging from 1 hour to a few hours.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
3. Nikko National Park
Unique landscape that fuses Japan, fusion of nature and history culture
Shrines and temples registered as world cultural heritages stand in this landscape of grand nature. In early summer, Japanese azaleas color the highland of Happogahara in red, while the view of autumn foliage from the suspension bridge of Setoai Valley is absolutely stunning. Apart from enjoying spectacular views, there are also outdoor activities such as river cruises and rafting.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
4. Ise-Shima National Park
Ise shrine with the history of 2000 and the hometown of pearl and sea lady
Miyagawa-Tsutsumi is among the top 100 cherry blossom spots in Japan, and in spring it is possible to see the trees in full bloom. Summer is also worth visiting for the hydrangeas, while spectacular views of the autumn foliage can be seen at the inner shrine garden. There are islands of all sizes scattered on the sea, creating a fantastic scenery. The sea of Shima is also known for marine leisure activities. It is an area where history, old tales, nature, and sports brilliantly combine. It is also known as the hometown of pearls and sea ladies.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
5. Daisen-Oki National Park
The stage of Japanese mythology, old historical sites and shrines / temples are left
Oki Islands and the Shimane Peninsula are regions that appear in Japanese myths. The Shimane Peninsula was an important spot for the ancient Izumo culture, and so there are many ruins/ famous locations relating to Japanese myths such as the Izumo Taisha Shrine, Hinomisaki Shrine, and Kaga Kukedo. Mt. Daisen has been worshiped as the mountain of the gods and has many old ruins as well as shrines/ temples. The mountain can be enjoyed throughout the year, such as by viewing the lush greenery in spring, mountain climbing in summer, viewing foliage in the fall, and skiing during winter.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
6. Aso-Kuju National Park
Energy of the volcano which I feel close up, healing valleys where rows and falls are continuous
The caldera of Mt. Aso is one of the world's largest, and it is an extremely rare active volcano in the world where tourists are easily able to peek inside the active crater of Aso Nakadake. Nearby there are some of the most famous hot springs in Japan such as the famous Kurokawa Onsen, and Tsuetate Onsen, which is also known for its Koinobori (carp banner) festival. There are also beautiful valleys where streams and waterfalls of various sizes flow and fall.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
7. Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park
Dense volcanoes, hot springs brought up by the gigantic caldera
This spot attracts many visitors for its magnificent views of volcanoes and shrines that often appear in history as well as myths. It also boasts some of the most famous hot springs in Japan, such as the Kirishima Onsen Village and Ibusuki Onsen. The mountains spectacularly change its colors according to the season, with the Miyamakirishima flowers cover the surface in pink during spring, bright green from the fresh leaves in summer, burning red and yellow of the autumn foliage, and pure white of rime in winter. Thanks to the natural environment of the inner Kinko Bay, the sea is relatively calm, making it suitable for leisure activities such as sea bathing and fishing.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
8. Keramashoto National Park
One of the world's most beautiful seas called "Kerama Blue"
The sea of Aka Island is simply stunning and is extremely popular with divers since the summer season is perfect for diving as well as other marine sports, while whale watching is also popular during winter. The bountiful sea is designated as a national park and can be enjoyed by snorkeling. Vividly orange Kerama Tsutsuji flowers bloom from February until mid-June.
Nearest Destinations
Access to the nearest airport and station
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