Japan is known for bullet trains, sushi and busy cities. But the country also offers incredible natural scenery. Here are some
of the national parks that we think are worth a visit.
Shiretoko National Park
To see Japan at its most pristine, look no further than Shiretoko National Park, located in eastern Hokkaido on the unspoilt Shiretoko Peninsula. While some of the park is accessible by road, no track leads particularly far, heightening the sense of isolation and escapism experienced here, with the far northern tip only accessible by boat or extensive hike. In this nirvana of nature, travellers can get up close and personal with local wildlife such as deer and foxes, but make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the resident brown bears that call this region home.
Daisetsuzan National Park
Daisetsuzan is located on Japan’s most northern island, Hokkaido, and is its largest national park. The area is mountainous, with plenty of wildlife to spot including brown bears and deer. If you’re wanting to get away from it all, Daisetsuzan is definitely the place to go. There are many hiking tracks throughout the park, best tackled between late June to September. A number of onsens (inns) around the edge of the park make a great base for exploring the park, particularly Asahidake Onsen, which has a ropeway leading to some easy trails around sulfurous vents
Kerama Islands National Park
Sunbathing isn’t immediately something you associate with Japan, but that’s certainly a popular activity in the Kerama Islands. Of these 36 islands, only four are inhabited, meaning there are plenty of untouched spots to explore. The national park is characterised by its pristine white sand beaches and the clear blue waters of the East China Sea. The islands are rimmed by coral reefs and include world-leading dive spots. Depending upon the time of year you visit, you’ll also get a chance to do some whale-watching, getting up close with the gentle giants of the sea from January to March.
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Located close to Tokyo and containing Japan’s tallest mountain, Mt Fuji, this national park is both easy to visit and also stunning. As well as Mt Fuji, the large national park encompasses Hakone, the Izu Peninsula and the Izu Islands. The scenery ranges from mountains and lakes to islands, and visitors can enjoy hot springs and fresh seafood. The Izu Islands are a popular diving spot for many. In the Hakone region, make sure you drop in to the hot springs and Owakudani, which is an active volcanic zone complete with hot rivers, springs and sulfurous fumes, as well as views of Mt Fuji on clear days.
Feeling inspired? Contact us now to discuss your next trip!
