National Parks

NORTHERN JAPAN & HOKKAIDO

Daisetsuzan National Park (Hokkaido)

Keywords: Japan’s largest national park, natural monument, wilderness
Experience: Known as the "Roof of Hokkaido," this vast park offers volcanic peaks, hot springs,
and potential bear sightings—perfect for experiencing pristine nature. Autumn foliage is especially spectacular. Recommended only for experienced hikers.
Duration: 1–4 days
Recommended for: Adventurers, alpine hikers

Hidaka-Erimo-Tokachi National Park (Hokkaido)

Keywords: Hidaka Mountains, Cape Erimo, sea cliffs, marine terraces, Tokachi Plain
Experience: A spacious park featuring rugged mountains, wild coastal cliffs, and unspoiled scenery. The diverse geography and raw natural beauty make it ideal for long-distance hikers and road trippers.
Duration: Half-day to multi-day
Recommended for: Long-distance hikers, van travelers

Furepe-no-Taki Trail (Shiretoko, Hokkaido)

Keywords: Furepe Waterfall, Sea of Okhotsk, nature trail, observation platform
Experience: A short nature trail leads through untouched landscape to a viewing platform above the waterfall that plunges into the sea. A quick and scenic outing.
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Recommended for: Families, beginners

Michinoku Coastal Trail (Aomori to Fukushima)

Keywords: 1,000 km, fishing villages, rugged coast, grassy plains, stages, coastal town breaks
Experience: A long-distance trail along Japan’s northeastern coast, offering a varied mix of ocean views, forests, and small villages. Best experienced in stages—some parts can be challenging.
Duration: Flexible (1–30+ days)
Recommended for: Thru-hikers, independent travelers

Bandai-Asahi National Park (Niigata, Fukushima, Yamagata)

Keywords: Bandai volcanic group, Goshikinuma lakes, alpine marshes, sacred mountains, contrasts, wildlife
Experience: A diverse landscape with volcanic peaks, colorful lakes, high moors, and rich wildlife. Dominated by the "Three Sacred Mountains," it’s ideal for nature photography and varied hiking experiences.
Duration: Half-day to multi-day
Recommended for: Versatile hikers, nature enthusiasts

SOUTH JAPAN

CENTRAL JAPAN

Amami Guntō National Park (Kagoshima)

Experience:

A tropical island park featuring lush mangrove forests, rare wildlife (such as the Amami rabbit), and vibrant coral reefs. The island chain invites visitors to hike, dive, and relax in an exceptionally natural setting. The mix of dense forests and turquoise sea makes it a paradise for nature lovers.
Duration: Half to full day
Recommended for: Nature enthusiasts, island explorers

Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park (Ehime & Kōchi)

Experience: This southern national park is known for its dramatic cliffs, subtropical vegetation, and the iconic view from Cape Ashizuri. Coastal hiking trails offer sweeping ocean vistas, and hot springs are nearby. A great choice for peaceful nature experiences away from the crowds.
Duration: 1–3 hours
Recommended for: Those seeking relaxation, coastal hikers

WEST JAPAN

Yoshino-Kumano National Park (Mie, Nara, Wakayama)

Keywords: UNESCO World Heritage, Kumano Kodo, pilgrimage trail, cherry blossoms, rental car tip
Experience: The Kumano Kodo is a historic pilgrimage route through spiritual forests leading to three sacred shrines. Especially beautiful in spring when Mt. Yoshino is covered in cherry blossoms. A must-do section is the 7 km trail from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha (approx. 2–3 hrs).
Duration: –
Recommended for: Cultural hikers, pilgrims

Daisen-Oki National Park (Tottori, Shimane, Okayama)

Keywords: 69,410 ha area, historic shrines, volcanic landscape
Experience: Centered around Mt. Daisen, this lesser-known park features dense forests, sacred sites, and expansive views of the Sea of Japan. A rich blend of volcanic terrain and cultural heritage defines the area.
Duration: 1–2 days
Recommended for: Culture enthusiasts, nature lovers

Uradome Coast Hike (Tottori)

Keywords: 3 km hiking trail, cliffs, caves, glowing squid boats, sunsets
Experience: This well-maintained path follows a dramatic coastline with cliffs and sea caves, offering scenic ocean views. Especially captivating in summer, with glowing squid boats on the water and unforgettable sunsets.
Duration: 1–2 hours
Recommended for: Families, leisurely walkers

red wooden cross on gray concrete pathway between green trees during daytime

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park (Yamanashi, Shizuoka, Tokyo, Kanagawa)

Keywords: Mt. Fuji area, Hakone, hot springs, Izu Peninsula, volcanic zone, Shiraito Falls, dark ocean – white sand
Experience: Japan’s most famous national park combines Mt. Fuji with its surrounding lakes and highlands, the hot springs of Hakone, and the wild volcanic islands of the Izu archipelago. Spectacular contrasts between volcanic rock, white beaches, and deep blue sea. A highlight is the iconic view of Mt. Fuji from the Hakone area.
Duration: Half-day to multi-day
Recommended for: Everyone – from day-trippers to avid hikers

Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park (Tokyo, Saitama, Yamanashi, Nagano)

Keywords: Tokyo proximity, mountain landscape, waterfalls
Experience: A variety of hiking trails wind through forested mountains, gorges, and past historic shrines. This park serves as a green retreat for city dwellers—just two hours from Tokyo. Especially scenic in autumn with colorful foliage.
Duration: Day hikes
Recommended for: Weekend travelers, nature lovers

Ozegahara Marsh (Gunma, Niigata – bordering Chichibu-Tama-Kai)

Keywords: Japan’s largest mountain marsh, wooden walkways, rare alpine flora, well-developed, beginner-friendly
Experience: Stroll across wooden boardwalks through Japan’s largest high-elevation marshland, surrounded by blooming plants and mountains. Rare alpine flowers appear in summer. Shuttle buses make access easy—ideal for less experienced hikers.
Duration: 2–4 hours
Recommended for: Beginners, photographers, those seeking relaxation

Chūbu-Sangaku National Park (Nagano, Gifu, Toyama, Niigata)

Keywords: Hida Mountains, protected zones, Japanese Alps
Experience: Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, this park features rugged peaks, deep valleys, and pristine glacial lakes. A favorite among serious hikers and climbers. Designated protection zones help preserve its unique alpine environment.
Duration: 1–3 days
Recommended for: Experienced hikers