Japan's breathtaking landscape effortlessly blends ancient culture, stunning natural beauty, and diverse ecosystems. The nation's national parks, which boast some of Asia's most captivating scenery, are undeniably among its greatest treasures. They offer diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush forests and pristine coastlines. These five stunning national parks in Japan guarantee tourists a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the country's wild side.
Located just a few hours north of Tokyo, Nikko National Park offers visitors a classic view of the significance of Japanese culture. This park offers an amazing combination of natural landscapes and renowned historical architecture. The park is well known for its UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines, amongst which a fan favourite is the Toshogu Shrine. The park offers a spiritual experience as much as it is a visual feast. The park is famous for its stunning autumn foliage, which covers the mountains in shades of gold, orange, and red. Kegon Waterfalls, considered one of Japan’s most spectacular waterfalls, is here and is a must-visit during autumn when the trees create a scenic backdrop. The serene lake Chuzenji is located at the base of Mount Nantai, a stratovolcano, which creates a fantastic atmosphere for a tranquil water body. Nikko National Park offers the ideal fusion of nature, culture and leisure with its hiking trails through lush green woods, marshlands and hot springs. There is something for every traveller here.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Yumoto, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1662, Japan
Home to Mount Fuji, Japan’s most famous natural landmark, this national park has spectacular landscapes. The park stretches from the foothills of Mount Fuji to the Izu islands and offers vivid scenery of peaceful lakes, stunning coastlines, and volcanic landscapes. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Fuji is an active volcano that attracts explorers and photographers from all over the world. Visitors can hike up the slopes during summer or enjoy the view of the beautiful peak from the Fuji Five Lakes, specifically Lake Kawaguchi, which reflects the mountain in its calm waters. Mount Fuji is an intense climb that can be difficult for any trekker. A less strenuous activity includes a visit to Lake Ashinoko. Visitors can take traditional boats to float peacefully. The Izu Peninsula provides beaches, hot springs, and pristine waters for diving and snorkelling for tourists searching for Japan’s coastal beauty.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
A breathtaking group of 36 small islands, ringed by the purest blue waters, Keramashoto National Park is situated southwest of Okinawa. This is one of the top destinations for scuba diving, snorkelling, and marine life exploration because of its renowned coral reefs. The islands' waters are so crystal pure that they go by the moniker of "Kerama Blue." Home to a variety of marine life, such as humpback whales, tropical fish, and sea turtles, whale-watching trips are a major attraction here, especially in winter. Compared to other national parks in Japan, Keramashoto has a relaxed beach vibe. Visitors can find their peaceful haven in a tropical paradise famous for its white sand beaches like Tokashiki Island.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: 109 Zamami, Shimajiri District, Okinawa 901-3402, Japan
Located on the northernmost tip of Hokkaido, Shiretoko National Park is one of Japan's last untamed regions. Its name, which translates to 'the end of the earth' in the Ainu language, beautifully sums up its wild beauty and solitude. Shiretoko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is well-known for its natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rocky beaches. The park is a paradise for those who love adventure and the outdoors. During the summer, tourists can go on boat tours around the peninsula's rocky coastline, where they may see whales, dolphins, and sea lions, or hike through ancient woods and the Shiretoko Five Lakes. Ice from the Sea of Okhotsk drifts into the park during the winter, turning it into an icy wonderland.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Japan, Hokkaido, Shari District, Shari, Rausu Town, Menashi District
The park is a vast expanse of dense woods, volcanic lakes, and rare wildlife located on the eastern side of Hokkaido. It is home to three magnificent lakes—Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Lake Kussharo—popular tourist attractions. Lake Mashu, surrounded by steep crater walls, is often called the "clearest lake in the world" and has an air of charm and ethereality, especially when covered by frequent fog. Meanwhile, Lake Akan is known for its marine algae, which form unique spherical shapes and are revered by the Indigenous Ainu people. Visitors can also explore Ainu villages to gain insight into the indigenous culture and the island's unique connection to nature, providing a meaningful and cultural experience. This park offers a rare glimpse into Japan's ancient natural landscape.
Timings: 8:30 – 5:15 pm (all days)
Location: Japan, 085-0467 Hokkaido, Kushiro, Akancho Akanko Onsen 1-1-1