Ogasawara National Park
Only accessible by boat, the long ferry rides to this remote park are definitely worth it. Unique in terms of its evolutionary heritage, Ogasawara is sometimes called the ‘Galapagos of the Orient’ and as such it is fascinating to explore. The turquoise waters surrounding the islands beautifully frame the amazing scenery that contains many species of fauna, flora and mammal that are endemic to this unique environment. The stunning rock arch at Minamijima is just one of the highlights of the national park. With amazing snorkelling, delightful hiking and an incredible variety of water sports for you to enjoy; what are you waiting for?
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park
Famous for the Iriomote wild cat that resides within its boundaries, the secluded islands of this national park are simply marvelous to explore. Lagoons surround some of the islands and their crystal clear waters only add to the beauty of this untamed wilderness. Stupendous views abound and a number of sweeping panoramas are to be found when wandering along the limestone cliffs that infrequently look out over the beaches below. On top of all this, cascades illuminate the dense undergrowth with the delightful sounds they make as well as the lovely picture they paint amidst the trees.
Aso-Kuju National Park
Named after Mount Aso and the Kuju Mountains, this national park’s beautiful landscapes are dominated by their lofty peaks that rise dramatically from the flatlands surrounding them. Mount Aso, an active volcano, has a lovely caldera that visitors can stroll around and nearby are a number of hot springs that are delightful to bathe in. The volcanic landscape is barren and scarred from lava flows and all the more impressive for it. On the plains beneath the Kuju Mountains are the Kuju Flower Gardens which explode with color and life.
Towada-Hachimantai National Park
This mountainous region has a number of lovely trails and paths that make for wonderful hiking through the wilderness. The park changes with the seasons and in winter the snow-covered Juhyo forests are a spectacular and unusual sight to behold. In summer a myriad of colors spring forth and give life to the area through the rich array of fauna and flora that coats the mountains within the park. The volcanic nature of the area means that hot springs can be found within the confines of Towada-Hachimantai and lovely rivers and lakes are also interspersed amongst the never-ending mountains.
Yoshino-Kumano National Park
The unique appearance of the rock formations that rear impressively along the coastline of this national park are just one of the stunning natural wonders that you can find in Yoshino-Kumano. Jutting out into the sea, these intriguing geological marvels are fascinating to behold as are the varying landscapes that mix and merge to create a beautiful patchwork of incredible scenes. Peaceful rivers wind their way through steep ravines that turn into mountains before your eyes, forests coat the hills and valleys and in between all this shrines and waterfalls can be found.
Kerama Shoto National Park
This idyllic archipelago of islands lying off of Okinawa are bedazzling such is their dreamlike appearance. Lush fauna and flora coat the low-lying interiors of the islands and staying overnight in one of the minshuku on offer is well worth the expense. Offshore, the eclectic colors of the coral reefs attract scuba divers and snorkelers who revel in the beautiful underwater realm that paints such a pretty picture. Sea turtles lazily float by and lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of humpback whales that sometimes pass through its waters.
Nikko National Park
Nikko is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. The waters of Kegon Falls delightfully plunge into the pools below and are strikingly visible amidst the thick forests on either side of it. Just behind the waterfalls is the enormous Lake Chuzenji which so beautifully lies between the mountains and hills that surround it. Of these, Mount Nantai is the most impressive and it mesmerizingly looks out over the lake, picturesque in its splendour. Mount Nikko-Shirane is another amazing feature of the park and its snow-capped peak is distinctive and regal, standing out against the bright blue skies.
Shiretoko National Park
The remote and secluded location of Shiretoko National Park has helped to keep its beautiful landscapes untouched and untamed. The main draw to the park are the Five Lakes that are so resplendent to behold; radiant in their beauty the lakes are charming to wander around and the mountains and forests surrounding them only add to their splendor. A delightful attraction within the park is Kamuiwakka Falls which is well worth the effort to visit.
Akan Mashu National Park
One of the oldest national parks in the country, the environment of Akan Mashu has long been protected and preserved for all to enjoy. The stunning scenery on show makes the park wonderful to explore and its diverse ecosystems and wide range of attractions only add to its splendor. From the lovely lakes of Onneto and Akan to the mountains of Me-Akan and Nishibetsu and the hot springs of Kawayu; Akan Mashu needs to be seen to be believed such is the wealth of beautiful things to see and do.
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has it all and the contrasting landscapes are awe-inspiring to explore. The park has over a thousand volcanic islands dispersed along its shores and beautiful waterways brilliantly caress their way amongst the mountains, hills and valleys of the area. Lakes and hot springs proliferate as do cherry blossom trees that characterize its landscapes. Waterfalls also abound as do ancient forests that grow in the old lava fields that once blazed their way down the slopes of the volcanoes.