Discovering Japan’s National Parks

For a relatively small country, Japan packs in a diverse array of ecosystems and landforms to delight the senses. With simmering volcanoes, expansive coastlines, dreamy islands, and lush forests that flow over mountains and through valleys, there’s much to explore. Whether you’re interested in discovering secret shrines, natural hot springs, towering peaks, or vibrant spring blooms, this guide highlights the best national parks in Japan to inspire your next adventure.

Nikkō National Park in Kanto

Best for seeing autumn colors

Nikkō National Park is home to one of the country’s most decadent and ornate shrines, Toshogu. The UNESCO World Heritage area also boasts hundreds of other shrines and two Shinto temples, alongside waterfalls, woodlands, lakes, and volcanic mountain ranges. While splendid year-round, Nikkō truly shines in the autumn months when the entire park is aglow with warm colors. Setoaikyo Canyon, located upstream from the river, exhibits fiery leaves of multiple shades while Kinu-numa Swamp stands as the highest swampland in Japan. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot black bears and Japanese macaques throughout Nikkō. Don’t overlook Kegon Falls, regarded as one of the three highest waterfalls in Japan. Moreover, Nikkō is conveniently located just two and a half hours by car from Tokyo.

Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaidō

Best for remote mountain onsen

Covering more than 2,300 square kilometers, Daisetsuzan National Park is a vast wilderness area with soaring mountains. Translated as “Big Snow Mountain,” it features active volcanoes, remote onsen, clear lakes, and dense forests. As one of the least altered natural regions, the park experiences minimal tourism, with most visitors based in the hot-spring villages on its edges. Onsen are accessible near the mountains, enhancing the visitor experience. Additionally, the park becomes a bustling skiing destination during the winter months from November to May. Taking the scenic ropeway from Asahidake Onsen leads travelers to the start of a 2.5-hour hiking trail towards the summit of Mount Asahidake.

Keramashoto National Park in Okinawa

Best for islands and beaches

In 2014, the Kerama Islands, a chain of 30 rugged and visually stunning islands off the coast of Okinawa, were designated as Keramashoto National Park. The archipelago lies approximately 40 kilometers (24.8 miles) by boat from Naha, featuring breathtaking beaches, inlets, mountaintops, and forests.

The surrounding waters, vibrantly colored and even named “Kerama Blue,” are home to over 250 different types of coral. The largest and most mountainous island is Tokashiki, which attracts visitors with its lush green cape, while Zamami offers a more relaxed atmosphere. These islands are rich in marine life, making them a prime location for diving. Geruma Island is another must-visit locale, showcasing the Takara Residence, a traditional Okinawan architectural example known as Sendosuya or “Captain’s House.”

Daisen-Oki National Park in Chūgoku

Best for shrines and temples

Daisen-Oki National Park spans the three prefectures of Shimane, Okayama, and Tottori within western Honshu. In the 8th century, the mountains within the park became a revered site for pilgrims practicing Shugendo, a spiritual tradition involving fasting and prayer to connect with the sacred. The park’s eastern region features the 1729-meter-high (5673-foot) Mount Daisen, along with Mount Senjo and Mount Mitoku, all of which boast ancient paths rich in history. Visitors can discover shrines and temples nestled in expansive beech forests. Mount Daisen also runs conservation projects allowing visitors to participate, including the “One Tree, One Stone” initiative aimed at reforesting the summit. The park is home to the world’s largest amphibian, the giant salamander, with numerous educational experiences available to visitors.

Kirishima-Kinkō-wan National Park in Kyushu

Best for hiking trails

Spanning the prefectures of Kagoshima and Miyazaki, Kirishima-Kinkō-wan National Park is renowned for its hiking trails offering routes and paths of varying lengths and difficulties. Japanese mythology designates this area as the landing site of the gods, reflected in its breathtaking views. However, the park is subject to unpredictable weather and volcanic activity, making careful planning essential. Kirishima features over 20 volcanoes, crater lakes, and hot springs, with various mountain peaks showcasing their stunning colors throughout the seasons.

Setonaikai National Park in Chūgoku

Best for boating and cycling

Setonaikai National Park is characterized by a vast coastline filled with lookout points, bays, and islands of various sizes, making it an ideal destination for ocean enthusiasts. Designated as one of Japan’s first national parks in 1934, it spans across eleven prefectures. Key attractions include the “floating” torii gate of the Shinto shrine on Itsukushima Island and the Naruto Strait, known for its powerful whirlpools. Nevertheless, the true delight is experiencing the small islets of the Seto Inland Sea by bike, accessible via a web of scenic bridges. Along the Kunisaki Peninsula Long Trail lies Daifudo Cave, a historic training ground for monks.

Yoshino-Kumano National Park in Kansai

Best for cherry-blossom viewing

Yoshino-Kumano National Park features a vast landscape of towering peaks and deep valleys, offering a rich history and reputation as a must-see for outdoor lovers visiting Japan. The Kumano Sanzan, comprising the three shrines of Kumano-Hayatama, Kumano-Hongu, and Kumano-Nachi, can be found along the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route within the park. A segment of this area is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the title Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. Notably, Yoshino is esteemed as one of Japan’s finest locations for hanami (cherry blossom viewing in spring), drawing crowds to witness the breathtaking displays at hito-me-sen-bon (1000 trees at a glance). Highlights of the park include Nachi Falls and Dorokyo Gorge, while Sandanbeki Cliff features impressive 50-meter-high (164-foot) cliffs with elevators leading to underworld caves. The diverse forests surrounding Mt. Hakkyo and Misen are also home to the endangered black bears.