Japan’s national parks often fall somewhat under the radar of visitors to its shores. Natural wonders abound however and the plethora of incredible sights will leave you astounded at the scenic beauty before your eyes.
1. 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. Relaxing and refreshing to visit; the gardens’ stunning backdrop of mountains makes it all the more lovely to behold.
2. 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.
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3. Nikko National Park
Home to the stunning Toshogu Shrine, Nikko is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country and as such is definitely worth visiting. History abounds in the park and the aforementioned shrine is a must-see as is the Buddhist temple of Rinno-ji. Breathtaking scenery is common in Nikki and visitors are guaranteed to adore all of its amazing sights on offer. The waters of Kegon Falls, for instance, 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 splendor. 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. Unending are the wonders on display in Nikko National Park.
4. Shiretoko National Park
Located right in the north-eastern tip of Hokkaido, 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. Clambering over the rocks that dot the river, the water gradually warms up as you near the source of the hot springs and bathing in their warm waters makes for a lovely experience with the pristine nature all around you. For a lovely view in Shiretoko National Park, head to Shiretoko Pass and gaze out over the beautiful scenery before you.
5. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Comprising a vast array of natural wonders, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has it all and the contrasting landscapes are awe-inspiring to explore. The main draw is the iconic Mount Fuji that is so distinctive in its appearance and while it is not the sole reason that it is Japan’s most popular national park, it certainly does. 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. Bring your camera; you’re going to need it for all the amazing sights on offer. Simply unbelievable to visit.
Source Touropia
