3 Of The Best National Parks To Explore In Japan In 2022

While Japan is relatively small, it offers an amazing array of beautiful ecosystems set in beautiful national parks across the country. What with gorgeous coastlines, idyllic islands, dense forests and towering volcanoes there is plenty to choose from. Along the way, visitors will discover natural hot springs, colorful flowers, hidden shrines and more. Read on to learn about three of the best national parks in Japan to visit on your next trip.

1. Yoshino-Kumano National Park in Kansai, Japan

Best known for its cherry blossoms in spring, Yoshino-Kumano National Park features towering peaks and deep valleys. However, it also features a rich history with three shrines to be found along the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route inside the park. The shrines of Kumano-Hayatama, Kumano-Hongu and Kumano-Nachi are collectively named the Kumano. Meanwhile, a section of the park is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.

Meanwhile, Joshino is also famed as one of the best locations for hanami (cherry-blossom viewing in spring). Crowds tend to gather to see the beautiful display of 1,000 trees. However, another popular spot is the Nachi Falls and Dorokyo Gorge.

2. Nikkō National Park, Kanto

The spectacular Nikkō National Park is renowned for its beautiful fall scenes but is also famously home to one of Japan’s most ornate shrines, Toshogu. Moreover, the UNESCO World Heritage site features many other shrines and two Shinto temples. Meanwhile, (pictured above and top) these stand alongside, lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and stunning volcanic mountain ranges.

While Nikkō National Park is gorgeous all year round, it is particularly lovely during the fall when the trees are lit with warm, golden colors. One of the best places to experience fall is the Setoaikyo Canyon located upstream from the river. Meanwhile, wildlife, including Japanese macaques and black bears can often be spotted in the park. Another bonus is the fact that Nikkō is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Tokyo.

3. Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaidō

The stunning Daisetsuzan National Park covers a vast wilderness area, backed by soaring mountains. Meanwhile, the name Daisetsuzan literally translates to “Big Snow Mountain.” In fact, it is generously dabbed with white in the winter months. The park is best known for its remote mountain onsen, crystal-clear lakes, dense forests and active volcanoes.

Most of the park has minimal tourism, as most travelers head to the hot spring villages on the park’s borders. However, onsen are also found at the foot of the mountains just waiting for visitors. Meanwhile, in the winter months from November to May, this is a busy skiing location. Travelers can take a scenic ropeway from Asahidake Onsen to the start of a 2.5-hour hiking trail, heading to Mount Asahidake’s summit.

With Japan slowly re-opening to international visitors, the national parks of the country are a welcome retreat after the two-year pandemic.