Let’s do an experiment really quickly… When someone mentions Japan, what’s the first thing that comes into your mind? We’re almost sure that the answer would be Tokyo, with its neon lights and skyscrapers, or maybe a millenary temple, perhaps even cherry blossoms or Mount Fuji. But, we’re sure that natural landscapes aren’t probably at the top of your lists. Nonetheless, our mission today is to show you just how many amazing natural sceneries you can find in Japan, giving you the opportunity to discover a different facet of the country and being able to find peace and quiet between the hustle and bustle of Japan’s modernity.
Beaches, mountains, forests and natural hot springs are some of the most enchanting places of the country, that oftentimes are like hidden gems that visitors cannot discover. We’re going to change all of that and go on an outdoor adventure to the heart and soul of Japan, please come with us!
It is safe to say that Japanese natural sceneries are unforgettable and some of the most beautiful in the world.
Nature Escape Day Trips:
There are 34 national parks in Japan, which means that there are plenty of sites to visit for a day-long natural escape. We’re going to go over some of the most special parks, and see how you can spend a wonderful day surrounded by nature and tranquility. To begin with, we have the Nikkō National Park, located in Kanto, which is a UNESCO World Heritage area that is home to Toshogu, a very popular decadent and ornate shrine. Actually, Nikkō is the perfect combination of nature, culture and history, and really captures the spirit of Japan; whether we’re talking about magnificent waterfalls, woodlands and lakes, or historical Buddhist temples and Shinto Shrines, you’ll find this and much more during your visit. Although the National Park is open to the public all year round, the best time to go there is during autumn, when there is an explosion of ochre colors all across the park.
We also have to mention Keramashoto National Park in Okinawa, a sunny place of beaches, forests and mountaintops that will leave you breathless. In 2014, a chain of 30 islands off the coast of Okinawa, known as the Kerama Islands, were designated as the Keramashoto National Park, and since then, they have impressed everyone with their lush sceneries. Just as we said that Nikkō National Park has the most beautiful autumnal colors, Keramashoto National Park has the bluest waters, and through its crystal clear sea, you’ll be able to see over 250 different types of corals, turtles and other tropical fishes. So, get ready to dive!
Finally, we’ll go over Setonaikai National Park in Chūgoku, which was the first park to receive an official classification as “National Park” in 1934, and it is one of the country’s largest. Its coastline is rich in bays and islands that are perfect for all travelers in love with the ocean and with adventure. Part of its allure is that each individual island is a jewel in itself; for example, the island of Itsukushima is famous for its “floating” torii gate of the Shinto shrine, while the Naruto Strait, between Shikoku and Awaji, is known for its powerful whirlpools, that you can see from a boat.
Keramashoto National Park is a jewel of Okinawa, with lush greens and the bluest, most calming waters.
Trips, Outdoor Adventures, Excursions:
The National Parks that we saw earlier made something very clear: you don’t go to Japan only to marvel at the sight of megalopolis such as Tokyo, feel the spiritual connection with its monumental temples and shrines, or be part of one of its colorful and vibrant subcultures. All of that are key parts of the experience, but there’s even more! Nature is a key part of Japan’s spirit, and it invites you to be free, enjoy the outdoors and begin living fresh and new adventures. Let’s see some of the activities that you can do during your trip…
In Japan, there’s an obvious winner when thinking about hiking, Mount Fuji. It is the country’s tallest peak and one of its most iconic sights. Nonetheless, it is reserved for experienced hikers, and we thought that we could talk about activities that anyone could do. Because of this, we invite you to go all the way up Mount Rishiri, nicknamed “Rishiri Fuji” given its resemblance to Mount Fuji. This mountain is just over 5,500 feet tall, but its hiking experience is wonderful, and will reward you with an incredible view. Reaching the summit will take a full day, but if its seems like too much, there’s a cycling road tracing around 38 miles of the island’s outskirts, so grab a bike and get to know the island up close, always being accompanied by Mount Rishiri as your breathtaking backdrop. We also thought about Kirishima-Kinkō-wan National Park in Kyushu, which is famous due to its numerous hiking trails, some of them easier or more difficult, and with varying lengths, that are scattered through a park filled with volcanoes, crater lakes and hot springs. The volcanic ambience and lush forests make this National Park a complete work of art, and its changing colors through the seasons make everyone who visits fall in love with the place.
For now, enough about hiking… How would you feel if you had the opportunity to bike through the countryside, marveling at the Japan Sea coast, stopping at one of Japan’s most sacred shrines (Izumo Taisha) or pedaling through the outskirts of Lake Shinji? Well, that’s exactly what you can do in Shimane, which has a massive network of cycling trails in a variety of terrains, made for everyone eager to get to know the zone. There’s even a trail that can take you through the Chugoku Mountains! These are the kind of adventures that await you in Japan, aren’t you excited?
Mount Rishiri is definitely not the highest peak of Japan, but it is a great opportunity for everyone to experience a glorious hike.
Geothermal Hot Spring Sojourns:
In our final stop exploring Japan’s natural wonders, we’ll talk about a quintessential Japanese experience: onsen, or natural hot springs. There’s not a region of the country that doesn’t have its own onsen or resort town. If you’re wondering what they are and why they are so important in Japan, allow us to explain: hot springs are made up of volcanic spring water that contain different types of minerals, each one of them with different health benefits, such as clearer skin or better blood circulation. Additionally, hot springs are simply relaxing for the body and mind. Thus, throughout the year, but especially during winter, the Japanese head over to a resort or ryokan (Japanese-style inns) for the weekend and try to relax for a bit.
As we said, there are innumerable onsen across Japan, but there are some that stand out the most. For example, the Kusatsu Onsen is one of the most popular hot springs in the country. There are plenty of resorts and ryokan to stay the night, as well as shops and cafés to spend your time once you’re absolutely relaxed. Also, this area offers skiing during the winter, and hiking for the warmer months. It is said that Kusatsu hot springs cure every illness, except lovesickness. Although, we have no doubt that a trip like this might help a broken heart heal bit by bit. On the other hand, Yufuin Onsen is located in southern Japan, and has a privileged view of the twin peaks of Mount Yufu. The area has an elegant aura, with boutique stores, art museums and cafés that create an inviting ambience.
Finally, it is impossible to talk about Japanese hot springs without mentioning the Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata. This is a very special sight, because wooden buildings rest across the Ginzan river, and at night, warm lamps light up the soothing course of the water. It is truly a beautiful Japanese scenery to behold. These hot springs are more popular during winter, when everyone arrives in town in order to take an outdoor winter bathing, when the contrasts between the cold of the atmosphere and the warmth of the water create the ultimate experience.
With such a breathtaking sight, how could anyone want to leave Ginzan?
We have come to the end of our outdoor adventure in Japan, in which we have traveled through mountains, volcanoes, coastlines and hot springs. Now you know that nature is a key part of Japan, and that you cannot visit the country without experiencing something like what we have shown you… We hope to see you soon!
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