Shikotsu-Toya National Park was established in 1949 in Hokkaido, Japan. The park is named after its main attractions, Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya, which are known for their beauty and clear waters. With volcanic landscapes and active volcanoes such as Mount Usu, the park provides diverse ecosystems and habitats for wildlife such as bears and birds. It has been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting its unique geological features and thermal areas. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and bathing in hot springs in this picturesque park, which is surrounded by stunning scenery and serene lakes, providing a tranquil nature experience.
Akkeshi-Kiritappu-Konbumori Quasi-National Park is located in eastern Hokkaido, Japan. This 2021-established haven spans 414.87 sq km of captivating landscapes, from coasts and lakes to forests and islands. Discover diverse flora and fauna, including Sakhalin fir, Japanese cranes, and eagles. Engage in hiking, birdwatching, and more, while wetlands like Kiritappu Marsh hold Ramsar Convention importance. This park offers a captivating glimpse into the dynamic interplay of land and sea, a true natural treasure waiting to be uncovered.
Hidden deep within the heart of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, lies a realm of unparalleled natural beauty and geological marvels. Akan Mashu National Park. This sprawling sanctuary, established in 1934, encompasses over 91,000 hectares of pristine wilderness that has been shaped by the forces of time, volcanoes, and the delicate dance of flora and fauna. As we embark on a journey through this captivating national park, we'll unveil its iconic tourist spots, each a testament to nature's grandeur and the indomitable spirit of Hokkaido.
Shiretoko National Park, located in the northeastern part of Hokkaido, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most pristine and ecologically significant natural areas. Shiretoko National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. This recognition was primarily due to its outstanding natural beauty and the park's importance in preserving a unique and unspoiled natural environment. The name "Shiretoko" derives from the Ainu phrase siretok, meaning "End of the Earth," and true to its name, the Shiretoko area is located on the most northeastern point of Japan. The park covers a vast area of approximately 386,000 acres (156,000 hectares) and encompasses both land and marine areas. It is situated on the Shiretoko Peninsula, which extends into the Sea of Okhotsk.
Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, located in the northernmost region of Hokkaido, Japan, is a natural wonderland of diverse landscapes and unique biodiversity. This national park boasts volcanic cones, peat marshlands, coastal cliffs, and pristine shorelines. It's rare and colorful plant life, including species found nowhere else, adds to its allure. The park is a vital stopover for migrating birds, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. Beyond the Hokkaido coast, the park includes Rebun and Rishiri Islands, home to rare wildlife like white-tailed eagles and black woodpeckers. Mount Rishiri, a prominent volcanic cone on Rishiri Island, is a popular hiking destination, providing sweeping vistas. The transformation of the Sarobetsu Plain from a lake into peat marshlands adds another layer of ecological significance. Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of natural wonders and outdoor activities.
Onuma Quasi-National Park is a beautiful and picturesque park located on the Oshima Peninsula in southwest Hokkaidō, Japan. Designated as a quasi-national park in 1958, it covers an area of 90.83 square kilometers and is the smallest major park in Hokkaidō. The park is known for its stunning natural features, including the volcanic Mount Komagatake, Ōnuma and Konuma ponds, and lush birch and maple forests. The ponds, formed by mudflows from Hokkaidō Komagatake, are dotted with watershields and surrounded by scenic landscapes.
Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is a designated Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and was established in 1987 to the expansive and ecologically significant wetlands of the Kushiro Plain. Covering approximately 268.6 square kilometers, the park boasts a diverse ecosystem of marshes, rivers, lakes and forests, serving as a vital habitat for numerous rare and endangered species, including the iconic Japanese Red-Crowned Crane and Blakiston’s fish owl. Visitors to this pristine wilderness can engage in activities such as bird watching, hiking and wildlife observation while exploring elevated boardwalks and observatories that provide stunning vistas of the wetlands and its unique biodiversity. The park’s mission centers on conserving this delicate natural environment and fostering a deeper understanding of its ecological importance.
Daisetsuzan National Park, located is located in the central part of Hokkaido, Japan, is one of the country's oldest and largest national parks. Established in 1934, it encompasses approximately 2,267 square kilometers of rugged and pristine wilderness. Its primary purpose is to preserve the pristine natural beauty of the Daisetsuzan mountain range and surrounding areas. The park is characterized by the Daisetsuzan mountain range, featuring active and dormant volcanoes, deep valleys, and alpine landscapes. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including brown bears, deer, and numerous bird species.
Abashiri Quasi-National Park, or "Abashiri Kokuritsu Koen" in Japanese, was designated as a quasi-national park in 1958. Quasi-national parks in Japan share similar objectives with their national park counterparts, aimed at protecting the natural environment while allowing for sustainable recreational and tourism activities. Abashiri Quasi-National Park encompasses a relatively modest area of approximately 37,000 hectares, but within its confines lies a diverse and captivating assortment of natural wonders.
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