10 Incredible Places to Connect with Nature in Japan
By Lola Méndez
10 Incredible Places to Connect with Nature in Japan
By Lola Méndez
A country made up of mountains, forests, and stretches of coastline, Japan offers you plenty of opportunity to spend time among nature.
Japan is known for historic temples, bustling cities, and Tokyo Disneyland, but intrepid travelers know that the Asian country has endless nature-centric experiences to be enjoyed. Here are ten incredible places to connect with nature in Japan.
Takachiho Gorge
Located in Miyazaki, the Takachiho Gorge is a volcanic canyon formed by ancient lava falls. While in Kyushu, rent a row boat and cruise through the gorge past the Manai Falls.
Kushiro Marshlands
Bird watchers must visit Kushiro Marshlands and try their luck at spotting endangered tanchos, otherwise known as the red-crowned crane. In the winter months, flocks gather here to feed. The iconic birds are a symbol of fidelity as they mate for life.
Kushiro Marshlands
Bird watchers must visit Kushiro Marshlands and try their luck at spotting endangered tanchos, otherwise known as the red-crowned crane. In the winter months, flocks gather here to feed. The iconic birds are a symbol of fidelity as they mate for life.
Jigokudani Yaen Koen
Seeing Japanese macaques, known as snow monkeys, is a must for wildlife enthusiasts. In the winter at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, which was established in 1964, you may be able to spot the primates bathing in hot springs with their pink faces and light brown fur. The monkeys are in the park year-round.
Mt. Aso
Hikers should head to Aso-Kuju National Park to explore the volcanic mountain range. Mt. Aso is the most active volcanic crater on Earth and its five peaks are said to resemble a sleeping Buddha. After hiking, travelers can soothe their sore muscles in onsen hot springs powered by the area’s volcanic activity.
Mt. Aso
Hikers should head to Aso-Kuju National Park to explore the volcanic mountain range. Mt. Aso is the most active volcanic crater on Earth and its five peaks are said to resemble a sleeping Buddha. After hiking, travelers can soothe their sore muscles in onsen hot springs powered by the area’s volcanic activity.
Ishigaki Island
In the southernmost part of Japan is a tropical paradise perfect for snorkeling. You can even dive with manta rays in Kabira Bay! Ishigaki Island is home to some of the best beaches in Okinawa, tropical hiking trails, and vibrant coral reefs.
Iya Valley
For a one-stop-shop of Japan’s incredible nature head to the remote Iya Valley in Shikoku’s mountains and take a boat ride through Oboke Canyon, stroll across historic kazura-bashi (suspension vine bridges), soak in natural hot springs, and visit traditional thatched homes in the Ochiai hamlet.
Iya Valley
For a one-stop-shop of Japan’s incredible nature head to the remote Iya Valley in Shikoku’s mountains and take a boat ride through Oboke Canyon, stroll across historic kazura-bashi (suspension vine bridges), soak in natural hot springs, and visit traditional thatched homes in the Ochiai hamlet.
Iriomote Island
Iriomotejima is the largest Yaeyama Island with wild terrain to explore from unspoiled beaches, waterfalls, mangroves, and dense forest-covered mountains. You can explore the jungle through treks, kayaking, or for those less adventurous, on a jungle cruise. Keep an eye out for the elusive endangered Iriomote wildcat.
Kamikochi
In the Northern Japanese Alp is Kamikochi. The mountainous terrain creates a spectacular alpine wonderland. Take a stroll along the Azusa River, visit the Kappabashi Bridge for views of the Hotaka Range peaks, and hike to Myojin Pond.
Kamikochi
In the Northern Japanese Alps is Kamikochi. The mountainous terrain creates a spectacular alpine wonderland. Take a stroll along the Azusa River, visit the Kappabashi Bridge for views of the Hotaka Range peaks, and hike to Myojin Pond.
Kumano Kodo
Combine nature with history by walking along the thousand-year-old World Heritage Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route. The spiritual path winds through the mountains of Honshu’s Kii Peninsula. Follow the footsteps of countless pilgrims who’ve taken this path on their quest for enlightenment.
Oirase Gorge
Head out on foot or a mountain bike on the 14-kilometer path to take in the beauty of the Oirase Gorge along the Oirase Stream through dense woods, past the Choshi Falls, and over the Deaibashi (Hook-up Bridge). Fall is a wonderful time to visit due to the comfortable temperature and the leaves changing colors.
Oirase Gorge
Head out on foot or a mountain bike on the 14-kilometer path to take in the beauty of the Oirase Gorge along the Oirase Stream through dense woods, past the Choshi Falls, and over the Deaibashi (Hook-up Bridge). Fall is a wonderful time to visit due to the comfortable temperature and the leaves changing colors.
Get Outside
The natural wonders of Japan await.
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