Nature and Scenic Spots in Japan
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Among the many sightseeing spots in Japan, we will introduce those related to nature and scenic spots by prefecture.
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Table of contents
Hokkaido Prefecture
Noboribetsu Jigokudani, or "Hell Valley," is a stunning geothermal wonderland in Hokkaido, Japan. Visitors can enjoy the dramatic landscape of steaming hot springs, sulfur vents, and otherworldly terrain. Experience the rejuvenating powers of natural onsens and gain a deeper appreciation for Japan's volcanic activity.
The Kushiro Marshland in Hokkaido is Japan's largest wetland and marsh habitat, famous for its diverse ecosystem and rich birdlife, including the iconic red-crowned crane. Offering a unique blend of serene natural beauty, it's an ideal spot for canoeing and nature walks. The vast landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons give visitors a chance to connect with nature.
Mount Asahidake, located in Daisetsuzan National Park, boasts the highest peak in Hokkaido, providing breathtaking views and abundant natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and rejuvenating hot springs. During winter, the mountain transforms into a paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Tokyo Prefecture
Mount Takao, located just an hour away from central Tokyo, is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers seeking a tranquil escape from the city. Boasting beautiful trails, lush forests, and stunning panoramic views, it offers an accessible and enjoyable hiking experience. Additionally, the mountain is home to the historic Yakuoin Temple, which provides visitors with a glimpse into Japanese culture and spirituality.
Kanagawa Prefecture
Owakudani Valley, located in Hakone, Japan, is a volcanic valley with active sulfur vents and hot springs, offering a unique and otherworldly landscape. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails with stunning views of Mount Fuji, as well as indulge in the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago), which are boiled in the valley's hot springs and believed to extend one's life. Owakudani Valley provides an unforgettable experience, combining natural wonders, captivating scenery, and a taste of local culinary culture.
The Hakone Ropeway is a must-visit tourist attraction in Japan, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding Hakone National Park. Spanning 4 kilometers, the ropeway takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the mountains, passing over sulfurous hot springs, volcanic craters, and breathtaking scenery. The ropeway is a popular way to access Owakudani, a volcanic valley known for its bubbling mud pits and hot springs. Whether you're a nature lover, adventurer, or simply seeking a scenic escape, the Hakone Ropeway is a destination not to be missed.
Gunma Prefecture
Oze-gahara in Gunma is a captivating wetland with stunning seasonal changes, diverse ecosystems, and well-maintained walking trails. Visitors can immerse themselves in untouched nature, spot rare flora and fauna, and marvel at the picturesque landscapes. It's a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
Tochigi Prefecture
Kegon Falls, located in Nikko National Park, is one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls, plunging nearly 100 meters and offering breathtaking views.
Lake Chuzenji, located in Nikko, is a scenic mountainous lake known for its stunning views, especially during the autumn season.
Aichi Prefecture
Korankei, a picturesque valley in Aichi Prefecture, is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, where thousands of maple trees create a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the Tomoe River, crossing charming wooden bridges and admiring the serene beauty of the landscape. The nearby Kojakuji Temple and Taigetsukyo Bridge further enrich the experience, adding cultural and historical depth to this natural paradise.
Mie Prefecture
The allure of Akame Shijūhachi Taki lies in its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. With 48 waterfalls, it offers a stunning landscape that mesmerizes visitors. It is a special place that provides a sense of serenity and healing to those who visit.
Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, boasts a network of ancient pilgrimage trails that traverse the breathtaking Kii Peninsula. Rich in spiritual history and natural beauty, these sacred paths connect the revered Kumano Sanzan shrines, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience a timeless journey through Japan's cultural and natural landscapes.
Gifu Prefecture
Oni-Iwa Park, located in Gifu Prefecture, is famous for its unique rock formation known as the "Demon Rock." Wrapped in local folklore, the park offers an intriguing blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, stunning views, and a tranquil environment away from the city's hustle and bustle.
Shizuoka Prefecture
Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic and tallest mountain, is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts millions of tourists annually. The UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning views, hiking opportunities, and cultural significance, making it a must-visit destination. Its symmetrical cone shape, often depicted in art and photography, adds to its allure and makes it an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
Miho no Matsubara is a scenic coastal area with a picturesque pine forest stretching along the shoreline. Famous for its stunning views of Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay, it has inspired poets and artists throughout history. It is also home to the legendary Hagoromo pine tree, associated with the celestial robe legend.
Shiraito Falls is a captivating natural wonder, showcasing a 150-meter-wide cascade of delicate water threads. The picturesque surroundings offer a serene atmosphere for enjoying the breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. A must-visit destination, Shiraito Falls is sure to enchant visitors with its stunning scenery and tranquil ambiance.
Nagano Prefecture
The Senjojiki Cirque is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Central Japanese Alps. Its stunning landscape, featuring dramatic cliffs and expansive plateaus, was sculpted by glaciers over thousands of years. Visitors can experience thrilling hiking trails, take in panoramic views from the nearby observation deck, and appreciate the beauty of alpine flora and fauna.
Shiraito Falls, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a stunning natural attraction featuring a wide, cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The tranquil atmosphere and picturesque scenery make it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography. Visitors can enjoy easy access to the falls via a short walking trail, making it a must-see destination in the region.
Kyoto Prefecture
"The Bamboo Grove Path," located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, is a beautiful walkway, surrounded as its name suggests, by bamboo that grows so high it seems to cover the sky. This scenery, which symbolizes the beauty of Japan, attracts many tourists from both within the country and abroad. The path, enveloped by towering bamboo, lets you feel the tranquility and coolness, offering an opportunity to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere throughout the year.
Nara Prefecture
Soni Plateau in Nara Prefecture offers a captivating tourist experience with its expansive and picturesque grasslands, providing a serene setting for relaxation and leisurely walks. Spring brings a vibrant display of wildflowers, while autumn paints the meadows in golden hues, creating a breathtaking landscape.
Wakayama Prefecture
Nachi Falls, Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall, offers a mesmerizing sight with its grandeur. Its proximity to the Kumano Nachi Taisha and the Seiganto-ji Temple creates a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. The site becomes particularly magical during the autumn foliage season.
Kumamoto Prefecture
Kusasenrigahama, located in Aso Kuju National Park, is a breathtaking grassland offering stunning views of Mount Aso, lush green meadows, and a picturesque pond with grazing horses and cows. Ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and photography, this tranquil destination allows visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Kusasenrigahama is particularly enchanting during sunrise and sunset, providing a captivating backdrop for memorable experiences.
Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan, offers visitors a unique and thrilling experience with its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the chance to witness volcanic activity at the Nakadake Crater. Located in the Aso region, the area showcases the dramatic power of nature, with expansive calderas, lush greenery, and geological wonders. For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, Mount Aso provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japan's volcanic landscape.
Daikanbo Peak is a popular observation point located in the Aso region of Kumamoto Prefecture, offering panoramic views of the expansive Aso caldera and surrounding landscapes. With its stunning scenery and opportunities for photography, Daikanbo is a must-visit for nature lovers and sightseers alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the region and appreciate the geological marvels formed by the volcanic activity of Mount Aso.
Shirakawa Suigen, located in Kumamoto, Japan, is a picturesque natural spring that provides crystal-clear water to the surrounding area. As a tranquil spot, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sound of flowing water. This hidden gem is perfect for those looking to relax and connect with nature, offering a serene escape from the bustling world.
Okinawa Prefecture
Kabira Bay, located on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Japan, is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere. The bay is famous for its coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours. Surrounded by lush green hills and palm trees, Kabira Bay offers a breathtaking and memorable experience for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.
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Thank you for reading to the end.
( Written by Tatsuo Ikura )
