Japan is a country renowned for its natural beauty and diversity. If you are a nature lover, there are some spectacular natural sights worth seeing on your next trip to Japan . Here is a list of the five best natural sites to visit in Japan :
1. MOUNT FUJI
Mount Fuji is one of Japan's most iconic natural sites. Located about 100 km from Tokyo, it is the highest peak in Japan, reaching 3776 meters. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can climb Mount Fuji during the summer to enjoy breathtaking views.
Climbing Mount Fuji is an unforgettable experience for those seeking a physical challenge while appreciating the beauty of Japanese nature. There are four main routes to reach the summit, each offering different views of the surrounding landscape. The climb can take between five and ten hours, depending on fitness level and weather conditions, and it is recommended to spend a night in a refuge to acclimatize to the altitude before continuing the climb.
At the top, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lakes below. The sunrise is particularly impressive, and it is the latter which partly contributed to the popularity of Mount Fuji.
2. SHIRETOKO NATIONAL PARK
Shiretoko National Park is a preserved natural site located on the Shiretoko Peninsula, on the island of Hokkaido. Just like Mount Fuji, it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural wealth, including forests, lakes and waterfalls. Visitors can observe different species there, including brown bears, foxes and even eagles.
Shiretoko National Park is a true haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking scenery all year round. In winter, the area is covered in snow and offers magnificent views of the frozen Sea of Okhotsk , while in summer the lakes and waterfalls come alive with life.
Hikes in Shiretoko National Park are popular, offering incredible views of the mountains and sea, visitors can also enjoy boat rides to spot the area's marine wildlife, including whales and dolphins.
3. YAKUSHIMA ISLAND
Yakushima Island is a subtropical island located off the southern coast of Kyushu. It is also listed as a UNESCO world heritage site for its ancient forests and unique ecosystems. The dense and lush vegetation of the island, notably the thousand-year-old Japanese cedars, is a real spectacle for the eyes.
Yakushima Island is a popular Japanese destination for hikers, offering many hiking trails that pass through forests and mountains. Walkers can come face to face with deer, monkeys and other animal species that inhabit the island. One of the most famous places on the island is the Jomon Sugi, a Japanese cedar tree that is over 2000 years old.
In addition to hiking, visitors can also enjoy the island's natural hot springs, as well as white sand beaches and picturesque bays.
4. THE JAPANESE ALPS
The Japanese Alps are a mountain range that runs through central Japan, offering spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, dense forests and crystal clear rivers. The region is a popular location for winter sports, with renowned ski resorts such as Hakuba and Shiga Kogen.
In summer, the Japanese Alps offer incredible hiking opportunities, with trails that wind through the mountains and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Hikers can also discover traditional villages nestled in the mountains, such as Shirakawago and Takayama.
5. IRIOMOTE-ISHIGAKI NATIONAL PARK
The Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park is a natural site located in the Yaeyama Islands, in the extreme southwest of Japan. It is famous for its lush rainforest, white sand beaches and colorful coral reefs. Visitors can observe many marine animals there, including sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays.
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park offers incredible opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling, allowing visitors to experience the area's rich marine life. Rainforest hikes are also popular, offering spectacular views of the area's waterfalls and rivers.
In conclusion, Japan is full of spectacular natural sites that are worth visiting. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply looking for beautiful views, these five natural sites are must-see destinations on your next trip to Japan.
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