Top Nature Experiences in Japan
Japan is a top contender for the most beautiful country in the world and boasts a massive diversity of natural sights to enjoy. While Mount Fuji and the cherry blossoms might garner the most attention, Japan’s natural wonders like the enchanted greens of Yakushima and Kamikōchi’s highland river valley are worth the visit. With so many natural highlights packed into this compact country, it can be challenging to narrow them down, but here’s a solid start to explore ten of the best nature experiences in Japan.
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The Annual Cherry Blossom Blooms
As spring arrives, countless cherry trees across Japan burst into a spectrum of colors, ranging from the palest pink to a vibrant magenta. This marks the occasion for locals to gather in parks and along riverbanks for cherry blossom viewing parties known as hanami. This centuries-old tradition remains popular today. Despite the blossoms lasting only a week or two, they symbolize the fleeting nature of life and remind us to seize the moment.
The Revered and Timeless Mount Fuji
Even from a distance, Mt Fuji (3776m) will take your breath away. Up close, the perfectly symmetrical cone of Japan’s highest peak is nothing short of mesmerizing. Witnessing dawn from the summit? It’s pure magic. Fuji-san is among Japan’s most revered attractions, with hundreds of thousands of climbers tackling it every year—continuing a centuries-old pilgrimage to this sacred volcano. Those who prefer scenic views can explore the surrounding, less-demanding peaks.
Nachi Waterfall’s Fountain of Life
Standing at 133m, Nachi-no-taki in Nachi-Katsuura is Japan’s highest waterfall. For an up-close look, hike the 135 steps to a small shrine, Hirō-jinja, featuring a viewing platform (which also serves as a worship spot for the falls). Drinking water from the dragon’s mouth at the shrine is believed to promote longevity. This vista is one of the most recognizable images of Japan.
The Tides of Muroto-misaki, Shikoku
Muroto-misaki is one of Shikoku’s two notable capes that jut into the Pacific. In Japanese literature, Muroto is famed as one of the wildest locations in the nation, often referred to as the “doorway to the land of the dead.” On tranquil days, the Pacific resembles a serene millpond; however, during storms, Muroto faces colossal waves and strong winds.
The Spellbinding Forests of Yakushima
Yakushima, a small island off the coast of southern Kyūshū, is often described as magical and enchanting—almost otherworldly. It houses some of Japan’s last primeval forests, featuring the unique yakusugi, an ancient cedar native to the island with roots that flourish like alien tentacles. Hiking trails weave through craggy terrain often blanketed in moss, and this landscape is reputed to have inspired the iconic animated film Princess Mononoke (1997).
Hokkaidō’s Hot Springs and Volcanic Wonders
Hokkaidō, Japan’s northernmost island, features a largely untamed and volcanic landscape, characterized by enormous mountains scattered with crystal-blue caldera lakes and opalescent, sulfur-rich hot springs. The island’s flora and fauna show a striking similarity to that of Sakhalin, located to the north in Russia.
Kamikōchi’s Lush Vistas
Kamikōchi is one of Japan’s most stunning natural vistas, a highland river valley embraced by the towering peaks of the Northern Japan Alps. Easy day hikes are available along the pristine Azusa-gawa through serene forests filled with willow, larch, and elm trees. As the birthplace of Japanese alpinism, Kamikōchi also serves as a gateway for more challenging treks up some of the country’s tallest mountains.
Akiyoshido Cave’s Spectacular Underground Journey
Located within the Akiyoshi-dai Quasi-National Park in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Akiyoshi-dō is Japan’s largest limestone cave. While it extends approximately 6 miles (10 km), public access is confined to a 1 km long section. In certain areas, the cave measures 100m in width, with a river coursing through it. The water’s reflection against the towering cave walls creates an illusion of walking over a vast ravine.
The White-Sand Shores of Kabira Bay, Ishigaki-jima
Kabira-wan on Ishigaki-jima is a breathtaking sheltered bay adorned with white-sand shores and captivating rocky islets offshore. Although swimming is prohibited due to pearl cultivation, glass-bottomed boats offer visitors a glimpse of the vibrant marine life inhabiting the reef below.
Tottori’s Sprawling Sand Dunes
Tottori boasts the largest sand dunes in Japan, stretching over 6 miles (10 km) along the coast and measuring about 1.2 miles (2 km) wide in certain areas. These dunes have existed for over 100,000 years, and their landscape continually evolves as they are reshaped by the tides and winds.
This article was originally published on November 10, 2020.
This article was first published on November 10, 2020, and updated on September 28, 2021.
