HOKKAIDO’S NATURAL TREASURES
✤ DAISETSUZAN NATIONAL PARK
Daisetsuzan National Park features a number of large mountains and ranges, creating a breathtaking view. Mount Asahidake is the tallest volcanic mountain in Hokkaido at 2,291 meters. Visitors can access the 1600 metres point by ropeway, to the pristine lake Sugatami-no Ike. Tenninkyo is a scenic gorge located in the northwest of the park with unique rock formations and steep cliffs formed by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. It is also home to a number of natural hot springs. Hagoromo-no Taki, the tallest waterfall in Hokkaido, is one of the main attractions of the park. Fall is the best time of year to catch a glimpse of stunning autumn colours.
✤ KUSHIROSHITSUGEN NATIONAL PARK
Kushiroshitsugen National Park is located between Kushiro and Akan-Mashu National park and is the only location where the endangered Japanese crane also known as the Red-crowned crane live.The park does not receive too much snowfall in winter which attracts many visitors to the park for bird watching and other outdoor activities. Kushiro River is an iconic river that runs through the area and is a suitable habitat for a range of fish and waterfowl. The stunning landscape can be viewed from a high point from the five observation decks which offer spectacular views from different locations or visitors can take a canoe tour in the Kushiro river.
✤ RISHIRI-REBUN-SAROBETSU NATIONAL PARK
The charming Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park covers includes Rishiri and Rebun Islands, which are both equally famous for their rich natural beauty. Mount Rishiri stands an impressive 1,721 meters tall at the centre of the island. The park offers hiking courses dotted with impressive sceneries that are created by verdant alpine plants and natural ponds. Sarobetsu-genya is a coastal plain situated in the northern part of the mainland of Hokkaido that is home to a variety of unique and interesting flora and fauna. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to watch migrating birds like ducks, geese, and swans.
✤ SHIRETOKO NATIONAL PARK
Known for its enamouring landscape, Shiretoko National Park is located in Shiretoko area, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an ideal environment for land and marine ecosystems. Visitors can experience untamed nature that has remained unchanged over centuries. One of the biggest characteristics of the park is the unique geography created by volcanic activity, drift ice and glaciers. The dynamic landscape allows visitors to experience a range of activities such as trekking, a guided tour to see wildlife such as brown bears and sea kayaking.