Nature of Japan - national parks and reserves for active recreation

Japan is a state located on the islands. More than half the country’s territory is covered with mountains. The length from north to south, as well as the island character, determined the natural diversity of Japan in each separate area. The Japanese climate is under constant influence of Monsoons and sea currents. It has a pronounced change of seasons. In general terms, the climate of the Japanese archipelago is relatively mild and close to temperate. From island to island, climatic conditions vary: from subarctic on the island of Hokkaido to subtropical in dry Okinawa.

Japan is located at the junction of tectonic plates which is the reason for the presence of several active volcanoes. Among them are Showa-Shinzan and Sakurajima. The country has a variety of volcanic landscapes: from the caldera to the caves of Fugaku Fuketsu .This is where the cold winds blow from. Many geothermal zones with their hot springs are situated in Japan. The country is surrounded on all sides by seas. The abundance of picturesque water landscapes is due to the large amount of rainfall. In the coastal areas, there are beautiful sandy beaches, majestic cliffs, long tidal bands and coral reefs inhabited by various species of birds and sea animals.

The natural beauty of Japan is represented by many beautiful places, with each one creating an atmosphere of serenity. The most famous natural landmark is Mount Fuji, the current stratovolcano of Honshu Island. Fuji is popular among guests of the country and the Japanese themselves, who consider it a shrine. Every Japanese dreams of reaching the peak of this mountain at least once in their lifetime. It gives tourists exciting experiences and pleasure from contemplating its divine appearance. Fujiyama is located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The Park also includes five lakes, geothermal springs and the Izu Peninsula. One of the main beauties of these places is Lake Ashi, in which the mountain is reflected. Water tours are organized along the lake. To the south-east, is located the double volcano Owakudani which is still active. The main attractions can be easily seen from the monorail track. You can climb to the top of Fujiyama by cable car. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another pearl of Japanese natural wealth is the Jigkudani Monkey Park. This place is famous for its warm springs. The name of the Park literally translates as “the hell valley”. The name has taken hold because of the steam veil constantly hanging in the air and the boiling water flowing from the frozen ground. The Park is surrounded by steep rocky cliffs and dense forests. A special color is given to it by a large population of wild Japanese monkeys that inhabit this place in the winter season when the earth is covered with snow. Monkeys come from steep mountain slopes and from snow-covered forests to swim in warm springs and bask in hot fumes. In the evenings, they return to their habitats.

Shirakami-Sanchi is a mountain reserve in the province of Aomori. Due to the unsuitability for breeding mushrooms shiitake, many beeches spared by farmers were preserved in it. Together with beech trees, hornbeam, dimorfant and Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Katsura) grow in the forest. In the reserve, there is a triple waterfall which has become a favorite tourist destination. A magnificent view of the surrounding area opens up from the highest peak of the reserve. Every year, musical festivals are organized at the foot of the mountain. Hakone National Park is located on the island of Honshu. It is famous for their geothermal spring which has made it the center of spa treatment. A combination of the picturesque nature of the region with the curative effects of the springs helps improve well-being and promote a healthy vacation.

Sagano Bamboo Forest is located in Kyoto province and is a green grove surrounded by city landscapes which are made up of thousands of evergreen trees and very tall bamboo stems. Stems swaying in the wind produce melodic sound, resembling the ringing of wind chimes common to the area. This sweet melodic sound is heard throughout the region. At night time, flashlights illuminate the road. Difficult parts of the trails where the ground has been broken by spreading roots are equipped with graceful hinged bridges. In local shops, you can buy handmade souvenirs such as baskets, dishes, household goods all made from bamboo.