Unique Water Experiences in Japanese National Parks
A Pilgrimage Along the Tranquil Kumano River
Yoshino-Kumano National Park, spanning Nara, Mie, and Wakayama Prefectures, features attractions like Mt. Yoshino and Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine.
The Kumano River, part of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers kayaking and river cruises. Guided kayaking tours are best in spring and autumn, with routes from Hongu to Shingu highlighting adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty.
The Hongu area can be reached by a one to two-hour bus ride from Shingu or Kii-Tanabe Station.
Exploring Lake Chuzenji’s Seasons from the Water
Lake Chuzenji in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, is a high-altitude natural lake formed 20,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption.
With a rich geological history, it became a popular international summer resort in the 19th and 20th centuries, attracting foreign embassies. Today, visitors can explore historical sites like the British and Italian Embassy Villas Memorial Park, enjoy boating and fishing, visit Chuzenji Onsen and the Nikko Natural Science Museum, and admire Chuzenji Temple.
Lake Chuzenji is especially beautiful from April to November, featuring cherry blossoms, azaleas, and autumn foliage. It offers stand-up paddleboarding for all skill levels with year-round wetsuit rentals. The lake is accessible via a 50-minute bus ride from JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station.
The Healing Waters and Public Bathhouses of Nozawa Onsen Village
Nozawa Onsen Village, located in Joshin'etsukogen National Park in Nagano Prefecture, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and natural hot springs.
It is a premier destination for winter sports and features traditional ryokan and hotels with alkaline mineral-rich waters believed to have healing and anti-aging properties.
One of its main attractions is the 13 public bathhouses, SOTOYU, maintained by locals and free to use. The village became popular during Japan’s Edo Period and can be accessed by bus from Iiyama Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line connecting Nagano with Tokyo.
Forest Hot Springs and Wildlife Watching in Shiretoko National Park
Shiretoko National Park in northeastern Hokkaido spans nearly 390 square kilometers and is rich in wildlife, hosting numerous mammal and bird species.
The park features rugged landscapes, the Shiretoko Mountains, cliffs, and untouched wilderness. Popular activities include wildlife tours, nature walks, and hiking.
The coastal town of Rausu provides a base for exploring the park, with campsites, hot springs, and accommodations available. Highlights include the Rausu Onsen Campsite, the Kumanoyu hot spring, and the Rausu Geyser.
A journey through some of Japan's national parks offers visitors unique water experiences that blend adventure, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.
From the tranquil waters of the Kumano River in Yoshino-Kumano National Park to the scenic splendor of Lake Chuzenji in Nikko National Park, these parks provide a perfect backdrop for a water-based adventure.
In Joshin'etsukogen National Park, Nozawa Onsen Village offers visitors the chance to take a soak in rejuvenating hot springs, while Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaido presents a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and hot spring seekers alike.