When you think of Japan, you may picture the metropolitan thrum of Tokyo or the stunning temples of Kyoto — but this country also has some of the most incredible natural wonders in the world. Here are 18 to see in spring, summer or fall.
Note: We have a dedicated natural winter wonders in Japan guide, too.
If you’re looking to reconnect with nature and see something truly amazing, there are plenty of awe-inspiring sights you’ll be putting straight on your bucket list. From ice-blue pools in Hokkaidō to the turquoise seas of Okinawa, with ancient forests and sweeping sand dunes in between, Japan holds myriad natural wonders.
Although some may be more of a struggle to reach than others, they are all incredible displays of the power of nature that you’ll never forget. Some spots are best accessed by car — read up on renting a car in Japan.
Mountains, volcanoes, and cool rocks
Set right on the ring of fire, Japan has more than enough mountains, volcanoes and rocks for even the most intrepid traveler.
1. The famous Mount Fuji
Yamanashi PrefectureAround 2.5 hours from Tokyo (depending on the mode of transport)
You can’t visit Japan without seeing it, even if it is from the plane window or squinting into the distance at the Tokyo Met Observation Tower. Aside from being a famous landmark and symbol of the country, Mount Fuji is a natural wonder in its own right.
Whether you choose to see it from across the lake in Hakone or from Lake Kawaguchi, you can even climb a different mountain to see it from a height. If you’re keen to conquer the beast yourself, visit our Mt. Fuji climbing guide for some help. There’s nothing more stunning than a sunrise at the peak, and nothing as hard earned either!
Pro tip: Join a bus tour for a stress-free visit to Mt. Fuji. You’ll see all the sites from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and with the expert guidance of an English-speaking guide. Check out our full guide to Mt. Fuji tours for more options.
2. Akiyoshidai Plateau’s limestone rock formations
Yamaguchi Prefecture60-minute bus ride from Yamaguchi Station
At the westernmost tip of Japan’s main island, Yamaguchi Prefecture is home to the Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park, famous for the limestones scattered throughout the plateau. Visitors can explore the park by car, but the outdoorsy types will enjoy the opportunity to get out and about on the hiking trails. Trail running and biking are also popular here.
Whichever you choose, make sure to allow plenty of time to visit Akiyoshido Cave. It’s Japan’s largest limestone cave and is well-equipped for visitors. The walkway through the cave is well lit, with information centers, toilets, and car parks at both ends.
3. Alpine views of Mount Yari
Nagano PrefectureVarious trails, best accessed by car
Right in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Mt. Yari is famed for its stunning ridges and ripples, which catch snow to leave beautiful patterns. With views of Mt. Fuji from the top and incredible panoramas of the surrounding mountains, it’s no wonder it’s at the top of most hikers’ bucket lists.
The first recorded ascent was made by priest and mountain ascetic Banryū in the Edo period. The area was nicknamed the Japanese Alps by a British hiker named Gowland, who followed some 50 years later in 1880.
The hiking trails are open from the end of April to early November, and the area is considered especially beautiful when covered in autumn leaves.
Pro tip: Read about an unusual hike to a remote onsen hidden in the Alps.
4. The volcanoes of Aogashima Island
Tokyo (technically)13-hour boat ride from Tokyo via Hachijōjima Island
Aogashima is a smaller, more difficult place to reach. It is a volcanic island 358 km from Tokyo. It features one of the few double volcanoes in the world. With only 160 residents, the island is home to the smallest village in Japan and has a small school and post office.
You can camp on Aogashima, which has incredible night sky views and is a true natural escape from the rest of the world. The island is accessible by boat (4 days a week, ¥1,500 one way) or helicopter (¥11,500) from nearby Hachijōjima (itself a 1-hour flight from Haneda). We didn’t say it was easy, but it’s certainly a natural wonder.
5. The cool rocks of Mount Asama Magma Stone Park
Gunma Prefecture50-minute bus ride from Karuizawa Station
Buy your tickets online
Get ready to experience a hellish landscape at Mount Asama Magma Stone Park. It’s also known as Onioshidashi Park, which means “ogres/monsters pushing rocks down from the mountain.” Located in Joshinetsu Kōgen National Park, Magma Stone Park is home to, well, a whole bunch of stones. But they’re not just any stones. These dark, rugged rocks were formed from lava when nearby Mt. Asama erupted in 1783.
Visitors can walk through the park and admire the fascinating formations and the plants that now grow among them. Summer is especially popular for the azaleas. Meanwhile, in spring and fall, you can see rare luminous moss.
Rivers, lakes, and even more water
Hot, cold, blue, green, and even red — whether it’s falling from the mountains or bubbling up from the earth, Japan’s got some of the most beautiful rivers, lakes, and natural springs in the world.
6. The Eight Hells of Beppu Onsen
Oita Prefecture15-minute bus ride from Beppu Station
Buy your tickets online
One of the most famous hot spring (onsen) towns in Japan, Beppu is popular with visitors from across the country and beyond. The city hosts eight different springs (the number being the same as the “Eight Hells” is a coincidence). One of them, Beppu Onsen, has a stunning collection of natural hot springs that are as beautiful to look at as they are amazing to step into.
The Eight Hells of Beppu is the name reserved for the particularly stunning selection of pools that range from fiery red to glassy blue — along with one inhabited by crocodiles. The onsen are spread across two sites and are easily accessible by bus or walking.
Pro tip: First time bathing in a Japanese hot spring? Read our guide.
7. Kabira Bay, one of Japan’s most beautiful tropical beaches
Ishigaki Island, Okinawa45-minute bus ride from Ishigaki City Center (infrequent departures)
On the north coast of Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Kabira Bay is one of the most beautiful tropical beaches in Japan, drawing thousands of visitors every year. The coral reefs and amazing animals just below the surface are as stunning as the view.
Although no swimming is allowed here due to currents, jellyfish, and boats, you can cruise on a glass-bottomed boat to see the sea life. There are also tours to the uninhabited islands, and you can kayak around them too. Snorkeling around the islands is the only way to enjoy the water, and it’s carefully monitored. Read more about Ishigaki.
Pro tip: Save yourself the hassle of working out transport options and book this tour that includes transfers from southern Ishigaki Island to Kabira Bay and a SUP/kayak tour with an English-speaking guide.
8. Amanohashidate’s bridge between heaven and Earth
Kyoto Prefecture2-hour bus or train ride from Kyoto Station
Considered one of Japan’s top three views, the Amanohashidate sandbar in Miyazu Bay is Kyoto’s favorite summer getaway destination. The sandbar is said to either look like a bridge between heaven and Earth (as the name alludes to) or a dragon — depending on who you talk to. You can walk or bike along the sandbar, or for the best views, head to Amanohashidate View Land or take the cable car up to Kasamatsu Park.
Plus, there are plenty of other things to do in the area, including cruising around the bay.
9. The stunning Nachi Falls
Wakayama Prefecture30-minute bus ride from JR Kii-Katsuura Station in Nachikatsuura town
Nachi Falls, the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in Japan, is 133 meters tall and 13 meters wide, creating one of the most impressive sights in the country. With the pagoda of the Seigantoji Temple in front of it, this is one of the most beautiful views in Japan, with a magical air about it, and well worth the journey to Wakayama to see it.
While there, you can walk a short section of the Kumano Kodō trail to see Nachi Taisha, a shrine right beside the Buddhist Seigantoji Temple. The falls were initially the primary religious site and were considered a point of natural power and beauty by the earliest Japanese people. However, a word of caution — there are tales of lovestruck couples plunging to their deaths to be reborn in Kannon’s paradise, so be careful at the top!
10. The fall foliage of Oirase Rapids
Aomori Prefecture2-hour bus ride from Aomori Station
The Oirase Rapids (aka Oirase Stream) in Aomori Prefecture are a perfect option in the fall when the leaves change. The stream stretches 14 km, starting at Lake Towada and then through the Towada Kohan-ko Noguchi National Park. Visitors can walk the length of the Oirase Rapids via a mostly flat path and enjoy the rushing water, forest scenery, and many waterfalls along the way. Alternatively, you could hire a bike, drive, or join a bus tour — there is a road along the whole route — but hiking gets you closer to nature.
Allow yourself time to stop in at the Oirase Field Museum for information on the local area. Since there aren’t many food options along the hike, this is also a good spot to grab a snack or light meal.
Pro tip: If you’ve time to spare, why not squeeze in a kayaking tour of Lake Towada while you’re in the area?
11. The blue seas of the Kerama Islands
Okinawa40 to 70-minute ferry ride from Naha (depending on which island)
The Kerama Islands are a slice of heaven, a few miles from the coast of the Okinawan mainland of Naha. The cluster features sandy beaches, coral reefs, and even humpback whales. Of the 20 islands in total, only five are inhabited, with a few hostels, hotels, and plenty of diving companies, as well as kayak and snorkeling tours or rental gear.
You can relax into island life while enjoying the beaches, explore the uninhabited islands, and hike to viewpoints for incredible sea views. Tokashiki is especially hilly, with incredible jungle-like walks and regular boats to the smaller islands. There are local restaurants, and after a few days, you’ll never want to leave.
Pro tip: Save yourself the trouble of worrying about transport when you book this Kerama Islands snorkeling tour. It includes a private boat, snorkel rental, and lunch.
12. Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake
Shiga Prefecture10-to 30-minute train ride from Kyoto Station
Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, with over 200 km of shoreline. It’s shaped like a traditional Japanese “biwa” lute, which is where it gets its name.
In summer, it’s a fantastic place to escape the heat — you can go kayaking, windsurfing, and fishing, along with plenty of other water-based activities. There are also lots of campsites all around the lake, along with hiking trails.
13. The rush of Shiraito Falls
Yamanashi Prefecture80-minute bus ride from Kawaguchiko Station
The 150-meter-wide cascade in the foothills of Mt. Fuji is one of the most accessible day trips from Tokyo and is truly stunning. The falls are among the most beautiful in Japan and are 25 meters high, creating thin streams of rushing white water that resemble silk.
The site was protected in 1936 as a Japanese Natural Monument and is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. There is a walking trail from the main road and a return bus once a day from Tokyo Station.
Pro tip: Shiraito Falls is a stop on a number of Mt. Fuji bus tours, including this combo Mt. Fuji and Hakone tour.
Forests and groves
Japan’s forests and groves have inspired thousands of paintings, photos and, supposedly, at least one movie.
14. The bamboo groves of Arashiyama
Kyoto City5-minute walk from Arashiyama Station (Randen Line)
One of the most photographed spots in Japan, the Sagano Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama is a sight to behold. With dappled sunlight and swaying trees, it’s wonderfully calming. The trees reach up to 20 meters tall, and looking up can be quite dizzying, especially with a breeze. The overwhelming beauty is enough to make you stop and stare for a while.
Home to Nonomiya Shrine and Tenryuji Temple, there is plenty to explore. Although the path is only 200 meters long, you can stroll through at your own pace, making the most of the relaxing atmosphere. Read more about the famous Kyoto bamboo forest.
Alternatively, the nearby Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple also has a gorgeous bamboo forest with far fewer people.
Pro tip: Don’t want to miss a thing? Then join this private tour and a local English-speaking guide will help you customize the perfect Arashiyama day trip.
15. Iriomote’s mangrove forests
Near Ishigaki Island, Okinawa35 to 50-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Island (depending on ferry type)
Completely different from the rest of Japan, Ishigaki and its surrounding islands are subtropical — and nowhere more so than the untamed island of Iriomote. Largely undeveloped, the island has an abundance of natural resources to be explored by kayak, stand-up paddleboard, hiking, or swimming — perfect for the adventurers out there.
Several tour guides on the island can take you on half- or full-day trips to see the sights. You can also take a water buffalo cart out to Yubu Island — a subtropical garden with hundreds of varieties of trees and flowers. Read more about Iriomote.
16. The magic of Yakushima Island
Kagoshima Prefecture2 to 3-hour high-speed boat ride from Kagoshima, direct flights from Kagoshima, Osaka, and Fukuoka are also available
Believed to be the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke, Yakushima has Japan’s most ancient forest, with trees up to 7,000 years old. Despite heavy logging in the Edo period, the forest has now recovered and is protected as a national park.
Trees over 1,000 years old are called Yakusugi (a combination of the island’s name and the Japanese word for cedar) and can be seen at many points on the island. As it is a sub-tropical island, there is frequent rainfall, and often a dramatic mist rests in the forest. Read more about Yakushima.
Pro tip: You can join a guided hike of Yakushima that includes a hotel transfer and lunch.
A category of their own: Other natural wonders in Japan
Not quite rocks, not quite water or forests, these places earned their own section.
17. Sweeping sand dunes in Tottori
Tottori Prefecture30-minute bus ride from Tottori Station
A strange sight in Japan is Tottori’s vista of desert-like sand dunes stretching to the sea. But these are no mirage: They result from 100,000 years of ocean winds blowing in from the Sea of Japan. In the east corner of Tottori Prefecture, the dunes stretch over 16 km in length and are 2 km wide, with incredible 40-meter-deep basins and towering hills that will take you to the Sahara in seconds.
There are plenty of ways to observe and explore the dunes, including horse-drawn carriages, paragliding, and sandboarding, as well as an observation deck. There are even camels to add to the atmosphere. Read more about exploring Tottori’s sand dunes.
18. The cliffs and river of Takachiho Gorge
Miyazaki PrefectureBest accessed by car
Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture is a wonderfully photogenic spot with strong ties to Japanese mythology. One of the most popular myths is that it was the hiding place of Amaterasu, the sun goddess.
The canyon itself was formed by lava flows from the nearby Mt. Aso around 100,000 years ago. These days, the Gokase River runs through the gorge instead of lava, and cliffs stretch up to 100m tall on both sides.
Visitors can rent boats and paddle through the canyon or follow the path along the top of the cliffs to Takachiho Shrine. Both offer beautiful scenery of the river and surrounding forest, just note that the boat option is sometimes unavailable due to high water levels.
5 bonus mentions
Some spots didn’t quite make it onto our list, by technicality, but are still incredible sights.
The Blue Pond: Not actually natural
Hokkaidō
It may look familiar from your computer screensaver of old, but it’s a real thing, and it’s genuinely that stunning in real life. Built as part of an erosion prevention system to prevent damage to the nearby town of Biei in case of volcanic eruption, the Hokkaidō pond is a stunning blue color thanks to the natural minerals in the water.
There isn’t much to see nearby, but it is next to the onsen town of Shirogane, so you could always have a soak after enjoying the view! For more on the natural beauty of Hokkaidō, take a look at our Hokkaidō outdoor adventure guide.
Mount Aso: The biggest volcano in Japan, sometimes closed
Kumamoto Prefecture
Mount Aso in Kumamoto is the largest volcano in Japan and one of the largest in the world. It has an incredible blue crater lake and is beautiful when viewed from afar. It erupted for the first time in 22 years in November 2014, and while no one was injured, debris was thrown over 3,000 feet into the air. The caldera (the area above the magma chamber that lies under the volcanic peaks) is one of the world’s largest, with active volcanic peaks within it.
Note: Mount Aso erupted again in 2016, and the area was closed off, due to safety concerns. As of July 2024, it has been reopened to the public — but may be closed temporarily if gas levels are high, or the weather is bad.
The glowing squid of Toyama Bay: Only from March to June
Toyama Prefecture
One of the most magical sights in Japan, the firefly squid appear in Toyama Bay due to currents. Usually, they are deep below the surface and are not visible. With tiny photophores at the end of their tentacles, they create an incredible spectacle as millions swarm to create a sea of glowing blue.
The squid are fished in the area, but there are also sightseeing boats available, leaving early in the morning to get the best views around 1 km from the shore. Unfortunately, getting decent shots of them is a little tough!
Naruto whirlpools: Limited times
Tokushima Prefecture
Off the Naruto Strait, the rush of tides between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean creates a natural phenomenon known as the Naruto whirlpools. They happen twice a day, are stronger in summer and winter, and can reach up to 20 meters wide.
Note: You should always check the schedules before you go. The whirlpools are best seen on sightseeing cruises from Osaka, Shikoku and Awaji Island.
The wedded rocks of Ise: We put a rope on them
Mie Prefecture
One of the simplest and yet most beautiful views in Japan is the sun rising behind the wedded rocks in Ise. The Meoto-Iwa rocks are bound by a traditional rope made of braided rice stalks.
The largest rock — Izanagi, the husband — is 9 meters tall, while the wife — Izanami — is 6 meters tall. There is a small torii gate placed on Izanagi, and ceremonies are held three times a year to replace the rope, which weighs almost a ton.
If you are lucky enough to visit during the summer months, you can see the sun rise directly between them, with Mt. Fuji in the background. As the rocks have great romantic significance, it is common to see couples praying before them for happy marriages, and you can, too. Read our guide if you’re looking for more unusual ways to see Fuji.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in August 2017. Last updated: August 2024 by Maria Danuco and Patrick Balfe.
