Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park
Designation: 1974/09/20
Area: 21,222 ha
This is the northernmost national park in Japan. Mt. Rishiri soars majestically above the sea. Rebun Island has many alpine plants such as Rebunsou (Oxytropis megalantha). Sarobetsu Plain, abundant in marsh plants, and Wakasakanai' s dunes contribute to the exciting landscape.
Shiretoko National Park
Designation: 1964/06/01
Area: 38,633 ha
This park is highly primeval. Sea eagles, Blakiston's fish-owls and brown bears live in the district. The view of the Shiretoko mountain chain from the five lakes is splendid. The west side of the Shiretoko Peninsula is covered with drift ice during the winter.
Akan National Park
Designation: 1934/12/04
Area: 90,481 ha
This is a volcanic park, featuring such volcanoes as Mt. Meakan. There are many rare plants such as Marimo (Cladophora sauteri) in the Lake Akan area. Lake Mashu is known for one of the world's clearest lakes. Lake Kussharo, which is surrounded by hot springs, commands splendid views.
Kushiro Shitsugen National Park
Designation: 1987/07/31
Area: 26,861 ha
This park covers Kushiro marsh, the largest in the country. The meandering Kushiro River and the vast moor are visible from observatories in the park. Sacred cranes (Grus japonensis) breed in the marsh. There are lakes and marshes such as Lake Taro and Shirarutoro marsh in the eastern part of the park.
Daisetsuzan National Park
Designation: 1934/12/04
Area: 226,764 ha
This is the largest of all the national parks in Japan, and is called the "Roof of Hokkaido." The main feature of this park is volcanoes such as Mt. Tokachi and Mt. Asahi, which is the highest mountain in Hokkaido. The park also boasts splendid views of Mt. Ishikari and alpine plants. Brown bear, Yezo deer and pika (Ochotona hyperborean yesoensis) live in this district.
Shikotsu-Toya National Park
Designation: 1949/05/16
Area: 99,302 ha
Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya, along with active volcanoes such as Mt. Yotei, Mt. Usu, Mt. Showa-shinzan and the newly formed Mt. Tarumae provide many characteristic views. Lake Toya is famous as the northernmost ice-free lake in Japan.