Daisetsuzan National Park

Daisetsuzan is a national park in Japan, located in the central part of the island of Hokkaido. It is the largest and most famous among all national parks and nature reserves in Japan. Daisetsuzan National Park was founded on December 4, 1934. Its area is more than ^2,260 km2, of which about 350 ^km2 are occupied by five nature reserves.

Daisetsuzan is characterized by a combination of Arctic and Alpine flora elements, manifestations of volcanic activity (hot springs). Japanese black and brown bears, pipits, red-necked nightingales, and nutlets live here.

Ainu legends say that the peaks of the Daisetsu Mountains are inhabited by kind and powerful mountain spirits who help people in their hour of need by assuming human form. The trail network allows for both one-day and seven-day trips, and the time spent hiking or taking the cable car is more than repaid by the views from the peaks. Mount Asahi (2,290 m) offers a solemn panorama of the entire plateau. June and July are the time of flowering of Alpine plants, autumn colors are most vivid in late August and September. Special attention should be paid to several groups of volcanic mountains located in the north, southwest and east of the park. Some of them reach 2000 meters in height. On the territory of Daisetsuzan Park there are 2 villages known for having springs with useful mineral water on their territory: Shirogane Onsen and Tokashidake Onsen. Furano resort is located near the nature reserve, and therefore, in winter, in Daisetsuzan, tourists enjoy skiing along one of the many sections for flat and alpine skiing. The park has a steep Souike gorge with cascades of Ryusei and Ginga waterfalls.