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Planning a Trip to Japan?
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Japan’s stunning nature invites you to discover its hidden wonders but remember to tread lightly and help protect the country’s precious environments
The wilds of Japan beckon the adventurous with rugged mountains, tranquil forests, and spectacular coastlines. This opportunity for exploration, however, comes with the responsibility to preserve what makes these places special. Effortless actions, like taking back your trash and staying on marked paths, help protect yourself and these important ecosystems. Joining guided tours led by experts is a great way to delve into lesser-traveled areas while learning about the country’s natural wonders.
Plants and Wildlife
When it comes to flora and fauna, a few simple rules can help safeguard both you and the environment. Wild animals and plants can be delicate or even dangerous, so it's important to leave them undisturbed. By respecting the wildlife and plants you encounter, you help preserve the natural beauty while staying out of harm's way.
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Keep your distance
Touching or interacting with wildlife can cause stress and disrupt natural behaviors. Even plants can be damaged by unnecessary contact, so resist the urge to pick that flower. Just admire nature from afar and bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom function to capture its beauty.
Learn about Japan’s wildlife
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Do not feed wild animals
For your safety and the well-being of wildlife, resist the temptation to feed animals. While it might seem kind, feeding them can lead to harmful habits. Animals may become aggressive when they expect food and don’t get it, and what you give them could make them sick.
Check national park rules
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Preserve habitats
Even small actions like moving rocks or breaking branches can have unexpected consequences for wildlife. Rocks provide shelter, while branches can be nesting sites or food sources. By leaving these natural features undisturbed, we help protect the environments that animals rely on.
Check national park rules
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Stick to designated areas
While it might seem harmless to step over a rope for a better view or photo, you could unknowingly damage endangered plants or moss. Staying within designated areas, such as walking paths, campsites, and swimming spots, is crucial for the welfare of both visitors and wildlife.
Read about hiking in Japan’s national parks
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Drive with care
Many of Japan’s breathtaking natural areas are remote, often requiring a car to navigate. Drive cautiously, especially if there are wildlife warning signs. In places like Okinawa, road accidents pose a serious threat to endangered species like the Iriomote cat and Okinawa rail.
Read about driving in Japan’s national parks
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Know the national park rules
Japan’s national parks encompass many of the natural sites you’ll likely visit. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines will not only help you during your trip but also serves as a good practice for enjoying nature anywhere.
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Ocean Safety
Japan, as an island nation, is surrounded by beautiful seas. Its beaches and coastlines offer the opportunity to swim, snorkel, dive, paddle, and sail, discovering rare marine life, striking rock formations, and beautiful scenery. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure a safe and gratifying experience.
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Sun protection
Japan's summers are known for their intense heat, humidity, and strong sunlight. To protect yourself, it's important to take sun safety seriously. Seek shade whenever possible, stay hydrated to avoid heatstroke, and apply sunscreen every two hours to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
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Coral
Corals may look like colorful rocks, but they are in fact delicate, living organisms that are vital to the biodiversity of the ocean. So enjoy looking at them, but leave them where they are. When diving, snorkeling, or even just wading, be careful not to step on or bump into coral.
Read about coral conservation in Okinawa
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Know your limits
The ocean is beautiful but can be dangerous, so it’s essential to know your limits. Different activities come with suggested experience levels—don’t push yourself beyond them. Listen to your body, avoid overexertion, and respect the power of the sea.
Discover Japan’s oceans
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Stick to swimming beaches and seasons
In Japan, you should only swim at designated beaches and during official swimming seasons, typically from mid-July to late August, when lifeguards are present and conditions are optimal.
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Heed the warnings
Always pay attention to warning signs, both posted and natural. If a sign says “No Swimming” or you can see storm clouds rolling in, choose another day or location. Bad weather days can be a chance to have a break, go to a hot spring, shop for souvenirs, or visit a museum.
Read about staying safe
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Riptides and other hazards
Beaches are fun, but it is important to remember that there are also hazards, including riptides, slippery rocks, sudden drop-offs, and hidden sand holes. Always swim in designated areas, avoid climbing on wet rocks, and remain cautious to ensure a safe beach experience.
Read about insurance and safe travel advice
Mountain Safety
Mountains cover over three-quarters of the country with dramatic ranges like the Japan Alps, studded with 3,000-meter peaks. There are many ways to enjoy these stunning surroundings, from summiting the peaks in the summer, hiking through the fiery fall foliage, shredding champagne powder in the winter, or canyoning in the spring. However, mountains demand respect, and preparation is crucial. Being prepared and knowing potential hazards will help protect you and keep your trip fun.
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Have the right gear
The biggest mistake you can make is to judge mountain conditions by your experience at the base. Be prepared for any scenario and have appropriate mountain gear. Layers for cold weather, sturdy footwear, and hydration supplies are crucial to avoid hypothermia, injury, and dehydration.
Learn what to bring
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Plan ahead
Before your climb or hike, research your trail, know where you’re going, and make a note of the alternative routes and shelter locations in case of emergencies. Some mountains, like Mt. Fuji, have climbing seasons and require you to pay entry fees or have mountain hut reservations.
Read about hiking in Japan
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Know when to quit
Sometimes, no matter how prepared you are, it is best to abandon your plans and get off the mountain. Mountain conditions can be unpredictable, with clear weather changing to squalls and storms. Be aware of the warning signs and know when to turn back or head towards the nearest shelter.
Read about staying safe in Japan
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Submit a hiking itinerary
For some mountains, you must submit a hiking itinerary before you begin your hike. This helps ensure you are prepared for the journey but also increases the chances of a successful rescue in the case of an emergency. Depending on the prefecture, itineraries can be mailed, submitted online, or dropped off at the trailhead.
Read about insurance and safe travel advice
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Winter sports
The runs at Japanese ski resorts are carefully maintained and patrolled to ensure your safety on the slopes. Outside resort boundaries, the terrain can be dangerous, with hazards such as drops hidden by the snow. Stay inbounds and do not engage in backcountry skiing, unless with a licensed guide.
Discover winter sports and snow experiences
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Bears and other wildlife
Japan is a famously safe country, but incidents involving wildlife, such as bears and wild boars, are not unheard of. You should make noise while hiking, stay alert for animal sightings, carry bear mace and a bear bell, and do everything possible to avoid bear encounters.
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