Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost region, is a treasure trove of natural splendor. This vast wilderness boasts six impressive national parks (out of 32 nationwide), with sights ranging from volcanic mountains to crystal-clear lakes.

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Unlike most Western countries, Japan's national parks are made up of a collective effort involving private and local government lands — a "patchwork" approach born of Japan's constrained space and long history of private land ownership, designed to preserve natural ecosystems and the country's most beautiful sights. Here are the Hokkaido national parks you can't miss.

1. Daisetsuzan National Park (大雪山国立公園)

Established in 1934, Daisetsuzan is Hokkaido's largest national park — a mountainous area nicknamed the "roof of Hokkaido" and the "Playground of the Gods." A paradise for hikers and nature lovers, it's home to alpine flora and fauna including the rare pika and Japanese serow, with landscapes that transform from vibrant green summers to colorful autumn foliage and snow-capped winter peaks. Pristine hot springs at Sounkyo Gorge and the highest peak, Mt. Asahidake, complete the experience.

2. Shikotsu-Toya National Park (支笏洞爺国立公園)

Established in 1949 and named after its two famous caldera lakes, Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya, this park is known for its natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and hot springs. Mt. Usu and Showa Shinzan (a volcanic lava dome) are geological highlights. The crystal-clear, non-freezing Lake Shikotsu is surrounded by steep mountains, while Lake Toya, backed by Mt. Yotei ("Ezo Fuji" for its resemblance to Mt. Fuji), is perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

3. Akan-Mashu National Park (阿寒摩周国立公園)

Also established in 1934, Akan-Mashu is renowned for its stunning caldera lakes — Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Lake Kussharo. It's a wildlife haven and home to the marimo balls, a rare algae forming beautiful green spheres in Lake Akan. Lake Mashu is acclaimed as one of the world's clearest lakes, with breathtaking views from peaks like Mt. Meakan. The area is also famous for its hot springs and rich indigenous Ainu culture.

4. Kushiro Shitsugen National Park (釧路湿原国立公園)

Designated in 1987, this park encompasses Japan's largest wetland, the Kushiro Marshland — critical for biodiversity and famous for the elegant red-crowned crane, a symbol of Japan and a conservation success story once thought extinct in the wild. The vast marshes change with the seasons, from lush summer greenery to a snowy winter wonderland.

5. Shiretoko National Park (知床国立公園)

Established in 1964 on the Shiretoko Peninsula at Hokkaido's northeastern tip, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its rich biodiversity and unspoiled nature. Rugged terrain, dense forests, and abundant wildlife — including brown bears and sea eagles — make it one of Japan's most remote and wild places, accessible mainly by boat or on foot. In winter, the drift ice is a unique natural spectacle that draws visitors worldwide.

6. Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park (利尻礼文サロベツ国立公園)

Designated in 1974, this park comprises Rishiri and Rebun islands plus the Sarobetsu wetlands at Japan's northernmost edge. It's famous for alpine flora, especially on Rebun Island — the "Floating Island of Flowers," where rare alpine species thrive at sea level thanks to cold ocean currents. Mt. Rishiri, resembling a miniature Mt. Fuji, offers challenging hikes with panoramic views, while the Sarobetsu plain is one of Japan's largest wetlands and a habitat for migratory birds.

Extra: Hokkaido's Quasi-National Parks

Hokkaido also has five Quasi-National Parks with scenery almost on par with the national parks: Onuma, Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan, Shokanbetsu-Teuri-Yagishiri, Hidaka Sanmyaku-Erimo, and Abashiri.