Joshinetsu Kogen

Joshinetsu Kogen National Park protects 148,194 hectares of volcanic highlands, mountain ranges, and hot spring areas straddling Gunma, Nagano, and Niigata prefectures in central Honshu. Established in 1949, the park encompasses diverse landscapes from active volcanoes like Mount Asama to pristine highland wetlands, alpine peaks exceeding 2,500 meters, and extensive mountain forests. The Shiga Kogen area hosts one of Japan's largest ski resort complexes, while the Jigokudani Monkey Park has achieved international fame for its hot spring-bathing Japanese macaques. Ancient pilgrimage routes cross the mountains, connecting historic temples and shrines. The park features numerous volcanic features including steaming vents, acidic lakes, and hot springs that have supported bathing culture for centuries. Highland wetlands like Ozegahara (though this is technically in adjacent Oze National Park) and similar marshlands provide critical habitat for rare plants and migratory birds. This combination of accessible recreation, wilderness, and volcanic landscapes makes Joshinetsu Kogen popular year-round.