The park provides habitat for numerous Japanese wildlife species, including the Japanese macaque (snow monkey), Asian black bear, and Japanese serow. Notable bird species include the rock ptarmigan (Lagopus muta japonica), golden eagle, and copper pheasant. The park's various ecosystems support diverse smaller wildlife including the Japanese giant salamander in mountain streams, various endemic butterflies, and the Japanese dormouse. The famous Jigokudani Monkey Park within the park boundaries is particularly known for its population of snow monkeys that bathe in natural hot springs during winter.
The park's vegetation shows clear vertical zonation, from deciduous forests in lower elevations to alpine plants at higher altitudes. Lower slopes feature Japanese beech (Fagus crenata) and maple forests, while middle elevations host Japanese larch (Larix kaempferi) and northern Japanese hemlock (Tsuga diversifolia). The subalpine zone contains dense stands of Maries' fir (Abies mariesii) and Veitch's silver fir (Abies veitchii). Alpine zones above 2,500 meters feature unique communities of hardy plants including creeping pine (Pinus pumila) and various endemic alpine wildflowers such as Callianthemum hondoense.
The park's dramatic landscape was shaped by extensive volcanic activity, featuring several active volcanoes including Mount Asama, Japan's most active volcano. The region sits along the Japan Median Tectonic Line, resulting in numerous hot springs and geothermal features. The park's terrain includes various volcanic formations such as lava plateaus, volcanic cones, and calderas. The Shirane-san volcanic group has created unique landscapes including crater lakes with highly acidic waters. Extensive glacial activity during the last ice age carved out many of the park's characteristic U-shaped valleys and cirques.
The park was established in 1949 and encompasses areas historically significant to Japan's mountain worship traditions. Ancient pilgrimage routes to sacred peaks like Mount Asama have been used for centuries by yamabushi (mountain ascetics). During the Edo period, the region served as a crucial transportation corridor connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with other regions. The area gained prominence in the late 19th century as Japan's early ski resorts developed here, with Kusatsu and Shiga Kogen becoming pioneering locations for winter sports in Japan. The park hosted several events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, further cementing its importance in Japan's winter sports history.
Key attractions include the Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous for its hot spring-bathing snow monkeys, and the historic Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most celebrated hot spring resorts. The park contains major ski resorts including Shiga Kogen, Japan's largest ski area and a former Winter Olympics venue. Mount Asama's active volcano offers dramatic views and geothermal activity, while the Shirane-san complex features colorful crater lakes. The park also includes the Manza Onsen hot springs, numerous hiking trails including parts of the Shinetsu Trail, and several visitor centers providing educational exhibits about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
Joshinetsu Kogen National Park experiences distinct seasonal variations typical of Japan's central mountainous region. Winters are long and cold with heavy snowfall, particularly from December to March, making it ideal for winter sports with snow accumulation often exceeding 3 meters. Spring arrives late, usually in April, bringing mild temperatures and blooming alpine flowers. Summers are relatively cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Autumn offers spectacular foliage displays from late September through October, with comfortable hiking temperatures and clear skies.
Japan
36.7280°, 138.5220°
1949
1889.61
This park spans across three prefectures and features volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and highland areas. It includes popular ski resorts and hiking trails through mountainous terrain. The park is known for its diverse seasonal attractions including autumn colors and winter sports.