How to enjoy Oze National Park in the green season

Oze National Park is one of Japan's most naturally rich national parks, spanning three prefectures: Fukushima, Gunma, and Niigata. In particular, the green season (spring to autumn) is a time when you can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Ozegahara, Hiuchigatake, and Mt. Shibutsu. This time, we will introduce in detail the must-visit spots and how to enjoy Oze National Park during the green season.

Overview of Oze National Park

Natural diversity

• Oze National Park is an area with a diverse range of natural scenery, including Ozegahara, Japan's largest high-altitude marsh, Oze Marsh, Mt. Hiuchigatake, and Mt. Shibutsu. The beautiful scenery of each season attracts visitors.

History and conservation

• Oze has been loved and protected by many people throughout its long history. It was designated a national park in 1960, and efforts to protect its rich natural environment continue.

The charm of Ozegahara

A treasure trove of marshes

• Ozegahara is the largest highland marsh in Japan, boasting a vast area. You can enjoy beautiful scenery with seasonal flowers blooming in full glory, such as Asian skunk cabbage and day lilies.

Boardwalk hiking

• The boardwalk that winds through Ozegahara is a route that even beginners can walk safely on. You can feel the breath of nature as you stroll leisurely through the marshland.

Must-see spots

• Yamanohana : This is the entrance to Ozegahara, where you'll find the visitor center and a rest area. The route into the marsh begins here.
• Ushikubi Junction : Located in the center of Ozehara, this is a great spot to get a panoramic view of the marshland.

Spectacular views of Mt. Hiuchigatake and Mt. Shibutsu

The charm of Mt. Hiuchigatake

• Hiuchigatake is a mountain with an elevation of 2,356 meters and is the symbol of Oze National Park. The majestic view of Hiuchigatake from Ozegahara is overwhelming, and it is also a popular photo spot.

Spectacular views of Mt. Shibutsu

• Mt. Shibutsu is a mountain with an elevation of 2,228 meters, and offers a beautiful view from Ozegahara. The view from Mt. Shibutsu is also wonderful, and you can see the whole of Ozegahara from the summit.

Scenery from Ozegahara

• The combination of Mt. Hiuchigatake and Mt. Shibutsu seen from Ozegahara is one of the most representative views of Oze. You can enjoy the magnificent mountain views along with the river flowing through the marshland and the flowers.

How to enjoy the green season

hiking

• There are many hiking trails in Ozegahara and the surrounding mountains that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced hikers. There is a wide variety of trails, including one where you can enjoy marsh flowers while walking along boardwalks.

photo shoot

• The beautiful scenery of Oze is also a perfect subject for photography enthusiasts. The landscape, interwoven with marshes, lakes, flowers, and the surrounding mountains, changes its appearance with the seasons. Photographing the sunrise and sunset is especially not to be missed.

Bird watching

• Oze is also home to a wide variety of wild birds. It is a pleasure to observe wild birds using binoculars in a quiet environment. Many birds are particularly active in the early morning and evening.

What to do after the activity

Refresh in the hot springs

• After visiting Oze, we recommend soaking in a nearby hot spring to relieve your fatigue after a day spent in nature.

Delicious local food

• There are many restaurants around Oze where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine, such as wild vegetable dishes and fresh fish dishes.

Rest Spot

• After hiking or mountain climbing, it's nice to take a break at a relaxing cafe. The Oze area is dotted with cafes and rest areas where you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Green season precautions

Clothing and equipment

• The weather in Oze is changeable, and it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it is advisable to wear layers of clothing. We also recommend wearing comfortable trekking shoes or waterproof shoes when walking through the marshes.

Food and water

• There are limited stores in the park, so be sure to stock up on food and water in advance. It's also a good idea to bring snacks and light meals to refuel during your hike.

nature conservation

• Oze is a nature reserve, so it is important to respect the plants and animals. Please enjoy the area while observing good manners, such as staying on designated trails and taking your trash home with you.

summary

The green season in Oze National Park is a wonderful season to enjoy the beauty of nature and a variety of activities. There are many ways to enjoy it, such as hiking, photography, and bird watching in Ozegahara, Hiuchigatake, and Mt. Shibutsu. Enjoy the nature of Oze to your heart's content while making the proper preparations and following proper etiquette.