What are national parks and quasi-national parks in Japan, and what is their primary purpose?

National parks and quasi-national parks in Japan are designated areas of scenic beauty that are established for protection and sustainable use. They are designated by the Minister of the Environment under the Natural Parks Law of 1957.

Who is responsible for designating and managing Japan's national parks?

The Minister of the Environment designates national parks, and they are primarily managed by the Ministry of the Environment.

How do quasi-national parks differ from national parks in Japan?

Quasi-national parks are designated for areas that possess slightly less scenic beauty, size, diversity, or state of preservation compared to national parks. While recommended for ministerial designation, they are managed by the prefectures under the supervision of the Ministry of the Environment.

What is the legal framework governing the designation and management of natural parks in Japan?

The legal framework is the Natural Parks Law, enacted in 1957, which replaced the earlier National Parks Law. This law allows for the designation of national, quasi-national, and prefectural natural parks.

When were the first public parks established in Japan, and what were some of their names?

The first public parks in Japan were established in 1873. Some of these included Asakusa Park, Asukayama Park, Fukagawa Park, Shiba Park, and Ueno Park.

What significant event occurred in 1929 related to the establishment of national parks in Japan?

In 1929, the National Parks Association was formed, which played a role in advocating for the creation of national parks.

When were the first national parks officially established in Japan, and which ones were they?

The first national parks were established in March 1934. These were Setonaikai National Park, Unzen National Park, and Kirishima National Park.

How many national parks were established in colonial Taiwan under the old National Parks Law in 1937?

Three national parks were established in colonial Taiwan in 1937 under the old National Parks Law: Tatun National Park, Tsugitaka-Taroko National Park, and Niitaka-Arisan National Park.

Which national park was the first to be established in Japan after the Pacific War?

Ise-Shima National Park was the first national park established after the Pacific War.

As of April 1, 2014, how many national and quasi-national parks existed in Japan?

As of April 1, 2014, there were 31 national parks and 56 quasi-national parks in Japan.

What percentage of Japan's land area was covered by national parks as of April 1, 2014?

As of April 1, 2014, national parks covered 20,996 square kilometers, which represented 5.6% of Japan's total land area.

What was the area covered by quasi-national parks in Japan as of April 1, 2014?

As of April 1, 2014, quasi-national parks covered 13,592 square kilometers, accounting for 3.6% of Japan's land area.

When was the 32nd national park established in Japan, and what is its name?

The 32nd national park, Myōkō-Togakushi Renzan National Park, was established on March 27, 2015.

What is the most recent national park mentioned as being established or redesignated, and when did this occur?

The most recent national park mentioned is Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park, which was redesignated on June 25, 2024, becoming the 35th national park.

How are the areas within national and quasi-national parks categorized for protection?

The areas are divided into ordinary, special, and marine park zones. Special zones are further subdivided into special protection zones and class I, II, and III special zones, which impose restrictions on access and use to ensure preservation.

What is the extent of state ownership of land within Japan's national parks?

The state owns approximately half of the land located within the national parks.

Which national park, according to the map information, is not visible on the provided map?

Ogasawara National Park is noted as not being visible on the map.

What is the area of Akan Mashu National Park, and when was it established?

Akan Mashu National Park was established in 1934 and covers an area of 90,481 hectares.

Which region of Japan is Minami Alps National Park located in, and what is its size?

Minami Alps National Park is located in the Chūbu region and covers 35,752 hectares. It was established in 1964.

When was Amami Guntō National Park established, and what is its approximate area?

Amami Guntō National Park was established in 2017 and covers an area of 42,181 hectares. It is located in the Kyūshū region.

What is the area of Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park, and in which region is it located?

Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park is located in the Shikoku region and covers 11,345 hectares. It was established in 1972.

Which national park in the Kyūshū region, established in 1934, covers a significant area?

Aso Kujū National Park, established in 1934 in the Kyūshū region, covers 72,678 hectares.

What is the area of Bandai-Asahi National Park, and in which region is it situated?

Bandai-Asahi National Park is located in the Tōhoku region and covers 186,389 hectares. It was established in 1950.

How large is Chichibu Tama Kai National Park, and when was it designated?

Chichibu Tama Kai National Park covers 126,259 hectares and was established in 1950. It is located in the Kantō region.

In which region is Chūbu-Sangaku National Park located, and what was its establishment year?

Chūbu-Sangaku National Park is located in the Chūbu region and was established in 1934. Its area is 174,323 hectares.

What is the area of Daisen-Oki National Park, and in which region of Japan is it found?

Daisen-Oki National Park is located in the Chūgoku region and covers 35,353 hectares. It was established in 1936.

Which national park in Hokkaido is the largest by area according to the provided list, and when was it established?

Daisetsuzan National Park, located in Hokkaido, is the largest listed with an area of 226,764 hectares. It was established in 1934.

What is the area of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and what region does it belong to?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park covers 121,695 hectares and is located in the Kantō region. It was established in 1936.

When was Hakusan National Park established, and what is its size in hectares?

Hakusan National Park was established in 1962 and covers 11,345 hectares. It is located in the Chūbu region.

What is the area of the recently established Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park, and in which region is it located?

Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park, established in 2024, covers 245,668 hectares and is located in Hokkaido.

In which region is Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park located, and what is its area?

Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park is located in the Kyūshū region and covers 40,653 hectares. It was established in 1972.

What is the establishment year and area of Ise-Shima National Park?

Ise-Shima National Park was established in 1946 and covers 55,544 hectares. It is located in the Kinki region.

How large is Jōshin'etsu-kōgen National Park, and when was it established?

Jōshin'etsu-kōgen National Park covers 148,194 hectares and was established in 1949. It is located in the Kantō region.

Which national park, established in 2014, is the smallest among the listed national parks by area?

Kerama Shotō National Park, established in 2014, is the smallest listed with an area of 3,520 hectares. It is located in the Kyūshū region.

What is the area of Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, and in which region is it situated?

Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park is located in the Kyūshū region and covers 36,586 hectares. It was established in 1934.

When was Kushiro-shitsugen National Park established, and what is its area?

Kushiro-shitsugen National Park was established in 1987 and covers 28,788 hectares. It is located in Hokkaido.

What is the area of Myōkō-Togakushi Renzan National Park, and when was it designated as the 32nd national park?

Myōkō-Togakushi Renzan National Park covers 39,772 hectares and was established on March 27, 2015, becoming the 32nd national park. It is located in the Chūbu region.

In which region is Nikkō National Park located, and what is its size?

Nikkō National Park is located in the Kantō region and covers 114,908 hectares. It was established in 1934.

What is the area of Ogasawara National Park, and when was it established?

Ogasawara National Park covers 6,629 hectares and was established in 1972. It is located in the Kantō region.

Which regions does Oze National Park span, and what is its total area?

Oze National Park spans the Tōhoku and Kantō regions and covers 37,200 hectares. It was established in 1972.

What is the area of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, and in which region is it located?

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park is located in Hokkaido and covers 24,166 hectares. It was established in 1974.

When was Saikai National Park established, and what is its approximate area?

Saikai National Park was established in 1955 and covers 24,646 hectares. It is located in the Kyūshū region.

What is the area of Sanin Kaigan National Park, and in which region is it situated?

Sanin Kaigan National Park is located in the Kinki region and covers 8,783 hectares. It was established in 1936.

When was Sanriku Fukkō National Park established, and what is its area?

Sanriku Fukkō National Park was established in 1955 and covers 28,537 hectares. It is located in the Tōhoku region.

Which regions are jointly managed under Setonaikai National Park, and what is its total area?

Setonaikai National Park is jointly managed by the Kinki, Chūgoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu regions. It covers 67,242 hectares and was established in 1934.

What is the area of Shikotsu-Tōya National Park, and in which region is it located?

Shikotsu-Tōya National Park is located in Hokkaido and covers 99,473 hectares. It was established in 1949.

When was Shiretoko National Park established, and what is its size?

Shiretoko National Park was established in 1964 and covers 38,636 hectares. It is located in Hokkaido.

What is the area of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, and in which region is it situated?

Towada-Hachimantai National Park is located in the Tōhoku region and covers 85,534 hectares. It was established in 1936.

When was Unzen-Amakusa National Park established, and what is its area?

Unzen-Amakusa National Park was established in 1934 and covers 28,279 hectares. It is located in the Kyūshū region.

What is the area of Yakushima National Park, and in which region is it located?

Yakushima National Park is located in the Kyūshū region and covers 32,553 hectares. It was established in 2012.

List Of National Parks Of Japan Wiki: Japan's Verdant Realms: A Comprehensive Guide to National Parks

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A Legacy of Preservation

Early Initiatives

Japan established its initial public parks in 1873, including notable sites like Asukayama and Ueno Park. The movement gained momentum with public petitions for protection, leading to the formation of the National Parks Association in 1929. The foundational National Parks Law was enacted in 1931, paving the way for systematic designation and management of natural areas.

Post-War Development

Following World War II, the framework for park designation evolved. In 1957, the Natural Parks Law superseded the earlier legislation, establishing three distinct categories: national parks, quasi-national parks, and prefectural natural parks. This law continues to guide the protection and sustainable use of Japan's most cherished natural landscapes.

The establishment of national parks began in March 1934 with Setonaikai, Unzen, and Kirishima. Over the subsequent years, more parks were designated under the original law. Notably, three parks were established in colonial Taiwan in 1937: Tatun, Tsugitaka-Taroko, and Niitaka-Arisan. Post-war, Ise-Shima became the first park designated under the new system, with further expansions solidifying the network.

Growth and Scope

As of April 2014, Japan boasted 31 national parks and 56 quasi-national parks. These protected areas collectively cover a significant portion of the nation's landmass, with national parks encompassing approximately 5.6% and quasi-national parks an additional 3.6%. Prefectural parks further extend this network, covering another 5.2% of the land. Recent designations, such as Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park in 2024, continue to expand this vital conservation estate.

Conservation Framework

Legal Basis

The designation and management of national and quasi-national parks fall under the purview of the Minister of the Environment, guided by the Natural Parks Law of 1957. This legislation provides the framework for protecting areas of outstanding scenic beauty, ensuring their preservation for future generations while allowing for sustainable use.

Zoning and Land Ownership

Within each park, areas are classified into ordinary, special, and marine park zones. Special zones are further subdivided into special protection and various classes (I, II, III), imposing stricter regulations on access and activities to safeguard delicate ecosystems. It is noteworthy that the national government owns approximately half of the land within these parks, with the remainder comprising private and other public ownerships.

Geographic Distribution

Locating Japan's Parks

The provided map illustrates the geographical distribution of Japan's national parks across the archipelago. It is important to note that due to its remote location, the Ogasawara National Park is not depicted on this particular map, highlighting the vast and diverse geographical scope of Japan's protected natural areas.

List of National Parks

Key National Parks

Japan maintains a network of 35 national parks, each offering unique landscapes and ecological significance. These parks are vital for preserving biodiversity and providing recreational opportunities.

Name	Established	Region	Area [ha]	Visual
Akan Mashu National Park	1934	Hokkaido	90,481 hectares (223,580 acres)	🏞️
Minami Alps National Park	1964	Chubu	35,752 hectares (88,350 acres)	⛰️
Amami Gunto National Park	2017	Kyushu	42,181 hectares (104,230 acres)	🏝️
Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park	1972	Shikoku	11,345 hectares (28,030 acres)	🌊
Aso Kuju National Park	1934	Kyushu	72,678 hectares (179,590 acres)	🌋
Bandai-Asahi National Park	1950	Tohoku	186,389 hectares (460,580 acres)	🏞️
Chichibu Tama Kai National Park	1950	Kanto	126,259 hectares (311,990 acres)	🌲
Chubu-Sangaku National Park	1934	Chubu	174,323 hectares (430,760 acres)	🏔️
Daisen-Oki National Park	1936	Chugoku	35,353 hectares (87,360 acres)	⛰️
Daisetsuzan National Park	1934	Hokkaido	226,764 hectares (560,350 acres)	🏞️
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park	1936	Kanto	121,695 hectares (300,710 acres)	🗻
Hakusan National Park	1962	Chubu	11,345 hectares (28,030 acres)	🏔️
Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park	2024	Hokkaido	245,668 hectares (607,060 acres)	🏞️
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park	1972	Kyushu	40,653 hectares (100,460 acres)	🏝️
Ise-Shima National Park	1946	Kinki	55,544 hectares (137,250 acres)	⛩️
Joshinetsu-kogen National Park	1949	Kanto	148,194 hectares (366,200 acres)	🌲
Kerama Shoto National Park	2014	Kyushu	3,520 hectares (8,700 acres)	🏝️
Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park	1934	Kyushu	36,586 hectares (90,410 acres)	🌋
Kushiro-shitsugen National Park	1987	Hokkaido	28,788 hectares (71,140 acres)	wetland
Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park	2015	Chubu	39,772 hectares (98,280 acres)	🏔️
Nikko National Park	1934	Kanto	114,908 hectares (283,940 acres)	🏞️
Ogasawara National Park	1972	Kanto	6,629 hectares (16,380 acres)	🏝️
Oze National Park	1972	Tohoku and Kanto	37,200 hectares (92,000 acres)	🌿
Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park	1974	Hokkaido	24,166 hectares (59,720 acres)	⛰️
Saikai National Park	1955	Kyushu	24,646 hectares (60,900 acres)	🌊
Sanin Kaigan National Park	1936	Kinki	8,783 hectares (21,700 acres)	🌊
Sanriku Fukko National Park	1955	Tohoku	28,537 hectares (70,520 acres)	🌊
Setonaikai National Park	1934	Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku, Kyushu (Joint management)	67,242 hectares (166,160 acres)	🌊
Shikotsu-Toya National Park	1949	Hokkaido	99,473 hectares (245,800 acres)	🏞️
Shiretoko National Park	1964	Hokkaido	38,636 hectares (95,470 acres)	🏞️
Towada-Hachimantai National Park	1936	Tohoku	85,534 hectares (211,360 acres)	🏞️
Unzen-Amakusa National Park	1934	Kyushu	28,279 hectares (69,880 acres)	🌋
Yakushima National Park	2012	Kyushu	32,553 hectares (80,440 acres)	🌳
Yanbaru National Park	2016	Kyushu	13,622 hectares (33,660 acres)	🌳
Yoshino-Kumano National Park	1936	Kinki	61,406 hectares (151,740 acres)	🏞️

Quasi-National Parks

Regional Designations

In addition to the national parks, Japan designates numerous quasi-national parks, recognized for their significant natural beauty and ecological value, though perhaps on a slightly smaller scale or with less stringent protection than national parks. These are managed primarily by the prefectures under national supervision.

Hokkaido

Abashiri Quasi-National Park
Akkeshi-Kiritappu-Konbumori Quasi-National Park
Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Onuma Quasi-National Park
Shokanbetsu-Teuri-Yagishiri Quasi-National Park

Tohoku

Shimokita Hanto Quasi-National Park
Tsugaru Quasi-National Park
Hayachine Quasi-National Park
Kurikoma Quasi-National Park
Minami-Sanriku Kinkazan Quasi-National Park
Zao Quasi-National Park
Oga Quasi-National Park
Chokai Quasi-National Park

Kanto

Suigo-Tsukuba Quasi-National Park
Minami Boso Quasi-National Park
Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park
Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park

Chubu

Echigo Sanzan-Tadami Quasi-National Park
Myogi-Arafune-Saku Kogen Quasi-National Park
Sado-Yahiko-Yoneyama Quasi-National Park
Noto Hanto Quasi-National Park
Echizen-Kaga Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Yatsugatake-Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park
Tenryu-Okumikawa Quasi-National Park
Chuo Alps Quasi-National Park
Ibi-Sekigahara-Yoro Quasi-National Park
Hida-Kisogawa Quasi-National Park
Aichi Kogen Quasi-National Park
Mikawa Wan Quasi-National Park

Kansai

Suzuka Quasi-National Park
Wakasa Wan Quasi-National Park
Tango-Amanohashidate-Oeyama Quasi-National Park
Biwako Quasi-National Park
Muro-Akame-Aoyama Quasi-National Park
Kongo-Ikoma-Kisen Quasi-National Park
Yamato-Aogaki Quasi-National Park
Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park
Meiji no Mori Mino Quasi-National Park
Kyoto Tamba Kogen Quasi-National Park

Chugoku and Shikoku

Hyonosen-Ushiroyama-Nagisan Quasi-National Park
Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park
Nishi-Chugoku Sanchi Quasi-National Park
Kita Nagato Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park
Tsurugisan Quasi-National Park
Muroto-Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Ishizuchi Quasi-National Park

Kyushu

Kitakyushu Quasi-National Park
Genkai Quasi-National Park
Yaba-Hita-Hikosan Quasi-National Park
Iki-Tsushima Quasi-National Park
Kyushu Chuo Sanchi Quasi-National Park
Nippo Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Sobo Katamuki Quasi-National Park
Nichinan Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Okinawa Senseki Quasi-National Park

Related Designations

Special Places

Beyond national parks, Japan designates other areas for their cultural and natural significance. These include Special Places of Scenic Beauty, Special Historic Sites, and Special Natural Monuments, offering a broader perspective on the nation's heritage conservation efforts.

Wetlands of Importance

Japan is also a signatory to the Ramsar Convention, recognizing the global importance of certain wetlands. A list of these designated Ramsar sites highlights the country's commitment to conserving vital aquatic ecosystems.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the List of national parks of Japan Wikipedia page

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Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This document has been generated by an AI model for educational purposes, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, it is based on a specific snapshot of information and may not reflect the most current details or official designations.

This is not official guidance. The information presented here is not a substitute for consulting official government resources, park management authorities, or expert advice. Users are encouraged to verify information with primary sources for critical planning or decision-making.

The creators of this content are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

Japan's Verdant Realms

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Legacy of Preservation ⏳

🏛️ Early Initiatives

🏞️ Post-War Development

📊 Growth and Scope

Conservation Framework 🛡️

⚖️ Legal Basis

🌳 Zoning and Land Ownership

Geographic Distribution 🗺️

📍 Locating Japan's Parks

List of National Parks 🌲

🏞️ Key National Parks

Quasi-National Parks 🌿

🌳 Regional Designations

Hokkaido

Tohoku

Kanto

Chubu

Kansai

Chugoku and Shikoku

Kyushu

Related Designations 🔗

⭐ Special Places

💧 Wetlands of Importance

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Legacy of Preservation

Early Initiatives

Post-War Development

Growth and Scope

Conservation Framework

Legal Basis

Zoning and Land Ownership

Geographic Distribution

Locating Japan's Parks

List of National Parks

Key National Parks

Quasi-National Parks

Regional Designations

Related Designations

Special Places

Wetlands of Importance

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice