Oze National Park

In the mountains of northern Honshu, Oze National Park is one of Japan’s most photogenic hiking destinations. Stretching across four prefectures, it’s popular for marshlands, wooden boardwalks and stunning seasonal landscapes. It’s a great place for day visits or for more experienced hikers; there are plenty of multi-day treks to explore at Oze National Park. 

Oze National Park

Photo by: PIXTA/ tenjou

Oze Park was officially designated as Japan’s 29th national park in 2007. Once part of Nikko National Park, Oze was given its own status to better protect its unique alpine environment and diverse ecosystem. Spanning across four prefectures, Gunma, Fukushima, Niigata and Tochigi, the park stretches over a vast highland basin surrounded by dramatic peaks. Among them are Mount Shibutsu and Mount Hiuchigatake, both celebrated among Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. 

Ozegahara Marshland

Photo by: PIXTA/ hiro

The Ozegahara Marshland is the heart of Oze National Park and one of Japan’s largest high-altitude wetlands. A network of wooden boardwalks stretches across the wetland, allowing visitors to wander through the vast open landscape without disturbing its delicate ecosystem. The terrain is mostly flat, making it accessible even for casual hikers or families. Along the way, small rest huts and observation decks provide perfect spots to take in the scenery or enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature.

Ozenuma Pond

Photo by: PIXTA/ Taku

At the eastern edge of the Ozegahara Marshland lies Ozenuma Pond, another of the park’s highlights. The trail from the marshland to the pond takes about an hour and a half along forested paths. Ozenuma is surrounded by a six-kilometer walking path that alternates between shaded woodland and open stretches beside the water’s edge. On calm days, the surface of the pond perfectly mirrors Mount Hiuchigatake towering above. 

Seasonal Highlights

Photo by: PIXTA/ Oze National Park

Oze National Park is open to visitors from mid-May to late October, with each season bringing something new to enjoy.

Spring (mid-May to June)

As the snow melts away, Oze’s wetlands come alive with the first blooms of mizubasho (white skunk cabbage), which blanket the marshes. Yellow marsh marigolds and other alpine flowers soon follow, set against the lingering patches of snow on Mount Shibutsu.

Summer (July to early August)

By midsummer, the park bursts into full color. Bright orange daylilies dominate the Ozegahara Marshland and the Oe Wetland near Ozenuma Pond. This is the best season for long hikes, when the days are warm, the air is clear and the trails are alive with greenery.

Autumn (late August to mid-October)

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Oze. By late September through mid-October, the marshland grasses turn golden amber and the surrounding mountains turn shades of red, orange and gold. There are fewer insects and the crowds are smaller during Autumn. Expect snow as early as late October. From November, the mountain huts and park will close during the winter.