There are more species of wildlife residing in Japan when compared to other countries in the world.
This is due to the country’s length that reaches both subarctic and subtropical areas. Along the
coasts of Japan there is abundant marine life. On the various islands are the inhabitants of different
animals like foxes, bears, deer, monkeys, birds, and wild boars. The densest population of brown
bears can be found on the Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido. In the Kushiro Marshland, which is also
located in Hokkaido, you can find the endangered Japanese red-crowned cranes. It is the only
marsh habitat that is known to support the bird. There are a few monkey parks in Japan, but the
most desired to visit is the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi. In the winter you can see the
Japanese macaque soaking in the natural hot springs.
In Nara Park you can see about 1000 free roaming deer. They are considered as messengers of the
gods and have become the symbol of Nara city. You can purchase crackers and feed the many deer
that will flock to you for the snack. There are many other places to see the wildlife, but there are
places like Tashiro Island where you can find a large population of cats. Ogasawara Islands are the
known as the “Galapagos of the Orient.” There you can find endemic animals that are unique to the
area. As for the marine life there are many aquariums available to visit like the Churaumi Aquarium
and Osaka Aquarium.
Hokkaido
Birds in Hokkaido
Introduction to birds seen only in Hokkaido.
Hokkaido
Main Bird-watching Spots in Hokkaido
Places to see birds in Hokkaido, Japan.
Chubu | Nagano | Yudanaka Onsen
Snow Monkeys
The Snow Monkey Park, also known as Jigokudani Monkey Park, is known for the Japanese Macaque enjoying a bath in the hot springs.
Kansai | Nara | Nara City
Nara Deer Park
Nara Park is the most popular location for interacting with wild deer in Nara.
Hokkaido | Akan National Park
Akan International Crane Center
A museum, breeding center, and sanctuary where cranes can be seen year round.
Kyushu | Oita | Beppu
Takasakiyama Monkey Park
A popular tourist location with over 1500 wild Japanese monkeys for visitors to see in Oita Prefecture, Japan.
Hokkaido | Akan National Park
Tsurui Village
Near the Kushiro Wetlands, known as the best place to see Japanese Red Crowned Cranes.
Kansai | Kyoto | Kyoto City
Monkey Park Iwatayama
The Monkey Park Iwatayama has over 170 Japanese macaque monkeys and is located in the Arashiyama Mountains.