Oze National Park is a stunning highland marshland across several prefectures, including Gunma, Fukushima, and Niigata. It’s one of Japan’s most famous national parks, particularly known for its beautiful wetlands, alpine plants, and scenic hiking trails.

​​Oze Marshland, Scenic Hiking Trails, and Majestic Peaks of Oze National Park

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The park’s centerpiece is the Oze Marshland, which lies at about 1,400 meters above sea level, surrounded by mountains like Mount Hiuchigatake and Mount Shibutsu. The marshland is famous for its seasonal wildflowers in summer and, in autumn, the area transforms with vibrant fall colors.

Oze Marshland

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Oze Marshland (or Ozegara in Japanese), is the largest high-altitude wetland in Japan and one of the country’s most beautiful and ecologically significant areas. 

The marshland spans around 8 kilometers and is surrounded by majestic mountains, including Mount Hiuchigatake to the north and Mount Shibutsu to the south, creating a natural basin for this unique ecosystem.

Ozegahara is famous for its seasonal flora, particularly the mizubasho (Japanese skunk cabbage), which blooms in late spring (May to early June). This white flower carpets the wetland, creating a picturesque landscape that attracts many nature lovers. During summer, the marsh is covered with nikko-kisuge (yellow day lilies), which bloom around July and August. In autumn (late September to early October), the marshland turns into a sea of golden grasses, complemented by the red and orange hues of the surrounding trees, making it a prime location for viewing “koyo” (autumn foliage).

The marshland is crisscrossed with wooden boardwalks, allowing hikers to explore the area without disturbing the fragile ecosystem. The walkways lead through various points of interest within the marsh, offering picturesque views of the marshland and its streams. The boardwalks make hiking accessible for people of varying skill levels, and visitors can enjoy leisurely walks that range from a few hours to a full day.

Ozegahara is not just a visual spectacle; it is also an important conservation area, rich in biodiversity. Its protected environment nurtures rare plant species and provides a habitat for various animals, including birds and amphibians. As such, visitors are encouraged to follow strict guidelines to preserve the fragile beauty of the marshland.

The best times to visit Ozegahara are late spring (May-June) and autumn (late September-October), with the weather being relatively mild. However, the park remains beautiful throughout the summer, especially with its cooler temperatures compared to lower-altitude areas.

Hiking in Oze

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Hiking Mount Shibutsu (2,228 meters) and Mount Hiuchigatake (2,356 meters) in Oze National Park offers a rewarding exploration of the park’s stunning landscapes. Mount Shibutsu, located near Ozegahara Marshland, is known for its scenic trails, abundant wildflowers in summer, and panoramic views of the marsh and surrounding mountains. 

The hike takes about 6-7 hours round trip for Mount Shibutsu, starting from Hatomachitoge Pass, and is most popular from mid-June to mid-October. 

Mount Hiuchigatake, the tallest peak in the Tohoku and Hokkaido regions, provides a more rugged and challenging climb, offering breathtaking views of Ozenuma Pond and the mountainous landscape. The hike, which takes about 7-9 hours, can be started from Ozenuma or Numayama Pass. Hiuchigatake is ideal for those seeking a more remote and wilderness experience, with a hiking season from late May to mid-October. 

Both peaks offer unique perspectives of Oze’s natural beauty, with Shibutsu focusing on marshland views and Hiuchigatake on the volcanic terrain surrounding Ozenuma. 

These hikes require good fitness and preparation, making them ideal for adventurous hikers looking to experience the diverse ecosystems of Oze.

Where to Stay 

To fully enjoy both the longer hikes and the boardwalk around Ozegahara, staying overnight in the park is highly recommended. Mountain huts in Oze require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn. It’s best to check the website of each facility and book directly online or by phone.

For those looking for a true outdoor experience, there are three main campsites in Oze: Yamanohana Camping Site, Miharashi Camping Site, and Ozenuma Camping Site. Ozenuma is the smallest and requires booking, while the other two don’t require reservations. Miharashi is quite large, and even during a busy “san renkyu” (three-day weekend), I had no trouble finding space to pitch my small tent.

Access to Oze National Park

Access to Oze National Park is car-free, preserving its pristine environment. Most visitors start from trailheads like Hatomachitoge (in Gunma) or Numayama Pass (in Fukushima). It’s about a 2-hour hike from Hatomachitoge to reach the marshland, making it an ideal spot for day trips or overnight stays at nearby mountain huts, where hikers can immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

You can leave your car at either Hatomachitoge or the Oze Parking lots. From there, take a bus to Hatomachitoge (1,300 yen one way) to begin your hike. For a detailed list of the main routes and parking options, along with their daily fees, please visit this link.

Embrace the Calmness of Oze National Park

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Oze National Park offers a stunning escape into nature, where visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable hiking experiences. Explore this natural paradise today!

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• National Park Guide: A Window Into Japan’s Precious Heritage
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