Japan’s Amazing Natural Phenomena You Must Experience

Japan is a country with a large number of amazing natural phenomena due to its geographical location and unique topography. Here are some of the most amazing natural phenomena in Japan to include on your list of places to visit when you come to Japan!

Cherry Blossom

Also known as “Sakura” , it is a natural phenomenon that occurs annually in Japan during the spring, between the months of March and April. This bloom marks the beginning of the spring season and is one of the most anticipated events in the country.

Cherry blossoms are known for their beauty and short duration, as the blossoms only stay on the tree for a week or two before falling. The tradition of enjoying the Sakura is called “Hanami” , and it consists of having a picnic under the cherry trees, observing and appreciating the beauty of the flowers.

The cherry blossom is considered a metaphor for life and represents ephemeral beauty, cyclical nature and rebirth. For this reason, sakura is a popular subject in Japanese culture, appearing in literature, art, music, and fashion.

Unkai or Sea of ​​Clouds

Japan offers several places where it is possible to observe the “unkai” or sea of ​​clouds. It is a fascinating experience because when the clouds form at a low altitude, they resemble an infinite and smooth sea when observed from above. The creation of this natural phenomenon requires specific environmental conditions that include high humidity, no wind, the presence of mountains, and being in the right place at the right time, that is, during sunrise. The most famous place to appreciate the sea of ​​clouds is in Hokkaido, in the Unkai Terrace of the Tomamu Resort.

Nachi waterfall

Also known as Nachi no Taki, it is one of the most famous and beautiful waterfalls in Japan, having a height of 133 meters. It is located in Wakayama Prefecture, in the Kii region and is part of the Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, located at the foot of the waterfall, is an important pilgrimage site in Japan. The waterfall and sanctuary sit on top of a cliff and offer stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

It is especially impressive during the fall, when the surrounding trees are dressed in the colors of fall foliage. It is also a popular place to visit during the Nachi no Hi Matsuri festival, which is held every year in July and August, and features a purification ceremony at the waterfall.

Fireflies at Night

In Japan, firefly watching is a typical summer activity, especially in rural areas, where fireflies can be seen from early June to mid-July. These fascinating insects have inspired people’s imaginations for centuries .

Japanese folk belief is that the souls of soldiers turn into fireflies after they pass away. The ideal places to see them are those quiet ones near water, such as rice fields, forests or leafy parks, preferably on a humid afternoon. In addition, it is recommended that the environment be as dark as possible, so as not to scare these little beings.

Toyama Glowing Squid

Also known as “Hotaruika” in Japanese, these are a species of squid that inhabits the deep, cold waters of the Sea of ​​Japan. What makes them unique is their ability to emit a blue-green light that glows very brightly in the dark. This bioluminescence is produced by a special organ called a photophore, which is found in the body of the squid.

Every year from late March to mid-June, glowing squids migrate from deep water to the Toyama coast to breed. It is at this time that it is possible to see thousands of glowing squids floating in the sea at night.

This natural spectacle has attracted tourists from all over the world to see the phenomenon and several night boat tours have been set up to take visitors to appreciate this phenomenon more closely.

Zao Snow Monsters

These are an impressive natural formation that occurs in winter at Zao Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. These “monsters” are actually trees covered in ice and snow that have been deformed by the strong gusts of wind and heavy snowfall that occurs in the area.

Trees, covered in snow and ice, take on strange, twisted shapes, making them look like mythical creatures or monsters. The tallest ones can measure up to 10 meters in height, and the shapes are so diverse that visitors can spend hours walking among them and discovering new shapes and figures.

This natural phenomenon is the result of the harsh weather conditions in the area. Snow and ice stick to trees, and strong winds create unusual shapes by blowing snow in different directions. The “snow monsters” can be seen from mid-December to early March, attracting tourists and skiers from around the world. It is a unique and fascinating experience for those who love nature and adventure.

Naruto Swirls

An impressive natural phenomenon that occurs in the Naruto Strait, located in the Tokushima prefecture, in Japan. Eddies form when ocean currents in the strait meet with different tidal levels and speeds, creating strong currents that produce these large eddies.

They can reach up to 20 meters in diameter and have a speed of up to 20 kilometers per hour, which makes them an impressive spectacle of nature. The best times to view the eddies are at low and high tide, when the speed of the current reaches its peak.

There are several places where you can see the Naruto Whirlpools, such as the Uzu-no-Michi Observatory, which offers a panoramic view of the Naruto Strait and the whirlpools. You can also enjoy the phenomenon by taking a boat trip through the strait, which provides an exciting and unique experience.