Oze National Park Spring Trekking Trip

Join one of Japan’s best trekking destinations this spring and experience the beauty of Oze Marshlands, known for its unique wetlands and diverse flora.

This Trip Features:

  • The absolutely stunning Ozegahara Marshland and it’s distinct pools
  • Spectacular views of Mt. Shibutsu and Mt. Hiuchigatake covered in snow hovering over the horizon
  • White skunk cabbage in full bloom
  • Flat (but never ending) board walks ;p
  • Stunning Natural Beauty

Why Visit Oze?

Oze Marshlands offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and an unforgettable trekking experience. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature lover, this spring adventure provides a unique opportunity to explore Japan’s untouched wilderness. Don’t miss the chance to witness the rare and beautiful skunk cabbage blooms and take in the breathtaking mountain views that make this region famous.

What to Know About Ozegahara Marshland

Oze’s expansive Ozegahara Marshland is one of Japan’s largest high-altitude marshes, covering over 5,000 hectares of diverse wetlands. With its tranquil pools, vibrant flora, and abundant wildlife, it’s a must-see for nature lovers. Trekking through this vast and peaceful wetland will connect you with nature in a way few places can.

Skunk Cabbage: Nature’s Thermogenic Marvel

The white skunk cabbage (Lysichiton camtschatcensis) is one of Oze’s most iconic springtime sights. These large, white flowers bloom in the marshes from late April to early May, creating a striking contrast against the lush greenery.

What makes the skunk cabbage even more fascinating is its unique ability to spread by growing along a rhizome, which can grow nearly a foot thick. With the energy stored in this rhizome, the skunk cabbage is a thermogenic plant, meaning it can generate its own heat. This allows the plant to melt its way through ice and snow to appear above the surface during the early spring months. Its thermogenic capabilities make it one of the first plants to bloom, even in colder conditions, adding to its intrigue and charm.

The striking appearance, combined with its unusual thermogenic behavior, makes the skunk cabbage a favorite among nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Don’t Miss Out on This Outdoor Adventure in Oze Marshlands!

  • Meet the group in Shinjuku at 7am
  • Get on the bus
  • Catch up on your sleep or chat with other members and get excited
  • Short stop for breakfast on the way
  • Arrive at Oze National Park (Hatomachitoge trailhead) around 10:30am
  • Orientation and safety briefing
  • Start the trek at 11am
  • Arrive at Yamanohana Visitor Center around 12pm
  • Explore and enjoy the breathtaking sceneries of Ozegahara marshland and the surrounding mountains
  • Short picnic lunch around 12:30pm
  • Finish the trek back at Hatomachitoge around 4:15pm
  • Get on the bus
  • Short stop for some food/snacks at service area
  • Arrive back in Shinjuku around 8pm
Price includes;
  • Private bus transportation (round-trip)
  • Toll fees and parking
  • Fun and cute (English/Japanese speaking) trek guides ;p
  • Travel insurance
  • Consumption tax
  • Itinerary may vary due to the weather, traffic conditions, and other unavoidable circumstances.
  • Walk distance to cover is between 17k to 28k, to finish in 5 hours including picnic lunch and rest/photo breaks.
  • Trek is easy level but long (minimum of 17k to do the recommended loop) so reasonable fitness is required.
  • You can cut the trek shorter (about 10k) if you think 17k is too long. Walking about 5k (one-way) is good enough to see the Ozegahara marshlands and the spectacular view of Mt. Shibutsu.
  • You must be a fast and consistent hiker/trekker to join the optional 28k Ozenuma pond course trail.
  • Minimum of 10 people required to run the 28k Ozenuma pond trek.
  • Finish point for the optional 28k Ozenuma trek is at different location (Oshimizu not Hatomachitoge) so extra trek guide is needed.
  • Hiking/trekking experience not necessary.
  • Final details will be sent to the participants by email two days before the event.
  • This bus tour is arranged and organized under license of IBS 「株式会社 アイビーエス – 東京都知事登録旅行業2-6487号」.
  • Waterproof/windbreaker jacket/pants
  • Warm clothes (fleece/thermals)
  • Spare clothes
  • Hiking/trekking shoes or trainers
  • Soft/thick socks
  • Small (waterproof) backpack
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Picnic lunch
  • Snacks
  • Mineral water or sports drinks (at least 1.5L)
  • Book (to read on the bus)
  • Camera
  • Smartphone
  • Cash

Photo Gallery

2021 July 31 - August 1 (Saturday-Sunday)

SHIZUOKA/KANAGAWA​

PRICE: ¥10,000/person

Discounts:

  • Pay by bank transfer (4%)
  • Group of 4+ (5%)​

SPACE LEFT: 18/20