2025年4月22日

Collect Memories, One Stamp at a Time!

Discover Japan’s National Parks – Starting with Rokkosan

Japan is a land of stunning contrasts—from tropical beaches to alpine peaks, ancient forests to volcanic landscapes—and now, there’s a new way to celebrate it all. The Ministry of the Environment of Japan has launched a brand-new initiative: the National Parks Stamp Collection Campaign, running from February 1, 2025, through March 31, 2027.

 

This exciting campaign invites residents and travelers alike to explore all 35 national parks across Japan, and collect specially designed stamps at each park’s visitor center. The stamps, inspired by the beautiful “goshuin” seal stamps collected at shrines and temples, feature elegant calligraphy and the unique name of each national park. It’s a fun and meaningful way to document your adventures and discover more of the natural beauty this country has to offer.

Explore Japan from North to South

One of the most incredible things about this campaign is how it highlights the geographic and ecological diversity of Japan. The national parks stretch across the entire archipelago, covering every region—from the subarctic wetlands of Hokkaido to the subtropical coral reefs of Okinawa. Wherever you find yourself in Japan, there’s likely a national park nearby where you can reconnect with nature.

 

Each park offers its own unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultural treasures. Whether you’re scaling volcanic craters in Kyushu, wandering through forests of ancient cedars in Yakushima, or kayaking along the rugged coastlines of Sanriku, the stamp collection becomes a passport to nature, guiding you through the wonders of the Japanese outdoors.

 

You can find a list and map of all the participating parks here:
👉 https://www.env.go.jp/nature/nationalparks/pick-up/stamp/

 

Stamps can be collected by downloading a special sheet online or picking one up at any participating visitor center. It’s perfect for solo travelers, families, or even as a challenge among friends—who can get the most stamps before the campaign ends?

A National Park in the City: Discover Rokkosan

Among the 35 national parks featured in the campaign, Setonaikai National Park is one of the most accessible for those living in or visiting the Kansai region. And nestled within it is Mt. Rokko (Rokkosan)—a rare example of a “city mountain” that’s only a short ride away from downtown Kobe and Osaka.

 

What makes Rokkosan special is its ability to blend nature and convenience. In just 30–40 minutes, you can go from the bustling streets of Kobe to peaceful forest trails, panoramic observation decks, and charming alpine pastures.

 

Rokkosan offers year-round attractions:

• Spring brings cherry blossoms and forest blooms.
• Summer provides a cool escape from the city heat, with hiking trails and green meadows.
• Autumn transforms the slopes with fiery fall foliage.
• Winter brings snow to the mountaintop, perfect for family fun at the Rokkosan Snow Park.

 

And now, with the Stamp Collection Campaign, your visit to Rokkosan is more than just a breath of fresh air—it’s a chance to take part in a nationwide celebration of nature.

 

Before or after your hike, stop by the Rokkosan Guide House to learn more about the area’s flora and fauna—and, of course, to pick up your commemorative national park stamp!

 

🗻 Learn more about Rokkosan’s role in the National Parks of Japan here:
👉 National Park in a City: Mt. Rokko

A Journey Worth Remembering

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual traveler, or someone looking for a new hobby, the National Parks Stamp Collection is a meaningful way to explore, appreciate, and engage with Japan’s natural beauty. It turns each park visit into a memory you can hold in your hands—and a story to share with others.

 

So grab your hiking boots, download your stamp sheet, and start your journey—from Rokkosan and beyond.

 

👉 Start collecting stamps here

 

See you on Rokkosan!