Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Popular

The Fuji-Hakone-Izu region, nestled in Japan’s Honshu Island, is teeming with diverse wildlife, beyond its iconic avian inhabitants.

Among the most renowned species is the Japanese macaque (Macaca fuscata), or snow monkey, known for its distinctive red faces and hot spring bathing behavior.

Here is a quick glimpse into several other popular or intriguing species:

Japanese macaque (Macaca fuscata): As noted above, they are known for their red faces and hot spring bathing behavior, Japanese macaques are highly social primates found in various habitats across Japan, including forests and mountains.

Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus): These sure-footed ungulates are often found on mountainsides, featuring a rugged appearance with thick fur and distinctive backward-curving horns.

Japanese giant salamander (Andrias japonicus): This captivating amphibian inhabits the region’s rivers, known for its large size, mottled skin, and unique appearance reminiscent of prehistoric creatures.

Japanese black bear (Ursus thibetanus japonicus): Roaming the forests of the region, the Japanese black bear is a subspecies of the Asian black bear, characterized by its black fur and crescent-shaped chest patch.

Sika deer (Cervus nippon): Graceful deer commonly seen in the woodlands, Sika deer are known for their spotted coats and distinctive calls during mating season.

Izu goby (Gymnogobius isaza): This fish species thrives in the region’s waterways, featuring a slender body and vibrant coloring, often found in freshwater rivers and streams.

Japanese freshwater crab (Geothelphusa dehaani): These crabs are a common sight in the rivers of the region, characterized by their small size, burrowing behavior, and intricate shell patterns.

Japanese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus): Often spotted foraging in forests, Japanese raccoon dogs are small canids with distinctive facial markings and a bushy tail.

Japanese marten (Martes melampus): A small mammal seen in forested areas, the Japanese marten has a sleek body, sharp claws, and a carnivorous diet primarily consisting of small rodents.

Japanese grass lizard (Takydromus tachydromoides): This reptile species is commonly found in the region, featuring a slender body, long tail, and the ability to quickly dart through grassy habitats.

Japanese giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia japonica): Large hornet species present in the area, known for their aggressive behavior and potent sting, making them both feared and respected in local ecosystems

Birds

Mount Fuji and the surrounding area are renowned for its iconic and picturesque landscapes.  However, it is also a haven for a variety of bird species.  Here is a look at some of the more popular and hopeful sightings:

Japanese bush warbler (Horornis diphone): A small, inconspicuous bird often heard but not easily seen in the park’s forests, known for its melodious song.

Japanese white-eye (Zosterops japonicus): Commonly found in woodlands and gardens, this small bird has distinctive white eye-rings and feeds on nectar and insects.

Japanese green pigeon (Treron sieboldii): A colorful bird with vibrant green plumage and a distinctively patterned neck, often seen in wooded areas feeding on fruits and seeds.

Japanese wood pigeon (Columba janthina): Larger than the green pigeon, this species is known for its gentle cooing and is found in forests and mountainous regions.

Japanese pygmy woodpecker (Yungipicus kizuki): A small woodpecker species commonly encountered in wooded areas, often heard drumming on trees in search of insects.

Japanese tit (Parus minor): These energetic birds are widespread in the park, recognizable by their yellow underparts and black head markings, often seen in trees and shrubs.

Brown-headed thrush (Turdus chrysolaus): A migratory bird that visits the park in winter, characterized by its brown head and spotted breast, often foraging on the ground for insects and berries.

Japanese wagtail (Motacilla grandis): This striking bird with its black and white plumage and long, wagging tail is commonly seen near streams and rivers, feeding on aquatic insects.

Japanese robin (Larvivora akahige): A small bird with a distinctive red breast, often spotted in forests and woodland edges, known for its sweet, melodious song.

Japanese sparrowhawk (Accipiter gularis): A raptor species found in wooded areas, known for its agility in flight and sharp talons, preying on smaller birds and mammals in the park’s diverse habitats