Saikai National Park

Saikai Overview

Saikai National Park (西海国立公園, Saikai Kokuritsu Kōen) is a stunning coastal sanctuary located in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. Spanning approximately 157 square miles (406 square kilometers), this park is renowned for its intricate archipelago of over 400 islands scattered across the azure waters of the East China Sea. Established in 1955, Saikai National Park showcases a harmonious blend of lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and crystal-clear waters, making it a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The park’s terrain is as varied as it is breathtaking, characterized by rugged cliffs, serene inlets, and densely forested islands. The Kujukushima Islands, or “99 Islands,” are the park’s most famous feature, though the name is symbolic rather than literal, representing the countless small islands dotting the landscape. Visitors can marvel at the unique shapes of these islands, formed through millennia of volcanic and tectonic activity. The coastline is lined with pine and camphor trees, while inland areas boast evergreen forests interspersed with patches of subtropical vegetation. Seasonal changes bring bursts of color, from cherry blossoms in spring to fiery hues in autumn, enhancing the park’s visual splendor.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find Saikai National Park teeming with diverse fauna. The islands are home to an array of bird species, including the Japanese cormorant, grey-faced buzzard, and the endangered fairy pitta, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The surrounding waters are equally vibrant, supporting a thriving marine ecosystem. Dolphins can often be seen frolicking in the bays, while coral reefs teem with colorful fish, crabs, and other marine life. On land, deer and small mammals such as raccoon dogs roam the forests, providing visitors with glimpses of the region’s rich biodiversity.

Saikai National Park offers an abundance of highlights for visitors. The Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort serves as a gateway to the park, offering boat cruises that navigate the intricate waterways, providing unparalleled views of the islands. The Saikai Bridge and Shinsaikai Bridge are engineering marvels that offer panoramic vistas of the park. For those seeking adventure, hiking trails meander through the islands, offering varying levels of difficulty and leading to scenic overlooks. Kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular ways to explore the marine life and coral reefs, while the park’s calm bays make for excellent fishing opportunities.

Conservation efforts are integral to Saikai National Park’s management. Authorities work tirelessly to balance tourism with the preservation of the park’s fragile ecosystems. Coral reef restoration projects and wildlife protection programs have seen notable successes in recent years, bolstering marine biodiversity and bird populations. However, challenges persist, particularly in combating the effects of climate change and invasive species. Continued collaboration between local communities, scientists, and park authorities remains vital to ensuring the park’s long-term sustainability.

Saikai National Park is a captivating mosaic of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural significance, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of Japan’s coastal treasures.

Park Map

Saikai National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Saikai National Park, located in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its breathtaking seascapes, including the Kujukushima (99 Islands) cluster and rugged coastlines. The park is a vibrant tapestry of lush forests, marine ecosystems, and cultural heritage, providing a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Below are some of the popular non-bird species found in Saikai National Park.

Japanese Spider Crab (Macrocheira kaempferi)
The Japanese spider crab, found in the park’s surrounding waters, is known for its enormous size and long legs, making it one of the most iconic marine species in the region.

Japanese Pond Turtle (Mauremys japonica)
This freshwater turtle, native to Japan, thrives in the park’s streams and ponds. Its adaptability and gentle nature make it a frequently spotted species.

Japanese Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus japonicus)
Though elusive, the Japanese black bear inhabits the wooded areas of the park. This subspecies of the Asiatic black bear has a distinctive white chest mark.

Japanese Giant Salamander (Andrias japonicus)
This amphibian, one of the largest in the world, can be found in the park’s clean, flowing rivers. It is an important symbol of Japan’s biodiversity.

Japanese Macaque (Macaca fuscata)
Known as snow monkeys, these macaques inhabit forested regions of Saikai and are highly social and adaptable to diverse habitats.

Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris)
In the park’s coastal waters, sea otters can be observed foraging for shellfish and crustaceans. Their playful behavior makes them a visitor favorite.

Japanese Spiny Lobster (Panulirus japonicus)
This marine crustacean is prominent in the park’s coastal zones. Its vibrant coloring and spiny shell make it an interesting find for divers.

Ezo Brown Frog (Rana pirica)
This amphibian is frequently encountered in the park’s wetlands and ponds, contributing to the ecosystem’s rich amphibian life.

Japanese Serow (Capricornis crispus)
A goat-antelope species, the Japanese serow roams the mountainous and forested areas of the park, symbolizing Japan’s wilderness.

Kujukushima Coral Reefs
The coral reefs in the Kujukushima area are home to a plethora of marine species and serve as a critical habitat for countless aquatic organisms.

Birds

Saikai National Park is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with its islands and coastlines attracting numerous avian species. Below are ten popular bird species commonly found in the park.

Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonicus)
This small, green bird is a frequent sight in the park’s forests, known for its melodious song and lively behavior.

Black-faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor)
A rare and endangered species, the black-faced spoonbill can be seen foraging in the park’s wetlands and tidal flats.

Japanese Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone atrocaudata)
This stunning bird with its long tail feathers is a seasonal visitor to the park, often found in forested areas.

Streaked Shearwater (Calonectris leucomelas)
This seabird is commonly spotted gliding over the waters around Kujukushima, a highlight for birdwatchers.

Oriental Turtle Dove (Streptopelia orientalis)
A frequent visitor to the park’s open fields and forest edges, this dove is recognized by its soft cooing.

Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker (Yungipicus kizuki)
A small but striking woodpecker, it is often seen flitting through the trees in the park’s forests.

Eastern Spot-billed Duck (Anas zonorhyncha)
These ducks are commonly found in the park’s ponds and wetlands, adding to the serene aquatic landscapes.

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Known for its incredible speed, the peregrine falcon hunts along the park’s cliffs and open coastlines.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
This majestic raptor, with its striking appearance, is occasionally seen soaring above the park’s coastal areas.

Varied Tit (Sittiparus varius)
This colorful and vocal bird is a favorite in the park’s woodlands, easily recognized by its striking plumage.