Daisetsuzan National Park is located near the center of Japan's northermost island, Hokkaido, not far from Asahikawa. At 2267 square kilometers, it is the largest national park in Japan.

Daisetsuzan is famous for its rugged beauty, its wildlife (inclyuding brown bears), its alpine meadows and lakes, and its remote backcountry. The park also hosts a number of onsen (hot springs) including Asaidake Onsen, Sounkyo Onsen, and Tenninkyo Onsen.

A short history:

• 1931 - Japan's first National Park Act is passed.
• 1932 - 12 areas, including Daisetsuzan, are submitted for recognition as national parks under the act.
• 1934 - Daisetsuzan National Park is created.
• 1941 - The Pacific Wars begin. The park is utilized for military training.
• 1957 - The National Park Act is repealed.
• 1971 - Daisetsuzan National Park comes under the protection of Japan's newly created Environmental Agency.
• 1995 - The area of the park is decisively determined to be 226,764 hectares.