Japan'ssecond-largest island is the least densely populated place in the country—some 5 million peoJapan's second-largest island is the least densely populated place in the country—some 5 million people call Hokkaido home. And while 5 million is a big number, most of the island's population is concentrated in its big cities, including the largest, Sapporo . Where things really get vast and uncrowded is within the island's spectacular national parks. Our image provides a sweeping view across Shikotsu-Tōya National Park, in western Hokkaido. Here, the caldera lakes that inspired the park's name—Lake Shikotsu and Lake Tōya —reflect the green peaks of the active stratovolcanoes that surround them. All this geothermal activity also helps fuel population pockets, most notably in Noboribetsu , a hot springs resort inside the park... See more See less
