Wildest Islands

S02E01 Japan: Island of Extremes

Discover the fascinating mix of Asian and Arctic wildlife that calls Japan home, a vast archipelago of 6,852 islands extending over 2,400 kilometers. With its wide variety of climates, from snowy peaks to humid mangroves, Japan is a sanctuary for unique species that can’t be found elsewhere on the planet, including some of the toughest animals. The winter months in Japan’s central and northern regions can be harsh. In the frigid, unforgiving environment of Honshu, snow monkeys, also known as Japanese macaques, find refuge from the cold by soaking in the soothing waters of volcanic hot springs.