Mount Hachimantai Nature Trail

Explore the diverse natural landscapes of Mount Hachimantai

The slopes of Mount Hachimantai are covered in fields of alpine flowers and forests of Maries' fir, and the mountain's volcanic lakes and ponds create striking vistas. The Hachimantai Nature Trail starts at the Hachimantai Summit Rest House, accessible by car and bus. The trail snakes between various pools and ponds before climbing to the summits of Mount Hachimantai and Mount Gentamori. On clear days, enjoy far-reaching views of Mount Chokai and Mount Iwate from viewpoints on Mount Gentamori.

You can access the trailhead via public transport from Morioka Station and Tazawako Station. Buses from Morioka Station are available from spring to autumn, and buses from Tazawako to Hachimantai are available from spring to autumn on Saturdays, Sundays, during the Obon holidays in August and during the fall colors in September and October. Check the exact dates and schedules in advance.

There is a parking area at Hachimantai Summit Rest House for visitors traveling by car.

Highlights

Kagaminuma Pond's "dragon eye"

Crater lakes and ponds

The Mount Hachimantai Nature Trail is dotted with small lakes and ponds created by volcanic activity. Hachimannuma Pond, the largest, was formed as a result of water collecting in a group of craters about 6,000 years ago. From late May to early June, the nearby Kagaminuma Pond is likened to a dragon's eye due to melting snow and ice creating a blue "iris."

A field of daylilies

Flowering marshland

A wooden walkway lines the marshes around Hachimannuma Pond, allowing visitors to observe a variety of plants and flowers close-up. In spring, you can see the snowy white blooms of Asian skunk cabbage. In summer, marsh plants such as hinazakura primrose and cottongrass grow all around the pond. A beautiful field of daylilies blooms on the south side of the pond during this season. The area is covered in rich shades of gold and crimson in autumn.

Snow-covered juhhyo, also known as "snow monsters"

Snow Monsters

In winter, the Maries' fir trees on Mount Hachimantai's slopes are covered in layers of frost and snow and are known as juhyo, meaning "frost-covered trees." They are nicknamed "snow monsters" in English. Visitors must be well-equipped to explore the area during the winter season due to the weather's changeability and harsh, cold conditions. The mountain can be particularly difficult to access due to snowstorms, so it is strongly recommended to go with an experienced guide. In the summer, take a leisurely walk through the Maries' fir forest from Mount Hachimantai's summit to Mikaeritoge Pass.

Trail Map

Mount Hachimantai Nature Trail

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