The Hachimantai mountains on the border of Iwate and Akita prefectures offer day trippers that perfect combination of gorgeous alpine scenery with easy-to-access trails. Boasting slightly cooler climes than the base of the mountain experiences in summer, this is the place to escape to when the heat is too much. The two-hour, relaxing ramble along the Lake Onuma Nature Trail is an ideal way to get a taste of the region. Hundreds of species of flora and fauna make their home in the alpine highlands so keep your eyes peeled and your camera at the ready!
- 1 min read
Summer in the Hachimantai Mountains
Verdant marshland and alpine flowers

By Mandy Bartok
Community writer

A butterfly lands on a flower along the Lake Onuma trail

August is a good time to catch several species of wildflowers in bloom

As the trail is comprised mostly of boardwalks, hikers need not worry about trampling delicate alpine flora

A reflective lake near the end of the loop

An eye-catching alpine flower

The scenery is mostly marshland and lakes, with mountains forming the backdrop

The stunning orange flowers dotted the hillsides near the trail
Information
Hachimantai City Tourism Association 1-28 Kashiwadai, Hachimantai-shi, Iwate-ken 028-7303 (Directions)
Join the discussion
Olga
9 years ago
Such a great selection of pictures with beautiful nature!
Thank you, Olga! This are reminded me very much of the wetland in Oita I recently visited.
Justin Velgus
9 years ago
Wonderful introduction. A stroll along the plank-covered walkways looks fun.
Thank you, Justin! I like to hike paths that are slightly more challenging but this nature walk was perfect to do with my daughter and friends.
4 comments in total
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