Walk across Yakehashiri’s black lava, circle the Hachimantai summit and relax by steaming onsen before a photo stop at Lake Tazawa’s torii. This full-day Tohoku route blends volcanic geology, seasonal spectacles like the Dragon Eye and accessible alpine hiking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off at a basalt plain where black lava fingers still trace the slope and a cold wind pushes the smell of steam across the trail. The Yakehashiri lava field opens like a raw scar from an older eruption; beyond it the Hachimantai summit rises, ridged and blanketed in seasonally shifting weather.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with regular walking fitness; ability to handle several hours of mixed-terrain hiking and short elevation gains required.
Wildlife
History
Volcanic activity over millennia shaped the Hachimantai plateau; local settlements have long used geothermal features for bathing and folk medicine.
Conservation
Alpine vegetation and geothermal features are fragile—stay on marked trails, avoid touching fumaroles, and pack out all waste to protect hot-spring ecology.
Reserve your spot on the Volcanic Wonders & Scenic Trails today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start and finish at Morioka Station
Most shared tours begin/return to Morioka Station—plan extra time for transfers and luggage storage.
Dress in layers
Wind and sun change quickly on the plateau; a breathable insulating layer plus a waterproof shell keeps you comfortable.
Carry cash for onsen lunch
Some onsen kitchens and rural shops accept only cash; bring ¥ for meals or souvenirs.
Prepare for snow in spring
Mid-April–May often needs traction or snowshoes—check conditions and accept guide advice on footwear.
Sturdy hiking boots
Good ankle support and grip on volcanic rock and wet boardwalks.
Waterproof breathable jacket
Protects against wind and sudden rain on the exposed summit plateau.
Daypack with 1–2 L water and snacks
Sustains you through the 9–10 hour day between stops and onsen breaks.
Microspikes or snowshoes (seasonal)
Useful for mid-spring snowfields and the Aspite Line snow corridor if conditions require traction.
spring