From Japan's longest snow corridor (Hachimantai Aspite Line, mid-April to early May) to cherry blossoms in full bloom (mid-April to mid May), and of course, the world-famous Hachimantai Dragon Eye (mid-May to mid-June), there's plenty of amazing natural phenomenon to discover in Hachimantai throughout spring.
But that's just the start! Here’s our guide to getting even more out of your spring holiday to Hachimantai.
+ Knowledgeable Guides
The following operators can provide guided tours in English. Please consult directly with operators regarding guide availability, possible itineraries and costs.
Appi ExPlore (Appi Kogen Ski Resort)
Nature Guide Station (Hachimantai Mountain Hotel)
Operating daily from Morioka Station, the scenic Hachimantai Nature Explorer Bus offers FREE guided summit tours to passengers. Knowledgeable local guides will help you spot unique alpine plants and explain the area’s geographical and climate features as you enjoy a stroll around Hachimantai Summit’s many volcanic lakes. What a great way to discover the region’s wonderful mountain scenery!
Please note that in general this tour is conducted in Japanese.
For more information, please email Hachimantai City Tourism Association.
Hachimantai City Tourism Association
+ Hands-on Craft
Why not turn Hachimantai's natural beauty into art in a hands-on craft workshop? Your finished creation also makes an excellent souvenir of your trip.
Only in Hachimantai - Geothermal Dyeing!
Located close to the site of Japan’s first commercially operated geothermal power plant at Matsukawa Onsen, local family studio GEOCOLOR is thought to be the only place in the world where you can experience geothermal dyeing. Due to the use of naturally occurring steam from underground hot springs to the set the dyes, no two designs are the same! In a two-hour dyeing workshop, you'll create your own unique geothermal designs to take home.
You can also browse their various products which take inspiration from Hachimantai's abundant nature and changing seasons in Alpine Rose, the studio-direct shop and café located next door.
All-Natural Appi Lacquerware
More than 70% of Japan’s lacquer, or 'urushi’, comes from Iwate Prefecture and much of this originates along the Appi River which flows between Hachimantai and Ninohe cities. Made from all natural materials, Appi lacquerware is known for its shiny finish, beautiful colors and durability – it will last for generations making it a sustainable choice!
At Appi Urushi Studio, you can join a workshop and try decorating your own pair of chopsticks. Or browse the art-like creations of local artisans in the studio's shop.
+ Coffee + Cake
Spring is a great time to sit in a sunny café chatting away the day with friends or family. Listed below are our picks of cute cafés where you can have your cake and eat it too!
Shokudo Leos
This retro coffee shop/dinner serves all the Japanese café classics with views of Mt. Iwate from the stained-glassed windows. With the full range of café beverages and desserts including cheesecake, crème brulee and parfait, the challenge is deciding what to have first! Takeout also available.
Kitchen Café Kappa
Renovated in 2022, the airy interior of Kitchen Café Kappa gives it a super kawaii (cute) vibe. They serve a range of ‘one plate’ set meals generously loaded with mains, rice, salad and dessert, as well as ramen noodles, Japanese curry and gorgeous desserts.
Café & Snack Fika
As the name suggests, this cute café by day turns into a homely 'snack' bar by night. The friendly staff serve classic Japanese café-style light meals such as 'omurice,' as well as a seasonally changing range of homemade sweets. But their signature dish is an adorable polar bear themed ice-cream float!
+ Hitting the Green
Nestled among highland birch forests approximately 600m above sea level, Appi Kogen Golf Club is a picturesque spot for a round or two. The par 144 course has a total 36 holes over 130 hectares, split into two loops of eighteen: the Champion course and the Queen course. The Champion's course has even hosted the prestigious Ladies Professional Golfers' Association of Japan (JLPGA) tournament seven times.
With undulating greens and tricky doglegs, both courses require strategy and skill while offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. What a great way to spend a perfect spring day!
All information listed was confirmed at the time of publication. No responsibility is taken for changes made by third parties after this time.
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