Hachimantai Plateau is a plateau-like summit at 1,613 meters above sea level, with tranquil ponds, vast wetlands, and extensive forests of osorabiso. Hachiman-numa is the largest of the ponds and swamps in Hachimantai and is the symbol of the area.

It is one of the crater lakes of Hachimantai, which was formed approximately 7,300 years ago as a result of erosion and volcanic eruptions of the mountain tops, and has a circumference of approximately 1.5 km. The wetlands can be accessed from the boardwalk that circles the lake, and alpine flora such as day lilies, bamboos, chingle flowers, and cotton grasses are in full bloom from summer to early fall.

The nearby Kagami-numa Swamp is known as the "Hachimantai Dragon Eye" because of a natural phenomenon that occurs in late spring. When the edge of the swamp melts and a ring of water opens up, and the center of the remaining ice begins to melt as well, it looks like a giant dragon's eye from above. While beautiful, visitors should stay away from the edge because it is dangerous as it begins to thaw.

Misaki Pass is located on the border between Akita and Iwate Prefectures. The pass offers a panoramic view of Hachimantai and its ponds and wetlands to the east, and Mount Iwate, Mount Hayachimine, and Mount Akita Komagatake to the south. Visitors can also use the Hachimantai summit rest area and parking lot at the pass