More enjoyable trip to Hachimantai and Appi, Iwate Prefecture, Japan
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A Trekking Paradise for Beginners and Veterans Alike

In Japanese, the “tai” in Hachimantai refers to flatness. This is appropriate, because Mt. Hachimantai’s summit is remarkably flat, more akin to a plateau in terrain rather than a mountain. This makes it easy to traverse for children and elderly, and removes any need for heavy gear; anyone can trek it with minimal prep!
Both Mt. Hachimantai and Mt. Iwate are counted among Japan’s 100 most famous mountains. A long ridge runs all the way from Mt. Maemori in Appi Kogen, through Mt. Hachimantai and up to Mt. Iwate. The trail that runs along this ridge connects to the Yakehashiri trailhead, and is consequently known as the “Iwate-Hachimantai-Appi Kogen 50km Trail.” For serious trekkers, it’s the one of the most prominent trails in the country.
Among those aiming to challenge this horseshoe-shaped trail, there are many who stop in at Appi Kogen and the Onsenkyō area to sample the many hot springs between hikes.
It’s a trekking paradise that offers courses for people of all experience and fitness levels.
The great expanse of Japan’s national park is waiting!

Recommended Trekking Routes

Trekking Prep

Vital for any Trek

Even on Mt. Hachimantai, which is quite accessible to newcomers, these items are the bare minimum that all visitors should bring.
【Belongings】

  • Top & Bottom Raingear
  • Map
  • Copy of Health Insurance
  • Towel
  • Food & Water
  • Band-Aids
  • Snacks
  • Gloves

Etc.

Additionally, if necessary:

  • Lunch
  • Medication

Etc.

【Anti-Infection Items】

  • Mask and/or Facemask etc.
  • *Stray masks are turning up often.
    Please take care that yours isn’t blown away in the wind.

For safe trekking and nature conservation

  • If you’re traveling with a guide, please follow the guide’s instructions.
  • Check the weather forecast before arriving, and turn back if the weather turns bad.
  • Should thunder break out mid-trek, proceed to the nearest evacuation cottage.
  • Bear in mind that cellphone signals will not work.
  • Even in summer, bring at least a thin long-sleeved garment.
  • All trash should leave with you.
  • Avoid picking or stepping on alpine plants.
  • Avoid approaching or feeding any wildlife.
  • Avoid capturing bugs and small animals.
  • Avoid straying from the trails.
  • Pets often have negative effects on the flora and fauna, so please do not bring them with you.
  • *The real-world trails and circumstances may occasionally differ from those presented on this website due to factors such as trail construction/abandonment and terrain erosion.
  • *Each visitor is responsible for their own safety. Please stop at the Visitor Center before embarking for the latest trail conditions.

Recommended Trekking Routes

Mt. Hachimantai Summit Area

Mt. Hachimantai Summit Area

Gozaisho / Horaikyo Area

Gozaisho / Horaikyo Area

Matsukawa Onsen / Hachimantai Onsenkyo Area

Matsukawa Onsen / Hachimantai Onsenkyo Area

Hachimantai’s Alpine Flora

Komebatsugazakura

Late May to Early-June

Shojobakama

June to July

Nogoichigo

June to July

Hinazakura

June to July

Tsubameomoto

June to July

Iwanashi

June to July

Kinugasaso

June to July

Sankayo

June to July

Mitsubaoren

June to July

Iwakagami

June to July

Shiraneaoi

June to July

Aleutian avens

June to July

Hakusanchidori

June to August

Tsumatoriso

June to July

Iwahaze

June to July

Watasuge

June to July

Bog-bean

June to July

Bog-rosemary

June to July

Kobaikeiso

June to July

Usagigiku

June to July

Iwaicho

June to July

Obakisumire

Mid-June to Mid-July

Asian skunk cabbage

Mid to late June

Ginryoso

Late-June to July

Obatakeshimaran

Late-June to July

Miyamakinpoge

Late-June to Eearly-July

Gozentachibana

Early to Mid-July

Enreiso

Early July

Kurumayuri

July

Momijikaramatsu

July

Shinanokinbai

July to Mid-August

Hachimantaiazami

July to August

Daylily

July to August

Shiratamanoki

July to August

Hakusanhuro

July to August

Kinkoka

July to August

Yotsubashiogama

July to August

Common butterwort

Mid-July

Aleutian Mountainheath

Mid-July

Tsururindo

Mid-July to Mid-September

Otakanebara

Late July

Miyamaakinokirinso

August to September

Okutorikabuto

August to September

Ezooyamarindo

August to September

Umebachiso

August to September

Tachigiboshi

August to September