Hachimannuma Pond and the Hachimantai Summit
Beautiful Hachiman Pond and the Hachimantai Summit
八幡平高原は、標高1,613メートルの台地状の山頂で、静かな池、広大な湿地、広範囲にわたるオオシラビソの森が広がっています。八幡平にある池や沼の中では最大であり、この地域の象徴でもあるのがこの八幡沼です。
It is the only crater lake of Aspeite volcano in Japan, formed about 7,300 years ago, spanning approximately 1.5 kilometers in circumference. From the promenade that goes around the surroundings, you can access to the wetlands, where alpine plants such as Nikko Kisuge, Kobaikeisou, Chinguruma, Watasuge bloom from summer to early autumn.
The nearby Kagaminuma is called "Hachimantai Dragon Eye" from the natural phenomenon that occurs in late spring. When the edge of the swamp melts and the water ring opens, and the central part of the remaining ice begins to melt, it looks like a huge dragon's eye when viewed from above. While beautiful, it becomes dangerous when it begins to melt, so visitors need to keep away from the edge.
Mikaeri Pass is located on the border between Akita Prefecture and Iwate Prefecture. From the pass, you can overlook the Hachimantai and its ponds and wetlands on the east side, Mt. Iwate, Hachimantai, Akita Komagatake and other mountains on the south side. Visitors can also use the Hachimantai Summit Rest Area and parking lot at the pass.
