Hakkoda Mountains

The Hakkoda Mountains are a group of peaks rising south of Aomori City and are listed among Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. Mount Odake, the highest peak at 5,200 feet, is surrounded by nine other peaks, including Mount Takada-Odake, Mount Ido, and Mount Akakura, collectively known as North Hakkoda. Six peaks, including Mount Kushigamine, make up South Hakkoda. The area around Mount Tamoyachi, home to Sancho Park Station, the final stop on the Hakkoda Ropeway, offers scenic views of alpine plants in bloom and numerous ponds and marshes.

Several hiking trails offer an up-close experience of the mountains’ expansive natural surroundings. Routes take approximately 30 minutes, 60 minutes, or 2 hours and 30 minutes, so choose one that suits your fitness level. For a more challenging climb, take the Mount Odake Hiking Trail. The mountains offer year-round recreation, from hiking and climbing in summer and fall foliage viewing in autumn to mountain skiing from winter through spring. The snow monsters formed by frost-covered trees are another winter highlight.

As the area lies within the Nasu Volcanic Zone, hot springs are scattered throughout the surrounding region. Sukayu Onsen is particularly well known. It has welcomed visitors seeking therapeutic hot spring stays since the Edo period and was the first place in Japan designated as a National Hot Spring Health Resort. After hiking or skiing, unwind and soothe your tired muscles in the hot springs.