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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & CO-OWNER

Reviewed by KIRSTEN LOUY-NASTY (December 2025)

Kirsten was raised in our nation’s capital, where her curiosity about distant places first took root. Her passion for global exploration was solidified after traveling to Papua New Guinea to work with a grassroots organization focused on women and small businesses. She went on to establish and earn the first Bachelor of Arts degree in Cultural Studies at Keene State College in New Hampshire. Since then, Kirsten has traveled extensively across five continents, deepening her understanding of diverse cultures and communities.

Summary: The Hachimantai Plateau, located in the Towada–Hachimantai National Park, offers a serene and rugged escape in Northern Japan’s Tohoku region, far from the crowds of cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. Summer is the ideal time to visit, as the snow melts by early June, revealing green marshlands, jewel-toned crater ponds, and full access to hiking trails and the scenic Panorama Line. Visitors enjoy refreshingly cool weather, with perfect summer temperatures in July and August, ideal for driving, walking the Nature Observation Trail, stargazing, and relaxing in the numerous onsen (hot springs), such as Fukenoyu. A car is recommended for exploring the spread-out attractions.

Key Takeaways for Hachimantai in Summer

1. Hachimantai is a refreshing highland retreat with comfortably cool weather (average highs 18-22 °C in July/August. It provides a quiet, open, and accessible alternative to the more crowded Japanese Alps.
2. Highlights include walking the easy Hachimantai Nature Observation Trail, driving the scenic Hachimantai Panorama Line, exploring vibrant volcanic crater ponds, and enjoying an onsen. The low light pollution makes for spectacular evening stargazing.
3. The famous “Dragon Eye” phenomenon at Kagami-numa disappears during the summer season (July and August). However, the pond remains intensely beautiful with vivid green-blue colors.
4. A 2-day trip allows for the summit, a hike, and an onsen experience. Options for accommodation include the Hachimantai Mountain Hotel & Spa for comfort or the rustic Matsukawa Onsen ryokan cluster.
5. To fully explore the large plateau and reach sights like trailheads and onsens at your own pace, a car is essential. The best access point is by taking the Shinkansen to Morioka, then driving about 60–75 minutes.

The Best Highlights of Japan 

Japan is one of the most renowned travel destinations in the world, famous for its bustling, hyper-modern cities, such as Tokyo and Osaka, and its ancient culture, found in hubs like Kyoto. However, the country’s unique geography-situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire-means that a vast portion of the nation is rugged, mountainous terrain, defined by quiet forests, volcanic peaks, and an abundance of onsen (hot springs). Many travelers flock to the main island of Honshu’s most famous spots, yet a different, more serene side of Japan awaits those willing to venture further north, away from the crowds and into the natural highlands. If your ideal journey involves space, quiet nature, and refreshingly cool weather, you’ll find the perfect escape in the elevated terrain of the Hachimantai Plateau.

What is the Hachimantai Plateau & Where Is It?

Far removed from Japan’s more crowded destinations is the Hachimantai Plateau, situated at the heart of the Towada–Hachimantai National Park, straddling the border between Iwate and Akita Prefectures in the northern Tohoku region. While the Tohoku region is known for its rugged wilderness, Hachimantai offers a distinct experience: it is gentle, open, and easily accessible. This elevated volcanic scenery provides the cool, refreshing highland climate often sought in the Japanese Alps, but with a fraction of the visitors. Defined by rolling marshlands, quiet forests, and jewel-toned crater ponds, the plateau becomes a truly peaceful escape in the summer.

Is Hachimantai Worth Visiting in Summer?

Summer is the season when Hachimantai fully awakens. By early June, the last of the snow has melted, and the highlands are at their greenest. Trails reopen, the famous Panorama Line becomes fully drivable, and crater ponds reveal intense shades of turquoise, jade, and cobalt – colors that appear almost surreal under the bright summer sun.

What are the highlights of Hachimantai in summer?

• Comfortably cool weather: Average highs of 18–22°C, even during July and August.
• Full trail access: Snow closures lift, giving hikers the longest window of the year.
• Big-sky views: Clear summer air brings exceptional mountain visibility.
• Ideal onsen conditions: The contrast of warm outdoor baths and crisp air is deeply relaxing.

Summer here feels restorative – the kind of quiet mountain environment where you naturally slow down.

What Can You See at Hachimantai in Summer?

Summer transforms the plateau into a canvas of green marshlands, wildflowers, and reflective ponds. Unlike winter, when everything lies under deep snow, the landscape becomes open, walkable, and full of subtle seasonal detail.

This is the time to experience:

• Alpine wetlands in full bloom
• Emerald crater ponds surrounded by boardwalks
• Long, panoramic drives through untouched highlands
• Evening stargazing under a clear mountain sky

Hachimantai is often described as “quietly beautiful” — not dramatic, but deeply serene.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Hachimantai in Summer?

1. Walk the Hachimantai Nature Observation Trail

An easy boardwalk loop near the summit that winds through marshes, ponds, and alpine vegetation. This is the perfect introduction to the plateau’s atmosphere — gentle, scenic, and ideal for families or photographers.

2. Explore Crater Ponds Like Kagami-numa

Hachimantai’s ponds are volcanic in origin, their colors influenced by minerals and algae. In summer, Kagami-numa and Gama-numa glow in jewel-like shades that change with the angle of the light.

3. Drive the Hachimantai Panorama Line

One of northern Japan’s most beautiful mountain roads, offering ridge-top views, forest valleys, and wide-open sky. Even those who don’t hike will find this drive deeply rewarding.

4. Enjoy Stargazing at the Summit

With virtually no light pollution and clear highland air, Hachimantai offers spectacular night skies. Summer nights are cool but comfortable – perfect for stepping outside after dinner to enjoy the Milky Way.

What Is the Hachimantai Dragon Eye, and Can You See It in Summer?

The Dragon Eye is a natural phenomenon that appears briefly at Kagami-numa from late May to early June, when the melting snow forms a circular pattern that resembles an eye.

In summer, the Dragon Eye disappears. But the pond remains intensely beautiful – its vivid green-blue color in July and August often surprises visitors more than the Dragon Eye itself.

What Are the Best Summer Hiking Trails in Hachimantai?

Hachimantai Rim Trail (Easy to Moderate)

A 1–1.5 hour loop that passes ponds, marshes, and scenic viewpoints. Ideal for travelers who want mountain views without committing to a full-day hike.

Mt. Iwate (Advanced)

Known as the “Mt. Fuji of Tohoku,” Mt. Iwate is a full-day volcanic ascent suitable for experienced hikers. Clear summer days offer sweeping views across Tohoku’s northern ranges.

Appi Highlands Trails (Easy)

Located on the Iwate side, Appi Kogen offers relaxed nature walks, forest routes, and softer terrain perfect for those who want highland scenery without steep elevation.

Where Are the Best Onsens on the Hachimantai Plateau?

Fukenoyu Onsen

A rustic, open-air hot spring set deep in nature – atmospheric, quiet, and unforgettable in the cool mountain air.

Matsukawa Onsen

One of the region’s most historic hot spring clusters, known for mineral-rich baths and traditional ryokan hospitality.

Hachimantai Mountain Hotel & Spa

A comfortable, modern base with excellent outdoor baths offering broad mountain views — ideal for travelers planning a two- or three-day stay.

A Sample 1-3 Day Itinerary for Hachimantai in Summer with ATJ

Below is a refined, experience-led itinerary inspired by your original plan and elevated to match the tone of ATJ-style travel planning.

Day 1 – Summit Highlights, Crater Ponds & Scenic Driving

Morning
Arrive in Morioka and ascend into the highlands. Start with the Hachimantai Nature Observation Trail for a peaceful introduction to the plateau’s ponds and marshes.

Afternoon
Drive the Hachimantai Panorama Line, pausing at lookouts and short boardwalks such as Tashiro-daira. The views here, with rolling highland ridges and green valleys, are among the most scenic in Tohoku.

Evening
Check into the Hachimantai Mountain Hotel & Spa. Enjoy dinner featuring local Iwate ingredients, then soak in the outdoor onsen as the evening cool settles over the mountains.

Day 2 – Hiking & Hot Springs

Morning
Choose your hike:

• The Rim Trail for a relaxed, scenic loop, or
• Mt. Iwate for a challenging full-day climb.

Afternoon
Reward tired legs with a soak at either Fukenoyu Onsen or Matsukawa Onsen — both offer open-air baths that feel wonderfully refreshing in summer.

Evening
After dinner, step outside for stargazing. The plateau’s high elevation and lack of light make for a brilliant night sky.

Day 3 – Cultural Exploration & Highland Retreat (Optional)

Choose the experience that fits your interests:

Option A – Matsuo Mine & Geothermal Craft Studios

Explore the atmospheric remains of the historic Matsuo Mine and visit nearby craft studios where artisans use geothermal heat for dyeing and woodworking.

Option B – Appi Highlands

Enjoy easy nature trails, modern resort comforts, or a leisurely lunch – a perfect soft-adventure day.

Option C – Shrines & High-Moor Marshlands

Visit quiet forest shrines in the Matsukawa Valley, then explore the wetlands, such as Goshogake Marsh, for a more contemplative nature experience.

How Many Days Do You Need in Hachimantai?

• 2 days allow you to enjoy the summit, a hike, and an onsen.
• 3 days unlock cultural sites, craft studios, or a visit to Appi Kogen.

How Do You Get to the Hachimantai Plateau from Tokyo or Sendai?

From Tokyo

Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Morioka (approx. 2 hr 10 min), then rent a car.

From Sendai

Shinkansen to Morioka (40 minutes), then car or limited summer bus.

From Morioka

The easiest approach – about 60-75 minutes by car.

Do You Need a Car to Explore Hachimantai?

Yes. The plateau is large and sights are spread out. A car provides the freedom to reach trailheads, onsens, and viewpoints at your own pace.

Where Should You Stay on the Hachimantai Plateau?

• Hachimantai Mountain Hotel & Spa – best overall access + comfort.
• Matsukawa Onsen ryokan cluster – rustic, mineral-rich springs.
• Appi Kogen hotels – resort-style stays with dining, spa, and family facilities.

Are There Summer Festivals Near Hachimantai?

Yes. While the plateau emphasizes nature, nearby cities host lively cultural events:

• Matsuo Hachimangu Festival (September) – the closest major festival.
• Morioka Sansa Odori (August) – one of Japan’s biggest drum festivals.
• Akita Kanto Festival (August) – world-famous lantern balancing.
• Hanamaki Festival (September) – traditional dancing and mikoshi.

Don’t Pass Up The Trip of a Lifetime to Japan, Hachimantai

Ready to secure your own slow-paced, scenic summer retreat in the Tohoku region? Whether you want a quick 2-day highland refresh or a comprehensive 3-day itinerary that includes cultural stops and Appi Kogen, we can refine the perfect journey for you.

Contact ATJ today to speak with a Japan specialist who can seamlessly integrate the unique beauty of Hachimantai into your wider travel plans. Let us handle the details—from reserving your car in Morioka to booking a traditional ryokan with the best outdoor baths—so you can focus on the tranquility.