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Towada-Hachimantai National Park: A Natural Paradise

Discover stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and therapeutic hot springs in northern Japan's Towada-Hachimantai National Park. A haven for outdoor adventures!

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Towada-Hachimantai National Park, spanning Aomori, Akita, and Iwate prefectures, offers stunning landscapes, diverse activities, and serene hot springs. It's divided into two main areas: the Lake Towada-Hakkoda region and the Hachimantai area, each offering unique natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

A brief summary to Towada-Hachimantai National Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Rent a car for maximum flexibility in exploring the park, as bus services can be infrequent.
  • Visit the visitor centers for maps, guides, and up-to-date information on weather conditions and safety advisories.
  • Check the opening status of the Hachimantai Aspite Line, as it closes during winter.
  • Take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Towada for unique views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Pack for all types of weather, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Aomori Station, take the JR Bus Tohoku "Mizuumi" line towards Lake Towada. The bus ride takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes to reach Towadako bus stop. This bus also stops at Sukayu Onsen and other locations north of Towada Lake. The fare is around ¥3,140. Reservations may be required.

  • Driving

    From Towada City, drive approximately 61 km to Towada-Hachimantai National Park. The drive takes about 1 hour and 1 minute. Be aware that some roads, like the Hachimantai Aspite Line, are closed during winter. Parking is available at various points within the park, including near the visitor centers and trailheads. Parking costs vary but expect to pay around ¥500 per day at popular locations.

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Discover more about Towada-Hachimantai National Park

Towada-Hachimantai National Park, established in 1936, is a haven of natural beauty stretching across Aomori, Akita, and Iwate prefectures in northern Japan. The park is divided into two main areas: the northern Towada-Hakkoda area, known for Lake Towada, the Oirase Stream, and the Hakkoda Mountains, and the southern Hachimantai area, featuring Mount Hachimantai, Mount Iwate, and various hot springs. Lake Towada, a caldera lake formed approximately 200,000 years ago, is one of the park's most iconic features. Its clear waters and undeveloped shores provide a serene setting for sightseeing cruises and boating. The Oirase Stream flows from the lake through a picturesque gorge, offering a well-maintained hiking trail alongside waterfalls and moss-covered rocks. The Hakkoda Mountains, a range of over 20 volcanoes, offer hiking trails and hot springs, with unique "snow monsters" (juhyo) forming in winter. The Hachimantai area is characterized by its volcanic plateaus, marshes, and hot springs. Mount Hachimantai offers panoramic vistas and alpine wetlands, while Mount Iwate, the park's highest peak, provides dramatic hiking routes. The park is also known for its onsen culture, with notable hot spring resorts like Nyuto Onsen offering a relaxing respite after a day of exploration. Throughout the year, Towada-Hachimantai National Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and snowshoeing. In spring, alpine flowers bloom, while summer offers lush greenery and clear skies. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, and winter transforms the park into an icy wonderland.

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