Summer in the Hachimantai Mountains

The Hachimantai mountains on the border of Iwate and Akita prefectures offer day trippers that perfect combination of gorgeous alpine scenery with easy-to-access trails. Boasting slightly cooler climes than the base of the mountain experiences in summer, this is the place to escape to when the heat is too much. The two-hour, relaxing ramble along the Lake Onuma Nature Trail is an ideal way to get a taste of the region. Hundreds of species of flora and fauna make their home in the alpine highlands so keep your eyes peeled and your camera at the ready!