Guide to Towada-Hachimantai National Park
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Within the deep wilderness of northern Tohoku, Towada-Hachimantai National Park is a place where the forces of nature have left their mark in dramatic ways: ancient volcanoes shaped the landscape into something extraordinary—crater lakes, hot springs, and sprawling highlands that seem like they belong to a different world. Towada-Hachimantai is far enough off the beaten path to offer a true sense of escape, but its raw beauty will make it unforgettable if you’re lucky enough to venture in.
At the center of the park, Lake Towada glimmers like a sapphire, while the Hachimantai Plateau boasts vast, untamed lands begging to be explored. A dream come true for avid hikers, hot spring enthusiasts, or simply those just looking to unplug from the daily routine. If you’re craving the kind of solitude only deep nature can provide, this might just be the spot for you!
What is Towada-Hachimantai National Park?
Towada-Hachimantai National Park (十和田八幡平国立公園) is a sprawling natural wonder that covers over 850 square kilometers, straddling the prefectures of Aomori, Akita, and Iwate. It was established in 1936 and is celebrated for its varied terrain, ranging from the crystalline waters of Lake Towada (十和田湖) to the rocky peaks and geothermal features of the Hachimantai Plateau (八幡平).
The park’s history is deeply intertwined with Japan’s volcanic activity, and you can still see the evidence today in its bubbling hot springs and the dramatic caldera that houses Lake Towada. The park is divided into two primary areas: the Towada section, known for its picturesque lake and the Oirase Gorge (奥入瀬渓流), and the Hachimantai section, famous for its highlands, marshlands, and scenic viewpoints. Both areas boast year-round beauty, with spring and autumn being particularly popular due to the cherry blossoms and vibrant fall foliage.
This park is also a haven for wildlife, with migratory birds and rare plant species thriving in the wetlands, so the biodiversity here is a huge draw for nature enthusiasts. But beyond the sights, there’s a palpable sense of tranquility in this park that has kept it a beloved retreat for decades.
What to do at Towada-Hachimantai National Park?
Towada-Hachimantai National Park offers a wide range of activities that highlight its natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who enjoys a peaceful moment in nature, the park has plenty to offer. Below are some of the top things to do and see, each providing a unique way to experience the landscape:
Hiking at Hachimantai
Hiking trails crisscross the park, with the Hachimantai area being a standout for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails here vary in difficulty, making it accessible to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. The Hachimantai Aspite Line and the Hachimantai Panorama Line offer scenic drives with plenty of opportunities to stop, hike, and take in the stunning vistas. One of the highlights is the hike up to the summit of Mount Hachimantai, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding highlands.
Lake Towada Cruise
Lake Towada, a deep, crystal-clear caldera lake, is the crown jewel of the park. A boat cruise is one of the best ways to appreciate the lake’s beauty. You can take a relaxing cruise across the lake, getting close to the sheer cliffs and wooded shores that make it so striking. In the autumn, the lake is surrounded by vibrant red and orange foliage, making for an unforgettable experience.
Oirase Gorge
Oirase Gorge is a must-visit for anyone heading to Towada-Hachimantai. This scenic river valley stretches for about 14 kilometers and is dotted with waterfalls, lush greenery, and walking paths. The easy hike along the Oirase Stream is perfect for those who want to soak up the beauty of the forest without too much effort. It’s particularly stunning in spring when the greenery is fresh and in autumn when the leaves turn vivid shades of red and gold.
Hot Springs (Onsen)
The volcanic origins of the park have blessed it with numerous hot springs. After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than soaking in an outdoor onsen surrounded by nature. Goshogake Onsen and Matsukawa Onsen are two popular spots in the Hachimantai area, where you can enjoy the therapeutic waters while looking out over the tranquil landscape.
Winter Sports
Towada-Hachimantai transforms into a winter wonderland, with plenty of opportunities for snow sports. The Hachimantai Resort and Appi Kogen are both popular spots for skiing and snowboarding. The snow here is known for being light and powdery, attracting skiers from all over Japan. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also great ways to explore the park during the colder months.
Camping and Star Gazing
For those who love to spend the night outdoors, Towada-Hachimantai has several campgrounds where you can pitch a tent and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The highlands of Hachimantai are also ideal for stargazing, far from the light pollution of the cities. On a clear night, the sky is packed with stars, a truly unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Towada-Hachimantai National Park
Towada-Hachimantai National Park is relatively remote, but it’s accessible by both public transportation and car. Depending on which area of the park you plan to visit, your journey may vary slightly, but here’s an overview of how to reach both the Towada and Hachimantai sections.
For Lake Towada and the Oirase Gorge area, the most convenient way is to travel by train to either Aomori or Hachinohe stations, both accessible via the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo. From there, you can catch a bus directly to Towada Lake or Oirase Gorge. The bus ride from Hachinohe Station takes around two hours. During the peak seasons in spring and autumn, buses run frequently and often feature scenic stops along the way.
If you’re heading to the Hachimantai Plateau, the closest major station is Morioka in Iwate Prefecture, also reachable via the Tohoku Shinkansen. From Morioka, you can take a local bus to the Hachimantai Visitor Center or drive yourself. If you’re driving, the Hachimantai Aspite Line and Hachimantai Panorama Line are particularly scenic routes that take you right through the highlands and past stunning viewpoints.
For those who prefer to drive, renting a car from the train stations mentioned above offers the most flexibility and is highly recommended if you plan to explore both the Towada and Hachimantai areas.
Tourist Attractions Near Towada-Hachimantai National Park
In addition to the park’s natural beauty, the surrounding region offers a range of attractions that make for great day trips:
1. Hirosaki Castle
Located about an hour and a half from Lake Towada, Hirosaki Castle (弘前城) is one of the most iconic castles in northern Japan. Built in the early 1600s, it’s famous for its well-preserved architecture and stunning castle grounds, especially during cherry blossom season when over 2,600 cherry trees bloom in unison. The castle also offers sweeping views of Mount Iwaki, known as the “Tsugaru Fuji” for its resemblance to Mount Fuji.
2. Nyuto Onsen
Located in nearby Akita Prefecture, Nyuto Onsen (乳頭温泉郷) is a collection of rustic hot spring inns nestled in the mountains. Known for its traditional wooden ryokan and open-air baths, this onsen village offers a completely different vibe from the busier onsen towns in Japan. Some of the inns date back over 300 years, and the mineral-rich waters are renowned for their healing properties. After a day of exploring Towada-Hachimantai, this is the perfect spot to unwind in a quiet, old-world atmosphere.
More info: Nyuto Onsen: the Hidden Onsen Village in Northern Japan
3. Koiwai Farm
For a unique and relaxing stop, Koiwai Farm (小岩井農場) near Morioka is worth the visit. This is an expansive, family-owned dairy farm that has been in operation for over a century. Here you can enjoy fresh dairy products, take part in farm tours, and explore the beautifully maintained grounds. In winter, the farm hosts impressive light displays and other seasonal events, making it an ideal stop any time of year.
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Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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