10 Great Places to Visit around Mt. Iwate—Walk on the Yakehashiri Lava Flow!

In the southern part of Hachimantai City rises Mt. Iwate, the symbol of Iwate Prefecture. To the northeast of this active volcano, you’ll find hot springs, a soothing forest, and other captivating sights shaped by volcanic activity. Highlights include Japan’s first geothermal power plant, Matsukawa Onsen, the striking contrast of basalt cliffs against autumn leaves in the Matsukawa Gorge, and even frozen waterfalls. You can also walk on hardened lava from a past eruption—an exciting opportunity to feel the Earth’s energy firsthand!

This article will guide you through notable spots in southern Hachimantai, starting with Matsukawa Gorge and the nearby Hachimantai City area.

1. Mt. Iwate

Mt. Iwate—often referred to as Iwate Prefecture’s symbolic mountain—rises about 20 km northwest of Morioka City. At 2,038 meters, it’s the highest peak in Iwate Prefecture, and visitors to Morioka can’t help but admire its imposing form. Because it juts out slightly east from the massive Ōu mountain range, it appears particularly prominent.

Mt. Iwate straddles three municipalities: Hachimantai City on its north side, Takizawa City to the southeast, and Shizukuishi Town to the southwest. Aerial views reveal that Mt. Iwate is indeed an active volcano with a caldera.

It typically takes four to five hours to reach the summit, but the reward is a panoramic view beyond compare. You can see the sprawling Kitakami Basin, including Morioka City, as well as the Hachimantai highlands, Appi Kōgen to the north, and farther east lies Mt. Hayachine—famous from geography lessons as one of Tohoku’s notable peaks.

2. Matsukawa Geothermal Power Plant & Geothermal Museum

Just a ten-minute walk from Matsukawa Onsen, the Matsukawa Geothermal Power Plant is well worth a visit. Geothermal energy harnesses steam—produced by subterranean volcanic heat—to drive turbines and generate electricity. It’s considered an eco-friendly source of renewable energy, minimally impacting the environment while offering continuous, dependable power generation.

Strategically located between the volcanoes Mt. Iwate and Hachimantai, Matsukawa Geothermal Power Plant began operating in 1966 as Japan’s first geothermal power plant. Its iconic structure is the 45-meter-tall cooling tower—shaped like an upside-down rice bowl—where steam is cooled after powering the generator.

Next to the cooling tower, you’ll find the Geothermal Museum (Chinetsu-kan), offering exhibits on how geothermal energy works. Admission is free, so be sure to check it out!

3. Matsukawa Onsen

Located on Mt. Iwate’s northeast slope, Matsukawa Onsen is renowned for its milky-white sulfuric waters and relaxing mountain setting. One inn even features cave-like rock baths by a tranquil stream—ideal for enjoying the sounds of nature.

Surrounding forests create a peaceful, rejuvenating atmosphere, and in autumn, the vibrant foliage provides a spectacular backdrop for soaking. Day-use bathing is possible at most facilities, so whether you’re lodging nearby or just passing through, do drop by for a soak.

4. Matsukawa Gorge / Matsukawa Basalt Cliffs

Matsukawa Gorge showcases a natural tapestry of colorful foliage—maples, beeches, and other hardwoods—alongside dramatic basalt formations. The vertical striations on the basalt cliffs form a stunning geometric backdrop that pairs beautifully with the bright red and yellow leaves in autumn.

The typical peak viewing period is early to late October, when trees take on bold hues, offering a breathtaking mosaic of color.

5. Mt. Iwate Yakehashiri Lava Flow

Though nowadays Mt. Iwate’s activity is limited to a few minor vents near the summit, it remains an active volcano—last erupting in the Edo period, with a small steam explosion in 1919. The Japan Meteorological Agency maintains an alert level of 1. To witness the volcano’s living heritage, visit the Yakehashiri Lava Flow.

Formed by a 1731 (Kyōhō 16) eruption on Mt. Iwate’s mid-slope, this lava flowed northeast for about 4 km before hardening. Little to no vegetation grows on the lava field—giving a rare, up-close look at the aftermath of an eruption. It’s designated a National Special Natural Monument.

Visitors can explore the Lava Flow Observation Trail, which starts near the lava flow’s tip. Enclosed by a rope, the trail lets you safely walk amid a dramatic sea of basalt.

The surreal, lunar-like terrain stretches a full 360 degrees, making it feel as if you’ve landed on another planet!

6. Mt. Iwate Galaxy Station Observatory

Next to the Yakehashiri Lava Flow, the Mt. Iwate Galaxy Station Observatory offers a prime spot for clear stargazing in a natural setting. Equipped with four telescopes (including a 500 mm computer-guided reflector), visitors can search for celestial objects via computer targeting.

Though open to casual visitors, the Galaxy Station is also a serious facility collaborating with the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. Public viewing sessions are limited to every other Saturday from late May to late October (7:00–9:00 pm). Schedule changes due to weather or special events, so check the official website beforehand.

This observatory is part of the Iwate Yakehashiri International Exchange Village, which also has a campground and a day-use hot spring facility—perfect for a comprehensive nature, relaxation, and stargazing experience.

7. Roadside Station Nishine

When exploring Hachimantai, consider stopping at Roadside Station Nishine. Its specialty corner features local products like Matsusen Sobabō (buckwheat crackers), Gomabō Cookies, and many more souvenirs. One standout is the station-exclusive Mocchiri Pork Buns, made with locally produced shiitake mushrooms and Du Zhong “Tou-chi” pork.

A produce stand sells cut flowers, handmade dumplings, miso, and other goods popular with both visitors and locals. You’ll also find limited-edition items like a “seasoned rice mix” using local mushrooms, carrots, and burdock root.

In the on-site restaurant, you can sample dishes highlighting the area’s notable spinach, including “Spinach Curry,” “Spinach Omelet,” or “Spinach Ja-Ja Noodles.” And for a delightful surprise, try the “Spinach Soft-Serve Ice Cream”—a local favorite for a quick, refreshing treat during a driving break.

8. Kanazawa Shimizu Spring Group

Close to the entrance of the Hachimantai Aspite Line, seven natural springs—collectively called Kanazawa Shimizu—were designated by Japan’s Environment Agency among the country’s 100 best waters.

Rain and snowmelt from Mt. Iwate and Hachimantai seep underground, then surface here as crystal-clear spring water. About 34,000 tons of water flow daily across seven distinct sites, used for fish farming and local water supply.

Certain areas are off-limits, but some springs—containing vanadium believed beneficial for health—are accessible for direct drinking. At the Iwate Prefectural Freshwater Fisheries Research Station (open weekday daytimes only), you can see the water gushing out with impressive force.

9. Iwate Prefectural Residents’ Forest

The Iwate Prefectural Residents’ Forest (Iwate-ken Kenmin no Mori) sprawls across the northern foot of Mt. Iwate. This large forested area includes a skunk cabbage swamp, a bird sanctuary, a campsite, and various experiential facilities. One highlight is the Mori no Ōhashi (Forest Bridge) over the Matsukawa River, a lovely photo spot especially in autumn. The forest features several walking trails (35, 45, or 75 minutes) for visitors of varying skill levels.

The official website for the Iwate Prefectural Residents’ Forest features event information, along with introductions to the current flowers and plants in bloom. You can also browse back issues of the Kenmin no Mori Dayori (Residents’ Forest Newsletter).

Within the sprawling Iwate Prefectural Residents’ Forest, where you could easily spend an entire day, we’ve chosen a few highlights to showcase: the Forest Interaction Hall, the Woodcraft Center, and the Hachimantai Autumn Foliage Festival.

◆ Forest Interaction Hall “Forest i”

Near the entrance is Foresti, a discovery center focusing on the wonders of wood. Exhibits explore the roles of trees, local wildlife, wooden toys and musical instruments, and much more.

♦ Woodcraft Center

At the Woodcraft Center, visitors can create small wooden items from locally thinned lumber.

From easy-to-make magazine racks and pen holders to more advanced projects—like mailboxes, round tables, or planter boxes—the center offers monthly workshops limited to the first ten participants. The participation fee varies depending on which item you choose to make, but rest assured that trained instructors provide guidance throughout the process. Why not create a one-of-a-kind wooden craft that warms the heart and serves as a lasting souvenir of your trip?

♦ Hachimantai Autumn Foliage Festival

Every fall, the Hachimantai Kōyō Matsuri (Autumn Foliage Festival) takes place here. Highlights include guided walks to Matsukawa Gorge, Shichitaki (Seven Falls), and Uodome-no-Taki Waterfall—where you can immerse yourself in colorful fall scenery.

There are also food stalls, flea markets, mochi-pounding demonstrations, chainsaw art using thinned timber, and various family-friendly events like log-cutting contests, quizzes, woodworking, and a grand raffle.

10. Shichitaki Falls—New Green, Autumn Colors, and Frozen Icy Spectacles

Located just south of the Iwate Prefectural Residents’ Forest, Shichitaki Falls plunges about 25 meters from Mt. Iwate’s waters. Surrounded by lush greenery or vibrant autumn foliage, it’s an enchanting spot to absorb nature’s tranquillity. Enjoy a one-hour round-trip hiking trail, soaking in the forest air and negative ions along the way.

From the Foresti building, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the Shichitaki trailhead, followed by a scenic hour-long trek to the falls and back.

Come winter, Shichitaki transforms into a dramatic frozen cascade. Each February, you can join the Icefall Shichitaki Tour hosted by Foresti—snowshoers can trek alongside a guide to this icy wonder.

Icefall Tour

The Icefall Shichitaki tour is a once-a-year opportunity to witness the 30-meter waterfall completely frozen in winter.
Snowshoe rentals are available, and participants can book through the Forest Interaction Hall in advance.

◎ Recommended Hotels near Mt. Iwate

♦Hachimantai Mountain Hotel

Recognizable by its red roof, the Hachimantai Mountain Hotel sits at the north base of Mt. Iwate.
Adjacent to the Hachimantai Resort Panorama Ski Area, it offers convenient ski-in, ski-out access. In summer, guests can stroll the expansive lawns right in front of the hotel.

The resort’s hot spring open-air bath uses water sourced from Matsukawa Onsen. Enjoy stone-oven dining at “Shirakaba,” a buffet-style restaurant with a variety of delicious dishes.
In the lobby lounge, a fireplace creates a cozy ambiance, and guests can learn more about the region at an evening program. Don’t miss the stargazing events under the clear Hachimantai sky!

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10 Great Places to Visit around Mt. Iwate—Walk on the Yakehashiri Lava Flow!