Get the Most Out of Autumn in Just Three Days! Tour Hachimantai’s Natural Scenery on E-Bikes and Check Out Season-Exclusive Art

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It’s often said that autumn in Hachimantai, Iwate begins earlier than anywhere else on Honshu, with seasonal colors creeping onto Mt. Mitsuishi in late September and spreading through the rest of the city throughout October. Hiking Mt. Hachimantai and coasting around Mt. Iwate’s foothills from the comfort of an E-Bike, you can experience this gorgeous scenery for yourself! During the evenings, you might even catch the stars out above!

This year, Appi Kogen is running a limited art gallery until the end of October, featuring gondola art and natural photos from photographer Mika Ninagawa. The timing might just be perfect for you to slip in a visit during your stay!

Three Days and Two Nights in Autumn Hachimantai

Day One

Part 1: Hiking in Hachimantai

During this time of year, the primeval forest and alpine flora stretching over the border between Akita and Iwate becomes fully blanketed in gradients of orange, red and yellow. But the true showstopper is how this contrasts with the clear blue skies above. Mt. Hachimantai was chosen as one of Japan’s 100 best mountains, and it also happens to be a relaxing hike even for beginners.

Part 2: All-natural Spring Water at the Hidden Spring, Matsukawa Onsen

Matsukawa Onsen is a hot spring area that has been operating for over 250 years. You can take a dip in their milky waters while totally surrounded by a natural forest setting, giving off the feeling that you’ve found a hidden spring in the woods. For melting away the rigors of travel, we recommend it.

Day Two

Part 1: E-Bike Touring and Local Cuisine

E-Bikes are bikes with an electric motor installed to assist with location. This functionality means that even those who may not feel the best about their stamina and fitness can still get out and enjoy a stunning bike ride through the countryside. You’ll get to see places such as the 300-year-old Yakehashiri Lava Flow; the autumn-draped Prefectural Citizen’s Forest (Kenmin-no-Mori), Great Forest Bridge (Mori-no-Ohashi), and Matsukawa Gorge; as well as Kanazawa Shimizu, a freshwater spring acclaimed as one of Japan’s 100 best springs. This is autumn in Hachimantai, as seen from up close. As part of the experience, you’ll also be treated to a lunch made from local ingredients.

Part 2: While Away Hours in Shirakaba-no-Yu’s Healing Waters

Alongside reclining, basin-style and cauldron-style baths, Appi Kogen’s Shirakaba-no-Yu onsen boasts some of the most luxurious open-air baths in Tohoku. Visit at night for cool breezes wafting in from the highlands and starry skies above.

Day Three

Part 1: Gondola Art Exhibit by Photographer Mika Ninagawa

At the top of Appi Kogen, a special exhibit area has been prepared. Using retired gondola cars decorated with vibrant art and giant screens depicting the photography of Mika Ninagawa’s “World of Butterflies” gallery, you can spend an afternoon surrounded by mesmerizing art. And while you’re up there, you might even get to catch some memorable sky views.

Part 2: Teatime at an Alpine Hotel!

ANA Intercontinental Appi Kogen Resort offers elegant spaces for you to enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea.

Sometimes it’s nice to just slow down and stretch your feet. Here in Hachimantai, while immersing yourself in art, hot springs, and autumn scenery… We think you can do just that.