Every year, Nanataki Falls in Hachimantai freezes to form a gargantuan ice falls. People from all over Iwate make the 2.5km trek through the snowy forest to see this breathtaking natural creation.

This winter has been colder than the last few years, and we’re getting lots of snow. So I decided to go explore the area around Nanantaki Falls and check the progress of the waterfall on January 3rd, despite the fact that it usually doesn’t freeze until the end of the month – so most people go in early February.

We are getting tons of snow all over Japan this week, and in Hachimantai, the powder is perfect!
Whether you’re staying near APPI, in the Hachimantai Onsenkyo, or near the Panorama Ski Area, there are buses that will take you everywhere you need to go!

The Nanataki Falls in Hachimantai are starting to freeze! This famous ice falls is glorious to see every year – and lots of people make the snowshoe hike through the forest to see it each winter.

Sakuramatsu Shrine in Hachimantai is one of my favorite places to go (besides the mountains) in the winter. This ancient shrine has a rare dragon/serpent shrine built into a cliff, and the atmosphere is really otherworldly.
But most people that come here visit for Fudo Falls – one of the 100 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. In another month or so it will freeze into a magnificent ice falls, but for now it’s still flowing. This waterfall also has a rather mysterious history as a center for Shugendo training. Buddhist Mountain Ascetics would stand under the falls while chanting the Heart Sutra as part of their spiritual training hundreds of years ago.

Winter is nearly here! This is arguably the best season to enjoy Hachimantai, though of course there are all sorts of exciting activities throughout the year. That said- winter is particularly breathtaking up here!

The Hachimantai Rising Sun Hotel is proud of how spacious it is!
Relax and recharge your energy by stretching out in the large hot springs bath!
In the lounge, you can relax round the lovely fireplace while playing pool or the classic Japanese board games of Igo, Shogi, or even Mahjong. If you like to drink, there are specials plans that you’re going to love!

Lodge Tandem is actually a row of cottages along a creek.
The cottages are equipped with kitchens and a BBQ area, and are popular with both beginners and advanced outdoor enthusiasts, who can enjoy their stay in a variety of ways.
The owner, who is fluent in English, is of course an advanced outdoorsman. The incredibly cute dog that lives there will aso run out to greet you when you arrive. More information about Lodge Tandem available here.

Drive an ATV through a special course with ups, downs, bumps, slopes and more at Lodge Tandem.
The scenery that unfolds in front of you as you watch the owner’s skill at the wheel is breathtaking!
Put your seatbelt on tight and hold on, as you go for a wild ride!