Mount Iwate
岩手山
Iwate Prefecture’s highest peak at 2,038 meters and one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. Its well-formed profile has earned it the nickname “Nanbu Fuji.”
Mount Iwate is the symbol of Morioka and can be seen from almost everywhere in the city. Its asymmetrical outline has earned it the nickname “Nanbu Katafuji” (the Nanbu one-sided Fuji). The climbing season runs from about July to September. Common routes start from trailheads at Amihari Onsen, Umagaeshi and Yakehashiri, and the round trip takes about 7–9 hours. From the summit, you can overlook the crater and the Hachimantai mountain range. Climbing requires experience, and you should check volcanic activity information before going. Those who do not climb can admire the mountain from Koiwai Farm, Kaiun Bridge or Takamatsu Pond. The Yakehashiri lava flow on the northern foot of the mountain is a Special Natural Monument of Japan, and there are trails to walk along it.
Opening hours
Climbing season approx. July–Sep
Nearby sights
- Koiwai Farm
- Appi Kogen Ski Resort
- Morioka Handi-Works Square
- Ishikawa Takuboku Memorial Museum
- Lake Gosho
- Tsunagi Onsen
- Hachimantai Summit & Dragon Eye
- Takamatsu Pond