Hachimantai Summit Rest House (八幡平山頂レストハウス)

Flow of the course

About this spot

Standing near the border of Iwate and Akita prefectures at Mikaeri Pass (見返峠), about 1,540 m above sea level, this is the hub facility for sightseeing on Mt. Hachimantai. The second-floor restaurant serves the famous Genta curry and dishes made with local ingredients, enjoyed alongside a mountain panorama through large windows. The summit trail that begins here passes the mystical Kagami Pond (鏡沼) and Megane Pond (めがね沼) on its way to the 1,613-m summit of Mt. Hachimantai, and even extending to the observation decks at Gama Pond (ガマ沼) and Hachiman Pond (八幡沼) takes only about an hour and a half for the full loop. With paved paths and boardwalks in place, you can enjoy the feeling of mountain hiking even in the light clothing you're wearing partway through the drive. With a sea of forest spreading out below and Mt. Iwate towering in the distance, every view here looks like a painting from another world in the sky.

Tips

From the visitor center to the summit parking lot is about 30-40 minutes along the Aspite Line. The prefectural parking lot in front of the rest house is paid (around 500 yen for a regular car). The summit is often chilly even in midsummer, so don't forget a jacket. The Aspite Line is closed at night and during winter, so check traffic information in advance.

Best time to visit

About 2 hours (lunch + walking). Recommended around midday, when the air is clear and visibility is best.

Access & map

Kitanomata, Matsuo-Yoriki, Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture