HokkaidoLeisure

Mt. Apoi Geopark Visitor Center (アポイ岳ジオパークビジターセンター)

Flow of the course

About 60 min here

About 15 min to the next stop

Next stop: Stroll along the coast while admiring striking rock formations floating in the sea

About this spot

This hub facility stands at the foot of Mt. Apoi (アポイ岳), Samani-cho's symbol, in an area certified as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Although only about 800 meters in elevation, Mt. Apoi is known as a rare mountain where alpine plants grow naturally even at low altitudes due to the influence of a special rock (peridotite), and the center offers an easy-to-understand look at how this came about and at its precious plant life. Since you can take your time exploring in a cool indoor setting, it's a perfect way to spend a midsummer morning. It's a fitting spot to start your trip, offering a taste of the depth of Samani's nature.

Tips

There's an on-site parking lot, making a visit by car convenient. The exhibits include plenty of explanations geared toward children, so families can enjoy taking their time. The center may have closed days, so it's reassuring to check its opening status in advance.