Recommended hiking spot
Ketoba no Ike Lake is beautiful in the summer when the lake’s green water reflects the lush greenery of the surrounding beech trees. This is also a recommended spot to see the autumn leaves reflected on the lake’s surface.
On the eastern side of Shirakami Sanchi, you can hike to the Juniko Twelve Lakes, the most enchanting one being ‘Aoike’, or the ‘blue pond’. The sapphire blue waters allow you to see into its 9m depths. The hike takes under five hours return and is recommended for experienced hikers or those who like a challenge.
Lose yourself on a hike through one of the endless beech tree forests in Shirakami Sanchi. These forests used to cover all of Japan, but many were lost due to the development of cities and farmland. The beech forests in Shirakami Sanchi play an important role as a conservation area and are home to many animals that rely on this habitat that has remained unchanged over hundreds of years.
Other options
After an exciting hike through the forest, rest overnight by camping at the Aqua Green Village Anmon located at the end of the hiking trail to Anmon Falls. The village has various facilities, including cottages for families, an onsen to wind down in, and even a fishing hole.
Located at the gateway to the absolutely stunning Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range, rafting and canoeing is a can’t-miss experience for any outdoor enthusiast. You can immerse yourself in the beautiful nature and amidst a landscape visible from the water’s surface.
