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Mount Bandai
A magnificent stratovolcano whose eruption created dozens of lakes and ponds, forming a breathtaking landscape.
Standing at 1,816 meters, Mount Bandai is a stratovolcano composed of three main peaks. Historically, it was revered as a sacred mountain and was once called "Iwahashi-yama", meaning "a stone ladder to the heavens", due to its majestic and towering presence.
The dozens of lakes and ponds scattered across the mountain’s foothills, including the famous Goshikinuma (Five-Colored Ponds), were formed by a massive volcanic landslide caused by the 1888 eruption.
Mount Bandai spans across Inawashiro Town, Bandai Town, and Kitashiobara Village, offering a variety of hiking trails with diverse landscapes. The area also features scenic driving routes and easy trekking courses, perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. From spring to autumn, visitors can enjoy hiking and scenic drives, while winter offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, making it a destination for all seasons.
There are six different hiking trails, with the shortest route starting from Happoudai Trailhead, taking about 2 hours to reach the summit.
While all trails range from beginner to intermediate levels, it’s essential to wear proper hiking gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.
Highlights
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A stratovolcano that created the Goshikinuma (Five-Colored Ponds) and other lake formations.
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Equipped with six hiking trails and scenic driving routes.
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All trails range from beginner to intermediate level, but proper preparation is essential.
Photos
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![Mount Bandai features three peaks, including Akahani-yama and Kushigamine.]()
Mount Bandai features three peaks, including Akahani-yama and Kushigamine.
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![The northern side, known as "Urabandai," still bears the scars of past eruptions.]()
The northern side, known as "Urabandai," still bears the scars of past eruptions.
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![In winter, the area comes alive with skiers and snowboarders.]()
In winter, the area comes alive with skiers and snowboarders.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
Comprehensive brochures (English, Traditional Chinese) are available.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
No free Wi-Fi available.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Q
Are there restrooms available?
There is a restroom at the Happoudai Trailhead. However, there are no restrooms along the hiking trails. A portable toilet station is available at Kobo Shimizu Hut.
Q
Are there any smoking areas?
Not available.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 磐梯山
- Postal Code
- 969-3100
- Address
- Inawashiromachi, Yamagun, Fukushima
- Telephone
- 0242-62-2048 (Inawashiro Tourism Association)
- Closed
- Free to walk
- Business Hours
- Walk anytime
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- About 10 minutes by car from JR Inawashiro Station to Inawashiro trailhead.
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)