Mount Moriyoshi

Mount Moriyoshi is a dormant volcano that rises to 1,454 meters in central-eastern Akita, marked by distinctive volcanic formations. A caldera roughly 3 kilometers across surrounds the summit, shaping the visible landscape structure around the peak.

This peak experienced volcanic activity between 1.1 million and 700,000 years ago during the Pleistocene epoch. The resulting basaltic and dacitic rock formations created the geological foundation that visitors see today.

Local people in the region call this peak 'madarabeko' in the Akita dialect, a name meaning spotted cow that reflects how the community sees this natural landmark. This local naming tradition shows how the mountain is woven into everyday speech and regional identity.

A gondola system provides regular transportation from the lower station to the summit area. This lift service operates during daylight hours and offers an easy way to reach the upper slopes without strenuous climbing.

During winter, frost and ice coat the mountain's trees under specific weather conditions, forming delicate crystalline shapes. These formations sometimes resemble shrimp tails and create an otherworldly scene that changes with the season.