Hakkōda Mountains, Volcanic mountain range in Aomori Prefecture, Japan
Hakkōda is a volcanic mountain range in Aomori Prefecture composed of fourteen stratovolcanoes and lava domes rising to 1584 meters. The two volcanic groups lie south of Aomori City and form a highland area with deep valleys, forested slopes, and exposed summit zones.
The region developed in the 17th century with the opening of the first hot springs as a rest stop for travelers and hunters. In January 1902, 199 soldiers died here during a winter training exercise, leading to nationwide changes in military instruction.
The name derives from eight peaks that were once considered sacred and revered by local communities. Hikers today follow marked paths through beech forests and open highland plateaus, where hot springs along the trail invite visitors to pause.
A ropeway brings visitors from the valley floor to the upper slope, where hiking routes and ski runs begin. Accommodations with thermal baths line the access road and offer lodging options for multi-day trips.
In winter, the fir trees transform into so-called snow monsters as ice and snow layer around the branches. These frozen formations can grow several meters tall and define the landscape of the upper slopes during the cold months.
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