Guida
Yakubashiri Lava Flow, located in Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture, is a unique geological formation created by lava flows from the 1732 eruption of Mount Iwate. The area covers approximately 149.63 hectares, with a length of 3 to 4 km and a maximum width of 1 to 1.5 km. Despite nearly 300 years passing since the eruption, the landscape remains remarkably preserved, earning it the designation of a National Special Natural Monument. It is also part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park's Special Protection Zone, making it a premier site for observing the effects of volcanic activity on the landscape.
The terrain was shaped by the massive eruption of Mount Iwate in 1732. The lava flowed out and solidified in its current form, creating the distinctive dark brown expanse seen today. In 1952, it was designated as a National Special Natural Monument, and in 1957, it was included in the Special Protection Zone of Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Because vegetation recovery in this volcanic area is extremely slow, it serves as a vital academic site for observing the ongoing natural transition of volcanic landscapes.
The most striking view is the juxtaposition of the dark brown lava flow and the silhouette of the 2,038m-high Mount Iwate. A 2km nature observation path is well-maintained within the lava flow, allowing visitors to observe the volcanic topography up close. Additionally, the gravel area near the first eruption vent (elevation 1,220m) is known as one of the largest habitats for Komakusa (Dicentra peregrina) in Japan. In early summer, beautiful pink flowers bloom along the trails. Visitors can also enjoy the scenery of the adjacent larch forests via accessible, barrier-free walking paths.
Yakubashiri Lava Flow is inaccessible during the winter months (roughly December to May) due to heavy snow. The best time for sightseeing is May and June when plant life is most active. Early summer is particularly special as the