The mysterious World Heritage Site "Shirakami-Sanchi"! Vast virgin beech forests and magnificent nature

Akita Prefecture is a lush, green prefecture facing the Sea of ​​Japan, and when people think of "majestic nature" in Akita, one of the first places that comes to mind for locals and tourists is the Shirakami Mountains

This time, we will introduce the charm of Shirakami-Sanchi, which is a tourist destination but also an untouched natural area, through the beautiful colors of nature

Shirakami-Sanchi is Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Shirakami-Sanchi is a mountainous region with a series of mountains over 1,000 meters high that stretches across the border between Akita and Aomori prefectures. As it straddles both prefectures, this mountainous region is managed by both prefectures. In 1993, along with Yakushima, it became Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains are also home to a vast, untouched primeval beech forest, and within it are beautiful lakes with colors that modern science cannot explain, as well as rare animals such as the golden eagle and black woodpecker, which are designated as natural monuments

The area is almost entirely untouched, and collecting plants, breaking tree branches, fishing, making bonfires, and keeping pets on the mountain are all strictly prohibited. Littering is also prohibited as it has a negative impact on the environment, and there are warnings not to use the toilet within Shirakami-Sanchi except in unavoidable circumstances. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, strict rules have been established, and Shirakami-Sanchi is loved and protected by local residents. Restrictions and closures may also be imposed in winter due to the dangers involved

There are also trekking courses available, so you can take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful forest. Guides are available, so you can ask for a guide and have them explain the nature of Shirakami-Sanchi as you go along. All guides are well-trained, so your nature walk will be even more meaningful

Not only is the virgin forest beautiful, but the waterfalls are also beautiful! Will walking along the trail be relaxing?

Shirakami-Sanchi, one of the treasures of not only Akita and Aomori prefectures but of Japan itself, offers beautiful scenery that can only be seen here. The mysterious bluish forest scenery will surely capture your heart

Within Shirakami-Sanchi, you can enjoy untouched nature to the fullest, including the large Mother Tree, which is over 400 years old, and the crystal clear waters of Naruto Falls. As it is a World Heritage Site, very little can be done in the forest, and depending on the weather, the amount of rainfall at the waterfall can increase, making it impossible to see. Doesn't this area also feel untouched?

Furthermore, the forests of Shirakami-Sanchi are themselves a sight to behold, overflowing with scenic beauty. As you walk along the footpaths, you'll be surrounded by sounds you'll never hear in the city, such as the chirping of insects, the rustling of leaves in the virgin forest, and the cries of rare animals. We hope you'll take a deep breath of the clean air and enjoy the sights and sounds to the fullest

Blue Pond? A jewel-like lake that science has yet to explain

There is a very mysterious pond in the Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains. Among the twelve lakes, there is one called Aoike Pond, a mysterious pond with water that is an ink blue color. Small fish swim in the clear blue water, and depending on the leaves that fall and the water's surface, and the sunlight, the water can look deep blue, light blue, or even like jewels like sapphire or aquamarine, making it a very popular attraction in the Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains

In fact, it has not yet been scientifically explained why the pond is blue. It is truly a mystery of nature

There is a center at the forest entrance to Shirakami-Sanchi, so you don't have to worry about toilets or rest stops

The resort train "Resort Shirakami" is perfect for your trip!

A train called "Resort Shirakami" runs from the Akita Prefecture capital to the station closest to Shirakami-Sanchi in a single train. This passenger train runs along the coastline of the Sea of ​​Japan, allowing you to access Shirakami-Sanchi while enjoying spectacular views. The train is equipped with a lounge where you can enjoy Akita sake and traditional flavors, allowing you to fully enjoy Akita while visiting Shirakami-Sanchi

Additionally, in Akita City, there are shops selling bread made with "Shirakami Kodama Yeast," a yeast discovered in the Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains, and coffee shops serving coffee made with water from the Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains. Be sure to experience the taste of this historic World Heritage Site, and the blessings of untouched nature, in Japan

Shirakami-Sanchi is one of the natural wonders of the Tohoku region of Japan. If you see it with your own eyes, you will be able to feel with all your senses the history of not only Akita Prefecture, but the nature of the Tohoku region as a whole

INFORMATION

ako

Writer living in Akita Prefecture. We will spread the charm of Akita, from minor things to major things!