[Iwate] The famous mountain “Mt. Iwate” also called Iwate Fuji

One of Iwate's 100 famous mountains

Mount Iwate, also known as Iwate Fuji, is a famous mountain and a symbol of Iwate Prefecture

Its imposing shape can be seen from Morioka city, and it is a mountain that stands out at a glance. With an elevation of 2,038 meters, it is famous as the highest mountain in Iwate Prefecture. It is also famous as one of Japan's 100 famous mountains, and welcomes many climbers during the summer mountain season

Photo by A_CUVE – Mt. Iwate @ IGR Iwate Galaxy Railway (2012) / Size-adapted.

When viewed from a distance, it often appears as a single peak, but it is actually two stratovolcanoes joined together. To be precise, there are the Nishi Iwate Volcano and the Higashi Iwate Volcano, and the mountain range also includes a caldera

Volcanic activity has occurred at this site for approximately 7,000 years, with several phreatic explosions occurring. The 1732 eruption spewed the Yakehashiri lava flow, and the site has been designated a national natural monument. Since a small eruption in 1919, seismic activity has occasionally increased, but it has remained calm to this day

Thanks to its peaceful nature, the volcano is now a popular tourist destination all year round. Climbing routes are well-maintained from Hachimantai City and elsewhere, so you can choose one that suits your physical strength and experience. Once you reach the summit, you'll be able to enjoy a panoramic view of Iwate Prefecture. Mt. Iwate is also a volcano whose mountain range becomes even more alluring during the autumn foliage season. At scenic spots such as the Yakehashiri lava flow, the rugged volcanic topography and the beautiful shape of Mt. Iwate blend together to create a unique beauty

As it stands alone within the Ou Mountain Range, you can experience the overwhelming scale of the mountain when enjoying the autumn leaves. In winter, Mount Iwate can be seen shining silver-white from Morioka city. This appearance is reminiscent of Mount Fuji, and its graceful base is particularly impressive. The beauty of the mountain's shape is particularly striking when viewed from Kaiun Bridge over the Kitakami River. The view from the windows of the Shinkansen and conventional trains passing through Iwate Prefecture is also fantastic, so it is not uncommon to see tourists taking photographs

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