Hachiori Lake Highland Fukushima Prefecture Complete Guide | Enjoy the Four Seasons at 900m Elevation in Tohoku’s Resort Area
Hachiori Lake Highland, located in Tenei Village, Iwase District, Fukushima Prefecture, is a highland resort area at an elevation of 700–1,000 meters, also known as the “Karuizawa of Tohoku.” Centered around Hachiori Lake, which spans approximately 16 kilometers in circumference, it has become a representative tourist destination in Fukushima Prefecture, offering seasonal natural beauty and diverse leisure facilities.
Overview and Geographic Features of Hachiori Lake Highland
Hachiori Lake Highland is a highland area spanning Tenei Village in southern Fukushima Prefecture, Iwase District. Located at an elevation of 900 meters, this highland is characterized by a cool and comfortable climate even in summer, making it a favorite destination for tourists seeking refuge from the heat.
Characteristics of Hachiori Lake
Hachiori Lake, positioned at the center of Hachiori Lake Highland, is an artificial lake created by damming the Tsurunuma River and formed by the Hachiori Dam. This lake boasts the largest water surface area and total storage capacity among earth dams (dams constructed primarily from soil) in Japan, serving as an important water source for the Shirakawa Basin.
- Circumference: Approximately 16 kilometers
- Maximum depth: 31.2 meters
- Elevation: Approximately 900 meters
- Characteristics: Japan’s largest total storage capacity among earth dams
A cycling road is maintained along the lakeshore, allowing visitors to enjoy cycling and walks while taking in beautiful scenery. In autumn, the surrounding mountains turn to autumn leaves, creating a reflected image on the lake surface that produces a breathtaking landscape.
Four-Season Charm of Hachiori Lake Highland
The greatest appeal of Hachiori Lake Highland lies in its rich natural environment, which presents a different appearance throughout the four seasons. The ability to experience something special in each season is a major characteristic of this highland.
Spring at Hachiori Lake Highland
In spring at Hachiori Lake Highland, fresh greenery sprouts with the snowmelt, and the wild mountain vegetable gathering season arrives. Local residents and tourists venture into the highland forests in search of mountain vegetables such as bracken, Japanese ostrich fern, and fatsia shoots. The high elevation allows visitors to enjoy spring mountain vegetables for a longer period than in lower-lying areas.
Summer at Hachiori Lake Highland
Hachiori Lake Highland, positioned at an elevation of 900 meters, maintains a cool and comfortable climate even in summer. While the plains suffer from intense heat, the highland experiences refreshing breezes, making it an ideal heat-refuge environment. Camping grounds, golf courses, and tennis courts and other outdoor facilities are well-equipped, making it a popular season for families and sports enthusiasts.
Autumn at Hachiori Lake Highland (Autumn Leaf Season)
Autumn leaf season is when Hachiori Lake Highland shines brightest. Due to its high elevation, autumn foliage begins relatively early compared to other areas in Fukushima Prefecture.
Autumn Foliage Viewing Season and Characteristics
- Best viewing period: Mid-October to early November
- Main autumn foliage tree species: Japanese maple, maple, Enkianthus, beech, oak
- Autumn foliage spots: Along National Route 118, around Hachiori Lake, lakeside cycling road
From along National Route 118, one can view the beautiful contrast between the mountains colored in autumn foliage and Hachiori Lake. The sight of trees turned red, yellow, and orange reflected in the lake surface is truly worthy of being called a scenic masterpiece. Using the cycling road that runs around the lakeshore allows one to enjoy the foliage more closely and fully savor the autumn highland air while strolling.
Winter at Hachiori Lake Highland
Winter at Hachiori Lake Highland becomes a base for enjoying winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. With its high elevation and abundant high-quality snow, the ski slopes offer winter sports from December through March. In the depths of winter, one can observe the surface of Hachiori Lake frozen over, creating a fantastical winter landscape.
Major Facilities and Activities at Hachiori Lake Highland
Hachiori Lake Highland brings together diverse leisure facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of activities.
Leisure Facilities
Qua House (Natural Hot Spring Facility)
The natural hot spring facility on the highland allows visitors to soothe their tired bodies. Bathing in hot springs at an elevation of 900 meters is exceptional, and one can take a bath while enjoying seasonal views through large windows. The hot spring water is said to be effective for fatigue recovery and health promotion, making it ideal for relaxation after activities.
Golf Course
The golf course at Hachiori Lake Highland features surprisingly flat course design for a highland location. It is popular with many golfers because playing in the cool environment at 900 meters elevation is comfortable even in summer. Golfing while enjoying the surrounding natural scenery becomes a special experience.
Tennis Court
Well-maintained tennis courts capable of hosting tournaments are available, making them attractive for tennis enthusiasts. Playing tennis in the refreshing highland air provides a physical and mental refreshment experience.
Camping Ground
Camping grounds are maintained around Hachiori Lake and are popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts. The high elevation ensures a cool environment even in summer, allowing for comfortable camping. At night, one can gaze at the starlit sky, experiencing nature in a way unavailable in urban areas.
Ski Slope
A ski slope opens during winter, where visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Courses accommodate both beginners and advanced skiers, making it a facility where families can enjoy together.
Cycling and Hiking
The approximately 16-kilometer cycling road around Hachiori Lake is a must-experience activity for those visiting Hachiori Lake Highland. While cycling around the lake, visitors can enjoy seasonal scenery throughout the year. Especially during autumn foliage season, one can spend a luxurious time cycling among colored trees.
Additionally, hiking courses are available in the surrounding area, including Futamata Mountain (Futamata-yama), designated as part of the Okawa Hachiori Prefectural Natural Park, allowing for various outdoor activities from serious mountain climbing to casual walks.
Tourist Spots Around Hachiori Lake Highland
When visiting Hachiori Lake Highland, it is recommended to also tour nearby tourist attractions.
Myojin Waterfall
Myojin Waterfall, located near Hachiori Lake Highland, is a beautiful waterfall nestled in the forest. Visitors can enjoy strolling while breathing in air rich in negative ions and listening to the sound of the waterfall. During autumn foliage season, the combination of the waterfall and colored leaves creates a magnificent landscape.
British Hills
British Hills, positioned near Hachiori Lake Highland, is a facility that feels as though one has time-traveled to medieval England. British-style buildings stand in rows, with accommodation, restaurants, and English training facilities. In this space filled with exotic atmosphere, visitors can enjoy meals and afternoon tea, making it a popular stop when touring Hachiori Lake Highland.
Yukiwari Bridge and Yukiwari Gorge
Yukiwari Bridge and Yukiwari Gorge, accessible by car from Hachiori Lake Highland, are hidden scenic spots in Fukushima Prefecture. The view from the bridge spanning the deep gorge is spectacular, and especially during autumn foliage season, the entire gorge is colored in reds and yellows, creating breathtakingly beautiful scenery.
Michi no Eki Hachiori Lake Highland
The roadside station, positioned at 700 meters elevation, offers specialty products from Tenei Village. Products on display include Yacon, long green onions, and rice, the three major brands of Tenei Village, as well as fresh local agricultural products and processed goods. Yacon rice bowls made with generous amounts of yacon are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy local flavors.
Charm of Tenei Village
Tenei Village, where Hachiori Lake Highland is located, is a small village with a population of approximately 5,500, but boasts rich nature and varied landscapes. Centered on the village symbol, Hachiori Lake, diverse natural environments spread across the area, including Futamata Mountain, designated as part of the Okawa Hachiori Prefectural Natural Park, and the gorge of the Tsurunuma River, a first-class river.
Tenei Village Specialty Products
Tenei Village is active in agriculture, with the following three major brands being particularly famous:
- Yacon: Yacon, noted as a health vegetable, is a specialty product of Tenei Village
- Long green onion: High-quality long green onions characterized by sweetness and tenderness
- Rice: Delicious rice grown in high-elevation areas
These specialty products can be purchased at roadside stations and local direct sales shops.
Access Information
Automobile is the most convenient way to access Hachiori Lake Highland.
Access by Car
- From Shirakawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway: Approximately 40 minutes
- From Sukagawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway: Approximately 50 minutes
- National Route 118: Direct access to Hachiori Lake Highland is possible
Access by Public Transportation
When using public transportation, visitors must use buses or taxis from Shirakawa Station or Shin-Shirakawa Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line. However, an automobile is convenient for getting around within the highland.
Accommodation Facilities
Various types of accommodation are available around Hachiori Lake Highland. Hotels with hot springs, pensions, cottages, vacation home areas, and more can be chosen according to purpose and budget. Many villa owners enjoy long-term stays, and the area is also known as a repeat-visitor destination.
Notes When Visiting Hachiori Lake Highland
Confirmation of Weather Conditions
Due to the 900-meter elevation, temperatures are lower than in lower-lying areas. Especially in spring and autumn, early mornings and evenings can be cold, so be sure to take precautions against the cold when visiting. It is recommended to check local weather information and road conditions in advance using Hachiori Lake Highland live cameras.
Winter Road Conditions
In winter, snowfall and frozen road surfaces are possible, requiring studless tires or tire chains. Check road information in advance and drive safely.
Protection of Natural Environment
To preserve the beautiful natural environment, always take trash with you, refrain from collecting plants or feeding animals. Environmental consideration is important in order to pass on this beautiful highland to future generations.
Event Information
Various events are held throughout the year at Hachiori Lake Highland. Autumn foliage festivals during leaf season, outdoor events in summer, ski competitions in winter, and more offer different ways to enjoy the area depending on the visiting season. It is recommended to check official websites and SNS for event information before your visit.
To Enjoy Hachiori Lake Highland to Its Fullest
To enjoy Hachiori Lake Highland to its fullest, it is important to understand the characteristics of each season and plan your visit according to your objectives.
Recommended Stay Plans
Day Trip Plan
- Morning: Cycling or strolling around Hachiori Lake
- Lunch: A meal using local specialty products at the roadside station
- Afternoon: Relaxation at the hot spring facility or touring nearby attractions
1 Night 2 Days Plan
- Day 1: After arrival, golf, tennis, or other activities; evening hot spring; night stargazing at the highland
- Day 2: Early morning cycling, touring nearby attractions such as Myojin Waterfall and British Hills
2 Nights 3 Days Plan
- Day 1: Arrival, surrounding exploration, hot spring
- Day 2: Serious hiking or outdoor activities
- Day 3: Slowly enjoy the highland nature on the way home
Summary
Hachiori Lake Highland, located in Tenei Village, Fukushima Prefecture, is a highland resort at 900 meters elevation offering diverse appeal throughout the four seasons. Centered around Hachiori Lake, which boasts Japan’s largest earth dam, visitors can enjoy various activities including autumn foliage viewing, skiing, hot springs, golf, and camping.
The cool climate known as the “Karuizawa of Tohoku” and rich natural environment make it an ideal place to step away from daily hustle and bustle for refreshment. Spring wild vegetable gathering, summer heat refuge, autumn foliage, and winter winter sports show different faces of Hachiori Lake Highland depending on the visiting season, making it a fascinating area with new discoveries on each visit.
Whether for family trips, outdoor adventures with friends, romantic getaways for couples, or quiet time alone, Hachiori Lake Highland accommodates various purposes. When visiting Fukushima Prefecture, why not visit this beautiful highland resort? The scenery viewed from 900 meters elevation and nature throughout the seasons will surely create unforgettable memories.
