Rising above three prefectures in the Tohoku region, Mount Kurikoma is sometimes called the Queen of the Ou Mountains for its beautiful shape. Even better, the active volcano transforms every October, boasting a stunning stretch of autumn leaves known as the carpet of the gods.
Mount Kurikoma is located between Miyagi, Iwate, and Akita Prefectures in the middle of the Ou mountain range. It is part of Kurikoma Quasi-National Park and is a designated Ecological Conservation Area. The mountain has an elevation of 1,626m and visitors can explore nine hiking trails of varying intensity.
Hiking Mount Kurikoma
Photo by: PIXTA/ lotus Carpet of the gods
In autumn, the six trails on the Miyagi side of the mountain take hikers across the gently sloping kami no jutan (carpet of the gods), a fiery tapestry of autumn leaves. Japanese beech, maple and Mongolian oak comprise the vivid sea of color. Novice hikers and those with children usually opt for the Chuo trail or Higashi Kurikoma trails, which begin at the Kurikoma Rest House in Iwakagamidaira.
Alternatively, the hiking trails starting in Akita and Iwate prefectures lead to a dramatic volcanic ridgeline. From here, hikers can best enjoy the mountain’s famous topography. After approximately an hour’s hike, visitors will emerge above the tree line and see a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks stretching to the Pacific Ocean.
Seasonal Attractions
Photo by: PIXTA/otamoto17 Take a dip after a long day outdoors.
Mount Kurikoma also has plenty to offer at other times of the year. In spring, the mountain’s beech trees are at their most stunning. Come June, one hundred and fifty different species of alpine flowers bloom on the hillside. This transformation has earned Kurikoma a place on the list of Japan’s One Hundred Famous Mountains of Flowers.
Natural attractions also surround the mountain base. On the south side, visitors can explore Sekaiichi Native Flower Garden, famous for Nikko daylilies. Lake Showa is located on the northwest side. Formed by a steam explosion, the lake is known for its unusually cloudy green water. Lake Sukawa, on the northeast side, is another beautiful lake where visitors can enjoy views of the mountain from rental boats.
Mount Kurikoma is an active volcano that’s home to several nearby hot spring towns. Sukawa Onsen in particular has been a favorite of locals and travelers dating back to the Edo period. It’s the perfect place for a moment of tranquility at the end of a long hike.
