Hiking
Complete a ridgeline hike across several mountains in the picturesque Azuma mountain range
Begin your hike early in the morning, starting from Jododaira. Hike up the slopes of Mount Issaikyo and arrive at the summit to see the cobalt-blue Lake Goshikinuma and take in far-reaching views of Mount Gassan, Mount Zao and the Asahi mountain range. Descend via scree-covered slopes and then proceed along the fork toward Takayu to arrive at Mount Iegata.
Akanuma Pond
Follow the challenging ridgeline trail from Mount Iegata to Mount Eboshi. Along the way, pass Mount Nise-Eboshi and a variety of wetland flora. Mount Eboshi's summit offers excellent views of Yachidaira and the Kagaminuma Marsh.
Azuma-Kofuji
Walk along the ridgeline from Mount Eboshi until you arrive at the Mount Higashi-Daiten fork. Head to the summit of Mount Higashi-Daiten and then descend until you arrive at the Meigetsuso fork. Spend the night at the Meigetsuso Inn, which is surrounded by tranquil coniferous forest and wetlands.
Jododaira Marsh
Depart from Meigetsuso Inn and take the Meigetsuso fork. Head to the right and you will arrive at wetlands dotted with ponds. Pass the Tojuro fork to arrive at Ningyoishi, where you will find large, unusually shaped rocks.
Oguninuma Pond
From Ningyoishi, continue along the ridgeline trail to the south toward Tenguiwa. On the way, you will pass Okuba, a wetland area full of alpine flowers, and the large stacked rocks of Bonteniwa. Climb up the rocks for unbroken views of the surrounding wetlands. Visit Azuma-jinja Shrine when you arrive at Tenguiwa and enjoy views of Yonezawa to the north and Mount Nishi-Azuma to the south.
Lake Otoriike
Pass Tenguiwa and make a gentle ascent through a coniferous forest to arrive at the 2,000-meter summit of Mount Nishi-Azuma. Descend from the peak and head towards Mount Nishi-Daiten, passing the Nishi-Azuma Hut. Mount Nishi-Daiten is the last mountain on the ridgeline trail and provides views of Mount Issaikyo, Mount Bandai, Lake Inawashiro, the Nikko mountains and Mount Hiuchi.
Dewa Sanzan
Walk down a trail winding through virgin forests until you arrive at the Grandeco Snow Resort gondola lift, which you can take to descend the mountain. If the lift is not in operation, you can descend via the 80-minute Dekodaira walking trail.
