The Midagahara Wetlands are wetlands located at an elevation of 1,400 meters at the eighth station of Mt. Gassan. More than 130 kinds of flower (e.g., day lily and Aleutian avens) bloom in profusion one after another in June to August when it is the season for alpine flowers. It is said that this is one of the leading treasure troves for alpine plants in Japan. Colored grass and leaves cover the entire area in the fall. There is a fantastic atmosphere which feels as though you are walking on a golden carpet.

Wooden and stone paved courses that run for 60 minutes, 90 minutes and 120 minutes are maintained in the wetlands. You can enjoy a walk to suit your own pace. This gives peace of mind even to those who are new to mountain climbing. The most standard course is the 60-minute course. It allows you to take a stroll through the wetlands from the parking lot at the eighth station of Mt. Gassan and then returns you to the parking lot after visiting Gassan Nakanomiya Shrine. On fine days with no wind, a natural mirror will appear with the blue sky reflected in the ponds scattered around here. Kushinada Himenokami, the guardian deity of paddy fields, is enshrined in Midahara Shrine in Gassan Nakanomiya Shrine. After visiting here, stroke the Nade Rabbit - the messenger of the god of Mt. Gassan - to ward off bad luck.

If you want to enjoy the Midagahara Wetlands even more, book a guide and go trekking. Take a walk while listening to the descriptions of a guide who has full knowledge of the nature of the Midagahara Wetlands. This may well allow you to encounter scenery that you would not be able to find by yourself. You must book a guide at least four days in advance. There are many people wanting bookings in the peak season from June to August. Therefore, we recommend you book early. In addition, although this is a wooden course, it is located in the mountain at an elevation of 1,400 meters. Accordingly, don't forget your mountain climbing equipment (e.g., mountain climbing shoes, heavy outfit designed to keep out the cold and raincoat)!

A thematic journey in the Tohoku region:Outdoor activities