Hachimantai Aspite Line / Snow Corridor

Mount Hachimantai is a mountainous plateau rising 1,613m above sea level stretching over Iwate and Akita prefectures. The Hachimantai Aspite Line is a 27km driving route traversing Mount Hachimantai from the Gozaisho Wetlands to Toroko Onsen. The driving route is closed during winter (early November to mid-April) after which it is lined by snow walls, known as the Snow Corridor, formed by snowploughs cutting through the deep snow drifts.
Many people come here to enjoy the scenic drive when the line reopens in mid-April, when hoar frosts can also be seen. This unique scenic drive can be enjoyed until early May. Along the 27km Snow Corridor, the longest in Japan, the snow walls rise up to 8m as the road stretches up the mountain.
Visitors can also enjoy cherry blossom viewings at the foot of Mount Hachimantai after the unique drive along the Snow Corridor. The “Cherry Blossoms and Snow Corridor” sightseeing bus is available during the blossom season.
The rest house at the top of Mount Hachimantai offers splendid panoramic views.
The nearby Toshichi Onsen is the perfect place to have a relaxing break while driving in the mountains.