Mt. Kurikoma

Mt. Kurikoma is located in the center of the Tohoku region at an elevation of 1,626 meters. It is an active volcano that spans three prefectures - Miyagi, Iwate and Akita. There are nine mountain trails you can enjoy according to your level of experience - from beginners to mountain climbing to those who are experienced in it. You can take in an unbroken view of Mt. Gassan, Mt. Chokai, the Zao Mountain Range, Mt. Komagatake, Mt. Hayachine and even the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
The number one highlight without a doubt is when the whole mountain is covered with fall leaves - also called the ""carpet of god."" The fall leaf season starts in mid-September near the summit of the mountain and then spreads to the mountainside and foot of the mountain until mid-October. Mt. Kurikoma is also known as one of the top one hundred mountains for flowers. The foot of the mountain to the south is home to the Sekaiyachi Native Flower Garden that carries the meaning of a ""spacious wetland."" Numerous plateau plants blossom in fully glory here from May to September. The large colony of Nikko day lilies is famous across Japan.
You will find Lake Showa, which was formed by a steam explosion, near the eighth station on the mountainside in the northwest direction from the summit. The surface of the lake is emerald green and mysterious. However, measures may be taken to close some of the roads when the volcanic gas concentration is high.
A great feature of this area is its many hot springs. These include Sugawa Kogen Onsen, Komanoyu Onsen and Yubama Onsen. Please soak your body tired from mountain climbing in the hot water to heal yourself.