Route Overview
The Hakkōda–Yamashirodaira Route winds through the scenic Hakkōda Mountains in Aomori Prefecture. It can be accessed via National Route 103 or Prefectural Route 40 (also known as the Hakkōda Gold Line). Located at around 1,000 meters in elevation, the route offers untouched beech forests, highland marshes, and spectacular mountain views.
It’s a favorite for touring riders and drivers, especially in summer and autumn for its lush greenery and vibrant fall foliage.
Recommended Section
Sukayu Onsen → Yamadashirodaira → Yachi Onsen (approx. 10 km)
A peaceful drive through highland nature with low traffic. In summer, you’ll enjoy deep green landscapes; in autumn, the colors are stunning.
Road Conditions & Safety Tips
- Fully paved and generally in good condition, though a bit narrow in some areas.
- Fog is common around the marshes, so visibility can be limited.
- Watch out for wildlife like bears and deer.
- Closed in winter (from November to around April) due to heavy snow.
Places to Visit
- Yamadashiro Marsh: Wooden walkways lead through fields of skunk cabbage and cotton grass.
- Sukayu Onsen: Famous for its massive “1000-person” cypress bath—perfect for post-ride relaxation.
- Yachi Onsen: A quiet, retro mountain inn with a calming atmosphere.
Local Food
- Mountain soba (buckwheat noodles): Rich in aroma, great with seasonal mountain vegetables.
- Apple sweets: Aomori’s famous apples are used in pies and juices.
- Onsen eggs: Eggs slow-cooked in natural hot spring steam, a local treat near Sukayu.
Fees & Access
- All roads around Yamadashirodaira are free to use.
- About 1 hour by car or rental bike from Aomori City.
- Also accessible from Towada Lake via Route 103.
Best Season & Climate
- June to early October is ideal.
- Summer is cool and perfect for viewing greenery and wetland flowers.
- Fall foliage peaks from late September to mid-October.
- Bring a jacket—mornings and evenings can get cold, even in summer.
Touring Example
Day Trip (from Aomori City)
Aomori → Sukayu Onsen → Yamadashirodaira → Yachi Onsen → Aomori (approx. 5–6 hours)
Overnight Trip
Stay at Sukayu or Yachi Onsen, then continue riding to Towada Lake or the Oirase Gorge the next day.