Galaxy Forest Observatory

Terasawa Plateau Observation Deck

From the observatory located at an elevation of approximately 1,000 meters, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Iwate and Mount Hayachimine, as well as the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also enjoy the pastoral atmosphere of cattle and horses grazing and the star-filled sky. The trail is closed during the winter depending on snowfall conditions.

Hayachine Mountain

Hayachimine, the highest peak in the Kitakami Mountains, rises 1,917 meters above sea level. Of the three trails, the Kawarabo Course and the Odagoe Course are the most common. Although the slopes are steep, even beginners can reach the summit in about 3 hours. Hayachimine, famous for its alpine flora, also offers beautiful autumn foliage in the forest zone, and the vivid autumn colors at the foot of Hayachimine, composed of serpentine rock, make for a magnificent panoramic view from the fifth station as well as from the base of the mountain. Hayachimine was designated as a national quasi-national park in 1982. The trail is closed for the time being because part of the Kawarabo trail collapsed due to heavy rains on May 26, 2008, making it impassable. To preserve the natural environment of Mt. 　 Hayachibe for more information.

Kappafuchi

Kappa-buchi, located behind Joken-ji Temple, has clear water flowing through it and is covered with thick bushes, making it look like a kappa will appear at any moment. On the shore of the abyss, there is a small shrine dedicated to the god Kappa, and it is said that if a woman with a child makes a wish for breast milk, her wish will come true. When making a wish, it is customary to make the shape of a breast out of red cloth and place it in this shrine.