{"id":111268,"date":"2026-03-18T11:09:22","date_gmt":"2026-03-18T02:09:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/?p=111268"},"modified":"2026-03-25T11:30:18","modified_gmt":"2026-03-25T02:30:18","slug":"japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/","title":{"rendered":"Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and Bonsai&lt;br>Soaking in the Energy of Earth and Time: A Mountain Journey"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/KNzlTwizaxw?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><br><br><strong>Bonsai Trail, Hot spring Trail<\/strong><br><br><br>The Bandai\u2013Azuma\u2013Inawashiro area is defined by dynamic volcanic landforms and rich ecosystems woven from lakes, ponds, and forests. Winding through these expansive wetlands is the Volcano Trail\u00ae, a long-distance hiking route connecting three active volcanoes (you guessed it, Mt. Bandai, Mt. Azuma, and Mt. Adatara ).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hikers can walk in the shadow of active peaks, watch steam rise from the earth, stay overnight in mountain lodges, campsites, or hot spring inns scattered along the route, and enjoy regional sake and local baths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still under development, the full trail is projected to span over 250 kilometers from Inawashiro Lake to Dake Onsen. Currently open is a 72-kilometer section called ATA, short for \u201cAzuma to Adatara.\u201d According to trail producer Keisuke Ichinose, the two defining themes of the ATA route are bonsai and hot springs. Hot springs make sense. But what does bonsai have to do with all of this, you may ask.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A5957-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112411\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A5957-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A5957-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A5957-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A5957-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">During the late autumn season when this piece was reported, the mountains were ablaze with peak foliage. Mizunara oaks and beeches were glowing in fiery reds and radiant golds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This question lingered in our minds as we boarded a bus from Fukushima Station and headed for Takayu Onsen in the Azuma area, the designated starting point of the route. After spending the night at a local hot spring inn, we set out early in the morning, soon reaching one of the trail\u2019s highlights: the ridgeline leading up to Mt. Issaiky\u014d. The jagged Mt. Rakuda rises before us. From its peak, the view opens up dramatically, with Mt. Azuma-Kofuji and the vast, almost sci-fi-esque landscape of J\u014ddodaira unfolding as if we were on another planet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6167-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112412\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6167-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6167-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6167-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6167.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Walking along the wooden path at J\u014ddodaira, with Mt. Issaiky\u014d billowing steam in the background.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1436\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6426.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6426.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6426-251x300.jpg 251w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6426-856x1024.jpg 856w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6426-768x919.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Further along appear the Goshikinuma lakes, commonly referred to as the \u201cWitch\u2019s Eye.\u201d A crater lake formed when water collected in the volcano\u2019s crater, its vivid emerald green shifts with the angle of the light, giving it an unmistakably mysterious presence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the key highlights in the Azuma mountains is the striking silhouettes of the Azuma white pine, or Azuma Goy\u014dmatsu. Shaped by the weight of heavy snowfall and fierce winds blowing in from the Sea of Japan, these trees often expose their roots above ground yet still maintain powerful, balanced forms. This natural aesthetic has long made the Azuma goy\u014dmatsu a prized source for bonsai cultivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6766-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112414\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6766-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6766-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6766-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6766.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The seed-grown bonsai of <a href=\"https:\/\/peach-bornsai.wixsite.com\/kukanyubi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bonsaiya Abe<\/a>, soon to celebrate its 100th year.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Leading the region\u2019s bonsai tradition is a nursery called Bonsaiya Abe. Rather than harvesting wild trees from the mountains (a method known as yamadori), they are committed to mish\u014d, the practice of growing bonsai from a single seed. Through this patient process, they express the harsh beauty of the local landscape in sculptural form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The founder, Kurakichi Abe, pioneered this approach, and today it is carried on by his son Ken\u2019ichi (second generation) and grandson Daiki (third generation), who tend to 60 to 98-year-old bonsai grown from seed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7029-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112415\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7029-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7029-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7029-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7029.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ken\u2019ichi Abe, the second-generation successor of Bonsaiya Abe, carries on the founding vision by cultivating mish\u014d bonsai.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6831-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112434\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6831-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6831-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6831-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6831.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The bonsai at Bonsaiya Abe are nurtured with time, effort, and plenty of TLC. Ken\u2019ichi-san and Daiki-san are growing these saplings from seed.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cKurakichi-san describes the landscape of Azuma, shaped by its harsh climate and the resilient presence of white pines, as the beauty of space itself,\u201d explains Ichinose-san. He sought to express that very spatial quality through bonsai. The mish\u014d bonsai he cultivated will turn 100 in April 2028. I hope hikers on the trail can sense both the raw beauty of Mount Azuma and the profound art that begins from a single seed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6346-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112416\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6346-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6346-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6346-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6346.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An Azuma goyomatsu pine on the shore of Witch\u2019s Eye, its striking form shaped by the harsh natural conditions around Mt. Azuma.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6299-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112420\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6299-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6299-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6299-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6299.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The tranquil scenery of the Kamanuma and Sugadaira Marshlands<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>From Goshikinuma, the route continues west up and down the Azuma mountain traverse toward Mt. Azuma. Just when the peaks begin to settle in, stretches of marshland appear, offering a welcome change of scene. Descending via the \u014ckura Shind\u014d trail toward Mount Adatara, hikers arrive at Tsuchiyu Onsen, the midpoint of the ATA route. From there, a paved road leads to the trailhead for Mount Adatara. The transition from Mt. Azuma to Mt. Adatara reveals a gradual shift in scenery, a kind of natural gradient that\u2019s fascinating to experience. Along this north-south ridge, fierce westerly winds blow in from the Sea of Japan, carrying with them the sharp, unmistakable smell of sulfur<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Onsen Trail has truly begun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7463-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112417\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7463-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7463-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7463-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7463.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/mgl.quest\/products\/017\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Volcano Keema Curry<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/mgl.quest\/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=22399739734&amp;gbraid=0AAAAA-3CYcW0DoXWuBrbaZznvFgaAuEtP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw9-PNBhDfARIsABHN6-1ONqJ4PIvXjmBxDpQFl4k5GDCPnHqOEa3ndNGyVjpDXB2IE5rQ7LIaAqBoEALw_wcB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mountain Gourmet Lab<\/a> was inspired by shades of Mt. Adatara. Cooking and eating on-site is one of the real joys of a mountain journey.  <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Peering into the abyss from the very edge of the crater.<\/strong><br><br><br>A defining feature of the Onsen Trail is undoubtedly the Numanotaira Crater. Spanning 1.5 km in diameter, the crater is ringed with rock in shades of yellow and pale gray-white. Its high-purity sulfur deposits led to the establishment of a refinery here as far back as the Edo period. Many laborers worked here, and a small community took shape around it. That is, until in 1900, a phreatic eruption destroyed the refinery in an instant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That is, until a sudden phreatic eruption in 1900 obliterated the entire site in an instant. As you walk along the narrow trail tracing the very edge of the crater, it\u2019s hard not to imagine life within the caldera 120 years ago. The thrill of walking such a precarious path is one of the trail\u2019s most unique points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112418\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Taking a break in front of the awe-inspiring Numanotaira Crater. Nowhere else offers a view this close to a massive 1.5-kilometer-wide explosion crater.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7408-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112419\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7408-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7408-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7408-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7408.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Volcano Trail offers everyone\u2019s favorite: ridge walking that stretches on endlessly.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>They say the keyword for the Adatara section of the trail is \u201consen,\u201d and the answer lies at the southern gateway of the ATA route: Dake Onsen. With a 1,200-year history, Dake Onsen\u2019s source springs from the southern face of Mt. Tetsu-zan, standing beside Mt. Adatara at an elevation of 1,500 meters, just beyond the Kurogane mountain hut (currently closed due to reconstruction).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIn the past, this source area had its own therapeutic bath site, but after it was destroyed by a landslide, the facility was relocated to the foot of the mountain during the Edo period. Hot spring water was channeled down by connecting pipes. From the source to the current Dake Onsen is about 8km. Because mineral deposits would clog the pipes, a new occupation was born: the yumori, or hot spring caretaker. Just imagine the ingenuity and effort it must have taken to keep the water flowing from the mountains down to the village 8 kilomters below. This trail lets you trace the full life story of a hot spring.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6729-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112421\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6729-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6729-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6729-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6729.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The large sign marks the trailhead at Dake Onsen.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6716-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6716-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6716-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6716-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6716.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A mountain snack found in the hot spring town of Dake Onsen. The sweet Kurogane-yaki resembles a dorayaki pancake.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6108-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112423\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6108-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6108-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6108-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6108.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">One of the best rewards after the descent: a soak in pure, free-flowing hot spring water straight from the source. This open-air bath at Hana Kanzashi features a rich, acidic onsen that leaves you feeling completely refreshed.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"last\">Hot springs and bonsai\u2014two themes that feel quintessentially Japanese\u2014shape the 3-day, 2-night journey along this trail, ending at Dake Onsen on the slopes of Mt. Adatara. Hikers can enjoy walking through and around the natural hot springs, get a good whiff of the sulfur, and soak in the pure, soul-warming spring water flowing directly from the mountain. The spring water starts with a strong acidic content, with a pH similar to that of lemon juice, but mellows out into a gentle, skin-friendly soak by the time it completes its 8 km journey to the base. Bathing in water that you literally follow from mountaintop to town is a special experience, one that captures the essence of this true mountain journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6752-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6752-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6752-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6752-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6752.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Once an independent nation (\u202f!\u202f?), named Nikoniko Republic, Dake Onsen still carries traces of its playful past. A sign for the former National Diet Building (now the Dake Onsen Tourism Association) remains, while local snack bars once served as the \u201cSheriff\u2019s Office\u201d and the tofu shop operated as the National Tofu Protein Research Institute. Founded in 1982, the republic was ultimately reabsorbed into Japan in 2006. If time allows, it\u2019s worth wandering the town in search of these lingering relics of the Nikoniko Republic.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6679-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112425\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6679-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6679-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6679-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6679.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">In the Nikoniko Republic, a local passport was issued alongside its own currency, known as Cosmo. Since the republic\u2019s founding, 100 Cosmo has always been 100 yen and circulated widely. As a pioneering example of regional currency, Cosmo is still accepted at select establishments within Dake Onsen today.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2B2A6635.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112437\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5000346716593855\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2B2A6635.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2B2A6635-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2B2A6635-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2B2A6635-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Keisuke Ichinose and Akiko Nihei, proprietress of Hana Kanzashi.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cols-image is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><br><br><br><br>Trail Guide<\/h5>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cols-image is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A6644-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-111352\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A6644-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A6644-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A6644-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/resized_2B2A6644.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hana-kanzashi.com\/\">Lodge Hana Kanzashi<\/a><br>1-104 Take Onsen, Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima<br>TEL:0243-24-2110<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:79px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><strong>ANC: Supporting Your Volcano Trail Hike<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><br>ANC is a private trail center offering information and activity support for the Volcano Trail and mountain trips in this region. Located inside the lodge Hana Kanzashi, the center is involved in efforts to develop the entire Volcano Trail and maintain the surrounding hiking routes. The facility includes a caf\u00e9, a shop offering gear rentals and sales for hikers, and accommodation tailored to hikers\u2019 needs. Inquiries and reservations for the official Volcano Trail map can also be made here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Adatara Azuma Nature Center\uff08ANC\uff09<br>TEL:090-7171-0350<br>Instagram:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/adatara_nc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">@adatara_nc<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6119-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-112427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6119-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6119-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6119-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A6119.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Bandai-Asahi National Park spans across Fukushima, Yamagata, and Niigata Prefectures, encompassing the Dewa Sanzan mountains, the Asahi and Iide mountain ranges, Mt. Bandai, and Lake Inawashiro. A new long-distance trail is being developed in the park\u2019s Bandai\u2013Azuma\u2013Inawashiro area.<\/p>\n<p>The Bandai\u2013Azuma\u2013Adatara Volcano Trail links the three active volcanoes of the same name with a series of scattered lakes and ponds. On this trip, we hiked a portion of the trail known as the ATA Route, a mountain journey that winds through volcanic terrain, steamy hot springs, and even an unexpected encounter with the refined world of bonsai.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":112429,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"_wpas_customize_per_network":false,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[119,118],"tags":[10108,1699,8052,10107,8046,10103,10104],"place":[210],"writer":[],"class_list":["post-111268","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-guides-en","category-hike-and-bike-en","tag-bandai-asahi-national-park","tag-fukushima","tag-japan-long-trail-walker-en","tag-volcano-trail","tag--en","tag-10103","tag-10104","place-fukushima-en"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Japan Long Trail Walker- Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and Bonsai&lt;br&gt;Soaking in the Energy of Earth and Time: A Mountain Journey<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The Bandai-Asahi National Park spans across Fukushima, Yamagata, and Niigata Prefectures, encompassing the Dewa Sanzan mountains, the Asahi and Iide mountain ranges, Mt. Bandai, and Lake Inawashiro. A new long-distance trail is being developed in the park\u2019s Bandai\u2013Azuma\u2013Inawashiro area.The Bandai\u2013Azuma\u2013Adatara Volcano Trail links the three active volcanoes of the same name with a series of scattered lakes and ponds. On this trip, we hiked a portion of the trail known as the ATA Route, a mountain journey that winds through volcanic terrain, steamy hot springs, and even an unexpected encounter with the refined world of bonsai.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Japan Long Trail Walker- Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and Bonsai&lt;br&gt;Soaking in the Energy of Earth and Time: A Mountain Journey\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The Bandai-Asahi National Park spans across Fukushima, Yamagata, and Niigata Prefectures, encompassing the Dewa Sanzan mountains, the Asahi and Iide mountain ranges, Mt. Bandai, and Lake Inawashiro. A new long-distance trail is being developed in the park\u2019s Bandai\u2013Azuma\u2013Inawashiro area.The Bandai\u2013Azuma\u2013Adatara Volcano Trail links the three active volcanoes of the same name with a series of scattered lakes and ponds. On this trip, we hiked a portion of the trail known as the ATA Route, a mountain journey that winds through volcanic terrain, steamy hot springs, and even an unexpected encounter with the refined world of bonsai.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"PAPERSKY\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/papersky\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-03-18T02:09:22+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-25T02:30:18+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Akira\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@paperskyonline\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@paperskyonline\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Akira\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"26 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Akira\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/7f7d2856215ca469e9a7515ab0df97fe\"},\"headline\":\"Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and Bonsai&lt;br>Soaking in the Energy of Earth and Time: A Mountain Journey\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-03-18T02:09:22+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-03-25T02:30:18+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/\"},\"wordCount\":1609,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Bandai-Asahi National Park\",\"Fukushima\",\"Japan Long Trail Walker\",\"Volcano Trail\",\"\u30cf\u30a4\u30af\",\"\u30dc\u30eb\u30b1\u30fc\u30ce\u30c8\u30ec\u30a4\u30eb\",\"\u798f\u5cf6\u770c\"],\"articleSection\":[\"LOCAL GUIDES\",\"HIKE &amp; BIKE\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/\",\"name\":\"Japan Long Trail Walker- Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and Bonsai&lt;br>Soaking in the Energy of Earth and Time: A Mountain Journey\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/en\/japan-long-trail-walker-volcano-trail\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/papersky.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/resized_2B2A7316.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-03-18T02:09:22+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-03-25T02:30:18+00:00\",\"description\":\"The Bandai-Asahi National Park spans across Fukushima, Yamagata, and Niigata Prefectures, encompassing the Dewa Sanzan mountains, the Asahi and Iide mountain ranges, Mt. 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