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Local Connections: Walking in Shirakami Mountains
Strenuous Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Shirakami Mountain (hiking trails)
The forested Shirakami-Sanchi mountains hold the last virgin remains of the cool-temperate forest of beech trees that once covered the hills and mountain slopes of northern Japan. A UNESCO World Heritage Site acclaimed for its universal value, Shirakami-Sanchi is the home of the black bear, the goat-antelope known as the Japanese serow, and 87 species of birds. Cutting through these forest-clad peaks are walking trails lined by 21-meter-tall (70-feet-tall) wingnut trees and 24-meter-tall (79-feet-tall) Japanese beech trees. The two-hour walk can be strenuous at times, so wear very comfortable shoes. Here, guests will of course enjoy trekking through the pristine nature, but they will also be guided by Mr. Toki, a long-time local guide of the region. Through his deep knowledge of Shirakami-Sanchi, guests will gain not only insight into the area's natural heritage, but also a sense of relaxation and healing unique to this World Heritage landscape.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Be sure to bring your camera, as nature's splendor can be photographed around every turn. Wildlife sightings may include the Japanese serow, once near extinction and now designated a National Treasure, and the Japanese dormouse that builds its nests in the trees. If you look up, you may be able to capture a golden eagle or a hawk eagle soaring above you.
LUNCH
A box lunch will be waiting for you at Aqua Green Village in the town of Nishimeya.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
A picturesque drive brings you to the Shirakami Mountain Visitor's Center, where you'll see exhibits detailing the more than 500 different kinds of plants and a variety of animals in the ecosystem.
Schedule
Special Notes
This tour includes 2 hours trekking and is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. This is an active tour that travels steep, unpaved, and uneven paths.
Wear comfortable, casual outdoor wear and sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker.
In the case of bad weather or closed trekking course, the tour may be cancelled. This tour operates from June to early October.
The tour will visit Roadside station "Beech Nishimeya" alternatively when Shirakami Mountains visitor center is closed. Bento box lunch on bench or on a bus if it rains.
Traffic and delays may be expected.
Tour order may vary.
Japanese yen are required for additional purchases
During winter (usually from November until beginning of May) this tour is not operated. Shirakami mountain area is closed due to heavy snow for winter season as the bus cannot access, impossible to do trekking.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, there is a possibility that Mr. Toki's guide may be replaced.
Exceptional Value
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Strenuous Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Shirakami Mountain (hiking trails)
The forested Shirakami-Sanchi mountains hold the last virgin remains of the cool-temperate forest of beech trees that once covered the hills and mountain slopes of northern Japan. A UNESCO World Heritage Site acclaimed for its universal value, Shirakami-Sanchi is the home of the black bear, the goat-antelope known as the Japanese serow, and 87 species of birds. Cutting through these forest-clad peaks are walking trails lined by 21-meter-tall (70-feet-tall) wingnut trees and 24-meter-tall (79-feet-tall) Japanese beech trees. The two-hour walk can be strenuous at times, so wear very comfortable shoes. Here, guests will of course enjoy trekking through the pristine nature, but they will also be guided by Mr. Toki, a long-time local guide of the region. Through his deep knowledge of Shirakami-Sanchi, guests will gain not only insight into the area's natural heritage, but also a sense of relaxation and healing unique to this World Heritage landscape.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Be sure to bring your camera, as nature's splendor can be photographed around every turn. Wildlife sightings may include the Japanese serow, once near extinction and now designated a National Treasure, and the Japanese dormouse that builds its nests in the trees. If you look up, you may be able to capture a golden eagle or a hawk eagle soaring above you.
LUNCH
A box lunch will be waiting for you at Aqua Green Village in the town of Nishimeya.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
A picturesque drive brings you to the Shirakami Mountain Visitor's Center, where you'll see exhibits detailing the more than 500 different kinds of plants and a variety of animals in the ecosystem.
Schedule
Special Notes
This tour includes 2 hours trekking and is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. This is an active tour that travels steep, unpaved, and uneven paths.
Wear comfortable, casual outdoor wear and sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker.
In the case of bad weather or closed trekking course, the tour may be cancelled. This tour operates from June to early October.
The tour will visit Roadside station "Beech Nishimeya" alternatively when Shirakami Mountains visitor center is closed. Bento box lunch on bench or on a bus if it rains.
Traffic and delays may be expected.
Tour order may vary.
Japanese yen are required for additional purchases
During winter (usually from November until beginning of May) this tour is not operated. Shirakami mountain area is closed due to heavy snow for winter season as the bus cannot access, impossible to do trekking.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, there is a possibility that Mr. Toki's guide may be replaced.