Mount Kurikoma is a 1,626-meter-high mountain that stretches across Miyagi, Iwate, and Akita prefectures in northeastern Japan. Part of the Ou Mountains, it is surrounded by a rich natural environment and is included within the Kurikoma Quasi-National Park and the Kurikomayama–Tochigamori Forest Ecosystem Conservation Area.
Mount Kurikoma is also recognized as one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains and one of the country’s 100 Famous Mountains of Flowers. The mountain is particularly attractive during summer, when alpine plants bloom across its slopes, and in autumn, when brilliant foliage covers the mountainsides.
With hiking routes for different levels of experience, panoramic summit views, volcanic landscapes, alpine flowers, spectacular autumn colors, and hot springs nearby, Mount Kurikoma is one of the most rewarding mountain destinations in the Tohoku region.
One of Mount Kurikoma’s greatest attractions is the unobstructed panoramic view from the summit. Because there are few tall trees around the highest area, hikers can enjoy a wide 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons. In spring, alpine plants begin to emerge as the snow melts. Summer brings cool mountain air and lush green vegetation, while autumn transforms the slopes into a spectacular tapestry of red, orange, yellow, and green.
The autumn foliage is especially famous and is often described as the “Carpet of the Gods”. The colors spread gradually from the summit toward the lower slopes, creating a remarkable natural panorama.
The name Kurikoma is traditionally associated with a snow formation that appears on the western side of the summit in early summer. The shape resembles a running horse and is known as a koma, an old Japanese word for a horse.
The mountain also has different traditional names depending on the prefecture. In Iwate Prefecture, it is known as Mount Sukawa, while in Akita Prefecture it is called Mount Dainichi. In Miyagi, it has also been known as Mount Komagatake.
Mount Kurikoma is a Quaternary andesite stratovolcano, and its volcanic history stretches back approximately 500,000 years.
Volcanic activity continued into historical times. Records include volcanic activity in 1744, during the Edo period, and the formation of Showa Lake following a phreatic eruption in 1944.
Several distinctive volcanic landforms can be found around the mountain. To the north of the summit is Tsurugidake, a lava dome, while Jigokugama was historically known as “Mount Iwoyama” or “Sulfur Mountain” because of its volcanic features.
These geological formations provide an opportunity to see the traces of volcanic activity while enjoying the mountain’s forests, lakes, and alpine landscapes.
There are nine established hiking routes on Mount Kurikoma, offering options for different levels of hiking experience.
One of the most popular is the Central Trail, which begins at Iwakagami-daira and leads toward the summit. The route is approximately 3 kilometers long and takes around two hours to reach the summit.
The upper mountain has few tall trees, so hikers are rewarded with expansive views as they approach the summit.
Iwakagami-daira → Higashikurikoma Trail → Mount Kurikoma Summit → Central Trail → Iwakagami-daira
Approximate hiking time:
This loop route allows visitors to experience two different sides of the mountain rather than simply following the same trail in both directions.
The Higashikurikoma Trail has a more adventurous character, with rocky sections and ladders along the route. Hikers may also need to cross streams, and some exposed areas can be affected by strong winds.
Because of these conditions, the trail requires appropriate equipment, physical preparation, and careful judgment regarding weather conditions.
The Central Trail is relatively well maintained and is a popular choice for beginners or visitors who are concerned about their physical fitness.
It can also be used as an out-and-back route, making it a straightforward option for those who want to enjoy Mount Kurikoma without taking a longer loop.
Weather on Mount Kurikoma can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations. Poor preparation can lead to serious problems on the mountain.
Hikers should bring proper hiking boots, rainwear, sufficient drinking water, emergency food, and a map. Checking weather conditions and trail information before setting out is also essential.
Showa Lake is an emerald-green crater lake located near the eighth station on the northwestern side of the mountain. It was formed by a phreatic eruption in 1944 and contains strongly acidic water.
During summer, alpine plants bloom around the lake, adding bright colors to the volcanic landscape. The area is also a popular resting point for hikers.
The striking color of the water and the surrounding volcanic terrain make Showa Lake one of the most memorable natural features of Mount Kurikoma.
Lake Sukawa, located in Higashinaruse Village, Akita Prefecture, has a circumference of approximately 2 kilometers. Its water is acidic and known for its clarity.
Because of its acidic environment, the lake does not support fish. Nevertheless, the surrounding scenery is particularly beautiful during the fresh green season and autumn foliage season.
Visitors can also enjoy activities such as boating and camping, making the lake a pleasant destination for travelers who want to experience the mountain environment at a slower pace.
As the snow begins to melt, spring flowers such as Asian skunk cabbage and marsh marigold appear in wetland areas and along the trails.
The contrast between lingering snow and newly emerging vegetation creates a distinctive mountain landscape that can only be experienced during this short season.
Summer transforms Mount Kurikoma into a rich alpine garden. Flowers such as Nikko kisuge daylilies and Chinguruma bloom across the mountain.
With its cool temperatures and fresh mountain air, Mount Kurikoma is also an attractive destination for travelers looking for relief from the heat of summer in the lowlands.
Autumn is one of the most spectacular seasons on Mount Kurikoma. The mountain slopes become covered in layers of red, orange, yellow, and green foliage.
The period from approximately late September to early October is generally known as the peak season for autumn colors. The gradual change in color from the summit toward the foothills creates the famous landscape known as the “Carpet of the Gods.”
Heavy snow covers Mount Kurikoma during winter, making ordinary hiking difficult and potentially dangerous.
Although access to the mountain itself becomes challenging, the surrounding hot spring resorts offer another way to enjoy the winter landscape. Snow-viewing baths provide a relaxing experience after enjoying the snowy scenery of the region.
Several secluded hot springs, often described as hidden hot springs, can be found around Mount Kurikoma.
These hot springs are ideal places to relax after hiking. Combining a mountain excursion with a traditional Japanese hot spring experience allows visitors to enjoy two of the region’s greatest attractions in one trip.
From the Wakayanagi-Kanari Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway, follow Prefectural Route 4 and National Route 457 toward Iwakagami-daira.
During the autumn foliage season, a seasonal shuttle bus known as the Kurikomayama Autumn Leaves Bus operates, providing an alternative to driving directly to the mountain.
From the Ichinoseki Interchange, follow National Route 342 toward Sukawa Onsen.
Iwate Kenpoku bus services operate seasonally between approximately early May and early November, although schedules vary by season.
From the Yuzawa Interchange, take National Route 398 and Prefectural Route 282 toward Sukawa Onsen.
Public transportation is more limited on the Akita side, so traveling by car is generally a convenient option for exploring the surrounding area.
Mount Kurikoma is one of Tohoku’s outstanding mountain destinations, combining dramatic volcanic landscapes, alpine flowers, hiking trails, panoramic views, and nearby secluded hot springs.
Beginners can enjoy relatively accessible routes such as the Central Trail, while experienced hikers can choose more challenging courses such as the Higashikurikoma Trail. Around the mountain, volcanic lakes, forests, wetlands, and hot spring areas provide plenty of opportunities for exploration beyond the main summit.
Each season offers a completely different experience: spring flowers, cool summer greenery, spectacular autumn foliage, and snowy winter landscapes. Among them, the autumn “Carpet of the Gods” is particularly famous.
With appropriate equipment, careful planning, and attention to changing mountain weather, a visit to Mount Kurikoma can become a memorable journey into one of northeastern Japan’s most beautiful natural landscapes.