The Miracle of Snowmelt: Witness the Moment the Dragon Awakens

📝﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏Spot Details 📍 Hachimantai Dragon Eye (Kagami-numa) 📌 Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture / Semboku City, Akita Prefecture (Prefectural Border) A natural phenomenon observed near the summit of Mount Hachimantai, at an altitude of approximately 1,613 meters, in "Kagami-numa." --- ⏱ Best Viewing Period Every year from mid-May to mid-June, lasting about two weeks * The timing may vary depending on the snowmelt conditions each year * In 2025, the best viewing period was from early to mid-June (disappeared by early July) --- 💰 Admission Fee Free entry (as it is a natural exploration area) * Information is available at places like the Hachimantai Visitor Center --- 🚗 Access & Parking - By car: About 40 minutes from Tohoku Expressway "Matsuo Hachimantai IC" to the Hachimantai Summit Rest House - Parking: Hachimantai Summit Rest House Parking Lot (Paid / 500 yen per use) - From the parking lot, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk to Kagami-numa (be cautious of slippery conditions during the snowmelt period) 🚌 Public Transportation (Limited Period) - Sightseeing routes like the "Hachimantai Nature Exploration Bus" operate during the best viewing period (advance confirmation required) --- ✎﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏One-Point Information - The "Dragon Eye" refers to the dragon-eye-like pattern that appears on the water surface as the snow melts - The snow edges are fragile, so it’s important not to get too close to the lake surface - For snowy mountain trails, wearing rubber boots or hiking boots with cold-weather gear is essential - The lake’s color and shape change daily, offering a different view each time you visit - Early mornings and sunny days are particularly beautiful, making it perfect for photography 📸✨