Fukushima Travel – Autumn Hiking in Fukushima

Autumn has arrived in Fukushima, Japan, bringing beautiful colors to the mountains and highlands. One of the best places to experience the season is Jododaira Plateau, located along the scenic Bandai-Azuma Skyline in Fukushima City.

From Jododaira, a hike to the summit of Mt. Issaikyo rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, colorful autumn scenery, and a mysterious cobalt-blue lake known as the Witch’s Eye.

Photographed on October 9, 2026, this spectacular landscape captures the beginning of autumn in Fukushima.

Hike to Mt. Issaikyo and Discover the Witch’s Eye

Standing at approximately 1,949 meters, Mt. Issaikyo is one of the most rewarding hiking destinations in the Azuma mountain range.

The trail begins at Jododaira and passes through an open volcanic landscape before climbing toward the summit. The ascent typically takes around 90 minutes one way, depending on conditions and hiking pace.

At the top, one of the most extraordinary sights awaits: Goshikinuma Pond, nicknamed the “Witch’s Eye.”

This volcanic lake is famous for its mesmerizing blue color, which changes subtly depending on the sunlight and weather. Surrounded by rugged mountain slopes, the lake looks almost otherworldly.

Despite its name, this is a single crater lake and should not be confused with the better-known Goshikinuma lake group in Urabandai.

Kamanuma: A Beautiful Alpine Lake

Another highlight of the Jododaira area is Kamanuma, a peaceful mountain lake surrounded by the rugged scenery of the Azuma range.

From the hiking trails, visitors can enjoy views of the lake framed by mountain ridges and alpine vegetation. In autumn, the surrounding landscape takes on warm shades of red, orange, and gold, creating a striking contrast with the water and the volcanic terrain.

The combination of open mountain scenery, tranquil water, and autumn colors makes Kamanuma a wonderful destination for nature lovers.

Mt. Azuma-Kofuji: A Dramatic Volcanic Crater

Looking across the landscape from Mt. Issaikyo, you can also see Mt. Azuma-Kofuji, one of Fukushima’s most distinctive volcanic landmarks.

Its enormous circular crater resembles a miniature version of Mt. Fuji, giving the mountain its name. From Jododaira, visitors can reach the crater rim with a relatively short walk and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding volcanic plateau.

The rugged crater contrasts dramatically with the blue waters of the Witch’s Eye and the colorful autumn vegetation across the mountains.

Together, these landscapes reveal the remarkable geological diversity of Fukushima.

Autumn Colors in Fukushima’s Mountains

Jododaira sits at a high elevation, where autumn arrives earlier than in the lowlands.

The changing colors of the grasses, shrubs, and surrounding mountains mark the beginning of the autumn season. The volcanic landscape gives the area a distinctive appearance, different from the forests and valleys commonly associated with Japan’s autumn foliage.

The Bandai-Azuma Skyline, the scenic mountain road leading to Jododaira, is also famous for its autumn views, making the journey itself part of the experience.

For photographers and outdoor enthusiasts, this region offers a wonderful opportunity to discover a different side of Japan’s natural beauty.

Discover Another Japan with Deep Japan Tours

Fukushima is home to much more than historic temples, traditional festivals, and hot spring towns. Its mountains offer spectacular scenery and outdoor experiences for travelers who want to explore beyond Japan’s most famous destinations.

From the mysterious blue waters of the Witch’s Eye to the dramatic crater of Mt. Azuma-Kofuji, Jododaira is a remarkable place to experience the changing seasons.

If you are looking for beautiful landscapes, hiking adventures, and hidden gems away from the usual tourist routes, discover the natural wonders of Fukushima with Deep Japan Tours.

Come and experience another Japan.

Photo: October 9, 2026