The World Natural Heritage Trail - Beech Forest Hiking Course is an easy walk inside World Natural Heritage Site Shirakami-Sanchi. There are two walking courses, about 1.5 km and 2 km in length, and you can choose which one to take depending on available time and your own energy. You might also enjoy doing both of the trials, a satisfying trek of 3.5 km. In spring, enjoy both remaining snow and new greenery. In fall, you can see the beautiful gold leaves of beech trees and other plants.
The World Natural Heritage Trail
Anmon Valley Route
This is a route that follows the upstream of the Anmon River, a tributary of the Iwaki River. From here, you can explore the third, second, and first waterfalls in that order. Please note that the trail beyond the second waterfall is not maintained or managed, and it is recommended for experienced hikers. There are frequent rockfalls, and some sections of the river have water levels higher than the waist. Therefore, wearing protective gear such as a helmet (available for rental) is highly recommended. Please be aware that for the Anmon Valley route, it is mandatory to submit a notification of passage, and access to the first waterfall is permitted only with a guide.
Tsugaru Dam
(Lake Tsugaru-Shirakamiko)
Tsugaru Dam was completed in October 2016, and thus Lake Tsugaru-Shirakamiko came into being. Visitors can follow the walkway across the top of the dam, and take in the breathtaking view afforded. On the first floor of the Administrative Building, an exhibit is open to visitors free of charge. Learn how the dam functions, and see videos and photographs of the surrounding scenery and local culture. Reservations can be made to observe the inside of the dam. Tsugaru Shirakami Lake has leisure facilities, including an amphibious bus, canoeing and more. It's the perfect spot to enjoy the green of spring and beautiful autumn colors.
Nishimeya Dam Lake Tour
The first amphibious bus in the Tohoku region. Drive through the village and on the lake.
Everyone yells out, "Let's splash!" as the bus makes waves when it launches into the lake.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise around the lake surrounded by the grandeur of nature.
The bus has no windows, so the passengers may get splashed, but that's all part of the fun.
| Operating Schedule | Late April to the end of October (closed on Wednesdays) If making a reservation by phone, please make a reservation by the day before your desired date. If making a reservation through the website, please make a reservation at least 3 days before your desired date. |
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| Fare | Adult 2,500yen Child 1,500yen Infant 500yen |
| Reception・ Boarding Area | Information center of the Michi-no-Eki Tsugaru Shirakami（Tsugaru Shirakami Tour Desk） |
| Official site | https://suirikubus.jp/ |
Rafting
Rafts leisurely carry a maximum 7 passengers down the Iwakigawa River originating in Shirakami Sanchi.
Rafting boat and river enjoyment tour Participants can enjoy seeing a scenic spot named Nishimeya Valley which offers a powerful panorama from the water.
| Operating Schedule | Open: May to early November Reservation required at least three days in advance. |
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| Official site | https://a-grove.com/ |
Shirakami-Sanchi Visitor Center
Exhibition of the history of beech trees.
Watch on a giant screen a film about the four seasons of Shirakami-Sanchi,with sound and visuals that make you feel as if you were actually there. Make this your first stop in the Shirakami-Sanchi area.
| Business Hours | 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (April to Oct.) 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Nov. to March) |
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| Closed | April to December: Second Monday of the month (or the following day if it's a national holiday), except for August, which is the fourth Monday. January to March: Every Monday and Thursday (or the following day if it's a national holiday). Year-end and New Year holidays (December 29 to January 3). |
| Fare | Entrance free of charge (Movie theater: adults ￥200, jr.high students and younger ￥100.) |
| TEL | 0172-85-2810 |
| Official site | http://www.shirakami-visitor.jp/ |