Best Times to Climb Mount Bandai

About Mount Bandai

Mount Bandai (磐梯山, Bandai san) is located in the Bandai Asahi National Park in Western Fukushima Prefecture. The now dormant volcano last erupted in 1888, resulting in the creation of the Urabandai Area known today for its beautiful multicolored ponds. Once a single peak, the volcanic eruption sculpted the mountain into its current form and produced many of the surrounding mountains.

Mount Bandai looks very different depending on how it is viewed. A view from the south side or south foot is known as Omotebandai and shows an intact peak. While a view from the north side or north foot is called Urabandai. The mountain shows a wild shape due to the volcanic activity.

Mount Bandai was originally called Iwahashiyama which translates to “rock ladder to the sky”. With an official altitude of 1,816 meters above sea level, the mountain is known as Aizu Fuji for its resemblance to the famous peak. The peak was re measured in 2010 after the original triangulation station disappeared due to erosion.

Mount Bandai Trailheads

Happodai Trailhead (Closed In Winter)

Starting Point: West Side

Ascent 2 hours 15 minutes, Descent 1 hour 40 minutes *Easiest & Most Popular of the Climbing Routes

Highlights along the Happodai Trail include an abandoned mountain lodge next to an active hot spring, amazing views of Lake Hibara, and seasonal flower fields.

It takes about two hours to reach the Koboshimizu Mountain Hut which is the main rest station before the peak. The hut offers a wide array of drinks and light food options. In addition there are a variety of pins, postcards, and other souvenirs available. There is a large clearing along a gentle slope that gives wonderful views of Kitashiobara Village on Mount Bandai’s north side.

The final 20 or so minute ascent to the main peak is quite steep. We recommend taking your time. The top of Mount Bandai provides breathtaking 360 degree views of the Aizu Bandai area.

On the way back down, there is a bell near the mountain huts that you can ring to announce your successful climb.

Inawashiro Trailhead

Starting Point: South Side

Ascent 3 hours 30 minutes, Descent 2 hours 30 minutes

Starts on the south side of Mount Bandai at the Inawashiro Snow Paradise Ski Resort. Hiking trail follows the ski slopes. Has excellent views of Lake Inawashiro.

Okinajima Trailhead

Starting Point: South Side

Ascent 3 hours 30 minutes, Descent 2 hours 30 minutes *Most Direct Path to the Summit.

Nearby Attractions Include: Lake Inawashiro, Goshikinuma Ponds, Lake Hibara, Bandaisan Gold Line (Scenic Highway), Bandai-Azuma Lake Line (Scenic Highway), and hot springs.