Introducing five spots in the Bandai-san Geopark area where you can experience the story of Earth’s history.
【1】A Story Tracing the Eruption of the Meiji Era
Model Course I
This recommended full-scale course takes you into the collapsed caldera that was the center of the 1888 (Meiji 21) eruption, allowing you to truly grasp the magnitude of the eruption while observing the valuable collapse walls that reveal the internal structure of a stratovolcano. Next, you’ll visit the area of lakes that mark the center of the rock avalanche deposits, followed by a tour of the tragic sites affected by volcanic mudflows. The journey concludes at the massive monument “Mine-no-Ōishi” which stands at the far edge of the disaster area.
Model Course Ⅱ
This is a beginner-friendly geo-tour course that takes you around the Goshikinuma Pond Group and Lake Hibara, both formed by the rock avalanche and debris flow caused by the Meiji-era eruption. As you reflect on the events of the eruption, you can also enjoy the scenic sites that, through recovery and restoration, have become some of the most beautiful spots in the Bandai-san GeoPark.
【2】The Story of Faith Rooted at the Foot of the Sacred Mount Bandai
Model Course
At the foot of Mount Bandai lie several important religious sites: Enichiji Temple, one of the most prominent temples in eastern Japan founded in the early Heian period; Hanitsu Shrine, where the founder of the Aizu domain is enshrined; and Kobirakata Tenmangu Shrine, considered one of Japan’s three great Tenmangu shrines. Each of these was established with a strong emphasis on the location—either at the foot of Mount Bandai or along the shores of Lake Inawashiro—serving as centers of faith. Visiting these sites offers a chance to reflect on the thoughts and beliefs of the people of that time, and the deep connection between people and their faith.
【3】The Story of Oguninuma Pond and Its Wetlands, Nurtured by the Nekoma Caldera
Model Course
We’ll visit Mount Nekoma, the “older brother” of Mount Bandai, which was active from about 1 million to 400,000 years ago. Inside its caldera—now a landscape of marshes and ponds—we’ll enjoy the nationally designated Natural Monument of wetland plant communities and the beautiful scenery. From the prime viewing spot at the summit of Mount Nekomagadake, we’ll also take in the impressive silhouette of Mount Bandai, a younger and more active volcano.
【4】The Untold Story of the Eruption 50,000 Years Ago
Model Course
The southwestern foot of Mount Bandai is an area where a massive volcanic eruption about 50,000 years ago caused the mountain to collapse, resulting in a rock avalanche. By examining the terrain and rocks, we can understand the extent and nature of this phenomenon, and explore the relationship between the lush, green land and human activity.
【5】A Panoramic Tale Tracing the Creation of the Earth
Model Course
Let’s explore the grand story of Earth’s creation through the breathtaking panoramic scenery surrounding Mount Bandai — including the Bandai and Nekoma volcanoes, Lake Inawashiro (the fourth largest in Japan), and the towering Kawageta and Seaburi mountain ranges to the east and west. You can also experience an even greater panoramic view by hiking up Mount Bandai itself.