"Can I walk in Goshikinuma with regular shoes?" "How long does it take?" - These are common questions about the most popular walking course in Urabandai, Goshikinuma Nature Trail.
In conclusion, Goshikinuma is a walking trail that can be walked by those without mountain climbing experience. However, there are sections that may surprise you if you imagine it as a "tourist promenade." In this article, a local guide will explain the required time, clothing, and walking tips based on actual conditions.
What is the Goshikinuma Nature Trail?
It is a walking trail that connects approximately 3.6 km from Bishamon-numa to Yanagi-numa, among the lakes formed by the eruption of Mount Bandai (1888). Each pond has a different color due to variations in water quality, revealing different colored surfaces such as the emerald green Bishamon-numa, reddish-brown Akanuma, and cobalt blue Aonuma as you walk.
Required time and difficulty
- Required time: About 1 hour 10 minutes to 1.5 hours one way (if taking photos, it's safe to plan for about 2 hours)
- Difficulty: For beginners. However, it is not a flat paved road; there are sections with roots and stones, and gentle ups and downs.
- Shoes: Sturdy sneakers are fine. Heels and sandals are not suitable.
If you're worried about walking the whole way, the view of Bishamon-numa is just a few minutes walk from the parking lot. You can still feel the charm of Goshikinuma just from this spot.
Clothing by season
| Season | Clothing guidelines | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April to May) | Long-sleeve + lightweight jacket | Be careful of muddy areas right after the snow melts |
| Summer (June to August) | Short-sleeve + outer layer | There are many shaded areas, making it cooler than flatlands. Insect repellent makes it comfortable. |
| Autumn (September to November) | Long-sleeve + fleece, etc. | The best time to see the autumn leaves is from mid to late October. It gets cold in the mornings and evenings. |
| Winter (December to March) | Winter mountain gear | During the snow season, snowshoeing is recommended. Solo walking is not advised; please go with a guide. |
Three points where beginners often stumble
- "One-way" issue: The hiking trail is a single path, so if you parked your car at the starting point, you will need a way to return. The bus service is limited.
- Parking congestion: On weekends during the autumn foliage season, the parking lot on the Bishamon-numa side may fill up in the morning.
- Bear bell: Urabandai is a habitat for Asiatic black bears. Carry a bear bell and avoid solo walking in the early morning and evening.
The luxury of being "dropped off one way and picked up by car"
In fact, the easiest way to enjoy the Goshikinuma is to be dropped off at the entrance and picked up by car at the exit. You can walk one way without returning, which halves the physical burden.
Our Tabinoito private charter tours are guided exactly in this way.
- Walk the exploration path with a guide from the Bishamonnuma side → stroll on your own from a certain point → we will pick you up at the Yanagiuma side.
- For those who are anxious about walking, it is also possible to change to a shortened route that only hits the highlights.
- With explanations from a local guide with 50 years of residency about why the colors of the ponds change and the history of eruptions, "just walking" becomes "a learning experience".
- After Goshikinuma, we will move directly to the best spots of the day such as Lake Hibara and Nakatsukawa Gorge.
- The fee is Standard Plan ¥45,000 per person (8 hours, tax included, highway and gas fees included)
▶ See availability on the booking form
FAQ
Q. How old can one walk until?
A. The guideline is whether you "usually take a 30-minute walk" rather than age. Many in their 70s are guided, but if you are anxious, you can just walk around Bishamonnuma + visit other ponds by car.
Q. Are there restrooms?
A. There are none along the exploration path. Please use the facilities at the entrances on the Bishamonnuma side and Yanagiuma side before starting your walk.
Q. Can we walk on rainy days?
A. If it's a light rain, you can walk if you have rain gear, but the ground may become slippery. The misty Goshikinuma after the rain is also fantastic, so based on the conditions of the day, our guide will suggest safe ways to enjoy it.
Related articles: Urabandai Autumn Leaves Guide / Aizu Senior Travel Model Course. Feel free to consult us via Official LINE.
