Mt. Hakkoda, which is said to be Aomori Prefecture's premier autumn foliage viewing spot, is currently turning red and is bustling with vacationers and climbers.

Hakkoda Mountains is the collective name for the mountain range that lies in the northern part of Towada Hachimantai National Park. It consists of more than 10 mountains centered around Hakkoda Odake, the highest peak. National Route 103 (Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line), which connects Aomori City and Towada City, is dotted with spots along the way where you can enjoy the nature of Mt. Hakkoda. Tourists come from inside and outside the prefecture in search of the colorful scenery.

On the 13th, when the blue sky spread out, many vacationers gathered at the Sukayu Onsen Ryokan, which was at its best to see the autumn leaves. There are spots such as "Hell Marsh" and "Manju Fukashi" where you can walk around on foot, and there were people pointing their cameras and smartphones at them. A woman in her 40s living in Aomori City said with a smile, "It was chilly in Hakkoda, but the geothermal heat from the steamed buns warmed me up and made me feel better. I want to walk a lot while enjoying the autumn leaves."

There are also visitors from outside the prefecture enjoying the autumn leaves of Mt. Hakkoda on the Hakkoda Ropeway. A woman in her 60s who visited from Tokyo said, "I'm glad I was able to enjoy the view of Aomori and Mutsu Bay. It was sunny today, and the contrast between the blue sky and the autumn leaves was very beautiful."

A staff member of the Sukayu Onsen Ryokan said, "We want you to enjoy the autumn foliage and the hot springs. This year's autumn foliage started a little late, but it looks like we'll be able to enjoy the area around the inn until mid-October as usual."