Oirase Stream, Walking meditation and forest bathing in Japan’s North
Oirase Strean is a well-known picturesque locale and a treasure spot for beautiful waterfalls. The stream stretches from Lake Towada to Yakiyama a total distance of 14 km (8.6 miles). Expansive woods blended with numerous waterfalls and the graceful water current give life to the magnificent mountain stream. Hiking in spring and the season of autumn foliage is simply exceptional. Many visitors and photographers try their hand at taking the best picturesque shot.
Some people say that walking here is like meditation. The virgin beech, Japanese oak, maple, and white cedar trees breathe with you. The whole concept of forest therapy focuses on that magical interaction. In late October, the turning of the leaves will take your breath away. In the snowy winter season, some of the falls may even freeze over, but the stream continues to flow. The area turns lush and green in spring and summer.
Setting out from Yakeyama, the end of the trail is at Lake Towada in Nenokuchi. If you're still up for more adventure, Nenokuchi offers activities like fishing and sightseeing cruises on the lake. Or, after all the exercise, you might prefer to relax at a restaurant or cafe and trying Oirase's popular craft beer.
Some people say that walking here is like meditation. The virgin beech, Japanese oak, maple, and white cedar trees breathe with you. The whole concept of forest therapy focuses on that magical interaction. In late October, the turning of the leaves will take your breath away. In the snowy winter season, some of the falls may even freeze over, but the stream continues to flow. The area turns lush and green in spring and summer.
Setting out from Yakeyama, the end of the trail is at Lake Towada in Nenokuchi. If you're still up for more adventure, Nenokuchi offers activities like fishing and sightseeing cruises on the lake. Or, after all the exercise, you might prefer to relax at a restaurant or cafe and trying Oirase's popular craft beer.
