The Shirakami Mountains, which span Aomori and Akita prefectures, is a place beloved by fans around the world as the model location for Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece “Princess Mononoke.” On the official Studio Ghibli website, director Hayao Miyazaki explicitly names the Shirakami Mountains alongside Yakushima in Kagoshima Prefecture as a place he “greatly referenced” during the production of “Princess Mononoke.” This mystical forest, where one of the world’s largest primary beech forests spreads out, is a truly special place where you can experience being lost inside the movie itself.
This article provides a thorough explanation of everything you should know before visiting, from the charm of the Shirakami Mountains, its relationship with Princess Mononoke, specific highlights, recommended hiking courses, to access information.
What Are the Shirakami Mountains? An Overview of the Primary Forest Registered as a World Heritage Site
Basic Information About the Shirakami Mountains
The Shirakami Mountains is a general term for an extensive mountainous area spanning approximately 130,000 hectares from southwestern Aomori Prefecture to northwestern Akita Prefecture. The central 16,971 hectares was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Natural Heritage) in December 1993, along with Yakushima in Kagoshima Prefecture, becoming Japan’s first such designation.
The primary reason the Shirakami Mountains was registered as a World Heritage Site is the distribution of primary beech forests on a world-class scale, which have been subjected to minimal human impact. This beech forest is a primary forest that has continued since approximately 8,000 years ago during the Jomon period, forming a precious ecosystem in which diverse flora and fauna inhabit.
Divisions of the Shirakami Mountains
The Shirakami Mountains are divided into three zones based on the degree of conservation.
Core Zone: The most strictly protected area where mountain entry is generally restricted. Prior permission is required to enter.
Buffer Zone: A surrounding area designed to protect the core zone, where entry is possible under certain rules.
Peripheral Area: An area where visitors can hike relatively freely. Tourist destinations such as Juniko Lake and Anmon Falls are included in this zone.
Historical Background of the Shirakami Mountains
The Shirakami Mountains are believed to have been underwater approximately 23 million years ago. Through prolonged crustal deformation, the current mountains were formed, and the present beech forest developed from approximately 10,000 years ago when the final glacial period ended.
Interestingly, at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, people called “Emishi” (蝦夷) by the imperial court lived in ancient times. This directly connects to the setting of the village of the Emishi where Ashitaka, the protagonist of “Princess Mononoke,” lives, and is thought to be one of the reasons director Miyazaki referenced this location.
The Deep Connection Between “Princess Mononoke” and the Shirakami Mountains
Model Location Officially Recognized by Studio Ghibli
The official Studio Ghibli website states that the Shirakami Mountains were “greatly referenced” during the production of “Princess Mononoke.” Director Hayao Miyazaki actually visited the Shirakami Mountains and reflected the mystical atmosphere of the primary beech forest, moss-covered trees, and the deep silence of the forest in his work.
The fantastical atmosphere of the Shishigami (Deer God) forest appearing in the film, the deep forest where the Kodama appear, and the mystical descriptions of nature where Ashitaka and San meet draw much inspiration from the primary forest of the Shirakami Mountains.
The Village of the Emishi as Ashitaka’s Model
The village of the Emishi where Ashitaka, who appears at the beginning of “Princess Mononoke,” lives is said to be modeled after the area surrounding the Shirakami Mountains. As mentioned earlier, people called the Emishi lived in this region during ancient times, overlapping the film’s setting with historical background.
In the film, Ashitaka’s village is depicted as being at the eastern edge of the world, surrounded by abundant nature. The magnificent beech forest of the Shirakami Mountains and the history of the ancient people who lived there form the foundation of the world of the work.
Differences from Yakushima
Yakushima in Kagoshima Prefecture, the other model location for “Princess Mononoke,” was primarily referenced for depictions of moss-covered forests and giant trees. In contrast, the Shirakami Mountains’ unique ecosystem of primary beech forest and the historical and cultural background of the Emishi village are reflected in the work.
While Yakushima is a subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest, the Shirakami Mountains are a cool temperate beech forest, a difference that gives each location inspiration for different aspects of “Princess Mononoke.”
Highlights and Attractions of the Shirakami Mountains
Vast Primary Beech Forest
The greatest attraction of the Shirakami Mountains is undoubtedly the primary beech forest on a world-class scale. The beech tree, also called the “mother of the forest,” plays an important role in storing abundant water and nurturing diverse organisms.
Beech trees can reach heights of 20 to 30 meters, with some trunks exceeding 3 meters in circumference. In spring, fresh green leaves shine brilliantly; in summer, they are enveloped in deep green; in autumn, they turn golden; and in winter, a fantastical landscape unfolds covered in snow. Especially during the new green and autumn foliage seasons, it truly feels like stepping into the world of “Princess Mononoke.”
Walking through the forest, a thick carpet of moss spreads beneath your feet, and new life sprouts from fallen trees. This phenomenon, called “regeneration from fallen wood,” testifies to how the beech forest of the Shirakami Mountains has continued for thousands of years.
Juniko Lake and the Mystical Blue Pond
Juniko Lake in Fukaura Town, Aomori Prefecture, is a popular spot to easily experience the Shirakami Mountains. It is a group of 33 lakes and ponds formed by a major earthquake in 1704, and was named “Juniko” (Twelve Lakes) because twelve of the lakes are visible from a viewing platform called Ookuzure.
The most famous among them is the “Blue Pond.” It has exceptionally high transparency, and you can see the remains of large beech trees lying in the water. Yet the lake surface shines in cobalt blue, with a clear blue color that looks like ink spreading across it—truly mystical.
The reason for this blue color has not been completely elucidated, but it is thought to be related to fine particles in the water and the refraction of light. The color changes depending on the weather and time of day, with a clear day in late morning said to be the most beautiful.
Around the Blue Pond, lakes such as “Keitogaba Pond” and “Wakizutsu Pond” are scattered, each with its own character, with hiking courses well maintained in the area.
Anmon Falls
Anmon Falls on the Aomori side of the Shirakami Mountains consists of three tiers: the First Falls (42 meters drop), the Second Falls (37 meters drop), and the Third Falls (26 meters drop). The sight of the waterfalls flowing through a ravine surrounded by primary beech forest is spectacular, and it is a healing spot full of negative ions.
A walking trail is maintained to Anmon Falls, but due to nature conservation, there are access restrictions depending on the season. Guided tours are also available, allowing visitors to hike while learning more deeply about the nature of the Shirakami Mountains.
Rare Flora and Fauna
The Shirakami Mountains are home to diverse animals including Asian black bears, Japanese serows, golden eagles, and black woodpeckers. The black woodpecker in particular is designated as a Japanese natural monument and the Shirakami Mountains is an important habitat for the species.
In addition to beech, plants include Japanese oak and maple varieties, with spring bringing species such as trillium and rock saxifrage blooming with snowmelt. There are also abundant mosses, with reportedly over 200 species.
Such a rich ecosystem is maintained precisely because it is a primary forest unaffected by human activity, speaking to the value of the Shirakami Mountains.
Furofuji Hot Spring
A must-visit while exploring the Shirakami Mountains is the “Furofuji Hot Spring” in Fukaura Town, Aomori Prefecture. It is famous for its open-air bath facing the Japan Sea, known as a spectacular hot spring where you can bathe while enjoying the sunset.
It is perfect for relaxing your tired body after exploring the Shirakami Mountains, and from the hot spring you can enjoy the beautiful contrast between the rough waves of the Japan Sea and the sunset. With accommodation facilities available, it is recommended for those who want to leisurely enjoy the Shirakami Mountains.
Recommended Hiking Courses for Beginners
Juniko Lake Hiking Course (Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours)
The most recommended hiking course for beginners to the Shirakami Mountains is the Juniko Lake course. Walking on well-maintained trails requires no special equipment and can be enjoyed even in sneakers.
Standard Route:
- Mori no Bussan-kan Kyoro (parking and restroom available)
- Keitogaba Pond (approximately 10 minutes)
- Blue Pond (approximately 20 minutes)
- Beech Natural Forest (approximately 15 minutes)
- Wakizutsu Pond (approximately 10 minutes)
- Return to Mori no Bussan-kan Kyoro (approximately 30 minutes)
This course allows visitors to easily experience the beech forest and mystical lakes of the Shirakami Mountains. The Blue Pond is a must-see, moving many people with its beauty.
Beech Forest Hiking Trail (Duration: Approximately 1 hour)
Aqua Green Village ANMON in Nishi-Meya Village, Aomori Prefecture, maintains a beech forest hiking trail. This is a flat 2-kilometer walking trail where you can closely observe giant beech trees and moss-covered forests.
This is the perfect course to experience the forest of “Princess Mononoke,” with late May through early June for new green and mid-October through late October for autumn foliage particularly recommended.
Guided Trekking Tours
For those who wish to experience the Shirakami Mountains more deeply, guided trekking tours are recommended. Local guides provide detailed explanations of the history, ecosystem, and relationship with “Princess Mononoke.”
Main Tours:
- Anmon Falls Course (half day to full day)
- Mother Tree Course (full day)
- Juniko Lake Guided Walk (2-3 hours)
Interesting stories heard from guides and discoveries of flora and fauna not noticed on regular trails offer the unique charm of guided tours.
Access and Transportation Information
Access from Aomori Prefecture
From Tokyo:
- Airplane: Haneda Airport → Aomori Airport (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes) → approximately 2 hours by rental car to Juniko Lake
- Shinkansen: Tokyo Station → Shin-Aomori Station (approximately 3 hours) → approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by rental car or bus to Juniko Lake
Bus to Juniko Lake:
From JR Gono Line “Juniko Station,” take the Kōnan Bus “Oku-Juniko” line for approximately 15 minutes, getting off at “Mori no Bussan-kan Kyoro”
Access from Akita Prefecture
From Tokyo:
- Shinkansen: Tokyo Station → Akita Station (approximately 3 hours 50 minutes) → approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by rental car to the Shirakami Mountains
Access by Car
Rental cars are most convenient from both Aomori and Akita sides. However, during winter (late November to late April), many roads are closed due to snow, requiring prior confirmation.
Major Roads:
- National Route 101 (along the Japan Sea)
- Prefectural Road 28 (toward Juniko Lake)
Best Seasons
New Green Season (late May to June): Fresh beech greenery is beautiful, and this is the time you can most feel the world of “Princess Mononoke.”
Autumn Foliage Season (mid-October to late October): The beech forest dyed in golden hues is spectacular.
Summer (July to August): Surrounded by deep green, you can hike comfortably and cool.
Winter (December to March): A fantastical landscape covered in snow unfolds, though access is limited.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Clothing and Supplies
- Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or trekking shoes
- Clothing: Easy-to-move clothing with layering options (mountain weather changes quickly)
- Supplies: Drinks, towel, rain gear, insect repellent (summer), bear bell
Etiquette as a World Heritage Site
- Always take all garbage with you
- Do not touch or take away plants or animals
- Do not stray from designated trails
- Do not speak loudly (consideration for wildlife)
- Smoking only in designated areas
Bear Precautions
Asian black bears inhabit the Shirakami Mountains. Carry a bear bell, avoid solo activities, and refrain from hiking in early mornings and evenings. If you encounter a bear, remain calm and slowly back away quietly.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Gono Line
A must-visit alongside the Shirakami Mountains is the JR Gono Line. This scenic railway runs along the Japan Sea coast, with the “Resort Shirakami” sightseeing train in operation. The view of the Japan Sea from the train windows is exceptional.
Fukaura Town
Fukaura Town, the gateway to the Shirakami Mountains, features the Furofuji Hot Spring as well as dining establishments serving fresh seafood and historically significant shrines and temples.
Hirosaki City
Hirosaki City, the base on the Aomori side, is a castle town with Hirosaki Castle and former samurai residences. The spring cherry blossom festival and autumn foliage festival are nationally famous, with many tourists visiting both Hirosaki City and the Shirakami Mountains.
Small Stories Heard from Guides
Here are some interesting stories heard from guides of the Shirakami Mountains.
Lifespan of Beech Trees: Most beech trees in the Shirakami Mountains are 200-300 years old, with some giant trees exceeding 400 years. Beech grows slowly, with reports that it takes approximately 10 years to grow just 1 centimeter in diameter.
Changes in the Color of the Blue Pond: The blue of the Blue Pond changes with the season, weather, and time of day. It is most beautiful around 10:00 to 11:00 AM on clear days, when there are also more tourists.
Anecdotes from Filming: During the production of “Princess Mononoke,” staff from Studio Ghibli actually visited the Shirakami Mountains and spent several days sketching and photographing. Local guides accompanied them on trips deep into the beech forest, according to stories passed down.
Conclusion: A Journey to Experience the World of Princess Mononoke
The Shirakami Mountains is an officially recognized model location for Studio Ghibli’s “Princess Mononoke” and a precious primary forest registered as a World Heritage Site. This vast beech forest spanning Aomori and Akita prefectures offers a mystical experience as if you have stepped into the world of the film.
There is no end to the attractions: the Blue Pond of Juniko Lake, Anmon Falls, giant beech trees, and a rich ecosystem. There are many ways to enjoy the Shirakami Mountains, from easy-to-navigate courses for beginners to full-scale trekking.
This is a place we hope everyone who loves “Princess Mononoke” and all who appreciate nature will visit. Please see with your own eyes the landscapes of four seasons woven by the world’s largest primary beech forest, the silence of a forest that has continued since ancient times, and the workings of life that breathe within it.
Visiting the Shirakami Mountains is not mere tourism but a dialogue with nature and a journey to experience the message that “Princess Mononoke” sought to convey. In this special place nurtured by the grand nature of the Tohoku region, why not have an experience that awakens your vitality?
