The Appi Beech Forest of Hachimantai

About 100 hectares of beech forest grow in the Appi highlands of Hachimantai in northern Iwate, regrowing from saplings since the original trees were felled for charcoal in the 1930s. A few large mother trees still stand, identifiable by their size. The beech forest changes through the year: fresh green canopy in early summer, then brilliant gold and bronze in early October. Wood-chip trails make sections accessible to wheelchair users. For centuries, livestock kept on surrounding land prevented bamboo grass from overtaking the seedlings. Hire a local guide through the Hachimantai tourist association to learn about the forest's ecology and its ties to traditional lacquerware craft.