In the past, mountain ascetics came to the Azuma mountain range to practice various forms of spiritual discipline. Several ancient pilgrimage routes led to this beautiful subalpine plateau (Jododaira) brimming with lush vegetation and wildflowers. It was believed to resemble Jodo, the Buddhist Pure Land, thought to be a paradise of “ultimate bliss.”
The viewpoint here at 1,600 meters is located at the base of Mt. Azuma-Kofuji and marks the midway point of the Bandai-Azuma Skyline. From here, visitors can see Mt. Issaikyo, the Jododaira Wetlands, and Mt. Higashi-Azuma on clear days. Across the road from the viewpoint is the Jododaira Visitor Center, which provides information on hiking routes and Jododaira’s plants, animals, and birds. Several walking and hiking paths begin from the visitor center, including wooden walkways through the Jododaira Wetlands.