Experience the natural phenomenon of Mt. Apoi, a peridotite mountain (made of coarse plutonic rock) formed when part of the Earth’s mantle thrust through from underneath the crust. This fascinating and unusual rock formation in the Hidaka Mountains has garnered worldwide attention and is classified as a UNESCO geopark since 2008. On day one of this tour, you’ll learn about the formation of the geopark’s mountains more than 13 million years ago, the alpine plants that grow from the unique soil and topography, and peculiar rock formations that have been the subject of legends among Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people. Your newly gained knowledge and deeper appreciation will make hiking up Mt. Apoi the next day all the more fulfilling.
