A Sustainable Journey into Geothermal Innovation
- Spring to Autumn (Mid-April to Early November)
- 2–6 people
Sustainable Living Woven by the Heat of the Earth
As the world moves toward carbon neutrality, countries are accelerating the adoption of renewable energy sources that emit little to no CO₂. However, the rapid development of solar and wind power has, in some cases, led to environmental concerns such as landscape alteration and ecosystem disruption. In contrast, geothermal energy offers a sustainable solution: it operates reliably 24 hours a day, year-round, regardless of weather conditions. Moreover, because many geothermal sites are located near national parks, their development has proceeded with careful consideration for environmental preservation.
Hachimantai City has a long history of utilizing its abundant natural resources. Nestled deep within the Matsukawa Onsen area stands the Matsukawa Geothermal Power Plant, Japan’s first commercial geothermal facility. In 2019, the Matsuo-Hachimantai Geothermal Power Plant began operations near Gozaisho-numa Pond, and in the same year, construction commenced on the Appi Geothermal Power Plant at the northern foot of Mt. Appi. This latest facility started commercial operations in March 2024, marking a new chapter in the city’s geothermal innovation.
In the 1970s, the Matsukawa Geothermal Power Plant began supplying steam to nearby hotels, giving birth to the unique hot spring known as Magma no Yu (“Bath of Magma”). Today, more than 700 hotels, ryokan inns, pensions, and even hospitals and welfare facilities benefit from its healing waters. Adding to this legacy of innovation, the steam rising from Matsukawa has also inspired a distinctive craft: Geothermal Dyeing, a rare dyeing technique that harnesses natural geothermal steam to create colors found nowhere else.
In Hachimantai, the blessings of geothermal energy extend far beyond power generation, evolving into unique sustainable experiences. Visitors can explore Geothermal Dyeing, where the Earth’s heat transforms fabric into one-of-a-kind creations; discover Geo Farm Hachimantai, where food byproducts are recycled as feed for horses; and visit Hachimantai Smart Farm, where geothermal energy enables year-round cultivation of fresh, pesticide-free vegetables. These initiatives embody a harmony of nature, tradition, and innovation—offering travelers a rare opportunity to experience how geothermal power shapes a sustainable future.
CONTENT 1
The Earth’s Heat Painting Nature’s Palette — GEOCOLOR
It may be hard to believe, but the technique of Geothermal Dyeing was discovered entirely by chance at the Geothermal Dyeing Laboratory. Today, it is recognized as an exceptionally rare dyeing method, unparalleled anywhere else in the world.
One of the remarkable features of this technique is its ability to create an astonishing variety of colors by harnessing the heat and unique composition of geothermal steam. As the dye penetrates the fabric under high-temperature steam, trace amounts of hydrogen sulfide in the vapor can sometimes interact with the dye, causing partial fading. This simultaneous interplay of coloring and bleaching produces enchanting, otherworldly patterns, unlike anything seen in conventional dyeing methods.
In Geothermal Dyeing, the dye penetrates deeply into the fibers of the fabric, making the shibori (tie-dye) technique particularly crucial. By carefully stitching and binding sections of the cloth, artisans guide the flow of the dye, creating intricate and visually stunning patterns that emerge naturally through the interaction of geothermal steam and fabric.
It may come as a surprise, but the daily variations in geothermal steam can significantly influence the final outcome of each dyeing session. In addition, numerous other factors affect how the dyes interact, ensuring that no two pieces of fabric ever turn out the same. Every pattern is truly one-of-a-kind—this is the essence of GEOCOLOR.
CONTENT 2
Living with Horses, in Harmony with Nature — Toward a Future of Wellness and a Circular Society
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mt. Iwate, Geo Farm Hachimantai is a wellness and nature-focused farm designed to harmonize with the surrounding environment while promoting the healing of mind, body, and society. Here, retired racehorses live alongside humans in a model of coexistence, fostering a new cycle of life and sustainability.
Experiencing Traditional Mushroom Cultivation with Retired Horses
From soil enriched with horse manure compost to traditional mushroom cultivation, environmental education, and animal-assisted activities, every moment here offers a gentle yet powerful experience of the interconnectedness of life and nature.
As the saying goes, “Happy People make Happy Horses, Happy Horses make Happy People”. At Geo Farm Hachimantai, supporting the second careers of these horses also brings a sense of richness and healing to the hearts of all who visit.
Experience firsthand traditional mushroom cultivation enriched by horse manure on land where retired racehorses live and thrive. At this sustainable farm, where nature, horses, and humans are deeply connected, visitors can enjoy a meaningful time of learning, reflection, and rejuvenation.
CONTENT 3
Geothermal-Powered Agriculture for the Future
At Hachimantai Smart Farm, geothermal energy is harnessed to maintain a stable growing environment year-round, allowing for the cultivation of fresh, pesticide-free vegetables. Visitors can experience a next-generation, sustainable form of agriculture that makes the most of nature’s own power.
In Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture, where the shortage of agricultural workers is a pressing challenge, innovative approaches are underway to revitalize the region by combining its natural energy resources with cutting-edge cultivation techniques and IoT-controlled systems. Previously unused greenhouses, left idle due to an aging population, have been repurposed for a basil cultivation project heated with thermal water supplied by a geothermal power plant. Drawing on expertise and technology from Tokyo and Fukuoka, this initiative exemplifies a new style of agriculture that blends tradition, innovation, and sustainability.
CONTENT 4
Savoring the Gifts of the Earth and the Wisdom of Life
On this journey, you can experience the new value created by geothermal energy through the pleasures of food as well.
At Geo Farm Hachimantai, guests can enjoy a rich variety of ingredients, from mushrooms cultivated on-site and fresh basil from Hachimantai Smart Farm, to local wild vegetables, mushrooms, high-quality livestock products, and Hachimantai salmon. Each ingredient reflects the blessings of the region’s hot springs and the wisdom of its people, weaving together a culinary story where nature and culture meet.
Indulge in a unique local gastronomy where sustainable living and culinary culture resonate in harmony—an experience found nowhere else.
Inquiries & Consultation
Inquiry Form
Reference Price (Tax Included)
From ¥60,000 per person
*Prices may vary depending on the season. We will provide a customized quote upon request.
Recommended Season & Group Size
- Spring to Autumn (Mid-April to Early November)
- 2–6 people
Included in
- Experience Fee
- One lunch or dinner included (as part of the local gastronomy experience)
Not Included
- Airfare
- Airport Transfer
- Beverages During Meals
- Transportation to/from Meeting Point
- Accommodation Fee ＊
- Guide Fee ＊
- Transportation During the Tour ＊
* If you wish to arrange accommodation, additional lodging fees will apply.
* If you require a multilingual guide or transportation during the tour, additional fees will apply.
Icon Guide
- Recommended Season
- Number of Participants