Nitrogen dynamics in mineral soils of an alder (Alnus maximowiczii) stand established on volcano Mt. Showa-Shinzan were measured by laboratory incubation method in order to clarify characteristics of $NH_{4}^{+}$ mineralization and nitrification rate, from August 1994 to July 196. Contents of total N and organic matter were relatively low, but increased in May-July. Extractable $NH_{4}^{+}$ concentrations and $NH_{4}^{+}$ mineralization were high in June and July, and decreased in midsummer and fall. Extractable $NO_{3}^{-}$ concentrations did not vary seasonally. Negative values at $NH_{4}^{+}$ mineralization and nitrification rate were observed in August and September. $NH_{4}^{+}$ mineralization was positively correlated with soil organic matter, and nitrification rates were influenced by extractable $NH_{4}^{+}$ concentration and $NH_{4}^{+}$ mineralization.