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Osarizawa Mine Historical Site

Osarizawa Mine Historical Site

Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities such as pure gold panning and digging for natural stones, and also learn about the history and mining techniques of the mine by walking through the tunnels.This is one of the largest copper mine historical sites in Japan, discovered in 708 (Nara period), and has developed alongside Japanese history until its closure in 1978.

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kiritanpo Origin Festival

Kiritanpo Origin Festival

This event is held in Kazuno City, the purported birthplace of kiritanpo. It gathers famous kiritanpo nabe (hot pot) restaurants from Kazuno City, and also features the Yamago Nabe (Hunter's Hot Pot), a recreation of the original nabe from when kiritanpo was first created. You can also savor the rare pheasant-based hot pot!

Akita
Sightseeing
Festivals & Events
Autumn

Towada-Hachimantai National Park

Towada-Hachimantai National Park

South of Lake Towada, in the vast mountainous region of Hachimantai spanning Akita and Iwate Prefectures, visitors can enjoy natural forests consisting of beech and Aomori fir, volcanic landforms and phenomena, alpine plants such as Gankōran (Empetrum nigrum), Isotsutsuji (Rhododendron), and cranberries (Koke momo) growing in clusters at Mōsen Pass, and hot springs scattered along the Hachimantai Aspite Line (National Route 341).The South Hachimantai region at the park's southern end features colonies of alpine plants represented by Komakusa (Dicentra peregrina) and Ezo-tsutsuji (Rhododendron camtschaticum) (designated National Natural Monuments), as well as mountains like Mt. Komagatake, known for its beautiful views....

Akita
Sightseeing
Accommodation
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shirakami Sanchi

Shirakami Sanchi

Shirakami Sanchi is the general term for a vast mountainous region spanning approximately $130,000text{ hectares}$ across Akita and Aomori Prefectures. The $16,971text{ hectares}$ of Japan's largest primeval beech forest within this area were registered as a World Natural Heritage site in December $1993$.You can observe natural beech trees in the surrounding areas such as the Taragyō Gorge, Dakedai Nature Observation Education Forest, and Manase Valley. The Dakedai Nature Observation Education Forest offers visitors an experience of nature and ecosystems nearly identical to those found in the core zone of the World Heritage Shirakami Sanchi. Even beginners can easily enjoy trekking...

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn

Kouraku-kan Theatre

Kouraku-kan Theatre

Built in $1910$ (Meiji 43) as a welfare facility for the Kosaka Mine, the Kouraku-kan is one of the oldest wooden theaters in Japan. It features a unique blend of Japanese and Western styles, with a Western-style exterior and a typical Japanese-style theater interior. The hall is equipped with a human-powered revolving stage, a suppon (trap door), a hanamichi (flower path runway), and box seats (sajiki), and it still hosts performances today. Furthermore, outside of special performances, visitors can tour the dressing rooms and backstage areas (with a free guide).

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Lake Towada

Lake Towada is a classic double caldera lake spanning both Akita and Aomori Prefectures, with a surface elevation of $400text{m}$ and a maximum depth of $327text{m}$ (the $3text{rd}$ deepest in Japan).Visitors are captivated by the seasonal beauty, from the mountain cherry blossoms in May and fresh greenery in June, to the bustling summer with lake festivals and campers, the autumn when the outer rim mountains are colored like a brocade painting, and the deep stillness of winter. The ability to enjoy different views along various walking routes is also a major attraction.The lake is also famous as a production area...

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Isedōtai Site

The Isedōtai Site is primarily composed of four stone circles (ring-shaped stone arrangements), the largest being $45text{m}$ in diameter, with all four exceeding $30text{m}$ in diameter. It was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in July $2021$ as part of the "Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan." In addition to the stone circles, arrangement structures, remains of pillar-supported buildings, pit graves, storage pits, and ditch-like structures have been found. There is no other known example of four such stone circles confirmed to be adjacent to one another. From the edge of the terrace where the stone circles are concentrated,...

Akita
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Uttō Onsen Matagi no Yu

Uttō Onsen Matagi no Yu

This is a natural hot spring featuring amber-colored, free-flowing source water that springs up at the foot of Mt. Moriyoshi. Fatigue from traveling melts away in the main bath and open-air bath while gazing at the rich nature of Ani.The cuisine is also rich, featuring authentic local bear dishes and Jango cuisine, which means "countryside" in the Akita dialect. Visitors can also listen to Matagi (traditional hunter) storytelling and participate in many activities that take advantage of the abundant natural environment. You can experience Matagi traditions like making Setchū Nabe (snow-pot cooking) or try snowshoeing in the snow.

Akita
Sightseeing
Accommodation
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mt. Moriyoshi Ani Ski Resort

Mt. Moriyoshi Ani Ski Resort

Mt. Moriyoshi is known as one of the "100 Famous Flower Mountains." From early summer to autumn, approximately $300text{ types}$ of alpine plants bloom in succession. In autumn, beautiful autumn foliage spreads across the mountain, and in winter, visitors can enjoy viewing the spectacular rime ice (Juhyō), one of the Three Great Rime Ice formations in Japan. The greatest charm of Mt. Moriyoshi is that you can reach the $8text{th}$ station via a gondola. Since the hiking trails beyond that point are also well-maintained, even beginners or those with limited physical confidence can easily visit.

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Chigoki Cape Observation Deck

Chigoki Cape Observation Deck

The Chigoki Cape Observation Deck (Chigoki Cape Lighthouse) is located along the coastline of Hachimori Town, Akita Prefecture, and is a spot where visitors can enjoy the spectacular view and sunset over the Sea of Japan. Situated slightly off the national road, the deck offers a view stretching from the Oga Peninsula all the way to Nyūdōzaki. The view from the lighthouse is particularly popular, combining the magnificent scenery of the Hachimori-Iwadate Coast.

Akita
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tomeyama

Tomeyama is a mountain where logging was "stopped" (tome) since the Edo period to secure water sources. Here, you can enjoy trekking through a natural broadleaf forest primarily composed of beech trees. The walking trails are well-maintained, making it an easy forest to explore.To enter the mountain, the accompaniment of a local "Happō Town Certified Guide" is required to prevent environmental degradation. Listening to the guide's explanations will undoubtedly provide a deep understanding of the plants, trees, and the history of how this forest has been preserved.

Akita
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Odate Magewappa Workshop

Odate Magewappa Workshop

Odate Magewappa is a national traditional craft made by bending thin plates of Akita cedar. Craftsmen provide careful support throughout the process until completion.

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Odate Amekko Ichi

Odate Amekko Ichi

This folk event has continued for approximately $400text{ years}$. It is said that eating candy on this day prevents colds, and Omachi Hachiko Street, lined with candy stalls, is bustling with shoppers. Highlights abound, including the "Shirohige Okami Junko" (White Beard Deity Procession), which recreates the legend of the mountain god coming down to buy candy.

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Festivals & Events
Winter

Akita Inu Hall

The museum on the $3text{rd}$ floor of the building features detailed materials on the history and ecology of the Akita dog. In front of the hall stands a bronze statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog born in Odate, named the "Hachiko Statue of Longing for Home." Furthermore, real Akita dogs are regularly present at the entrance and in the $1text{st}$ floor office.

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Odate-Kosaka Railway Rail Bike

Odate-Kosaka Railway Rail Bike

This spot allows you to ride a rail bike on the tracks of the former Kosaka Railway, surrounded by rich nature. It is a nationally rare facility featuring 11 types of rail bikes, including pedal-powered, electric-assisted, and trolley types, which can be enjoyed by both children and adults. The clattering sound and the vibrations transmitted to your body are just like a real train. The route also includes a thrilling iron bridge.

Akita
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn

Gono Line Resort Shirakami

Gono Line Resort Shirakami

The Resort Shirakami runs along the Gono Line, a $147.2text{km}$ route connecting Higashi-Noshiro Station (Noshiro City, Akita Prefecture) and Kawabe Station (Inakadate Village, Aomori Prefecture). The panoramic views of magnificent nature through the train windows, changing with the seasons, are spectacular, earning it nationwide popularity as a local line travelers definitely want to ride. Furthermore, events such as "Fureai Hanbai" (Interaction Sales) are held, where local residents board the train at station stops to directly offer crafts and specialties unique to the Gono Line area, along with live performances of Tsugaru Shamisen and demonstrations by Tsugaru dialect "Kataribe" (storytellers).

Akita
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Noshiro Port

The area around Noshiro Port in northern Akita Prefecture is a spot where visitors can enjoy a dynamic coastline and local culture.From the Hamanasu Observation Deck within the port green space, you can view the Sea of Japan, Japan's largest pine grove "Kaze no Matsubara," and the distant Shirakami Sanchi mountains. The "Hamanasu Gallery," featuring murals by citizens painted on the seawall, is also adjacent, allowing visitors to appreciate art amidst the sea breeze.Nearby is the Noshiro Energium Park, adjacent to the Noshiro Thermal Power Plant. It houses a tropical botanical garden utilizing waste heat and the Nebunagashi Kan (Nebunagashi...

Akita
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nibuna-Mizusawa Cedar Rare Population Protected Forest

Nibuna-Mizusawa Cedar Rare Population Protected Forest

This is one of the few remaining primeval forests of natural Akita cedar (Akita Sugi) in Akita Prefecture. The "Kimimachi Sugi" (Kimimachi Cedar), said to be the tallest natural Akita cedar in Japan, stands $58text{ meters}$ tall, has a diameter of $164text{ centimeters}$, and an estimated age of $250text{ years}$.The Nibuna-Mizusawa Cedar Rare Population Protected Forest, home to this tallest natural Akita cedar, covers an area of about $18text{ hectares}$, has an average tree age of $250text{ years}$, and contains approximately $3,000$ natural Akita cedars. Giant trees with a diameter of about $1text{ meter}$ and a height of about $50text{...

Akita
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn

Kimimachi-zaka

Kimimachi-zaka is a Prefectural Natural Park located in Futatsui Town, Noshiro City, in the northern part of Akita Prefecture. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage are especially worth seeing, and the park is crowded with visitors during the season. Because a romantic episode involving the Meiji Emperor and Empress, who once visited this location, remains here, the area is also popular as a "power spot for love."

Akita
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Autumn

Mt. Nanakura

Mt. Nanakura is a mountain range consisting of seven consecutive peaks: Gongenkura, Eboshikura, Minokura, Sanbonsugikura, Shibakura, Ohkura, and Matsukura. You can enjoy a beautiful view of Mt. Nanakura from Kimimachi-zaka on the opposite bank across the Yoneshiro River.Natural Akita cedars, some over 300 years old, stand clustered within the mountain.Walking trails are well-maintained, allowing visitors to easily enjoy light hiking and strolling.

Akita
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kaze no Matsubara

Kaze no Matsubara

This is one of Japan's largest windbreak and sand control forests, stretching along the coast of Noshiro City. Approximately $7$ million pine trees are planted across an area of $760text{ha}$, with an east-west width of $1text{km}$ and a total north-south length of $14text{km}$.Everyone will surely find comfort in the sight of the Japanese Black Pines (Kuromatsu) that are over 100 years old and have protected Noshiro City from sea winds and drifting sand, the sound of the wind sweeping through the pines, and the changing attire of the trees with the seasons. Inside the pine grove, you can also see...

Akita
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nagashiri Fūketsu

Nagashiri Fūketsu

Nagashiri Fūketsu (Wind Cave) is located at the foot of Mt. Kunimi ($454text{m}$), releasing cold air at $0text{ to }5^circtext{C}$ even in midsummer. Consequently, at the surrounding elevations of $170text{ to }240text{m}$, plants typically found in subalpine zones around $1,000text{m}$ above sea level, such as Rosa davurica (Ōtakanebara) and cranberries (Koke momo), grow in clusters.Because cold air blows out from this wind cave area at the foot of the mountain, Fūketsu warehouses were constructed on parts of the slope from the end of the Meiji era to the Taisho era and were used as natural refrigerators. They primarily preserved Tsugaru...

Akita
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn

Odate City

Odate City in Akita Prefecture is known as the birthplace of the Akita Dog (Akita Inu).Akita Inu no Sato (Akita Dog Village), located in front of JR Odate Station, serves as both a tourist exchange center and a museum, where visitors can learn deeply about the charm of the Akita dog, which is a natural monument. Odate is also famous as the hometown of Hachiko the loyal dog, and a bronze statue of Hachiko can be found in front of the station.Nature attractions include the Nagashiri Fūketsu (Wind Caves), which are surrounded by beautiful forests of Akita cedar trees over...

Akita
Area Info
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Unsho-ji Temple

Unsho-ji Temple

When in full bloom, the hydrangeas completely dye the grounds blue, with the Sea of Oga stretching out beyond them.These hydrangeas, carefully cultivated over many years by the temple's vice chief priest, cover the temple grounds in a brilliant blue. Beyond the flowers, the deep blue sea peeks through, offering a sight unique to Oga.

Akita
Sightseeing
Summer