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Oku-Akita

Oku-Akita each month

Oku-Akita in January

The New Year in Oku-Akita begins with a blanket of snow.
This traditional event of praying for a good harvest and fortune-telling is unique to this region, where rice farming is thriving.
This unique Event, which you won’t find anywhere else, is definitely worth a visit.
We also recommend the scenery that can only be seen in Oku-Akita, which is rich in nature!
A pure white carpet with no visible footprints, an open-air bath enveloped in steam, and the beauty of nature’s creations.
Everything will touch your heart.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Hikage Onsen in winter

    A hot spring inn is found just beyond the snow. This is a view that can only be seen here.

  • Hinaitori Market

    An annual Event that combines the four elements of ” Watch , playing, buying, and eating”

  • Rice planting in the snow

    This is an event to predict the harvest of rice crops for the year. Rice plants bound with straw are planted in snowy rice fields. Farmers are excited to see what will happen to the rice plants in a month.

  • First Taiko drumming session

    Four large drums are beaten together to pray for no accidents, a good harvest, and the development of the town.

  • Self-driving car

    This is the first service in the country that allows self-driving electric vehicles to be used like buses.

  • The frost-covered trees of Mount Moriyoshi

    Gondola ride to one of Japan’s three great ice trees

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 1.3℃

Low: -6.3℃

Average: -2.4℃

Sunrise: 07:00

Sunset: 16:22

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Layer up your winter clothes to protect yourself from the cold. A down coat is recommended as your outer layer. When you’re outdoors, bring a scarf, gloves, and a knit hat. Heattech and other warm underwear are also effective. Wear boots or rubber boots.

Oku-Akita in February

It’s spring according to the calendar, but it’s still cold in Oku-Akita!
Despite the cold weather, various Event are held.
Many traditional events that have been passed down since ancient times are deeply rooted in the lives of local people.
There are also plenty of winter Event that can only be held by the people of Oku-Akita , who have lived with snow!
It’s fun because it’s cold! Come experience the charm of Oku-Akita for yourself!

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Amekko Market

    The venue will be lined with stalls selling a variety of candies, including branch candy.

  • Juunisho Kamakura Yaki

    This is a traditional event in which fallen leaves are stuffed into charcoal bags, set on fire, and waved around.

  • Pisten Tour

    You can use the gondola to enjoy the spectacular views that only Haruyama can offer.

  • Candle Street

    This is a community-participation Event where everyone in the community connects the area with snow candles.

  • Lake Towada Winter Story

    This is an annual winter Event held at the mystical Lake Towada, covered in snow and ice.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 2.5℃

Low: -6.0℃

Average: -1.7℃

Sunrise: 06:46

Sunset: 16:55

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Layer up your winter clothes to protect yourself from the cold. A down coat is recommended as your outer layer. When you’re outdoors, bring a scarf, gloves, and a knit hat. Heattech and other warm underwear are also effective. Wear boots or rubber boots.

Oku-Akita in March

Oku-Akita is enveloped in a variety of events celebrating the arrival of spring.
At baby birds, not only are Hina dolls displayed on a stage, but hanging Hina baby birds can also be seen in various places.
This is one of the sights you should definitely see when you come to Oku-Akita .
The Matobi , held in various parts of Oku-Akita on the day of the Vernal Equinox, is actually a rare event that is rarely held anymore.
Please take a look at the events that have remained because of Okuakita’s remoteness.
Of course, we also recommend the bento boxes and hot springs!

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Kamikoani Matobi

    This is an event that is passed down in 15 villages in Kamikoani Village. On the spring equinox, fire characters are drawn to commemorate ancestors.

  • Aikawa’s Matobi

    It is an event to light torches called “danbo” at graves, along mountain ridges, or along rivers to mourn the spirits of ancestors.

  • Torigata Hall Hinamatsuri

    Hina dolls and hanging dolls donated by local residents are on display.

  • Odate Magewappa

    The beautiful, neat grain of the Akita cedar and the subtle wood scent are its charms.

  • Kitaakita’s Hinamatsuri Festival

    There will be a large number of handmade hanging decorations made by local residents on display.

  • Matagi no Yu

    This is the unchanged hot spring where the matagi also healed their wounds and fatigue.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 6.5℃

Low: -3.0℃

Average: 1.6℃

Sunrise: 06:11

Sunset: 17:29

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Be sure to protect yourself from the cold by wearing outerwear with a lining that keeps out the wind. Wear a thick knit or inner down jacket as an inner layer. Use winter accessories to increase your cold protection.

Oku-Akita in April

In Oku-Akita, the cherry blossoms do not begin to bloom until late April.
Even though cherry blossom season is over in the Kanto region, you can still enjoy the cherry blossoms!
As the warm, sunny days increase, it becomes more fun to go out.
There are many places in Oku-Akita that are perfect for walking on a sunny day.
The number of Event is gradually increasing, so it might be fun to take part in your favorite Event while leisurely strolling around Oku-Akita.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Odate Cherry Blossom Festival

    Katsuragi Park is a famous cherry blossom spot! At night, the park is lit up so you can enjoy the cherry blossoms at night.

  • Jajasico Festival

    This fire prevention festival at Ogida Shinmeisha Shrine began after a major fire occurred at the end of the Edo period. The origin of the name “Jajashiko” comes from the sound of the golden rings on the staffs held by firemen.

  • Takanosu Central Park Cherry Blossom Festival

    A cherry blossom festival held at Takanosu Central Park in Kitaakita City, where 800 cherry trees bloom Beautiful.

  • Kourakukan Theatre

    The Meiji-era theater “Korakukan” is still a operating theater where kabuki and other performances are held.

  • Rail Park

    a theme park of railroads. “

  • Ise Dodai Ruins

    This is an archaeological site that mainly consists of stone circles from the Jomon period. A huge clay figurine monument welcomes visitors.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 14.6℃

Low: 2.2℃

Average: 8.2℃

Sunrise: 05:21

Sunset: 18:01

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Protect yourself from the cold by wearing thick outerwear that is windproof. Wear innerwear made of warm material. Depending on the weather during the day, you may need to take off your outerwear, so we recommend a jacket that you can easily take off and a scarf that you can easily bring with you.

Oku-Akita in May

It’s the season when flowers bloom Beautiful, and colorful flowers bloom all over Oku-Akita.
There are many places where you can walk and enjoy the dazzling beauty of fresh greenery and flowers.
There are many other fascinating Event to enjoy.
There are plenty of Event and spots that children will enjoy, such as rides, Akita dogs, and a bear zoo.
Come enjoy Oku-Akita with your family during the long holiday period in May.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Tonose Fujinosato

    In spring, wisteria flowers bloom all over the area, creating the atmosphere of a paradise.

  • Azalea at Torigata Hall

    You can enjoy about 200 azaleas of three different varieties.

  • Inland Line Vehicle Festival

    A huge Meet up of vehicles in front of Aniai Station!

  • Akita Inu Preservation Society Headquarters Exhibition

    Akita dogs from all over the country will participate and compete to be the best in Japan.

  • Rail Bike

    It is a vehicle that runs on railroad tracks and is pedaled like a bicycle.

  • Kuma Kuma Bear Park

    This is a zoo in Ani that houses Asiatic black bears and brown bears.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 20.0℃

Low: 8.2℃

Average: 13.8℃

Sunrise: 04:37

Sunset: 18:32

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

For innerwear, wear something that can be worn on its own, such as a sweatshirt, hoodie, or thin knit, so you can respond to the situation. It’s a good idea to bring a light outer layer in case of cold mornings and evenings.

Oku-Akita in June

June is packed with Event that make use of the blessings of nature.
Acacias and bamboo shoots are local icons.
It is full of attractions, including delicious local Cuisine and fun events.
The flowers are finally in full bloom at this altitude on Mount Moriyoshi!
At this time, let’s go and see the premium scenery that can only be seen in this place.
Kayanowa-kuguri is also an event that is rarely seen in other regions.
Please take advantage of this opportunity.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Furusato Odori (Dance) and Mochikko Festival

    There will be traditional Furusato Odori (Dance), Takanosu Furusato Daiko (Drums) shows,, and butter mochi sales.

  • Acacia Festival

    This is a variety of Event made by local residents, with the acacia flower as its symbol.

  • Tashiro Specialty Bamboo Shoot Festival

    In addition to selling bamboo shoot soup and freshly picked raw bamboo shoots, there will also be bamboo shoot-related events.

  • Tsuzuriko Shrine Bud Ring Passing

    By going through a circle of thatch (Kayanowa) to purify ourselves and pray that we can spend six months in a clean state.

  • Mount Moriyoshi in early summer

    The best time to see the Witch hazel, mountain Japanese alpine cherry, and Skunk cabbage is now.

  • Odate Rose Festival

    A variety of roses are planted, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of roses.

  • Lake Towada Festival

    This annual Event marks the start of the summer tourist season and is a lively event featuring fireworks displays and stage Event on the lake.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 24.2℃

Low: 13.5℃

Average: 18.4℃

Sunrise: 04:10

Sunset: 19:01

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Although it’s a little chilly, it’s still a good time to enjoy layering. Combine with a light jacket, cardigan, scarf, or hat.

Oku-Akita in July

Fireworks and festivals signal the start of summer.
There are events every week, such as festivals, fireworks displays, festivals, and Event, so you’ll never get bored.
It is also the best season for waterfall gazing., as the spray from the water is cool and helps to relieves the heat.
Spending time by the water in the summer, such as Lake Taihei or Lake Towada, is also very pleasant.
Be sure to come and see the rice field art!

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Yoneshiro River Fireworks Festival

    A fireworks display at the Yoneshiro River Green Space heralds the arrival of summer in Akita

  • Hachimangu Tsuzuriko Shrine Annual Festival

    Large drums are beaten to pray for a bountiful harvest.

  • Kitaakita City Rice Field Art

    Rice field art seen from the train window on the Nairiku Line

  • Taiping Lake

    The artificial lake, which was created by the completion of Moriyoshi Dam, has a circumference of 30 km, an area of 195 ha, and a depth of 58 m.

  • Yasu Falls

    This beautiful two-tiered waterfall is representative of Ani’s natural beauty.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 26.9℃

Low: 17.9℃

Average: 21.9℃

Sunrise: 04:11

Sunset: 19:11

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Comfortable temperature. If the weather is good, you can wear short sleeves. If it’s cloudy or rainy and there’s no sunshine, you can easily adjust the temperature by wearing a light jacket or jacket such as a cardigan or mountain parka over a long or short sleeve shirt.

Oku-Akita in August

August is the Event month!
There are many Highlights of the tour, including traditional events, traditional performing arts, and festivals.
The Tanabata Festival and Daimonji Festival are popular events that attract not only locals but also people from outside the prefecture.
The local Shishi-odori (Lion Dance), Kinzan-daiko, and Bangaku also move the Watch.
Be sure to also check out the Hometown Festival and Oraga Furusato Festival, which are fun for the whole family.
At night, the floating lanterns and fireworks are also beautiful.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Kosaka Tanabata Festival

    Handmade floats, modeled after the Aomori Nebuta floats, are paraded through the town accompanied by unique music.

  • Ani Maeda Shishi-odori (Lion Dance)

    The lion dance procession is said to have imitated the procession of the Edo shogunate’s alternate attendance system, and was a very lively and formal event.

  • Okuzu Kinzan-daiko

    The sound of the drums reverberates throughout the mountains of Kinzan, and the echoes of the trees join together to create a unique sound.

  • Daimonji Festival

    Keep an eye out for the Odate Daimonji Dance and Daimonji Burning.

  • Ani Fireworks and Floating Lanterns

    A fireworks display held in conjunction with the floating lantern ceremony during the Obon festival

  • Bangaku Nekko

    Bangaku that follows the tradition of Yamabushi Kagura and is full of heroic, lively, and rough warrior dances.

  • Oayu no Sato Hometown Festival

    A traditional summer festival where you can enjoy Bon Odori dances, fireworks, and more

  • Our Hometown Festival

    This Event is held every year at Furusato Park and is packed with traditional performing arts and stage Event.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 28.8℃

Low: 19.1℃

Average: 23.4℃

Sunrise: 04:35

Sunset: 18:52

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Comfortable temperature. If the weather is good, you can wear short sleeves. If it’s cloudy or rainy and there’s no sunshine, you can easily adjust the temperature by wearing a light jacket or jacket such as a cardigan or mountain parka over a long or short sleeve shirt.

Oku-Akita in September

As the weather gets chilly, it’s time to harvest the rice.
This is the busiest season in Oku-Akita.
The shining golden ears of rice are a sight that everyone should see.
It’s getting hotter and easier to spend time outside, it’s surely fun to visit various events.
Edible ground cherries are very rare and delicious, so be sure to give them a try.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Odate Shinmei Shrine Annual Festival

    A festival at Odate Shinmei Shrine that is said to have continued for over 400 years

  • Takanosu Taiko Festival

    Two Tsuzuriko Taiko drums from each of the Kamimachi and Shimomachi areas will appear and perform together.

  • Jomon Festival

    The festival is held with the aim of raising interest in the Ise Dodai ruins and Jomon culture, as well as providing an opportunity for children to learn through hands-on experience.

  • Moriyoshi Lake Shikibi Festival

    This is an Event where families can learn about dams and experience nature.

  • ears of rice

    The sight of rice stalks hanging down against the blue sky is something you should see at least once.

  • Edible ground cherry

    This fruit has a refreshing sourness and tropical sweetness.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 24.1℃

Low: 13.8℃

Average: 18.4℃

Sunrise: 05:05

Sunset: 18:10

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Although it’s a little chilly, it’s still a good time to enjoy layering. Combine with a light jacket, cardigan, scarf, or hat.

Oku-Akita in October

It’s October and the footsteps of winter are already approaching.
The Mushroom Festival, where you can enjoy mushrooms, a delicacy from the mountains, is an Event you should not miss.
Kiritanpo nabe is a dish that allows you to enjoy not only mushrooms but also many other ingredients.
This is a food that you should definitely try if you come to Oku-Akita.
The Kiritanpo Festival, where you can enjoy Kiritanpo hotpot to your heart’s content, is a major Event that attracts many visitors from outside the region.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Shichimenyama

    A large rock and a majestic temple appear amongst the dense cedar grove

  • Tsuyukuma

    It is known as one of the 30 most scenic spots in Akita.

  • The authentic Odate Kiritanpo Festival

    This is a major food Event representing Akita Prefecture where you can enjoy seeing, eating, and experiencing.

  • Five-Color Lake Festival

    This Event is held every year at the beginning of the autumn foliage season, providing an opportunity to experience the beautiful nature around Lake Goshiki.

  • Autumn leaves at Mount Moriyoshi

    You can enjoy a panoramic view of the autumn leaves from the gondola.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 17.8℃

Low: 6.4℃

Average: 11.5℃

Sunrise: 05:34

Sunset: 17:20

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

For innerwear, wear something that can be worn on its own, such as a sweatshirt, hoodie, or thin knit, so you can respond to the situation. It’s a good idea to bring a light outer layer in case of cold mornings and evenings.

Oku-Akita in November

November is when the cold really sets in.
Now that the rice harvest is over, Oku-Akita is slowly starting to prepare for winter.
Hotpot is the best in this season!
Kumanabe is a cuisine that can only be tasted here. If you have the chance, be sure to try it.
On cold days, we also recommend the warm Katsu-ramen.
You can enjoy different flavors at each shop, so you can eat it again and again.
A great ginko is a must see in this are too.

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Osaka Nanataki Winery

    Wine made with the blessings of Lake Towada

  • Farmstays and agricultural experiences

    I cooked meals and worked in the fields with the farmer’s mother.

  • Katsu-ramen

    Tonkatsu on top of ramen, a local soul food

  • Bear hotpot

    Scarce Bear Meat has the effect of warming the body, making it perfect for cold seasons.

  • Drone experience

    A drone piloting experience that can be enjoyed by beginners and experienced pilots alike

  • Large ginkgo tree inside the spout

    This is the sacred tree of the Kannon statue in Yuguchi, and stands as if watching over the Yuguchi village.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 10.5℃

Low: 0.9℃

Average: 5.3℃

Sunrise: 06:07

Sunset: 16:35

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Protect yourself from the cold by wearing thick outerwear that is windproof. Wear innerwear made of warm material. Depending on the weather during the day, you may need to take off your outerwear, so we recommend a jacket that you can easily take off and a scarf that you can easily bring with you.

Oku-Akita in December

In December, the snow scenery and illuminations are beautiful.
Odate Shining Street, Kirakira Festival, Shiawase-no-Illumination, Christmas Market.
All of them are worth seeing, and all of them are full of different beauties.
ItIf we can see such a beautiful scenary, we’ll forget about the coldness we’re facing, for a while…?”

Scenery, Festivals, and Event

  • Odate Shining Street

    A path of light created in Odate during the dark and harsh winter

  • Sparkling Festival

    Kitaakita City is illuminated with illuminations, a typical winter sight.

  • Aniai Station Happy
    illumination

    The station building illuminations are a symbol of winter in Kitaakita City

  • Christmas Market in Kosaka

    Kosaka Town is also known as the birthplace of modern Christmas in Japan.

  • Akita Inu Village Plush Toy Tree

    Akita dog stuffed toys piled up towards the ceiling like a Christmas tree

  • Inland Line in Winter

    The snowy scenery seen from the train window, without even a single footprint, is a rare sight, even in the snowy Tohoku region.

Climate and recommended travel preparations

Climate

High: 4.1℃

Low: -3.1℃

Average: 0.3℃

Sunrise: 06:41

Sunset: 16:12

*Time on the 1st of each month

Clothes

Be sure to protect yourself from the cold by wearing outerwear with a lining that keeps out the wind. Wear a thick knit or inner down jacket as an inner layer. Use winter accessories to increase your cold protection.