"Cycle Ball" is a participatory cycling event in which participants use a dedicated cycling app to complete a circuit of renowned "one-lap" courses set up throughout Japan within a specified time frame. One of these stages is the "Akita Ichi Stage," located in northern Akita Prefecture. The “Akita Ichi Stage” takes place in the area encompassing Odate City, Kitaakita City, Kazuno City, and Kosaka Town in northern Akita Prefecture. With “Akita Inu no Sato” serving as the starting and finishing point, the route offers a wealth of attractions, including “Roadside Station Takanosu Odaiko no Yakata,” where you can see the world’s largest taiko drum; “Korakukan,” a Meiji-era theater; and “Roadside Station Kosaka Nanataki,” where you can experience the healing effects of negative ions.Another major attraction is experiencing the rural scenery of Akita—a major rice-producing region—and the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains along the course. Multiple course options are available, ranging from a short course of approximately 25 km to a long course exceeding 100 km, allowing everyone from beginners to advanced riders to find a challenge suited to their level. The courses feature not only flat sections but also moderate ups and downs, offering a thoroughly satisfying ride. Enjoy the scenery of the four seasons and local cuisine while savoring the “leisurely pace” that is so characteristic of Akita. The approximately 100-km loop course offers a well-balanced experience of both nature and the city, allowing you to enjoy a deeply fulfilling ride. “Cycle Ball Akita Ichistage” lets you discover new charms of the region through cycling. Why not give it a try as a special experience that lets you enjoy Akita’s nature, culture, and cuisine all at once? [What is Cycle Ball?] A time-limited cycling event where you collect “Cycle Balls” scattered throughout Japan. When you complete one of Japan’s renowned loop courses using the dedicated app, you’ll receive a “Cycle Ball” as proof of your achievement. As you collect these Cycle Balls, the goddess of cycling will grant your wishes based on the number of balls you’ve collected. Participation is free, and since you can join at any time during the event period, you can take on the challenge at your own pace—another appealing feature. 【Akita City Special Day】 On Sunday, June 21, 2026, a “Special Day” will be held where participants can ride together. There will be opportunities for first-time participants to join with confidence. Registration is open until Sunday, June 14. ⇩For more details⇩ https://note.com/tour_de_nippon/n/n9431a172b477
"HOBIE BASE OKUTOWADA," where visitors can enjoy "HOBIE"—the first water activity of its kind in the Tohoku region and Akita Prefecture—will open on April 29, 2025. Originating in the United States, “HOBIE” is a new type of water activity that keeps you dry and is highly stable, making it unlike anything seen before. The fin-type foot-propulsion system, designed based on research into the wing movements of swimming penguins, is easy for anyone to operate—from young children to seniors. Another key feature is that it uses no fuel whatsoever, making it environmentally friendly. Why not come explore the breathtaking scenery that can only be enjoyed from the water—such as the clusters of aquatic plants on the crystal-clear lake bottom, the emerald-green thread-tailed dragonflies that shine from summer through fall, the large schools of carp hiding among the plants, and the fantastical green tuff (green tuff) rock formations? Book your reservation here https://www.asoview.com/base/161163/ About HOBIE HOBIE was founded in 1950 in California, USA, as a surf brand. Amuse Co., Ltd., a company engaged in comprehensive entertainment businesses, is working to popularize new water activities utilizing HOBIE. It is equipped with the “MIRAGE DRIVE,” a special foot-powered propulsion system that holds an international patent. With a hull design that virtually eliminates the risk of capsizing, you simply sit in the seat and move your feet back and forth to propel the craft. This makes it easy for even beginners to operate while maintaining stability. Additionally, the seat is designed to be high off the water, so there’s little risk of getting wet, allowing you to enjoy the experience in your everyday clothes. HOBIE JAPAN Official Website: https://hobiejapan.com/
Lake Towada is a mysterious lake that straddles Akita and Aomori Prefectures. The “Towada Furusato Center” (Kosaka Town), located on the western shore of the lake, offers casual summer activities such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking. With flexible plans tailored to each individual—from young children to seniors—anyone can enjoy these activities with ease. No special equipment is required. We highly recommend this for those who say, “I’m not sure about my stamina, but I’d like to relax on the lake,” or “I want to play in the water to my heart’s content with my kids!” The staff will guide and support you based on the experience you’d like to try. Why not come and enjoy Lake Towada to the fullest this summer with your family and friends?
The “Kosaka Mine Office,” a Renaissance-style Western-style building, is an Important Cultural Property of Japan that was built during the Meiji era. At the Modern Costume Room inside the building, you can rent elegant dresses. There are over 100 wedding dresses and evening gowns available for rent at the Modern Costume Room! In addition to women’s attire, we also carry outfits for men and children, as well as accessories such as corsages and hats. Once you’ve changed into your favorite outfit, you can start taking photos at the photo spots inside the building. Popular photo spots include the spiral staircase with its gentle, curved lines and the balcony with its exotic design. You can also take photogenic pictures in various other locations throughout the building, such as the lattice windows that evoke a sense of historical era and elegance, and the tables and chairs in the Tourist Salon, arranged to resemble a four-leaf clover. Why not create memories that will stay with you—and in your photos—through this special experience that feels just like stepping back in time to the Meiji era?
<About Korakukan> Korakukan was built in 1910 as a welfare facility for employees of the Kosaka Mine in Akita Prefecture. It is characterized by its fusion of Japanese and Western architectural styles, which was rare at the time. What’s particularly noteworthy is that it remains an active theater to this day. From late April to early November, performances such as popular theater and revue shows are staged one to three times a day. On days when there are no performances and during the winter months, the facility is open to the public for tours. Please enjoy the guided tour, which takes you through the open stage, the underground stage machinery, the dressing rooms, and the tatami-mat seating area.