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"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
A secret known only to those in the know!! We use a rich, additive-free clear broth—known as “A Drop of Beniyama”—carefully crafted over time from the bones of local Hinai-jidori chickens We use only plump female Hinai-jidori chickens, and we never use frozen meat! We were named the first-ever champion (2015) at the authentic Odate Kiritanpo Festival Grand Prix, and has since won the Grand Prix three times (2016 and 2023)! You can now experience making your own Beniyama kiritanpo—it’s sure to be exquisite! Please don’t miss this opportunity to sign up!!
Held every year around July, when sweet-and-tart blueberries are in season, this blueberry picking experience is fun for both adults and children. There’s no time limit, and you can eat as many freshly picked blueberries from the farm as you like. It’s a very casual and enjoyable activity, perfect for quality time between parents and children. No advance reservation is required. You can also take home the blueberries you pick for an additional fee. Pets are welcome, so please come visit with your whole family. For more details, please check the Etsuri Farm website or social media. *Open daily (may be closed during heavy rain or other adverse weather conditions)
Come interact with Akita dogs and enjoy hot spring coffee brewed with water straight from the source!
"Kiritanpo" is famous as a specialty of Akita, but did you know that its "true home" is actually Odate City? Odate is Japan’s leading producer of Hinai chicken—an essential ingredient in the broth and fillings for kiritanpo—and the tradition of enjoying kiritanpo hot pot at home and during celebrations is deeply rooted here. In this authentic kiritanpo-making experience, you’ll use rich and delicious Hinai-jidori chicken to enjoy the authentic flavor. Local mothers will guide you through the process with care. The taste of kiritanpo you make yourself is truly in a league of its own. Why not gather around the kiritanpo hot pot you’ve made yourselves and spend a heartwarming time with the local farmers’ wives? [Experience Details] Making miso-coated kiritanpo + kiritanpo hot pot. Includes one side dish and dessert!
The "Ugata Kaikan" with its beautiful Japanese garden, the "Red Drum Bridge" in Katsurajo Park, and the "Sakura Yagura-kan." Why not experience traditional Japanese culture, enjoy a cup of tea while dressed in a kimono, and take some elegant photos as a memento?
The Odate-Kosaka Railway Rail Bike is a unique, hands-on activity that utilizes the tracks of the former Kosaka Railway—which has since been decommissioned—and allows participants to ride by pedaling. The Kosaka Railway was once a vital freight line that supported the region’s industries, but it ceased operations in 2009. Today, these historic tracks are put to good use as a tourist attraction, enjoyed by visitors from both within and outside the region. Riders can enjoy a round-trip course of approximately 4 km by riding “rail bikes” or “trolley cars,” which travel along the railroad tracks much like bicycles. (The experience takes about 30–40 minutes.) With vehicles ranging from two-seaters to four-seaters—including some models with electric assist—even those who aren’t confident in their physical stamina or families with small children can enjoy the experience with peace of mind. Enjoy the rail bikes while taking in the scenery—from the fresh greenery of spring to the refreshing summer breeze and the autumn foliage. Occasionally, special courses and themed events are also held. We invite you to enjoy this unique experience that can only be found here.
Why not experience farm life by staying at a farmstay and participating in activities like making kiritanpo and farm work? We offer experiences and hospitality that will allow you to interact with the locals and leave you wanting to come back to Odate again! At our farmstay in Odate, you can experience making authentic kiritanpo alongside a local farmer’s wife and relax and rejuvenate at the nearby hot springs. Depending on your preferences and schedule, agricultural and farm-life experiences are also available. Come and enjoy your “second home”! [Experience Details] ・Farmstay accommodation (1 night, 2 meals, including access to a local open-air hot spring bath) ・For dinner, you can experience making “authentic kiritanpo”! Enjoy a sumptuous dinner packed with local ingredients, including grilled Hinai-jidori chicken and salt-grilled seasonal fish. ・Free rental of samue workwear ・Simple farming activities and local walks available between check-in (after 3:00 PM) and check-out (by 10:00 AM)
Nakayama Soba, a dish passed down through generations in the Nakayama district. Made with buckwheat flour that’s rich in umami—a result of the region’s climate with its significant temperature fluctuations—and using Odate’s specialty mountain yam as a binding agent, this soba boasts a unique texture. The distinctive flavor, texture, and smoothness of Nakayama Soba are sure to impress even the most discerning connoisseurs. Local mothers will cheerfully and patiently teach you how to make soba. The taste of soba you make yourself is truly exceptional. Why not spend a warm and welcoming time with the local farmers’ wives over a meal of soba you’ve made yourselves? [Experience Details] Nakayama Soba-Making Experience Includes soba (hot or cold), tempura, and dessert!
Choose your favorite “Experience Kit” and enjoy a hands-on workshop where you can experience the process of making Odate-style bentwood boxes. A traditional craftsman will provide careful, hands-on guidance every step of the way until your piece is complete! This experience allows you to enjoy the crafting process while learning about traditional techniques, Akita cedar, and how to care for your bentwood box. We display and sell a variety of bentwood box pieces in our store, so please feel free to experience the warmth of this traditional craft—which has been used for generations—and our Akita cedar products. While there are various types of bentwood crafts throughout Japan, only Odate bentwood boxes have been designated as a National Traditional Craft. The elegant texture and warmth of Akita cedar, combined with time-honored techniques passed down through generations, create masterpieces that are the pride of Japan. Choose from the following three kits, designed for modern convenience, and take home the piece you’ve enjoyed making the very same day!