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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?
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 “Matagi” are an ethnic group that has practiced communal hunting since ancient times, primarily in northern Akita Prefecture. This is a rare opportunity to hear stories about their hunting experiences directly from active Matagi—these mysterious “Mountain Samurai” who have lived in harmony with the mountains while adhering to strict codes of conduct. At the “Matagi Zashiki,” a Matagi will share stories about their hunting experiences, bear ecology, and Matagi tools and customs. The adjacent “Matagi Museum” features a large collection of Matagi attire and hunting tools on display, and we’ll guide you through the museum while providing explanations. Matagi hunters love to talk. Please feel free to ask questions or strike up a conversation with them.
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!
This is a hands-on activity where you can perform the local traditional “Kanayama Taiko” drumming amidst beautiful natural scenery. Why not let yourself be soothed by the drumbeats echoing through the rural landscape and mountains? Kanayama Taiko has been cherished and passed down locally to celebrate the prosperity of the Okuzo Kanayama gold mine, which flourished during the Nara period. Its defining feature is the sound of large drums resonating powerfully through the mountains. The echoing sound permeates your very being. We’ll take photos and videos of your experience using your smartphone or camera. With excellent access from nearby tourist spots such as Lake Towada, Appi, and Hachimantai, we hope you’ll come visit us!