"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/
The Moriyoshi Dam, known as “Moriyoshi Shikibi Lake,” is a scenic spot where the surrounding mountains create beautiful views throughout the four seasons. This is a beginner-friendly kayaking and SUP experience where you can relax and enjoy yourself on the calm waters of the lake. Not only can you relax and enjoy the scenery with family, friends, or even your pet, but you can also paddle under the large bridge spanning the lake and explore waterfalls that can’t be seen from the road or observation decks. Since motorized watercraft (such as motorboats and jet skis) are prohibited, you can enjoy the experience with peace of mind. Before or after your experience, we highly recommend trying the “Moriyoshiyama Dam Curry,” a signature dish at “Café Nemorida” inside the “Moriyoshiyama Dam Information Center,” which serves as the meeting and dismissal point. (*Not included in the experience package.)
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?
An event train running on the “Akita Nairiku Line Smile Rail,” a 94.2-kilometer local line that runs north-south through the inland region of Akita Prefecture from Kakunodate to Takano. In addition to the hugely popular “Gottsuo Tamatebako Train,” where you can savor seasonal dishes prepared by local farmers’ wives along the route, we host numerous monthly events that appeal to both adults and children, such as the “Sake Tasting Train,” “A Stroll Through the Satoyama with the President,” and “Social Studies Field Trip for Adults.” The scenery visible from the train windows is truly a glimpse of traditional Japan. Enjoy a special journey through Akita’s four seasons as you ride the “Mountain Resort Train” and experience the charm of old-fashioned Japan.
Lake Taihei is an artificial lake created by the completion of the Moriyoshi Dam, with a circumference of 30 km, an area of 195 ha, and a depth of 58 m. Starting with the opening of the lake season, the “Lake Taihei Komata Gorge Lake Shuttle Taxi” will operate, taking passengers to the secluded Komata Gorge from the fresh greenery of spring through the autumn foliage season in October. The landslide on the Komata Gorge hiking trail and the collapse of the Hana-no-Sawa footbridge—both confirmed in May 2025—have been resolved, and the Lake Taihei–Komata Gorge Lake Shuttle Taxi service will resume operations on August 9. The Moriyoshi-san Shuttle is the most convenient way to get there! Bookings are currently suspended for the “Ani-Maeda Onsen Station – Lake Taihei/Komata Gorge” route and the “Moriyoshi-san Onsen Chiisana Mori no Yu – Lake Taihei/Komata Gorge” route. ⇩For more details⇩ https://campaign.nearme.jp/mtmoriyoshi
We’ll be offering snowmobile rides in the garden at Mori no Terrace again this year. Anyone with a driver’s license can drive. Even if you’ve never driven a snowmobile before, the controls are simple, so please feel free to ask a staff member for assistance. You’ll explore the Mori no Terrace grounds on a snowmobile, heading toward the Dragonfly House. Depending on snow conditions, you may even be able to ride across the rice paddies, allowing you to fully enjoy the vast snow-covered plains. The snowmobiles can reach higher speeds than you might expect, so please hold the handlebars firmly and drive with caution. Reservations are required, so please call or email us to book a time and specify the number of participants before visiting. Please note that this activity may be canceled depending on snow conditions and weather. Check-in is at the Steak House; please ask for Yamada. TEL: 0186-67-6295 EMAIL: info@morino-terrace.com
This year, we’ve put up holiday lights in the Piano Room at Mori no Terrace. The interior is decorated mainly in pink, and the trees outside are also lit up so you can enjoy them. The room is open to the public, so please feel free to come take a look. Please be careful of the snow hanging overhead and when walking on the deck.
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.
Take the shared shuttle for a cost-effective, smart, and smooth ride! Travel easily and comfortably from Ani-Aji Station to the Moriyoshi-yama Ani Ski Resort! Mount Moriyoshi, affectionately known as one of the “100 Famous Flower Mountains,” offers a variety of experiences: from spring through summer, enjoy the vibrant blooms of alpine flowers; in fall, admire the colorful autumn foliage of broadleaf trees like beech and maple, along with the vivid hues of the surrounding mountains visible from the summit; and in winter, explore a world of silver-white peaks adorned with rime ice. Why not take this opportunity to make a great-value reservation and experience the breathtaking natural scenery of each season? To help as many people as possible enjoy this beautiful natural setting, we are operating the Mt. Moriyoshi Rimei Shuttle, which connects to the Akita Inland Line.
<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.