At the “Kosaka Railway Rail Park” in Kosaka Town, visitors can enjoy the unique experience of actually staying overnight in the passenger cars of the “Akebono,” a sleeper limited express train that was beloved for connecting Ueno with Akita and Aomori. The “Akebono” was a sleeper express train that connected Ueno Station and Aomori Station. As a “Blue Train” that supportedlong-distance travel, it was beloved by many people. Although it is no longer in service, these valuable railcars have been preserved and repurposed as lodging facilities. The greatest appeal of staying at the Blue Train Akebono is the chance to spend the night in an authentic train car. You can enjoy the actual sleeper beds that were once in use, the retro interior, and the unique experience of staying overnight while the train remains parked on the station platform. Be sure to also explore the Kosaka Railway Rail Park, where the “Akebono” is on display. 小坂鉄道レールパーク

The Kosaka Railway opened in 1909 and supported local transportation for many years, but it was discontinued in 2009. Subsequently, the station building, rolling stock, and other valuable railway heritage were repurposed, and in 2014, the site was reborn as the current Rail Park. The original station building, locomotive shed, and tracks have been preserved as they were, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that feels as if you’ve stepped back in time. The park features numerous exhibits of rolling stock that are rare even on a national scale, including diesel locomotives, steam locomotives, and snowplows. The vehicles, preserved in their original working condition, allow not only railway enthusiasts but also first-time visitors to experience their sheer power and rich history. The park is designed to be enjoyable for everyone from children to adults, allowing visitors to learn about the mechanics and history of railroads while having fun. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including a diesel locomotive driving experience (by reservation), rail bike rides, and mine car rides. The lodging facility, which utilizes cars from the “Blue Train Akebono”—a sleeper express that once traveled across the country—is also very popular. The unique experience of spending the night on a train offers a special moment where you can truly savor the “feeling of travel.” For more information on the Blue Train Akebono, click below ブルートレインあけぼの Be sure to enjoy this tourist spot, where a retro atmosphere blends with hands-on activities to create an experience that appeals to all ages. The area is also known as the venue for the “Kosaka Railway Festival,” held annually on October 14, Railway Day. 小坂・鉄道まつり

Lake Towada is a caldera lake formed by volcanic activity that began approximately 200,000 years ago; at a depth of 327 meters, it is the third deepest lake in Japan. A caldera lake is a body of water formed when rainwater accumulates over a long period of time in a depression created by a volcanic eruption. You’ll be moved by the lake’s beauty—like a mirror reflecting the sky and surrounding mountains—and the expansive, open panorama that makes you want to take a deep breath. The Oirase Stream, which stretches approximately 14 km from Konokuchi on the shores of Lake Towada to Mt. Yakeyama, is also famous as a scenic spot. “Hatsuka Pass Observation Deck”—Lake Towada’s Finest View: As you drive through the broadleaf forest, the deep-blue surface of the lake suddenly spreads out before you. This is Hakka Pass, the terminus of the Jukai Line. The view from the observation deck, located at an elevation of 631 meters, is renowned as the best in Lake Towada. Directly ahead, you can see the outer rim of the caldera, with Kushigamine Peak in the Southern Hakkoda Mountains visible beyond it. On busy days, the area around the observation deck gets crowded with people and cars, and the parking lot fills up quickly; however, there is a spacious parking lot and restrooms located about 200 m away at the entrance to the Jukai Line. Related Page: Towada Hotel Related Page: Yama no Oshibai Towadako Nigi-yama-tei Related Page: “Mysterious Lake Towada GREEN” Lake Cruise with HOBIE Cruising Related Page: Lake Towada SUP & Kayaking Experiences Related Page: Lake Towada Hime-masu (Arctic Char) Related Events: Lake Towada Water Festival Related Events: Lake Towada Winter Story

It is said to have originated about 40 years ago when a customer expressed a desire to eat both katsu-don and ramen at the same time, leading to the creation of a dish featuring simmered tonkatsu in egg, served atop soy sauce ramen. With the hope of sharing Kosaka Town’s culinary culture, the owners of seven restaurants came together to offer the dish, each with their own unique seasoning. In addition to the classic soy sauce flavor, enjoy a variety of tastes unique to each shop, including miso, salt, and spicy varieties. It was also selected as a “100-Year Food” by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in Reiwa 5!

Since its opening in 1939, this hotel has continued to witness the changing times and is characterized by its wooden architecture, which makes lavish use of natural Akita cedar. With approximately 80 master carpenters competing to showcase their skills, the building—crafted with meticulous attention to every detail—is truly a “work of art you can stay in.” The main building, with its intricate craftsmanship and design, is designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Furthermore, all guest rooms offer views of Lake Towada, a feature that has captivated the hearts of many visitors over the years. You can take in the panoramic view of Lake Towada not only from your guest room but also from the “Panoramic Open-Air Bath” and the “Forest Library,” allowing you to spend your time in complete relaxation. We invite you to visit our hotel, which preserves history and tradition while offering both elegance and warmth. 2026 Operating Period: Thursday, April 16, 2026 – Mid-November

Designated as a National Important Cultural Property, this building was established in 1910 as a welfare facility for the Kosaka Mine. It features a rare architectural style that blends Japanese and Western elements: the exterior is modern and Western-style, while the interior is purely Japanese and incorporates the traditional stage mechanisms of a kabuki theater. Still in active use as a theater more than a century later, it hosts regular Kabuki performances and lavish dance shows. Before and after performances, guides provide tours explaining the building’s history and stage mechanisms. Don’t miss the traditional stage mechanisms, such as the revolving stage, and the dressing rooms where Kabuki actors’ autographs remain.   [Regular Play Performance Schedule] May 2–October 28, 2026 [Korakukan Grand Kabuki] July 11 (Sat) and 12 (Sun), 2026 Click here for detailed information on dates, times, and cast members. https://kosaka-mco.com/pages/331/#block1632

[Suitable Locations and Crops] Grape cultivation in Kosaka Town, Akita Prefecture, began in the Tokito district in Showa 63 (1988). The area features volcanic ash soil deposited by the massive eruption of Lake Towada in ancient times, providing well-drained conditions that made it ideal for growing grapes.The growers cultivate “mountain grape” varieties, which are disease-resistant and can thrive even in cool climates. Furthermore, growing these grapes on their own roots—a practice that capitalizes on the varieties’ natural characteristics (whereas grafting is the norm)—is considered a miraculous cultivation method. Kosaka Nanataki Winery was established in 2017 in the Nanataki district, located near the Tokito district vineyards. The winery was named after the beautiful Nanataki waterfall visible right in front of it, which is also depicted as the winery’s symbol. [Mountain Grape Varieties] Mountain grape varieties were developed over a period of approximately 50 years by the late Haruo Sawato (1916–2001, died at age 85). They are characterized by the rich pigments (polyphenols) and refreshing acidity typical of mountain grapes. By crossing native Japanese wild grapes with foreign wild grape varieties, these varieties have been adapted to make the Japanese wild grape species more suitable for winemaking. [Winemaking] In Kosaka Town, we have been dedicated to establishing the region as a production area specializing in wild grape-derived varieties (native to Japan).By leveraging the rich pigments and refreshing acidity of these mountain grape varieties, we produce wines that pursue originality—ranging from full-bodied wines to refreshing styles and fruity, sweet varieties. Our red wines include “Wine Grand” and “Kogōshi.”and “Iwakiyama Budou,” which are characterized by refreshing acidity and rich polyphenols. Our rosé wine is made from the luxurious free-run juice of “Wine Grand,” carefully fermented at low temperatures to create a fresh, subtly sweet rosé. Kosaka Nanataki Winery also offers a variety of seasonal products, including fruity white wines made from Akita-grown Niagara and Stuben grapes, as well as Christmas Nouveau and Summer Red. [Akita Inu Wine] Developed in February 2022 with the goal of becoming a representative souvenir of Akita Prefecture. Three varieties are available: a slightly sweet rosé made from “Wine Grand,” a wild grape variety native to Kosaka Town; a red wine characterized by its refreshing acidity; and a fruity, sweet white wine made from Akita Prefecture’s “Niagara” grapes. Each is packaged in a charming design featuring an Akita dog. https://kosaka-7falls-winery.com/post-2930/

On the quiet West Shore of Lake Towada, there’s a renowned burger spot known only to those in the know. WEST SHORE’S GREEN CAFE is a “phantom” burger shop located inside the Towada Furusato Center that’s open for only half a year. The signature dish is the “Lake Towada Burger.” Made with an abundance of ingredients from Kosaka Town, it features a juicy patty made from the “Momo-butan” brand pork, paired with a sauce made from Kosaka wine and acacia honey—it’s absolutely exquisite.   Why not stop by for a break after enjoying the water activities at the Towada Furusato Center? 十和田ふるさとセンター（SUP・HOBIE・カヤック）

Every year on October 14—Railway Day—the “Kosaka Railway Festival” is held at the Kosaka Railway Rail Park. The event features a variety of fun activities, including demonstrations of snowplow cars in action, freight car formations on display, photo sessions, and exhibits of rolling stock inside the locomotive shed. Don’t miss the limited-edition gourmet food served in railway-themed pots or the commemorative pin badges! This event is fun for both children who love trains and adults alike, so please come and enjoy it with your whole family. Kosaka Railway Festival 2025 Flyer (Click or Tap)

A facility where you can fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors along the western shore of Lake Towada. The SUP and kayaking experiences for beginners are designed so that anyone—regardless of age or gender—can enjoy them at their own pace with the staff’s support. At the center’s “WEST SHORE’S GREEN CAFE,” the “Lake Towada Burger”—made with an abundance of ingredients from Kosaka Town—is a popular choice. The juicy patty made from the premium “Momo-butan” pork, paired with a sauce featuring Kosaka wine and acacia honey, is simply exquisite. The “Big Burger,” with a 30-cm diameter and designed to evoke the feeling of circling the majestic Lake Towada, makes a huge impression! (*Advance reservation required). Just a 2-minute walk from the center, you’ll find a pier where you can relax while gazing out at the majestic expanse of Lake Towada. The area is also surrounded by healing spots, including a lush walking path and a park with expansive lawns. It’s an environment perfect for picnics, day camping, fishing, and forest bathing. There are also many observation decks along the route from the center of Kosaka Town, allowing you to enjoy views of Lake Towada from various angles as you make your way there. Starting April 29, 2025, HOBIE BASE OKUTOWADA AKITA will open on the premises, where you can enjoy “HOBIE,” a water activity originating in the United States! For information on HOBIE experiences, click here: https://visitakita.com/reservation/hobie-base-okutowada/ For information on SUP and kayaking experiences, click here: 十和田湖SUP・カヤック体験

The “Kosaka Mine Office,” built in Meiji 38. Constructed as a symbol of Japan’s largest mine, its grand and magnificent architectural beauty testifies to the prosperity of the Kosaka Mine at that time. This three-story wooden building, constructed entirely of natural Akita cedar, is a Renaissance-style office building representative of the Meiji era. The spiral staircase in the entrance hall, which extends all the way up to the third floor, features stunning curves and is highly regarded for its architectural beauty. Inside the building, you’ll find exhibits of architectural records, introductions to Kosaka Town’s historical heritage, and information on nearby sightseeing spots. You can also purchase local specialties unique to Kosaka Town. We also recommend visiting the “Akashia-tei” restaurant on the second floor to experience a taste of the past.

The “Nakakoji no Yakata” in Nakakoji, Kosaka Town, was originally built in Meiji 18 as the residence of the Kudo family, who were landowners in Kosaka Village. The Kudo family descended from a samurai lineage during the Edo period, and by the Taisho and early Showa periods, the head of the family held the position of mayor of Kosaka Town. The building is exceptionally large and contains numerous rooms; with a total floor area of approximately 124 tsubo across the first and second floors, it is an extremely valuable structure that preserves the legacy of samurai residences in Kosaka. The interior features elaborate decorations and exudes an atmosphere distinct from that of typical farmhouse architecture.

This building is a relocated and restored version of the “Former Kosaka Mine Engineering Department Power Room” (electrical room), which was originally constructed in 1904, and opened as a café in 2015. It is a rare timber-frame brick building featuring wooden columns and brick walls. The interior features a spacious, chic design, and children’s chairs are available for families with children. On sunny days, you can enjoy freshly baked bread, waffles, and cakes on the spacious open deck. You can also savor Kosaka Town’s specialty acacia honey by adding it to organic coffee or drizzling it over soft-serve ice cream.

Established in Showa 6 (1931), this early childhood education facility was founded by the “Sacred Heart Society for the Love of Children” with the cooperation of the Kosaka Mine to provide childcare for the children of mine employees. Initially, the facility was opened by renovating an old building in Ginzan-cho, but in Showa 7, the long-awaited new school building was constructed, which is now known as “Tenshikan.” It is a single-story wooden structure with a Western-style exterior befitting a Christian-based nursery school. Its design—featuring clapboard siding, tall vertical sash windows, and ridge ornaments on the roof—is distinctive and rivals that of the Kosaka Mine Office and the Korakukan. Inside, in addition to the director’s office, which chronicles the history of Maria-en, there is a multipurpose hall.

In Kosaka Town, Akita Prefecture, there’s a wonderful place where you can interact with owls and parrots. The owls and parrots are so cute. It’s a fun place to visit whether you go alone or with your family. Since it’s located in a natural setting, it may be closed depending on the weather. Please make a reservation at least one day in advance and call to check before you go.

Located along the Major Prefectural Road Odate-Lake Towada Route (commonly known as the Jukai Line), it serves as a stopover point between Lake Towada and the center of Kosaka Town. It was named “Nanataki” (Seven Falls) because the water cascades down in seven tiers over a 60-meter drop. Below the falls, Nanataki Shrine—dedicated to the Dragon God—and a waterwheel house create a charming atmosphere. Centered around “Taki no Chaya Magozaemon,” where visitors can enjoy meals and rest while gazing at the renowned “Nanataki” waterfall—listed among Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls—the area also features the “Heartland Market Farmers’ Market,”“Eco-Saka Rapeseed Oil Extraction Facility,” and “Manma Land—Lake Towada Highlands Momo-Buta Pork Processing and Direct Sales Shop” are all located nearby, making the area a bustling destination for many tourists.

It is said that in the winter of 1873, Kurt Neto, a German engineer who had been assigned to the Kosaka Mine, was among the first to celebrate Christmas with the villagers. The Angel Hall and the Kosaka Mine Office are decorated with lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Market booths feature a variety of Christmas-themed shops, ranging from food and drink vendors selling sausages, cookies, mulled wine, and beer to stores selling goods such as wreaths and ornaments. At night, enjoy a spectacular display combining winter fireworks and the festive lights.

It’s conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from “Korakukan,” Japan’s oldest theater and a National Important Cultural Property, and an 8-minute walk from “Kosaka Rail Park.”

It’s the perfect base for exploring Lake Towada and the Oirase Stream. This inn prides itself on authentic irori-style cuisine. Enjoy Lake Towada’s sweetfish and other mountain and sea delicacies, grilled over charcoal to bring out their full flavor.

One of Kosaka Town’s specialty products is acacia honey. The black locust trees (false acacia) planted throughout the town bloom profusely in June, filling the town with a sweet fragrance. The honey harvested from these flowers is characterized by its mild flavor and refreshing sweetness. The “Acacia Donut” is a treat made with a generous amount of this honey. Carefully harvested acacia honey is generously used in both the dough and the filling. The refined, gentle sweetness unique to acacia honey blends exquisitely with the moist dough and smooth filling, leaving a lingering aftertaste.   At events, people line up for these freshly fried, crispy donuts. With a simple, nostalgic flavor that soothes the soul, they are a signature treat of Kosaka Town. Of course, you can purchase them at the manufacturer, Meat Toda (Toda Seika), but they’re also available at events and other venues in Kosaka Town.

The greenery lost due to smoke pollution from the Kosaka Mine during the Meiji era was spectacularly restored through the planting of black locust trees, which began in Meiji 42, and has since become the largest black locust grove in the country. In June, more than 3 million black locust trees bloom all at once, enveloping the entire town in a sweet fragrance. The premium-quality black locust honey produced from these flowers is popular for its rich sweetness and clean flavor; it is often referred to as the “Queen of Honey” and is regarded as a luxury product.

When it comes to winter events at Lake Towada, “Lake Towada Winter Story” is the one to see. The Statue of the Maiden—considered a symbol of Lake Towada—is illuminated, and winter fireworks light up the clear night sky, captivating many tourists. There are also plenty of hands-on activities, such as the thrilling banana boat rides. You can sample local cuisine from both Akita and Aomori Prefectures at “Yukiakari Yokocho,” or enjoy a drink at “Kamakura Bar・Sakakama Kura.” With things to see, eat, and experience, this event is packed with the charms of Lake Towada in winter. Event Details ・Winter Fireworks… 8:00 PM – 8:10 PM (Every day during the event period) ・Maiden Statue Illumination… 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Every day during the event period) ・Large Snow Sculpture Illumination… 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Every day during the event period) ・Kamakura Bar & Sakakamazo… 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Every day during the event period) ・Snow Light Alley…3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (weekdays), 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (weekends and holidays) *Times may vary by year, so please contact the festival office for details.

Lake Towada was once considered a lake where no fish lived. It was Sadayuki Waiuchi—whose name is even part of the lake’s name—who spent 22 years working to make it possible to catch fish in this lake. The Hime-masu, transplanted from Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido, has now become a specialty of Lake Towada. The Hime-masu is a type of sockeye salmon that has adapted to spend its entire life in the lake. Raised freely in the vast lake, its flesh has a melt-in-your-mouth texture and is rich in fat, offering a deep, savory flavor. In addition to sashimi and salt-grilled fish, you can also enjoy Lake Towada’s famous specialties such as sweet-braised Hime-masu and Hime-masu tempura rice bowls.

Some of them have a history dating back more than 400 years. You’ll find a wide variety of products on display, including fresh fruit, seafood, wild mountain vegetables, and mochi. There are delicious sweets, too! You can experience the culture and way of life in Kitaakita.

The Kosaka Tanabata Festival, said to have begun around the end of the Meiji era, is believed to have been started by miners who came to the town from various regions and longed for their hometowns. Float parades—featuring warrior dolls said to be inspired by the Aomori Nebuta tradition and creative designs such as characters from TV anime series, all crafted by neighborhood associations and other groups within the town—parade through the streets accompanied by the unique Kosaka Tanabata festival music. The joint parade on the evening of the second day, when all participating floats gather together, is a spectacular sight.   〈Parade Through the Town〉 August 1 (Sat) 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM August 2 (Sun) 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM 〈Joint Parade〉 Date and Time: August 2 (Sun) 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM Venue: Meiji Hyakunen Street Parade Route: In front of Korakukan → Meiji Hyakunen Street → Korakukan Parking Lot → In front of Tenshikan → End of Parade *Each float will parade through the neighborhood as appropriate.

The “Acacia Festival” is held in early June, when acacia flowers bloom all at once and the entire town is filled with their sweet fragrance. Since its inaugural event in Showa 59 (1984), it has been cherished as one of Kosaka Town’s signature events. With Kosaka Town Central Park as the main venue, various events are held at surrounding facilities such as the Korakukan, the Kosaka Mine Office, and the Kosaka Railway Rail Park, bringing great excitement to the entire area. In Central Park, numerous food stalls and food trucks line the grounds, and a variety of events take place on stage. One of the highlights is the “Kosaka Town Katsura-Ramen Two-Person Team Speed-Eating Championship.” This unique event features teams of two competing in a speed-eating contest for “Katsura-Ramen”—a local specialty selected by the Agency for Cultural Affairs as one of the “Foods for the Next 100 Years.” In addition, the stage will feature brass band performances by local elementary and junior high school students, a “Mining Town Children’s Soran Dance” performance by Kosaka Elementary School students, and Acacia Taiko drumming. The surrounding area will be packed with various events, including tours of local attractions led by local guides and a stamp rally. It’s an event the whole family can enjoy. Kosaka Town once flourished as a “mining town.” Acacia trees, originally planted during the Meiji era to combat smoke pollution, have since spread throughout the town, and today, some 3 million acacia trees watch over Kosaka. Around the venue, you’ll find not only white flowers but also some rare purple and yellow blooms. Be sure to come see their vibrant and charming beauty!

The Lake Towada Water Festival heralds the arrival of early summer at Lake Towada. “Lake Towada Melty Light,” in which countless balloon lanterns are released into the night sky, is a participatory event for visitors. Participants can freely draw words or illustrations on their lanterns, then release them all at once into the night sky over Lake Towada, carrying their thoughts and wishes. Don’t miss the “Message Fireworks,” which light up the night sky alongside the lanterns. These message fireworks, which deliver a message to a loved one in your own voice, are sure to create an unforgettable memory. Don’t miss the “Lake Towada Night Cruise,” limited to 150 seats that sell out quickly every year. Aboard a sightseeing boat decorated in a cute, retro style, you can enjoy balloon lanterns and fireworks from the lake. Click the link below to purchase tickets or sign up for each event! https://www.towada.travel/events/laketowada-waterfestival2026 Related Page: Lake Towada