Located in a residential neighborhood in Hina-machi, Odate City, “COCO Terrace” is a warm and inviting café that owner Mariko Nakamura opened in May 2025 after renovating her grandparents’ home. With its striking white walls and wooden doors, soft light streams into the interior, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Beautiful cakes line the display case, and the shortcakes made with seasonal fruits are especially popular. Their gentle flavor, created using additive-free fresh cream and carefully selected ingredients, is a major draw. The menu also features a selection of health-conscious sweets, such as pudding and gluten-free baked goods. Rooted in the tradition of baking for her family, this heartwarming café embodies the owner’s desire to share special moments with the local community.  

"Amaryllis Shinkoya," a long-established confectionery shop located on "Oomachi Hachiko Street" in Odate City, is a historic store founded in Meiji 5. Originally starting out as a manufacturer and retailer of mochi and hard candy, it took on its current form in Showa 44 by combining a confectionery shop with a café space. The retro interior is lined with colorful cakes and sweets, and at the back lies a small café area with a nostalgic atmosphere. Another appealing aspect is the shop’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and its dedication to crafting sweets with care, driven by the desire to “deliver treats that people will say are delicious.” The classic strawberry shortcake offers a quintessential flavor—a harmonious blend of light, fluffy sponge cake, smooth fresh cream, and sweet-and-tart strawberries. Enjoy a relaxing break with a light cup of coffee. In addition, their milky, rich soft-serve ice cream is a popular choice, available for both in-store enjoyment and takeout. It’s a shop with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that has been cherished by the local community for many years.

Located about a 15-minute walk from Odate Station, Kōrōdō—a traditional Japanese-style café and restaurant with a noren curtain hanging on the first floor of a building along the street—is a Japanese-style café supervised by “Morita-en,” a renowned producer of Uji tea from Kyoto. Enveloped in Nishijin-ori obi sashes and soft lighting, the interior exudes a calm atmosphere reminiscent of Kyoto. Here, you can enjoy authentic “thick matcha sweets” made with tea leaves carefully selected by Japan’s foremost tea masters, along with a diverse menu featuring items such as parfaits and anmitsu.Among these, the “Kōrōdō Parfait” is a luxurious treat that combines rich matcha ice cream and aromatic hojicha ice cream with layers of shiratama mochi, brown rice, and thick matcha jelly, allowing you to fully savor its aroma, depth of flavor, and texture. Furthermore, the set lunch menu, which incorporates Kyoto’s home-style cuisine known as “obanzai,” is also popular for its delicate and gentle flavors. Driven by the owner’s desire to “make Uji tea more accessible,” this establishment offers a soothing respite where you can take a moment to relax amid the hustle and bustle of daily life.

With its spacious, airy interior bathed in natural light streaming through large windows and soothing jazz playing in the background, Odate Coffee House is a café that offers a relaxing, resort-like atmosphere. Using coffee beans from the long-established “Narita Senzo Coffee Shop” in Hirosaki, you can enjoy authentic cups of coffee, including blends and single-origin varieties. They also take pride in their light meals; for example, their pizza toast is made with bread from the local “Mori no Chisana Zakka Kobo.” Additionally, the non-alcoholic mocktail “Virgin China Blue,” which combines grapefruit and lychee, is a popular choice, offering a refreshing taste and beautiful presentation. Driven by the desire for “anyone to feel welcome and relax here,” the second cup of certain drinks is offered at a discount. Run by store manager and barista Mr. Taguchi alongside his family, this warm and inviting spot not only serves coffee but also sells drip coffee packs and various goods.

Located in the heart of Odate City, near City Hall and Katsurajo Park, Café Sōen is a historic traditional coffee shop that opened in the 1960s. Recognizable by its blue sign, the interior features stately furniture and intricate decorations, creating an elegant Shōwa-era atmosphere. Even the game tables—a rarity these days—are still in use, adding to the charm of this nostalgic space. The most popular dish, the “Napolitan” pasta, is made using a recipe that has remained virtually unchanged since the café’s founding; it features a gentle flavor where the mellow tomato sauce clings perfectly to the chewy, thick noodles. The menu also features an extensive selection of sweets, such as hot sandwich-style sandwiches and old-fashioned chocolate parfaits, ensuring you’ll enjoy every last bite. Currently run by the owner who has carried on the legacy of the previous generation, the shop operates with the goal of becoming a “café that lasts 100 years.” While the clientele used to consist mainly of older regulars, social media has attracted an increasing number of younger visitors. It’s a warm and welcoming café where everyone—from those looking to spend a quiet moment alone to families with children—can relax comfortably.

WHITE CREW is a self-service café nestled along the Nagaki River, which flows through the center of Odate City. With a view of beautiful scenery—a row of cherry blossoms in spring and swans arriving in winter—you can spend a relaxing time in the cozy interior, which features a mountain cabin-like exterior and the warmth of wood. The space, lined with retro knick-knacks and photographs, has a calm atmosphere reminiscent of a small gallery. It’s a self-service café where you help yourself to drinks from the coffee maker and refrigerator, and even toast your own cheese toast. You can relax at your own pace without any pressure, savoring the aroma of freshly toasted bread.Since you’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks as long as you order at least one item, you’ll often see people enjoying their time however they like—whether studying, reading, or chatting with friends. Across the parking lot stands an annex that displays numerous photographic works by Mr. Komatsu, the owner—who is also a ski instructor and photographer. You can spend a leisurely moment here while taking in his dynamic and vibrant photographs.The views of the Nagaki River and Mount Houou spreading out beyond the windows, along with the mountain lodge-like atmosphere—especially when it’s blanketed in snow during winter—are also major attractions. It’s a place where time flows gently, allowing you to unwind amidst the changing seasons of nature.

Café Penta & Nic is a hidden gem of a coffee shop tucked away in a residential neighborhood in Odate City. The retro building that appears after passing through the snow-covered garden, along with the gentle glow of the wood-burning stove, creates a relaxed atmosphere. In May 2025, Hiroyuki Kishi, a former middle school teacher, fulfilled a long-held dream by opening the café. The coffee features a blend from “KOW,” a long-established local roaster, and is carefully hand-brewed one cup at a time. The menu features a selection of thoughtfully prepared, comforting dishes, such as cake with a whole banana inside, moist cheesecake, and pizza toast with homemade sauce. The owner’s dedication is evident in the care he takes with every order. At the back of the shop is a storehouse over 100 years old; this space, featuring a striking, heavy iron door, is also available for rent. It is also well-loved as a venue open to the community, hosting events such as concerts, yoga classes, and photo exhibitions. In honor of the music-loving owner, the shop’s name is derived from the musical term “pentatonic.” Surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring and lush greenery in summer, it’s a place where you can spend a peaceful moment amidst the changing seasons.

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 new 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 special experience that can only be found here. Limited-time offer in 2025: Aerial photography service

As the name suggests, this is a hands-on, community-oriented farmers’ market run primarily by local “moms” from farming families. Inside, you’ll find a wide array of vegetables, fruits, and processed goods carefully cultivated by local farmers. With seasonal delicacies on display, you’re sure to discover something new every time you visit. At the attached workshop, you can enjoy “kiritanpo-making” and “soba-making” experiences, and depending on the season, you can even participate in apple and pear picking. Why not experience Akita’s culture and the warmth of its people through these hands-on activities and interactions?

Opened in 2025 in Odate City—the birthplace of the Akita Inu—the Akita Inu Cafe is an interactive café where you can interact with Akita Inus. The Akita Inus, known for their fluffy coats and gentle dispositions, will warmly welcome you.   Akita Inu fans will find this an irresistible, uniquely soothing experience available only here. One of the highlights is the chance to interact up close with Akita Inus on a daily rotating basis, including the café’s star dogs “Mutsu” and “Genta,” who are hugely popular on social media. Feel free to spend your time however you like—whether it’s petting the Akita Inus, taking photos with them, or simply enjoying the same space as them from a little distance away.

A tourism and community center that held its grand opening in May 2019 near JR Odate Station. The building’s exterior is modeled after Shibuya Station during the Taisho era, when “Hachiko, the Faithful Dog”—who was born in Odate—continued to wait for his owner. The Akita Dog Exhibition Room, where visitors can meet adorable Akita dogs, is the most popular attraction. Here, you can meet a variety of Akita dogs on a daily rotating basis, starting with “Sora,” the Akita dog who serves as the tourist stationmaster at JR Odate Station. With the Akita Dog Museum, where you can learn about Akita dogs in a fun way, and a souvenir corner selling Akita-related goods and local specialties, it’s a place Akita dog lovers simply can’t resist. On the premises stands the “Statue of Hachiko, the Faithful Dog” from Odate City, where events such as Hachiko’s birthday celebrations and memorial services are held; it is also a hugely popular photo spot. Starting in August 2020, the museum began exhibiting the “Tokyu 5000 Series”—commonly known as the “Blue Frog”—rail cars operated by the former Tokyu Electric Railway Co., Ltd. (now Tokyu Corporation) from 1954 to 1986. Visitors can tour the interior of the cars, except during the winter months. There are plenty of other highlights as well, including a hand-pulled trolley ride experience (available only on weekends and holidays) that utilizes the abandoned tracks of the former Kosaka Railway, and the Rail Park, which showcases the history of the Kosaka Railway—including the ore and other cargo mined at the Kosaka Mine, as well as its role in passenger transport! The Odate City Tourism Association office located within the facility provides tourist information and handles reservations for rental bicycles—a convenient way to explore the city—making it a great base for sightseeing. Thai Language Introduction Page 【Jubilee Travel】 (Click or Tap) Introduction in Korean 【ANA】 (Click or Tap)

The spring water is a sodium sulfate spring (bōshō-sen) with a pH of 8.8. It is characterized by its smooth, silky texture and long-lasting warmth, making it a highly beneficial hot spring that is excellent for both bathing and drinking. Located about a 7-minute drive from JR Odate Station and within walking distance of the Nipro Hachiko Dome (Odate Jukai Dome) and Takumi Arena (Jukai Gymnasium), we are the closest lodging option, making us a convenient choice for sports tournaments and other events. We welcome you with our signature kiritanpo hot pot and original dishes made with water straight from the source.We strive to provide a homey atmosphere and family-style hospitality. At Furusawa Onsen, “Haru” and “Hana”—a mother-and-child pair of Akita dogs—welcome guests every day as part of our hospitality staff. Since these two started working here, we’ve heard that more and more guests are visiting just to meet these two beautiful Akita dogs. We invite you to come and be soothed by our hot springs and by Haru-chan and Hana-chan.

This building houses the headquarters of the Akita Dog Preservation Society, which registers Akita dogs worldwide, issues pedigree certificates, and organizes exhibitions and other events for the preservation of the breed. On the first floor, visitors can meet Akita dogs owned by Society members on weekdays and shop for the Society’s official merchandise.(Please note that the dogs may not be available for viewing depending on their condition.) On the second floor, there is a space where you can view exhibits about Hachiko, the loyal dog born in Odate City in 1923, as well as enjoy dog-related manga and books. On the third floor, exhibits provide detailed information on everything from the history of the Akita Inu to its ecosystem. In front of the hall stands the bronze statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog born in Odate City, known as the “Hachiko Statue of Longing for Home.” The statue faces the direction of Daigo-uchi in Odate City, his birthplace.

A renowned restaurant in Odate City that serves Akita specialties, including Hinai-dori chicken. Our top recommendation is the famous “Hinai-dori Oyakodon.” This rich, egg-topped rice bowl uses only female Hinai-dori chickens, known for their firm, springy texture. The Hinai-dori meat has a firm, springy texture, and its sweetness spreads throughout your mouth with every bite. Be sure to note the restaurant’s commitment to using Hinai-jidori even in the eggs, as well as the sauce, which contains absolutely no artificial flavorings. Please also enjoy authentic “Kiritanpo Nabe” infused with Hinai-jidori broth, along with other Akita specialties such as tonburi, junsai, and iburigakko. [Notice of Store Relocation] We will resume operations at the address below starting Sunday, April 19, 2026. Postal Code: 017-0045 1-7-12 Nakamichi, Odate City, Akita Prefecture *There are no changes to our phone number or business hours.

It is said that “Odate Magewappa” originated when lumberjacks began crafting bentwood containers from straight-grained cedar. Thin slices of natural Akita cedar—known for its elasticity and beautiful grain—are soaked in boiling water to soften them, then bent into shape and secured with mountain cherry bark to complete the process. Its bright, elegant wood texture and uniform grain, along with its gentle, simple, natural materials, have made it popular even overseas.

Hanazen’s Chicken Rice, which won the “Eki-ben Aji no Jin” station boxed lunch contest and earned the title of “Eki-ben Daishogun.” It’s a classic item that has been loved by locals ever since the postwar era. It has won numerous awards for station boxed lunches. It’s characterized by tender chicken, soy sauce, and the flavor of burdock root. It’s popular among people who want to enjoy a bento while out and about. These takeout bentos are specially prepared to remain delicious even when cold. To maximize their flavor, they are prepared according to the day’s temperature and humidity.

This is Odate City’s most famous festival, held annually over two days: September 10 (Pre-Festival) and September 11 (Main Festival).Magnificent, ornate ceremonial floats weighing over one metric ton and children’s mikoshi (portable shrines) parade through the city, while the sounds of “Odate Bayashi” music echoing throughout the streets get the blood of Odate locals pumping like never before.In addition, the Omachi Shopping Street—which becomes a pedestrian-only zone—is lined with rows of food stalls and bustles with crowds. Highlights include the “Joint Float Procession” and “Crossing of Tanonosaka” during the Eve Festival, as well as the “Splendid Festival Music”“Odate Bayashi Joint Performance at the Station,” and “Festival Celebration Water” are among the events held during the main festival, making this a festival packed with highlights. Odate Shinmei Shrine has long served as the guardian deity of Odate, protecting this land.The Odate Shinmei Shrine Annual Grand Festival, a ritual that has been held for over 400 years, features ceremonies praying for bountiful harvests, prosperous business, and household safety, making it an indispensable event for the people of Odate City.Please come and experience the traditional culture of Odate City and the enthusiasm of its citizens. 2026 Odate Shinmei Shrine Annual Festival Flyer (PDF) 2026 Odate Shinmei Shrine Annual Festival Schedule (PDF)

Set against the backdrop of Odate Station—the gateway to Odate—the “Eki-one.” event, packed with all the region’s charm, is coming soon! “Eki-one.” is an event held with the goal of creating a lively atmosphere in front of Odate Station and energizing the local community. In addition to booths where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and shopping, various activities—including stage performances—are planned to entertain everyone from children to adults. The name “Eki-one.” embodies the “wan!” from “Hachiko”—a figure associated with Odate City—the “1 (wan)” from Onari-cho 1-chome, the “ichi (wan)” from the morning market, and the idea that everyone in the community comes together as “one (wan).” Why not savor local delicacies, enjoy the stage performances, and discover the charms of Odate as you wander around the venue? If you’re visiting Odate, head to “Eki-one.” right in front of the station! [Eki-one. Gourmet & Market] 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Featuring the event’s namesake “Eki-one Yakisoba” and a full lineup of delicious local specialties from across the prefecture! Please see the flyer for details. [Event Schedule] 9:40 AM: Group Music Performance [Issho-ko & Seito-ko] 9:50 AM Opening Ceremony 10:00 AM Odate Municipal Ariura Elementary School “Kagayaki” LIVE Performance 10:30 AM Odate Hayashi Dance Performance [Ichisei-kō & Seihō-kō] 11:00 AM Kouraiser Show 11:30 a.m. 【Onka】 Namahage Taiko Performance 1:00 p.m. 【Odate Municipal Higashi Junior High School】 Wind Ensemble Performance 1:30 p.m. Odate Bayashi Dance Performance [Ichisei-kō and Seihō-kō] 2:00 PM　Kourizer Show 2:30 PM　[Onka] Namahage Taiko Performance 3:00 PM　Grand Raffle (Open to those with raffle tickets)

Located in Kasuda, Odate City—a region blessed with abundant nature and a unique culture—”Sakekoshimai” is a farmstay brimming with humor, run by the married couple Toshitaka and Toshiko Yamauchi.Guests can immerse themselves deeply in the rural culture of Akita, Japan, while enjoying a variety of seasonal activities such as farming, foraging for wild vegetables, chopping firewood, making pickles, straw crafts, calligraphy, and snowshoe excursions. Upon arrival, the “Sakekoshi Mai” style calls for the Yamauchi couple and guests to decide together how to spend their time. Choose your own unique way to enjoy your stay from a wide variety of experience plans. For dinner, you’ll work together to prepare authentic kiritanpo nabe and miso-tsuketanpo. After thoroughly enjoying these delicious local dishes packed with regional ingredients, it’s time for the hugely popular performance. The Yamauchis will showcase traditional folk dances passed down in the region, as well as musical performances featuring the guitar and shinobue flute.The lively atmosphere created when guests join in has garnered widespread attention on social media overseas, attracting many visitors from around the world, including Taiwan and Europe. The stone wall is lined with drawings and messages left by past guests. Be sure to leave a memento of your stay as a keepsake. <Examples of Activities> ★Spring…Rice planting / Foraging for wild vegetables / Thinning grapevines / Tilling and creating ridges in vegetable fields / Instruction on how to use a hoe ★Summer…Vegetable harvesting & cooking (watermelon, tomatoes, eggplant, etc.) / Tractor driving experience in the rice paddies ★Fall…Grape Harvest / Rice Harvest / Vegetable Harvest / Making Pickled Daikon / Straw Crafting ★Winter…Grape Pruning / Chopping Firewood / Snowshoe Experience

A 5-minute walk from Shirasawa Station on the JR Ou Main Line. “Tosho Komorebi” is located in a spot surrounded by lush nature yet offering excellent transportation access. The living room on the first floor is lined with books and is usually open to the public as a “community living room,” serving as a hub for local residents to gather. Guests are also welcome to use this as a shared space, where they can relax and enjoy some personal time in a comfortable, sun-drenched environment. With high-speed Wi-Fi available, the property is well-suited for workations and other medium- to long-term stays. Plus, our adorable Akita dogs, “Otonomizu” and “Kanro Kanro,” are waiting to welcome you. Please feel free to fully enjoy the leisurely pace of life in this peaceful, nature-filled setting.

This exhibition, organized by the Akita Prefecture Northern Branch of the Public Interest Incorporated Association Akita Dog Preservation Society, is held every year on November 3 (a national holiday) at the multipurpose plaza of “Akita Inu no Sato,” a tourism and community center located in front of Odate Station. It is held with the aim of preserving the Akita dog—designated as a National Natural Monument—in its original form and promoting the breed.Individual evaluations are held in the morning, followed by comprehensive evaluations in the afternoon, during which judges meticulously assess the dogs’ stance, facial features, ear position, and running form. Awards are presented to Akita Inu deemed to be outstanding. By ranking the dogs, owners are encouraged to strive for better breeding practices through healthy competition. Branches of the Akita Dog Preservation Society are located throughout Japan and abroad. In addition to the annual Headquarters Exhibition, each branch holds its own exhibitions. Among these, the exhibition hosted by the Northern Prefecture Branch—based in Odate City, the birthplace of the Akita dog—attracts significant attention, drawing many visitors who come to see the majestic Akita dogs on display. While there are no designated petting sessions, with the owner’s permission, you may be able to interact with the Akita Inus waiting in the holding area. Breeders who raise many Akita Inus sometimes bring their adorable puppies along as well. The venue, Akita Inu no Sato, features an Akita Inu exhibition room where you can view the dogs through glass, a souvenir corner selling Akita Inu merchandise, and a tourist information center. Be sure to combine your visit with sightseeing in Odate and come see the beautiful Akita Inu in person.

It’s that time of year again—the season for new rice and delicious kiritanpo. Kiritanpo has been passed down through generations in households as a “taste of home” and a “special-occasion dish,” and even today, it’s served as a “hospitality dish” at weddings, funerals, and other events, regardless of the season. In addition to the popular “Kiritanpo Grand Prix” and miso-glazed kiritanpo-making workshops, there will be a wide variety of stage events and hands-on activities. Why not come to the Nipro Hachiko Dome and experience all the charms of the region? [Access] In addition to paid parking lots near the venue, a free shuttle bus runs between the area around Odate Station and the Aeon Super Center Odate store.

Along the route of the former Kosaka Railway—which once connected Odate City and Kosaka Town and supported the local community—lies the “Hydrangea Railroad,” a spot where colorful hydrangeas bloom in full splendor, gently welcoming visitors. These hydrangeas were planted as part of the “Hydrangea Railroad Project” led by local residents. With the goal of having approximately 3,000 hydrangeas blooming on both sides of the tracks, planting has been progressing gradually; currently, about 2,400 plants have taken root, creating a beautiful landscape. The “Former Kosaka Railway Line Hydrangea Festival,” held during the peak blooming season, offers not only hydrangea viewing but also tree-planting experiences and unique local events. Attractions include a tree-planting festival where you can name the hydrangea you plant yourself, sales of railway merchandise, and rail bike rides—activities that appeal to people of all ages. In 2026, the “Kosaka Mine Railway Pot” will make its debut, offering visitors the chance to enjoy “Sopa de Ajo,” a traditional Spanish dish made with locally sourced ingredients.   The former Kosaka Railway was once a vital line that supported the transport of mining supplies and the daily lives of the local people, but it was decommissioned in 2009 due to changing times. Today, it draws on its history to create new value as a tourist attraction. The scenery created by the tracks and hydrangeas evokes a sense of nostalgia and offers a special, soothing atmosphere. It’s also a popular spot for photography, where you can enjoy unique views found only here—a fusion of railway heritage and nature. If you visit the Okuaquita area in early summer, be sure to stop by the “Former Kosaka Railway Line Hydrangea Festival” and experience the floral scenery filled with the spirit of the local community.

A farm where you can enjoy strawberry picking every year from May to June. You can enjoy an all-you-can-eat 30-minute session of “Harumi”—a strawberry variety native to Akita—until you’re full. “Harumi” is a variety developed by Akita Prefectural University to grow deliciously in cold climates. It’s a delicious strawberry with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Since it’s rarely found on the market, it’s sometimes called the “phantom strawberry.” When you pop a freshly picked one into your mouth, its juicy, sweet-and-tart flavor spreads throughout your palate. At Hinai Watanabe Farm, we cultivate dozens of varieties of vegetables, wild mountain vegetables, and flowers using carefully selected fertilizer aged in our own composting facility and pure groundwater drawn directly from the ground. During your strawberry picking visit, you may also be able to purchase freshly harvested vegetables, such as snap peas, as souvenirs (*subject to harvest conditions).Enjoy a casual strawberry picking experience on a vast farm surrounded by nature. It’s highly recommended not only for families with children but also for couples and group trips. *Reservations are required. >> Click here for the 2024 strawberry picking experience report

At the Ishida Rose Garden, where approximately 500 varieties of roses—with one plant per variety as the general rule—bloom magnificently across an area of about 2,300 square meters, the “Odate Rose Festival” is held every June and October, captivating visitors with its colorful roses and the elegant fragrance that fills the garden. During “Odate Rose Festival Season 1,” held every June when the greatest number of roses are in full bloom, the “Ishida Rose Café” opens within the garden.In addition to delicious lunches and coffee, the menu features items and souvenirs that let you fully enjoy the rose season, such as the “Ishida Rose Soft Serve” inspired by roses, “Rose Cider for Lovers” containing heart-shaped petals, and “Ishida Rose Beer” with a delicate rose aroma. In addition, rose seedlings are sold, as well as “Bara-no-Mochi” (rose mochi) from “Daifudo,” a long-established confectionery shop in Odate City run by rose enthusiasts. Every weekend evening, the “Night Garden” illumination event is also held. “Odate Rose Festival Season 2,” where you can enjoy roses at their peak in the fall, is held every October. Fall roses are vibrantly colored with a subtle fragrance, offering a more sophisticated charm distinct from the roses of early summer. [2026 Event Dates] 🌹Season 1: May 30 (Sat) – June 28 (Sun), 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM 🌃Night Garden: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM on the following dates June 5 (Fri), 6 (Sat), 12 (Fri), 13 (Sat), 19 (Fri), 20 (Sat), 26 (Fri), 27 (Sat) 🌹Season 2: October 1–12, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.  

Spanning approximately 5 hectares, this open-site campground lets you freely enjoy nature. In addition to camping, you can spend your time however you like—whether it’s barbecuing, relaxing in a chair, picnicking, forest bathing, visiting the dog park, playing sports, or enjoying a tent sauna. Vehicles are permitted on the grounds, so car camping and sleeping in your car are both allowed.We also offer seasonal activities such as bracken picking, apple picking, and river trekking. In the “Babbling Brook Area,” a favorite among campers, you can fully savor the slow passage of time while surrounded by the soothing sound of a babbling brook. You can view a spectacular waterfall up close or splash around in the shallow waters.We also recommend looking down at the river from the hilltop to forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and simply relax. Temporary restrooms are available on-site. The owner couple—former teachers—spent many years gradually restoring this abandoned farmland, which had become overgrown. The site opened as a free camping area in September 2023.From solo campers to families, everyone is sure to find their own way to enjoy the site. *Please check Instagram for the latest information. >> Click here for the 2024 bracken-picking experience report

This year, the event will be held at the Tashiro Multipurpose Sports Ground in Odate City as the “Tashiro Hometown Festival.” Date and Time: Sunday, June 14, 2026, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (The event will take place even in light rain.) Held annually just as news of wild mountain vegetables begins to arrive from the mountains of Odate City, this event is designed to let visitors fully enjoy bamboo shoots at the peak of their season. It features a wide variety of activities, including food stalls and food trucks serving diverse dishes, stage performances, hands-on experience booths, and an exhibition of work vehicles. The highlight of the event is the “Bamboo Shoot Soup,” packed with Nemagari bamboo shoots from Mt. Tashiro. You can savor these delicious bamboo shoots, known for their crisp texture and mild, sweet flavor.The soup also includes “Odate Sakura Pork,” a local brand of pork, and “mizu,” a wild vegetable harvested on Mount Tashiro, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s so popular that long lines form every year. In 2024, the event expanded in scale, with a variety of activities spread across three areas. On the main venue stage, live performances by local artists, superhero shows, and dances by Yosakoi teams took place, creating an atmosphere as lively as a music festival.Additionally, the second and third venues featured DJ booths and large play structures for children, along with numerous hands-on activities such as survival games, leather crafting, and bouldering.At the food stalls, fresh bamboo shoots harvested early that morning on Mount Tashiro were a big hit. The lineup also included a variety of dishes showcasing the vendors’ unique styles, such as bamboo shoot meat rolls and non-alcoholic cocktails inspired by bamboo shoots. The Bamboo Shoot Festival offers a chance to fully savor Nemagari bamboo shoots—at the peak of the season—in a relaxed and open atmosphere. People of all ages can enjoy themselves to the fullest. We invite you to come with your whole family.

[Notice and Request Regarding the Condition of the Flowers in Fiscal Year 2026] Due to the disaster-level heavy snowfall that occurred in January 2026, approximately half of the wisteria branches were broken, among other damages. As a result, this year’s blooms may not be as spectacular as in previous years. Despite these circumstances, Mr. Tsushima, the manager of Tonosé Fuji no Sato, and the staff are working hard to prepare for welcoming many visitors again this year. We kindly ask for your support as we carry out restoration and maintenance work at Tonosé Fuji no Sato. Please see below for details. AID for 十ノ瀬藤の郷 “Tonose Fuji no Sato” is a wisteria garden located in the Tashiro area of Odate City, at the foot of Mount Tonose. Approximately 80 wisteria trees stand on a site of about 20 ares, blooming with vibrant flowers for just a few days every May.The white, purple, and pink blossoms create a beautiful contrast against the fresh greenery of the surrounding mountains, and when the garden is in full bloom, it is filled with a sweet fragrance. The enchanting sight of the wisteria garden reflected in the surrounding rice paddies is also very popular. Most of the trees that adorn the garden are grown as single-trunk trees rather than on trellises.Yoshihiro Tsushima, who inherited the wisteria garden from his late father, prunes each tree by hand throughout the year. Each tree has its own unique characteristics, and among them are rare specimens that bloom in two colors thanks to grafting. A photo contest has been held since 2023. The winning entries are featured in the following year’s photo book. As the grounds are privately owned, admission is permitted only during the garden’s open season. Please check the official website for opening information before visiting. Additionally, for visitors arriving by car, parking spaces are limited, so please be sure to make a reservation before arriving. Official Website: https://tonose-fujinosato.com 2026 Opening Period: May 16 (Sat) – May 24 (Sun), 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Admission Fee: 1,000 yen per person (free for junior high school students and younger) *Proof of age must be presented.

The Torigata Estate was once the residence of the Torigata family, which has a history spanning over 300 years. The Torigata family, whose members have served as village leaders (Kanjin) of Hanaoka Village for generations, has produced many notable figures, including the internationally renowned acrobat “Torigata Kosankichi,” “Torigata Ryuzo,” who contributed to the advancement of surgical medicine, and “Torigata Uichi,” the inventor of the wireless telephone. Highlights on the grounds include a charming Kyoto-style strolling garden featuring Kurama stone throughout, as well as a thatched-roof tea house. Inside the hall, hundreds of valuable artifacts are on display. The garden offers a different view with each season, ensuring visitors will never grow bored. In spring, a riot of azaleas; in summer, the vigorous chorus of cicadas; in autumn, blazing autumn foliage; and in winter, a silvery-white world—all await you. Here, you’ll find a peaceful space where you can take a moment to relax. March 22, 2011: The building was designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Akita Prefecture, and the garden was designated a Scenic Spot (Monument) of Akita Prefecture. October 11, 2024: The garden was designated a National Scenic Spot. Related Event: Torigata Kaikan’s Hina Doll Exhibition

Spanning an area of approximately 2,300 square meters, the Ishida Rose Garden features a dazzling display of about 500 varieties of roses, with one plant of each variety as the basic principle.Originally the private garden of the late Hirohide Ishida, Odate City’s first honorary citizen, the roses were donated to the city by his family in 1995 and are now managed by the city. Every June and October, the “Odate Rose Festival” is held, captivating visitors with its colorful roses and the elegant fragrance that fills the garden. Odate Rose Festival Page

Sakurayagikan was the private residence of Bunzo Sakuraba, who served as the last mayor of Odate before it became a city. It is a valuable example of an authentic early Showa-period wooden structure—one of the few remaining in the city center—that miraculously survived despite the old town of Odate being struck by repeated major fires. The name “Sakura Yagura-kan” combines “Sakura” (cherry blossom), derived from the Sakuraba family name and the fact that Katsura Castle Park—the site of the former Odate Castle—is a famous cherry blossom spot, with “Yagura” (watchtower), referring to the observation deck that protrudes from the second-floor roof. A key architectural feature is the observation deck on the second floor, which protrudes from the roof and is surrounded on all four sides by glass windows. The building’s fine joinery, which reflects meticulous attention to detail throughout, has also earned high praise. While the building has been used for rentals and tourist tours in the past, starting in fiscal year 2024, an initiative has begun to add new value and promote further utilization as an “Open Tangible Cultural Property.”As part of this initiative, the Sakura Yagura-kan Café opened its doors. It features a coffee stand serving carefully selected single-origin coffee and a drink bar where visitors can relax while studying or working, making it a casual gathering place for local residents. It has also garnered attention as a model of renovation that effectively utilizes a government facility through private-sector ideas, and regularly hosts events such as workshops throughout the year. If you are interested in helping to run Sakura Yagura-kan or building a community there, please feel free to join us.

In Odate City, there are two shrines: Nishiki Shrine, dedicated to Yasuhira—the fourth head of the Oshu Fujiwara clan—and Nishikido Shrine, dedicated to his wife. Yasuhira fled from Yoritomo’s pursuit as far as Hina District, only to meet a tragic end. His wife, who had followed him in the belief that he was safe, took her own life upon learning of his death. The villagers gave each of them a dignified burial, and even now, more than 800 years later, they are still revered. [Nishiki Shrine] The Site of the Final Resting Place of Yasuhira, the Fourth Head of the Oshu Fujiwara Clan Pursued by Minamoto no Yoritomo’s massive army, Fujiwara no Yasuhira was unable to remain in Hiraizumi. He set fire to his residence and, relying on his retainer Kawata Jiro, fled to the Hina region. However, he was betrayed by Kawata Jiro and killed in battle. The villagers took pity on Yasuhira and carefully wrapped his headless body in a brocaded hitatare robe before burying him. This grave was once known as “Nishiki-sama,” but today it is reverently enshrined as Nishiki Shrine. In April of Heisei 29, a plant of the “Chūson-ji Lotus”—which bloomed from lotus seeds found in Yasuhira’s head container—was received from Hiraizumi and planted here; local residents are now carefully tending to it. [Nishikido Shrine] A shrine dedicated to Yasuhira’s wife Lady Taihei, having pursued Taihei—who had fled to seek refuge with his vassal, Jiro Kawata—reached Gorindai accompanied by her servant, Yuubei. Upon learning that Taihei had already been slain by Jiro Kawata, she grieved deeply and, after much sorrow, took her own life along with her three children. Yubei gave the Lady and her children a dignified burial, became a Buddhist priest to mourn their souls, and, once everything was over, took his own life on the hill opposite the hall where the Lady was enshrined. The villagers took pity on him, and it is said that the origin of Nishikido Shrine lies in their erecting a five-story pagoda to honor the ladies and enshrining them with great reverence. Incidentally, Nishikido Shrine is oriented toward Nishiki Shrine, where her husband, Yasuhira, is enshrined.

In the Kuzuhara district of Odate City, there is a tragic tale passed down about the Matagi hunter “Teiroku” and his hunting dog “Shiro”; the Old Dog Shrine is where the loyal dog “Shiro” is enshrined. To save “Teiroku,” who had been captured for hunting beyond the district’s borders while so engrossed in chasing his prey, “Shiro” made repeated trips through the snow—traveling more than ten ri—to his home to retrieve a “hunting permit.” However, he did not arrive in time, and “Teiroku” was executed. Afterward, “Shiro” refused to eat and died as if following in Teiroku’s footsteps; the villagers, mourning his loss, built a shrine to enshrine “Shiro.” At this Old Dog Shrine, items from the story—such as the “hunting permit”—are still preserved today. A more detailed account of the story can be found on the Odate City website: https://www.city.odate.lg.jp/city/kankou/highlight/shrine/rouken As a shrine dedicated to a dog—a rarity even on a national scale—it is a popular destination for people who currently own pets or have owned them in the past. *Please note that the hiking trail is unpaved (no asphalt, etc.) and features exposed tree roots. Additionally, there is a risk of encountering wild animals such as bears, so please exercise extreme caution.

Located at the foot of Mt. Kunimi in the northern part of Odate City, this wind cave—which emits cool breezes ranging from 0 to 5°C even in the height of summer—is enjoyed as a “natural air conditioner.” Around the wind cave, at elevations ranging from 170 to 240 meters, plants typically found in subalpine zones at around 1,000 meters grow in clusters. This area has been designated as a National Natural Monument under the name “Nagashiro Wind Cave Alpine Plant Community.” In February 2026, it marked the 100th anniversary of its designation as a National Natural Monument. The Nagashiro Wind Cave Museum features an exhibit area with panels explaining the cave’s mechanisms and a mini-theater that explains why alpine plants grow there. Visitors can also enter Warehouse No. 1, located near the museum entrance, to experience the cave firsthand. *During the summer, the cool air from the wind cave is used to cool the museum.

Facilities include “Hinai Beniyama-so,” an accommodation with natural hot springs; the “Otsuzura Gold Mine Hometown Museum,” which displays materials related to the Otsuzura Gold Mine; “cottages” that can accommodate up to six people; and a campground. Of the six cottages, two allow pets. In addition, the park is fully equipped with large multi-purpose play structures—including slides, sky ropes, and swings—that even young children can enjoy, as well as an adventure playground, a multipurpose plaza, a stage, a campground, a kitchen building, a fire circle, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free stay.  

Located upstream from the lodge, it’s a convenient spot for exploring the Iwase River stream, taking a break during a hike up Mt. Tashiro, or staying overnight. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy quiet, leisurely moments with family or friends.

Located about a 5-minute drive from JR Odate Station, the “Pokapoka Onsen Hotel” is a business hotel that offers affordable room rates. The hot spring, which soothes the fatigue of a long workday, is a naturally flowing, pure natural hot spring classified as a sodium-calcium sulfate-chloride spring. The hot water is particularly popular among locals.

Conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Higashi-Odate Station on the JR Hanawa Line in the heart of the city’s entertainment district, the hotel features a free parking lot on the premises with space for 100 vehicles. In addition to the 8th-floor observation deck with natural hot springs (complete with a dry sauna), the hotel features a relaxation room equipped with massage chairs and a coin-operated laundry facility. Furthermore, the first-floor lobby offers a variety of pillows and amenities for your use. As an ideal business hotel serving as a hub for both business and leisure travelers, we are committed to ensuring your comfort.

Free breakfast is included. This hotel prides itself on its clean facilities and attentive service.

About a 7-minute drive from Odate Station on the JR Ou Main Line, and about a 10-minute drive from the Odate-Kita Interchange on the Akita Expressway. The hotel is located in the heart of the city’s entertainment and shopping district. Guests appreciate our comprehensive services, including a complimentary breakfast buffet, a large public bath with artificial hot spring water, Wi-Fi in all guest rooms, a welcome coffee service, and free surface parking.

Odate Yatate Heights is a hot spring inn that serves as the centerpiece of the “Yatate Pass” Roadside Station. The area is surrounded by Akita cedar forests—one of Japan’s Three Great Forests—and offers a variety of scenic views throughout the four seasons. The hot spring, which features an abundant flow of water directly from the source, is affectionately known as “Toge no Kane no Yu” (The Golden Hot Spring of the Pass). Enjoy your meals and the hot springs in a serene atmosphere, and be sure to soothe your daily fatigue.

Please use this hotel as a base for business and sightseeing. The 5th floor features a natural hot spring bath with a panoramic view of the city. In addition to restaurants, the hotel is fully equipped with meeting rooms and banquet halls, making it suitable for a wide range of purposes. The Royal Hotel Odate is home to two Akita dogs. They are a senior-junior duo: the handsome “Eito Nakamura,” with his sharp features, and the adorable “Hina Nakamura,” with her fluffy coat. Please come visit them. 《Notice》 Currently, Eito-kun and Hina-chan are not available for interaction with guests. Depending on their health, viewing-only visits may be possible, so please contact the Royal Hotel Odate in advance.

Located along the national highway in downtown Odate, the Grand Park Hotel Odate is a business hotel conveniently situated near the dining district, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. We look forward to welcoming you.

The drive takes you along the “Jukai Line,” where you can enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery, trees, and mountains for a refreshing experience. The hot spring water flows directly from the source, and the open-air bath—which is very popular with day-trip visitors—also features a jacuzzi. Take a moment to relax and enjoy a soothing experience while gazing at the changing seasons.

Since its discovery in Meiji 26, this secluded hot spring in Hikage has been beloved as a “medicinal bath effective for skin conditions.” Although it once closed to much regret, it has reopened following a renovation thanks to the dedicated efforts of local businesses. Dubbed the “Kusatsu of Tohoku,” its milky-white sulfur spring captivates many hot spring enthusiasts with its luxurious, unfiltered flow directly from the source. Due to its high therapeutic efficacy, it is known as the “Sacred Spring that Revitalizes You in Three Days.” The large public bath with an open-air bath, crafted from Aomori hiba cypress, is synonymous with Nikkei Onsen. Once you soak in the milky-white waters filled with the scent of sulfur, you’re sure to fall in love with Nikkei’s waters. In addition, you can enjoy a variety of hot spring experiences, including private baths where you can gaze at the mountains and waterfalls lined with Akita cedar, as well as special rooms featuring clear iron-rich hot springs. And don’t miss the dining experience at Kappo Kiraku. The restaurant is committed to sourcing the freshest, most delicious ingredients harvested that very day from local contract farmers who prioritize “organic” practices and “environmental consideration.” You can savor regional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and Akita’s local sake, all prepared with the refined taste of a traditional Japanese restaurant. The tranquil atmosphere of the retro-modern library and lounge, the gentle murmur of the nearby stream, and the star-studded night sky—a sight unique to the mountains—all enhance the hot spring experience.The sophisticated design harmonizes beautifully with the natural scenery of Shirakami Yatate visible through the windows. Please enjoy a pleasant escape from the everyday in this space designed with the utmost focus on “guest comfort.”   [Jalan.net User Reviews: “Accommodations I’m Glad I Stayed At” (Overall) Ranking] (Data collected from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026) Tohoku Region Ryokan Category: 1st Place https://www.jalan.net/jalan/doc/ranking/total/02_index.html

The Nakayama district of Odate City is located in the northern part of Akita Prefecture. The pears harvested there are collectively known as “Nakayama Pears,” and are also called “the northernmost pears” by locals. Due to the significant daily temperature fluctuations in this region, the pears grown here are juicy and have a concentrated sweetness. The cultivation of Nakayama Pears began during the Meiji era, and they have a history spanning over 100 years. They have received high praise at agricultural competitions and are recognized as high-quality pears.

Kitakari is a sake brewery based in Ariura, in the heart of Odate City. It is a well-known brand of sake even in Akita Prefecture, which has long been renowned as a region famous for its rice and sake. While Kitakari is by no means a large sake producer, it is a brewery that continues to take on new challenges. One such challenge is “Snow Storage.” Sake brewed in early winter is transported to Lake Towada and stored and aged deep within the snow. The temperature and humidity remain constant beneath the snow, creating an ideal environment for sake aging. The sake is aged as “nama-zake” (unpasteurized sake) with live yeast until early spring, resulting in a mellow flavor. Furthermore, driven by a desire to let as many people as possible experience and enjoy daiginjo—the pinnacle of sake craftsmanship—the brewery’s “Daiginjo Kitaakita,” developed through trial and error, is Japan’s best-selling daiginjo, thanks in part to its reasonable price point. Being able to enjoy a rich ginjo aroma reminiscent of fresh fruit and a refreshing, crisp flavor for less than 1,000 yen is truly the culmination of Kitakari’s efforts. Kitakari’s sake lineup includes collaborations with the Akita Dog Village and a variety of other offerings. As a local sake from Odate, we highly recommend you give it a try.

While Aomori is famous for its apples, northern Akita Prefecture—which has a similar climate—is also a renowned apple-growing region. In particular, apple orchards stretch across the Nakayama district of Odate City and the Fushikage district of Kitaakita City. Apples grown in these areas, where the temperature difference between day and night is extreme, are characterized by their concentrated sweetness. It is said that they become sweeter than other apples and develop a deeper skin color. Up to 30 varieties of apples are grown in these areas, but “Akita Beniakari”—a variety developed in Akita and grown almost exclusively within the prefecture—offers an exquisite balance of intense sweetness and just the right amount of tartness. It is one of the culinary delights you’ll want to savor in Akita. While the apples themselves are available from fall through spring, you can enjoy 100% apple juice—freshly squeezed from just-picked apples—all year round.

Kamabuku is a traditional sweet made with rice flour. It’s shaped to resemble kamaboko. Its official name is “kamaboko,” but in the Akita dialect, it’s called “kamabuku.” Kamabuku has a chewy texture and a gentle, delicious flavor. It’s just the right amount of sweetness. It comes in flavors such as sesame and pumpkin. Why not try finding your favorite flavor of kamabuku?

Akita Prefecture produces such a large quantity of edamame that it has even ranked first in Japan for shipment volume. Thanks to the basin-like climate in Odate City and Kitaakita City, where there is a significant temperature difference between day and night, sweet and nutrient-rich edamame grows there. The Okuakita area is full of sweets and other products made with this local specialty, edamame! During the edamame season, farmers’ markets, supermarkets, and producers’ direct-sales outlets are packed with people.   [Major Edamame Products] Odate Edamame Monaka Akita Edamame Snacks Odate Edamame Rusk Ao-Gaeru Edamame Stick Cake Edamame Castella Akita Ga-pao Rice with Morning-Picked Edamame AKITA HASHIOKI Edamame Soft-Serve Ice Cream Edamame Bread Edamame Noodles

The “Torigata Kaikan,” an old mansion located in the Hanaoka district of Odate City, has a history spanning more than 250 years. In March, as the people of Michinoku eagerly await the arrival of spring, the grand hall of the Torigata Kaikan is adorned with lavish Hina doll displays that seem to bring a touch of warm spring a little early. Visitors can admire numerous hina doll displays and hanging hina dolls donated by local residents. The red and gold hues of the hina dolls stand out beautifully against the historic building, creating a space that evokes the pleasant feeling of spring.

From the Odate Municipal General Hospital intersection to the main gate of Akita University of Nursing and Welfare—a stretch of approximately 1,100 meters—street trees and bridges are adorned with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere. From 4:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., a path of light appears, brightly illuminating the cold winter sky. As an illumination event that brings winter in Odate to life, it is enjoyed not only by local residents but by many visitors as well. Since it runs along a wide, two-lane road on each side, it is also a popular driving route. Why not take a stroll through the winter streets of Odate, enveloped in soft light? [2025 Event Schedule] December 6, 2025 (Sat) – January 12, 2026 (Mon)   [Events During the Period] ・Photo Contest Prizes: Grand Prize (1 winner) – Gift certificate worth 10,000 yen Excellence Awards (2 winners) – Gift certificates worth 5,000 yen each Submission Deadline: Must be received by January 31, 2026 How to Enter: Mail entries to the Project Secretariat Postal Code 017-0005 25 Nanatsudate, Hanaoka-cho, Odate City, Akita Prefecture (inside Shinshoji Temple) Shining Street Executive Committee ・New Year’s Eve All-Day Illumination: December 31 The lights will remain on until dawn on New Year’s Day.

A major winter event featuring Hinai-ji chicken—a specialty of Hinai Town, Odate City—and making full use of local ingredients. This festival incorporates the four elements of “See, Play, Shop, and Eat,” allowing visitors to join in the fun.   It’s packed with culinary highlights, including the Hina-tori Market’s famous “1,000-Bird Hina-dori Roast,” the “Hina-dori Kayaki Hot Pot” (which draws massive lines every year), and “Hina-dori Yakitori”! In addition to food, there are unique chicken-themed events, such as the “Hinai Chicken Egg Catch” challenge—where teams of two compete—and the “Human Hinai Chicken Long-Crow Contest,” where participants compete to see who can imitate the “Cock-a-doodle-doo” crow of the Hinai chicken for the longest time. There’s plenty more to enjoy, including performances of local traditional arts and the New Year’s mochi toss! [Free Shuttle Bus Information] Parking lots around the venue may become crowded. A shuttle bus connecting the Hinai Community Center and the venue (Odate City Hinai Branch Office) runs approximately every 15 minutes. Please use the parking lots next to the Hinai Community Center and in front of the Hinai Gymnasium.

The Amekko Festival is a Little New Year celebration with a history of over 400 years, and there is a legend that eating candy on this day will prevent you from catching a cold. At the festival grounds, numerous street vendors sell a wide variety of colorful candies, each with its own unique twist, attracting many tourists from both within and outside the prefecture who come to purchase them. Visitors can enjoy a variety of events, including the “White Beard Great God Procession”—a reenactment of the legend in which the “White Beard Great God” comes down from nearby Mount Tashiro to buy candy—as well as hands-on experiences like making stick candy. There are also plenty of popular attractions, such as the “Akita Inu Parade” featuring members of the Akita Inu Preservation Society and their dogs, and the nostalgic “Karamame Candy Tasting”! In 2026, we held a visitor-participation event called the “Shirahige Okami Procession Flag-Bearer Experience.” ⇩For more details⇩ 大館アメッコ市！旗持ち体験参加者募集中☆   For the 2027 Odate Amekko Festival, we’re recruiting participants for the “Maru-mage Procession,” a winter tradition! Maru-mage is a custom in the Odate-Kitaaki region where married women celebrating their 33rd birthday (by the traditional Japanese counting system) mark the occasion by wearing a black tomesode kimono and a maru-mage hairstyle. ⇩For more details⇩ 大館アメッコ市で丸髷行列体験参加者募集！ *Please note that traffic restrictions will be in effect around the venue. [⇩Google Maps⇩] https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=1Oam_8c8kO76seKf5eQM5fyl7ah6lEzU&usp=sharing  

Around the time the snow begins to melt late in northern Akita, vibrant flowers quietly begin to bloom in the woods. Because they bloom a little earlier than most other flowers, they are also called “spring ephemerals” (spring fairies), and are known for sometimes growing in clusters. While the fields of dogtooth violets blooming in Yatsu, Daisen City, are famous, you can also see various flowers growing in clusters during easy hikes at the foot of Mt. Morishiro in Kita-Akita, as well as at Mt. Houou and the Iwakami Reservoir in Odate. They typically begin blooming in early April, and the best time to see them is right after the Golden Week holidays in May. Experience Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mC9V9FXdWv0

Mount Tashiro is a dormant volcano with an elevation of 1,178 meters, located in the Shirakami Mountains. Near the 9th station, a high-altitude marshland has formed, dotted with more than 120 small ponds (chitō), and because many alpine plants bloom there, it is known as the “Alaska Garden Above the Clouds” and is beloved by many hikers. Every year around the summer solstice in July, a “crop divination” ritual is held, in which the ponds are regarded as “God’s Fields.”

Its official scientific name is “Chishimazasa” (Genus Sasa, Subfamily Bambusoideae, Family Poaceae). Depending on the region, it is also known as “Hime-take” or “Gassan-take” and has long been enjoyed as a wild vegetable. In the Tashiro area of Odate City, Mount Tashiro—part of the Shirakami Mountain Range—soars to an elevation of 1,178 meters. The bamboo shoots that grow in clusters on its slopes curve from the base, leading locals to call them “Nekurumari-take” (Curved-Root Bamboo). Because they grow in areas with heavy snowfall, they absorb a lot of moisture, making them softer and sweeter than typical bamboo shoots. They also have a rich aroma and little astringency, so they can be cooked and eaten as is. The peak season runs from late May to mid-June, when local bamboo shoot experts head into the mountains before sunrise to harvest them. During the peak season, freshly harvested Negamagari bamboo shoots are available at local farmers’ markets, and in June, the “Tashiro Specialty Bamboo Shoot Festival” is held, attracting many visitors from all over the region. https://visitakita.com/tourist-guide/event06/

A long-established shaved ice shop in Odate City. It’s open year-round and uses specially selected “pure ice.” “Pure ice” is ice produced over a long period of time while removing air from within it. By inducing convection in the ice through micro-vibrations, impurities such as air and bacteria are released from the water over a 48-hour period. During this 48-hour period, the ice is frozen gradually and slowly at a constant low temperature of –12°C. Because it contains no air and has a high density, it does not alter the flavor of drinks or food, and it also has the advantage of melting slowly. Shaved ice made from this pure ice is exquisite, and you can enjoy a variety of flavors, ranging from simple fruit syrups to condensed milk and Japanese-style syrups like matcha kinako.

Tonburi, often likened to “field caviar,” is made by carefully processing the seeds of the broom grass (also known as houkigusa) to make them edible. As its name suggests, broom grass is a plant used to make brooms. The dried stalks are bundled together to make brooms. In the fall, the plant bears many small seeds. It is believed that the practice of processing these seeds for consumption originated in the Hina region of Odate, which remains a renowned production area to this day. Its popping texture is just like fish roe. The origin of the name is believed to be “Touburi,” derived from “Buriko” (the roe of the hatahata fish), which was introduced from Tang China. Popular as a healthy food rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, tonburi pairs perfectly with grated yam (tororo). Be sure to try it in its place of origin.

Surrounded by deep mountains, northern Akita is crisscrossed by rivers fed by the pure water seeping from the mountains. These clear streams nurture wild ayu. The ayu, which grow by feeding on moss that thrives only in clean water, give off a refreshing aroma. A distinctive feature of northern Akita’s ayu is that they grow to a surprisingly large size just before the late-autumn spawning season. The Ani and Yoneshiro Rivers are hidden meccas for anglers, attracting ayu fishing enthusiasts from all over the country in search of these fish. Around the time when large ayu are caught, the “O-ayu no Sato Furusato Festival” is held in Odate. In addition to being able to enjoy salt-grilled ayu at various events and restaurants, the sweet-braised ayu is also highly recommended as a souvenir.

"Kiritanpo" originated in the Odate and Kitakari regions. Legend has it that long ago, ancestors who had taken up residence in the mountains to work as charcoal burners or harvest Akita cedar would knead leftover rice from their mountain huts and add it to chicken hot pot or spread miso paste on it to eat—and that is said to be how it began. Although it is known nationwide as an Akita specialty, Odate City is considered its true home. In Odate, it has been passed down as a common home-cooked dish, becoming a taste of home, and is served in households throughout the year. Please enjoy the authentic flavor unique to this region.

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.

It is said to have been founded by Kobo Daishi in the early Heian period. The main hall, Buddhist statues, and all other structures were buried in the great earthquake of the third year of Ten’an; the shrine was repeatedly rebuilt following several fires, and the current main hall was reconstructed during the late Edo period. Under the Meiji government’s policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism, the shrine was renovated in the Shinto style. Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto was designated as the principal deity, the name was changed to Matsumine Shrine, and it has remained so to this day. The approach is lined with towering trees, and the serene atmosphere makes it impossible not to feel the weight of history.

The Odate Daimonji Festival is a summer tradition in Odate City. The “Daimonji” character—the largest of its kind in Japan—is illuminated on Mount Houou, located in the eastern part of the city, while a fireworks display takes place on the banks of the Nagaki River, which flows through the city, to pray for Odate City’s continued prosperity. In addition to food stalls set up around the fireworks venue, stage performances and other events liven up the atmosphere, drawing large crowds of visitors.

Located in a corner of the Omachi Shopping District, this is a massive Akita dog sculpture measuring 4.6 meters in height and 4.8 meters in length. It was created by contemporary artist Yoshiaki Kurihara as an exhibit for the “Odate-Kitaakita Art Festival 2014: ‘Dogs in the Village, Bears in the Mountains,’” held in 2014.With the cooperation of local volunteers, the sculpture was completed in 2018. The sculpture is modeled after “Nono,” the Akita dog who served as the mascot for the Zerodate Art Center (now MARUWWA Nikome), which was located in the same shopping district at the time, during her puppy days.The main material used is “Super Sol,” a lightweight recycled material provided by Kitaaki Container in Odate City. Created with the hope that “it will become a place where new forms of communication arise, just as people meet and strike up conversations while walking their dogs,” the sculpture continues to attract tourists seeking a photo spot and local residents stopping by while walking their dogs. The sculpture is located in a spot that might make you exclaim, “Here of all places!?” Be sure to look for it while strolling through the good-old-fashioned Omachi Shopping Street, lined with long-established stores.

This large-scale event—highly recommended for groups of friends and families—lets you enjoy both fun, educational activities about the environment and one of the largest flea markets in the Okuaquita area all in one place. The venue is the “Nipro Hachiko Dome,” known as one of the world’s largest wooden domes. A wide variety of booths and programs will be featured in this spacious setting. At the “Odate City Eco Fair,” companies and organizations dedicated to recycling and environmental conservation will exhibit, introducing their respective businesses and initiatives. The event offers a fun way to learn about familiar topics such as waste reduction, resource recycling, and measures to combat global warming. Held concurrently, the “Mammoth Flea Market 20” features approximately 150 vendor stalls offering a wide variety of goods, including clothing, miscellaneous items, and handmade crafts. In addition to the fun of hunting for hidden gems, interacting with the vendors is another highlight of the event. In addition, there will be a farmers’ market section, food and beverage booths run by food trucks, and a play area for children, so you can enjoy the event all day long.

Katsuragi Park is the site of Odate Castle, the seat of the Satake Nishi clan, which held a fief of 8,000 koku. Although the castle fell during the Boshin War in the 4th year of Keiō, traces of its former glory still remain within the park, albeit faintly. Approximately 140 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees bloom in the park, attracting large crowds of local residents. During the festival, food stalls line the park, and the trees are illuminated at night, allowing visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms after dark.   🌸2026 Event Dates: April 18 (Sat) – April 29 (Wed, National Holiday) 🌸  

The “Yamada Memorial Road Race,” held to honor the achievements of marathon runner Keizo Yamada—a native of Odate City, Akita Prefecture, best known for winning the 1953 Boston Marathon—is an event that brings together runners of all ages and skill levels. The course, which allows runners to enjoy the scenic, nature-rich landscape of Odate, is designed to be enjoyable for everyone from beginners to competitive runners. The event aims to promote health through sports and foster community interaction, and the warm cheers and hospitality of the locals are one of its major attractions. At the “Nipro Hachiko Dome,” the starting and finishing point for runners, “DaTeFESTA” will be held concurrently, where participants can enjoy Odate City’s renowned cuisine and a variety of performances. The food and drink booths will feature a wide array of seasonal and local specialties, including exquisite “bamboo shoot soup” made with the bent bamboo native to Mt. Tashiro, rice bowls featuring Hinai Town’s specialty “tonburi” and Hinai-jidori chicken eggs, and smoked daikon radish! There’s plenty of fun to be had, including the hugely popular “Akita Dog Petting Experience” and performances by local artists! [Limited to 200 servings: Bamboo Shoot Soup from Mt. Tashiro] Both days, 10:30 a.m.– [Akita Dog Petting Experience (fee required)] Both days, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. [T-2O HIP HOP Live] 25th [103VoicelabO Talk Live] 25th [Odate Magewappa Taiko]—26th at 11:00

The Headquarters Exhibition, organized by the Akita Dog Preservation Society, is held every year on May 3. It is held with the aim of preserving the Akita dog—designated as a National Natural Monument—in its original form and promoting the breed. Individual evaluations are held in the morning, followed by comprehensive evaluations in the afternoon, with judges conducting detailed assessments based on the “Akita Dog Standard,” which serves as the judging criteria. The Akita Dog Preservation Society has branches all over the world, and each regional branch holds its own dog show; however, the Headquarters Show, held in Odate City—the “holy land” of the Akita dog—attracts the most attention, drawing more than 150 Akita dogs from around the globe. Also, don’t miss the exciting events at the venue, food stalls serving Akita cuisine, and the chance to meet local favorites such as “Hachi-kun,” Odate City’s tourism mascot, and “Kouraizer,” Odate’s local superhero. Please note that this is not a petting event. We ask that you refrain from approaching Akita dogs that are being judged or resting at the show without permission, or from doing anything that might attract their attention. [About the Shuttle Bus Service] On May 3 only, the “Hachiko Retro Bus” shuttle service will operate between Akita Inu no Sato and the venue (Odate City Hall parking lot). If you board the bus at Akita Inu no Sato, you’ll receive a raffle ticket to participate in the “Fun Raffle” for a chance to win fantastic prizes! *Limited to the first 200 passengers; tickets are distributed only when boarding at Akita Inu no Sato. Don’t forget—you can participate in the raffle at the event’s vendor area from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on May 3! Shuttle Bus Operator: Sakura Kanko Prize Sponsors: Sakura Kanko, Akita Hina-ya, JA Akita Kita, Hanazen, Hokushika, Akita Inu Tourism (in no particular order)