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

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

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)

This archaeological site, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2021, consists primarily of a stone circle dating from the early phase of the Late Jōmon Period (approximately 4,000 years ago). Discovered during an archaeological survey conducted prior to the construction of the access road to Odate-Noshiro Airport, the site has been carefully preserved in situ thanks to the dedicated efforts of local residents and stakeholders. To date, excavations have uncovered four stone circles as the central feature, along with stone arrangements, the remains of post-hole structures, pit graves, post holes, and trench-like features. Although nearly 200 clay figurines have been unearthed from the Ise-dōdai Site, most were found in fragments—possibly broken as part of a ritual—and only one has been successfully restored to its original form. When visiting the site, we recommend taking a guided tour led by members of the “Ise-dōdai Site Working Group.” Exploring the site with locals who know it inside and out will allow you to enjoy the Ise-dōdai Site even more. *Guided tours require a reservation. At the “Ise-dōdai Jōmon Museum,” visitors are greeted by a massive monument of a plate-shaped clay figurine excavated from a pit grave at Circular Stone Alignment B. You can also enjoy exhibits of artifacts, including the display case featuring the clay figurine, as well as the museum shop, which carries original merchandise from the Ise-dōdai Site. It is also the venue for the Kita-Akita City Jōmon Festival, held with the aim of fostering interest in Jōmon culture. 北秋田市縄文まつり

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

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.

Currently, some hiking trails are closed. The accessible trail takes about 15 minutes on foot to reach Kobusugi. Since this area is deep in the mountains, please come prepared with appropriate gear for trekking and to handle encounters with wildlife. About a 5-minute drive from the Obayashi hamlet, amidst a vast forest, stand natural Akita cedar trees over 250 years old. Amidst a grove of some 700 giant trees stands the “Kobu Cedar,” a tree with a particularly peculiar shape that seems to gaze up at the sky and down at the earth. This giant tree was selected in Heisei 12 for the Forestry Agency’s “Top 100 Giants of the Forest” list. It is carefully preserved as a symbol of the village and as a mysterious space woven by nature.

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.

The park opened in 1990 as the Ani Bear Ranch and reopened in 2014 as Kumakuma Park. Inside the park, there is Bear Mountain, where visitors can observe Asian black bears, and the Brown Bear House, where visitors can observe brown bears through glass. During the park’s operating season, events are held where you can interact with newborn cubs, and you can also feed the Asian black bears with food sold at the park. Hanako, the wife of the late “Gonta the Brown Bear” who appeared in the movie “Matagi,” will also be there to greet you. [Annual Event Schedule] Click or tap to go to the official website. ・Golden Week Events ・Summer Vacation Events ・Halloween Events ・Photo Contest

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.

A 94.2-kilometer local line that runs through the inland region of Akita Prefecture from Kakunodate to Takano. The area is blessed with abundant natural beauty, including the historic town of Kakunodate—known for its beautiful blackboard-style fences—and the birthplace of the Matagi hunting culture at the foot of Mount Moriyoshi. The scenery visible from the train window is truly a quintessential Japanese landscape.Please enjoy the “Mountain Resort Train,” where you can experience the “good old days” of Japan. [Event Trains Are Also Recommended!] In addition to the hugely popular “Gottsuo Tamatebako Train,” where you can savor seasonal dishes prepared by local farmers’ wives right on board, we host numerous events that let you enjoy Akita’s four seasons, such as the “Sake Tasting Train,” “A Satoyama Stroll with the President,” and the “Bread Train” featuring rice paddy art.Enjoy a special journey as the train gently sways through breathtaking scenery. Click here for details and reservations for the Akita Inland Line’s “Smile Rail” event train >> [Cycle Train “Bicycle Transport Service” / Bike Rentals] 秋田内陸線サイクルトレイン「自転車輸送サービス」/レンタサイクル開始のお知らせ [“Crayon Shin-chan” Wrapped Train in Service] 「クレヨンしんちゃん」ラッピング車両運行＆オリジナル観光案内放送のお知らせ！ [Collaboration “Tetsu-in” Stamps Featuring the President and the Akita Dog “Mutsu” Now Available!] 【秋田内陸縦貫鉄道】社長×秋田犬陸奥コラボ鉄印発売決定！

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.

As you step into the Central Hall, which serves as the exhibition space for the giant taiko drums, the imposing sight of the drums lined up in a row immediately catches your eye. Among the giant taiko drums currently on display, there are six that exceed 2 meters in diameter—including one registered in the Guinness World Records.The largest one, from Kamimachi, has a diameter of 3.8 meters and weighs 3.5 metric tons. More than 140 drums collected from 40 countries around the world are also on display, and there are many that visitors can actually try playing. The “Tsuzuri-ko Grand Drum Festival” (held on July 14 and 15), said to have been held for about 700 years, starts from the Grand Drum Museum, so this is also a must-see. Audio guides introducing the long-standing Grand Drum Festival and the exhibits have also been introduced.If you have a smartphone, you can listen to commentary not only in Japanese but also in English and Chinese. Since the commentary is also displayed in text, people with hearing impairments can easily learn about the exhibits at the Odaiko Museum. Related Event: Tsuzuri Shrine Annual Grand Festival Related Event: Kitaakita City Takanosu Taiko Festival

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 term “Matagi” refers to people who, since ancient times, have ventured deep into the mountains to hunt bears and other animals as their livelihood. The Ani region of Akita Prefecture, in particular, is said to be the birthplace of the Matagi and is famous nationwide as the “Village of the Matagi.” The “Matagi Museum,” located adjacent to the Uchito Onsen Matagi-no-Yu hot spring, displays a large collection of Matagi attire and hunting tools, making it a fascinating place to visit—both from an academic perspective and for learning about local culture. In addition, taxidermy specimens of animals inhabiting the Ani area are on display, offering insight into the local ecosystem. Audio guides introducing the fascinating Matagi culture have also been introduced. If you have a smartphone, you can listen to explanations not only in Japanese but also in English and Chinese. Additionally, since the information is displayed in text, people with hearing impairments can also learn about Matagi culture with ease.

The Nakano-mata Gorge is an 8-kilometer-long gorge that forms the deepest part of Oku-Ani, and “Yasu Falls” is located in the upper reaches of the Nakano-mata Gorge. With a drop of 90 meters, this stunning two-tiered waterfall is one of the most iconic in the Ani region. The white, curtain-like cascade hanging from the rugged cliffs contrasts beautifully with the surrounding fresh greenery and autumn foliage, leaving visitors deeply moved. A tragic love story involving a man named Yasu and a woman named Kyutaro is passed down in connection with “Yasu Falls.” The couple’s deep love for one another has been passed down through the generations, and it is said that visiting this waterfall will make one’s romantic wishes come true. Even today, on moonlit nights, it is said that you can sometimes see Yasu combing her black hair against the backdrop of this majestic scenery.

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.

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.