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.

In 2022, Pizzeria Bosco del Nord opened about a 2-minute drive from Hokushu no Mori Park. Their pizzas—made from scratch, one by one, and baked in an electric stone oven—are absolutely exquisite, with a chewy texture that’s simply irresistible.The menu features classic Neapolitan pizzas like Margherita and Pescatore, as well as creative pizzas made with ingredients sourced from the prefecture and Kitaakita. Among these, the pizza made with Ani Miso—a specialty of Kitaakita City—is a popular choice, perfectly blending Japanese flavors with Italian cheese.In addition to pizza, the restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh pasta, desserts, and drinks. The interior, renovated from a vacant log cabin, boasts an exceptional atmosphere and a cozy ambiance. The open-air terrace seating provides a sense of spaciousness, and guests are welcome to bring their pets. Pizza is also available for takeout—it’s highly recommended as a snack for camping or picnics at Hokushu no Mori Park. The bread, sold exclusively on Fridays and Saturdays, is also extremely popular. Made using only domestic ingredients and baked without additives or artificial colors, it attracts customers who come specifically for the bread. We also sell “R-ONE,” a line of additive- and dye-free dog treats, so dog lovers are encouraged to stop by.

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

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

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.  

Fairy Forest Cottage Raul is located at the foot of Mount Moriyoshi in Akita Prefecture. In addition to Nordic-style cottages, mountain lodges, and campgrounds—accommodations designed to suit every guest’s preferences—we offer outdoor sports activities that can be enjoyed throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Our facilities are perfect for both groups and families.

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.