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

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)

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.

There is a spot on Mount Moriyoshi where you can admire “ice-covered trees,” a phenomenon that appears only from early January through early March. Frost-covered trees are a natural phenomenon that occurs only under specific conditions; they form when the branches and needles of the Aomori fir—a type of conifer—freeze on the surface due to wind and snow, and snow then accumulates on them. Because they resemble snow monsters, they are known as “Snow Monsters” even to visitors from overseas. The tree ice on Mount Moriyoshi is counted among the “Three Great Tree Ice Sites of Japan,” alongside Zao (Yamagata and Miyagi) and Hakkoda (Aomori). While tree ice typically forms only at high altitudes, Mount Moriyoshi is easily accessible for viewing via the gondola at Ani Ski Resort. Please check the official website for gondola operating hours. Ani Ski Resort Official Website: https://www.aniski.jp/ Another great perk during the winter season is that you can rent boots, snowshoes, and poles for free at the gondola’s summit station. You can also rent skis, snowboards, and other snow gear for a fee, allowing you to enjoy backcountry skiing through the ice-covered trees. Additionally, on the night tour—which uses a snow groomer equipped with a cabin—you can admire the white ice-covered trees floating in the darkness of the night, a sight not usually visible. (Available for a limited time) [How to Get to Ani Ski Resort] In recent years, the resort has seen an increase in visitors, which can lead to congestion in parking lots and on roads. Therefore, we recommend that guests arriving by car use the “Free Frosted Trees Viewing Shuttle Bus,” which also offers a discount on round-trip gondola fares. ⇩For details⇩ 2026年森吉山樹氷鑑賞スタート！オススメのアクセス方法をお知らせします！ In addition to the rime ice, the resort is open all four seasons. Don’t miss the beautiful flowers in spring, the lush greenery in summer, and the vibrant autumn foliage. Please see this article for more details. ゴンドラで行く森吉山

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

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！

Moriyoshi Ani Ski Resort is renowned for its abundant snowfall and high-quality powder snow. The resort features a gondola that takes you directly to the summit area at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters, as well as two lifts that let you choose the run that best suits your preferences. The slopes are designed for everyone from beginners to intermediate skiers and snowboarders, offering a wide variety of runs ranging from gentle to long. With a full selection of ski and snowboard equipment and clothing rentals available, you can enjoy the slopes without bringing a thing. The “Hands-Free Plan,” a great value package combining a lift ticket and rentals, is also popular. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy unique mountain experiences such as night tours and snowcat tours. In addition to the winter season from December to March, you can also enjoy spring skiing from early to late April. Also, don’t miss the chance to meet “Hokuto,” the Akita dog and mascot of Ani Ski Resort! Related Page: Mount Moriyoshi by Gondola Related Page: [One of Japan’s Three Great Ice-Covered Trees] The Ice-Covered Trees of Mount Moriyoshi

Located in Kami-Koani Village, Okuakita Hyakuwarai is a farmstay run by Takaaki and Taiki Suzuki—father and son—who operate “Tajuro Farm,” which cultivates Kami-Koani’s specialty crop, edible ground cherries.It is the village’s only lodging facility (as of October 2024) and is widely used for a variety of purposes, including long-term stays for workation, agricultural experience tours, and accommodations for travelers. The farm primarily grows edible ground cherries, as well as sweet potatoes and zucchini, and guests can participate in agricultural experiences upon request.In particular, the edible ground cherries—which Mr. Suzuki has dedicated many years to cultivating without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or herbicides—are a rare fruit even on a national scale. The golden-colored, sweet-and-sour fruit is a true delicacy that you simply must try at least once. With Akita City and Odate City about an hour away by car, and Odate-Noshiro Airport about 30 minutes away, transportation access to nearby areas is excellent. During your stay, Mr. Suzuki may even show you around local attractions. Why not spend some relaxing time in Kamikoani Village, surrounded by nature?   [Comment from Mr. Suzuki] “Why not refresh your mind and body in Kamikoani Village, rich in natural beauty? Enjoy unique experiences such as ‘half-farming, half-X’ agricultural activities, sightseeing in nearby remote towns and villages, and fun activities at food trucks, farm-stay direct sales stands, and roadside stations—including shaved ice,roasted sweet potatoes, and vegetables; firewood splitting and wood-burning stove experiences; mochi pounding using the ancestral zelkova “Uskine” mallet; kiritanpo making; sauna (planned); barrel baths; Goemon-style baths; cold water baths… There’s plenty of fun to be had with all these activities!”

Located in the Ani-ko-sama settlement in Kitaakita City, “Ryogetsusha Farm INN&ACTIVITY” is a farmstay where guests can gain a deep understanding of life in the mountains, nature, and the Matagi culture through hands-on experiences.It was founded by Nozomu Kimura—who moved to Ani inspired by the Matagi culture and now runs the farm while working as a Matagi—together with his wife, Liang Liang Zhang. The focus is not just on lodging but on allowing guests to experience the region’s charm. They offer a variety of activities, including hands-on farming experiences at the farm managed by Mr. Kimura, SUP and kayaking on Lake Shikibi (Moriyoshi Dam), and tent saunas in the great outdoors.Guests can also take the time to listen to stories unique to an active Matagi hunter—covering Matagi culture, wildlife, and hunting. The building is a renovated 120-year-old traditional farmhouse. In addition to a newly built shower room, the hosts will also guide you to nearby hot spring facilities. Located in a quiet rural area surrounded by rice paddies and rivers, this spot is highly recommended for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the satoyama landscape, with the murmur of the mountain stream serving as the perfect background music.

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

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

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 Moriyoshi-yama Dam, a rock-fill dam boasting the longest dam body in the Tohoku region (786 m) The scenery at Lake Moriyoshi Shikibi, the reservoir of the Moriyoshi-yama Dam, is breathtaking. The dam was constructed with great care to minimize damage to the natural environment, so even today, visitors can enjoy the rich natural beauty of Mt. Moriyoshi. Dam tours are free. At “Nemorida,” the observation café located inside the Moriyoshi-yama Dam Information Center, the “Moriyoshi-yama Dam Curry” is served on weekends, limited to 20 servings per day. Be sure to enjoy this along with your visit to the dam. https://visitakita.com/tourist-guide/gourmet3/   Every September, the “Moriyoshi Shikibi Lake Festival” is held, where you can enjoy local cuisine, a band contest, water activities, and more. 森吉四季美湖まつり   [Event Information] ・Moriyoshiyama Dam Tanabata Light-Up Event Dates: July 3 (Fri) – 7 (Tue), 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Flyer: Tanabata Light-Up 2026 ・Moriyoshi Dam: Dam Exploration Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026 Advance Registration: By Thursday, July 16. See the flyer for details. Flyer: Dam Exploration 2026

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.

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

Hachijo is a type of plant-dyed silk fabric that originated on Hachijō Island. This craft spread throughout the country, and in Akita, a technique was developed to dye the fabric a distinctive “tori-iro” (magpie gray) using the roots of wild roses growing along the coast as a dye, earning it a reputation as “Akita Silk” and “Akita Yellow Hachijo.” In Heisei 15, the only workshop in Akita City ceased operations, bringing its history to a temporary close; however, it was revived in Heisei 18 in Kitaakita City, and today, “Kotomu Kobo” in Kitaakita City is the sole producer in the prefecture. In addition to bolts of fabric, the workshop offers a variety of products, including ties, pencil cases, and wallets. *The workshop is operated by two artisans. Please note that the artisans may be away even on days other than regular holidays, so if you wish to visit, please be sure to contact us in advance. The roads near the workshop are very narrow, making it difficult for large buses to access the site.

“Nimata-so” is a 130-year-old traditional Japanese house located in the Nekko hamlet of the Ani region in Kitaakita City. After the passing of its former owner, the Ani no Mori Buna Hotel renovated the building and now operates it as an annex. Several times a year, events are held where guests can enjoy country-style cuisine in the spacious tatami-mat room. The Nekko hamlet is a hidden gem among hidden gems, home to legends of defeated samurai. This land, which has fostered a unique culture due to its geographical conditions, is known as the “birthplace of the Matagi.” Furthermore, the “Nekko Bangaku” performance, staged every year during the Obon festival, has been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. Experience a Traditional Farmhouse Through Cuisine and Relaxation In spring, you can enjoy dishes made with wild mountain vegetables, and in fall, dishes featuring mushrooms. Why not experience the laid-back rural lifestyle while listening to the babbling waters of the Nezo River? To make a reservation (for rest, meals, etc.), please contact the affiliated facility, “Ani no Mori Buna Hotel.”Please note that meal reservations are available only for groups of 10 or more. Also, due to preparation requirements, please make your reservation at least three days prior to your visit. [Ani no Mori Buna Hotel] [Postal Code] 018-4624 [Address] 206 Ani Kagi-no-Taki, Kitaakita City, Akita Prefecture [Phone] 0186-82-2400 [Fax] 0186-82-3630 [Email] ani_bunahotel@yahoo.co.jp

The Spirit of the Matagi: “Matagiyama Sword.” The workshop of Minoru Nishine, the third-generation master blacksmith of the Nagasa school—who was himself a Matagi—has been preserved exactly as it was during his lifetime, and visitors are welcome to tour it. Currently, his wife, Seiko, carefully maintains the workshop. She not only explains the Matagi Soul “Matagiyama Sword” but also shares valuable stories about Minoru, who was both a Matagi and a Nagasa blacksmith. While the swords are available for purchase, we invite you to come first and foremost to experience the spirit of the Matagi and to meet the gentle, smiling Seiko.