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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

■A museum that preserves the history of the “Ani Mine,” which made its name known throughout Japan. Inside the museum, you’ll find mineral specimens—including chalcopyrite mined from the Ani Mine, as well as pyrite and galena—along with tools used in the mine and valuable historical documents such as the survey report on the Ani Mine by German engineer Meggel. You can also view the costumes and masks of “Nezo Bangaku,” an intangible cultural asset representative of Ani. Free guides are available for those who wish to explore the museum in detail. Additionally, we have introduced a picture-story show to provide visual explanations that make the exhibits easier to understand. Reservations are required to view this presentation, so please contact the Heritage Museum or the Foreigners’ House. ■“Ijin-kan”: Former Foreign Officials’ Quarters and Office for the Ani Mine Of the two buildings originally constructed in Meiji 12 as official residences for German engineers—including Adolf Meggel—who arrived at the mine, the one that remains today is the Ijin-kan. It is a Renaissance-style Gothic building, said to have been designed by Meggel himself. The structure is a single-story brick building with a gabled roof; the walls are made of bricks fired from local clay.The semicircular windows are sash-type, with shutters on the outside, and the building is surrounded by a wooden veranda, giving it an exotic atmosphere. It is connected underground to the Denshokan (Tradition Museum) next door, and the walls of that passageway are designed to resemble a mine tunnel.

The melodies of classic songs such as “Song of the Beach” and “Kanariya” continue to stir our hearts with a fresh sense of emotion, even after more than half a century and across generations. In what kind of environment, and how, were these masterpieces created? At the “Song of the Beach Music Museum,” you can learn about the history and achievements of composer Tamezo Narita’s musical career from various perspectives. In the listening room on the first floor, you can listen to his representative songs as well as other iconic Japanese art songs and children’s songs. On the second floor, there is a robot that looks just like Tamezo Narita, which plays his signature songs on an automatic piano.

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

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

When you think of Matagi no Sato, you think of bears. At the restaurant “Shikari,” we offer a menu featuring bear meat. Bear meat is said to have a warming effect on the body and is considered highly nourishing. It’s also rich in collagen and provides dietary fiber and vitamins, which is why it’s known in China as a high-end ingredient with beauty benefits. You can order bear meat at “Shikari” anytime during business hours without a reservation. However, please note that bear meat is a rare and hard-to-find ingredient, so it may occasionally be sold out.

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.

“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.