Fujisato: Beech Forest, Wetland and Dance Tradition

A stay in Fujisato can focus on nature observation, hiking or traditional culture. In the Fujikoto district, the Fujikoto Hōsaku Odori is passed down as a traditional performing art. The beech forest, wetland and named mountain trails offer other specific reasons to explore the landscape. So if you are looking for a holiday rental, you can first decide what kind of stay you want based on these experiences.

Discover nature: forest and wetland

The Dakedai Nature Observation and Education Forest covers about 12 hectares of primeval beech forest. Trails wind between moss-covered giant trees and rocks; some sections are suitable for wheelchair users. The beech trees, moss and rocks offer specific features to observe, making the forest a special destination for anyone who enjoys exploring the landscape attentively.

A wooden boardwalk runs through the Tanashiro Wetland. From spring to summer, alpine plants bloom there, including skunk cabbage and Nikko kisuge (daylily). The flowering season provides a seasonal focus for planning your trip. In this way, you can compare the wetland and its seasonal plants with the beech forest and its giant trees, moss and rocks.

Hiking trails and winter access

Fujisato-Komagatake has two hiking trails: the Kuroishi Course and the Kabadai Course. Access to the mountain is restricted in winter. Take this into account when planning a mountain hike. The two named courses also give you a specific choice if hiking is to be the focus of your stay.

Nature experiences at the former school

Shirakami Bunakko Kyōshitsu Nature Experience School uses a former elementary school at the foot of Shirakami-Sanchi. Adults and children can take part in nature experiences. Activities include walks in the beech forest, playing by the river, gathering mountain vegetables and winter walks through the satoyama landscape. The activities range from walking and playing to gathering and winter outings. When choosing your day's activities, it makes a difference whether you would rather explore the forest, spend time by the river or experience the satoyama landscape in winter.

Dance tradition and September festival

The Fujikoto Hōsaku Odori is performed, among other occasions, at the annual September festival of Fujikoto-Asama Shrine. The performance there takes place every year on September 7 and 8; the dance is also shown on other occasions. Visitors can watch the Koma dance. Viewing is possible during a limited experience period and subject to confirmation. If the dance tradition is the reason for your trip, plan around the festival dates and take into account the conditions for the Koma dance experience.

When to visit and holiday rentals

When choosing a holiday rental, it helps to consider which experience you want to shape your trip. Spring to summer is the relevant period for flowering in the Tanashiro Wetland; for a mountain hike, bear the winter access restrictions in mind. If you are travelling to see the dance performance, you can plan your trip around the September festival dates.

Discover more destinations: Yamamoto District, Yuzawa, Yokote, Semboku, Kosaka, Noshiro, Uwamuki, Oga

For the regional travel overview: Akita Prefecture.