Local DirectionsTravel information and directions to local spots

Culture & Attractionsmuseums, experiences, events, etc.
Food & Shoppingrestaurants, shopping, centers, etc.
Nature & Wellnessparks, nature, outdoors, onsen, etc.
1
1-2-300x300-1.jpg)
Kaneyu
Kaneyu is a historical restaurant that served the elite back in the day. During the heyday of Noshiro City’s lumber industry, it was a popular place for important business meetings.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
20 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 20 minute drive to KANEYU.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Noshiro Station to Kaneyu
Kaneyu
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
5 min.
- Take the JR GONO LINE to NOSHIRO STATION
Noshiro Station
10 min.
~
15 min.- Option 1: Taxi
Take a taxi from Noshiro Station to Kaneyu
- Option 2: Walk
It's about a 15 min. walk from Noshiro Station to Kaneyu
Kaneyu
2

Noshiro Basketball Library and Museum
A dream spot for basketball fans. The museum has memorabilia from the local high school that is nationally renowned for its basketball team and is said to have been the model for the popular manga & anime “Slam Dunk”. There are also basketball themed interactive experiences.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
10 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 20 minute drive to Noshiro Basketball Museum.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Noshiro Basketball Museum
Noshiro Basketball Library and Museum
Noshiro Basketball Library and Museum
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
5 min.
- Take the JR GONO LINE to NOSHIRO STATION
Noshiro Station
10
~
15 min.- Option 1: Taxi (10 min)
Take a taxi from Noshiro Station to Noshiro Basketball Museum
- Option 2: Walk
It's about a 15 min. walk from Noshiro Station to Noshiro Basketball Library and Museum
Noshiro Basketball Library and Museum
3

Tenku no Fuyajo Festival
A modern festival inspired by ancient tradition. Come see the Japan’s tallest castle-shaped lantern float, towering at 24.1 meters being paraded in Noshiro City every year in early August.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
5 min.
- Take the JR GONO LINE to NOSHIRO STATION
Noshiro Station
11 min.
- It is about a 11 minute walk from the station to the festival and parade route.
Tenku no Fuyajo Festival
4

Akita Dog Center “Noshiro Kojuso”
Akita dogs are one of Japan’s most iconic breeds. Here, visitors can interact with them and even take them for a walk. Don’t forget to make a reservation with the owner in advance through Instagram!
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car
Higashi-Noshiro Station
20 min.
- It is about a 20 minute drive to Akita Dog Center "Noshiro Kojuso".
Akita Dog Center “Noshiro Kojuso”
-
Via taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
20 min.
- A taxi from the station to the Akita Dog Center "Noshiro Kojuso" takes about 20 minutes.
Akita Dog Center “Noshiro Kojuso”
5

Kimimachizaka Park
This park holds a romantic history. From the eternal love bell to the Koibumi Shrine where visitors can pray for romance, the theme of love is present throughout. The park is also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage. There’s a small café and short walking trails to enjoy as well.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
30 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 30 minute drive to Kimimachizaka Park.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Kimimachizaka Park.
Kimimachizaka Park
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
5 min.
- Take the JR OU MAIN LINE to FUTATSUI STATION
Futatsui Station
20 min.
~
50 min.- Option 1: Taxi
Take a taxi from Futatsui Station to Kimimachizaka Park.
- Option 2: Walk
It's about a 50 min. walk from Futatsui Station to Kimimachizaka Park.
Kimimachizaka Park
6

Roadside Station Kotooka
The rest stop has a unique appearance inspired by ancient earthenware. At the three buildings here you can enjoy many local specialties from junsai to drinks made from locally harvested plums.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
30 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 30 minute drive to Roadside Station Kotooka.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Roadside Station Kotooka.
Roadside Station Kotooka
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
21 min.
- Take the JR OU MAIN LINE to KADO STATION
Kado Station
10 min.
~
40 min.- Option 1: Taxi
Take a taxi from Kado Station to Roadside Station Kotooka.
- Option 2: Walk
It's about a 40 min. walk from Kado Station to Roadside Station Kotooka.
Roadside Station Kotooka
7

Kotooka Central Park
This scenic trail is open year-round, featuring seasonal wildflowers, gentle slopes for a light workout, and great views of Shirakami Sanchi and Lake Hachiro from the observatory. You might even spot small wildlife along the way.
It’s also a popular spot in Mitane Town for walking with an Akita dog—a unique experience you can book through ACTIVITY JAPAN.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
30 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 30 minute drive to Kotooka Central Park.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higash-Noshiro Station to Kotooka Central Park.
Kotooka Central Park
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
21 min.
- Take the JR OU MAIN LINE to KADO STATION
Kado Station
10 min.
~
30 min.- Option 1: Taxi
Take a taxi from Kado Station to Kotooka Central Park.
- Option 2: Walk
It's about a 40 min. walk from Kado Station to Kotooka Central Park.
Kotooka Central Park
8

Moritake Onsen Neighborhood
Moritake Onsen Village offers hot springs and foot baths. The mineral-rich waters, originally discovered during oil drilling, are known for their long-lasting warmth and skin-smoothing effects. It’s also famous for being one of Japan’s rare saline hot springs—a truly unique experience.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
25 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 25 minute drive to Moritake Onsen Neighborhood.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higash-Noshiro Station to Moritake Onsen Neighborhood.
Moritake Onsen Neighborhood
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
15 min.
- Take the JR OU MAIN LINE to MORITAKE STATION
Moritake Station
10 min.
~
40 min.- Option 1: Taxi
Take a taxi from Moritake Station to Moritake Onsen Neighborhood.
- Option 2: Walk
It's about a 40 min. walk from Moritake Station to Moritake Onsen Neighborhood.
Moritake Onsen Neighborhood
9

Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata-Kan
A unique open-air bath inspired by local fishing boats awaits you here. From the spacious public bath on the first floor, you can soak while taking in a stunning view of the Sea of Japan.
In addition to day-use hot springs, the facility also offers delicious seafood meals and overnight stays—making it a rare and valuable lodging spot along the Gono Line.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
35 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 35 minute drive to Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata-Kan.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata-Kan.
Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata-Kan
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
40 min.
- Take the JR GONO LINE to AKITASHIRAKAMI STATION
Akitashirakami Station
3 min.
- It's about a 3 min. walk from Akitashirakami Station to Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata-Kan.
Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata-Kan
10

Kanoura Observatory
Kanoura Observatory, located along Route 101, is a scenic viewpoint with a few snack shops nearby—making it an ideal rest stop for road trippers.
It’s especially recommended to visit in the evening or during winter when the snow-covered landscape creates a stunning contrast with the Sea of Japan.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
2 hrs.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 2 hour drive to Kanoura Observatory.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Kanoura Observatory.
Kanoura Observatory
- Option 1: Rental Car
11
2-600x424.jpg)
Ponpoko Yama Park
This seaside park, nestled within a coastal pine forest, is a beloved spot for relaxation. In summer, the blooming lavender adds a touch of vibrant beauty.
The park also features a campsite, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors and experience camping.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
20 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 20 minute drive to Ponpoko Yama Park.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Ponpoko Yama Park.
Ponpoko Yama Park
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
20 min.
- Take the JR GONO LINE to KITANOSHIRO STATION
Kitanoshiro Station
3 min.
- It's about a 20 min. walk from Kitanoshiro Station to Ponpoko Yama Park.
Ponpoko Yama Park
12

Dakedai Nature Education Forest
If you’re curious about Shirakami Sanchi but not ready for a full hike, the Taketai Nature Observation Forest is an easy way to explore its beech forests—just wear comfortable shoes.
The 12-hectare trail is well-maintained and surrounded by moss-covered trees and rocks, offering a peaceful forest bathing experience.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car
Higashi-Noshiro Station
1.5 hrs
- It is about a 1.5 hour drive to Dakedai Nature Education Forest.
Dakedai Nature Education Forest
-
Via taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
1.5 hrs.
- Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Dakedai Nature Education Forest.
Dakedai Nature Education Forest
13

Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center
The Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Center (Fujisato-kan), at the southern foothills of Shirakami, offers a fun and informative way to learn about this UNESCO site.
Since the forest’s value isn’t always obvious, be sure to hear the explanations from the natural advisors on site.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car / taxi
Higashi-Noshiro Station
40 min.
- Option 1: Rental Car
It is about a 40 minute drive to Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center.
- Option 2: Taxi
Take a taxi from Higashi-Noshiro Station to Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center.
Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center
- Option 1: Rental Car
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
16 min.
- Take the JR OU MAIN LINE to FUTATSUI STATION
Futatsui Station
30 min.
- Take a taxi from Futatsui Station to Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center.
The cost of a taxi is about 5800 yen one way (as of May 2025)
Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center
14

Juniko Lakes
Juniko Twelve Lakes (meaning “12 lakes” in Japanese) is a group of 33 ponds and lakes. The area is stunning and perfect for walking and exploring.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car
Higashi-Noshiro Station
1 hr.
20 min.- It is about a 1 hour 20 minute drive to Juniko Lakes.
Juniko Lakes
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
1 hr.
8 min.- Take the JR GONO LINE to JUNIKO STATION
Juniko Station
15 min.
- Take the bus to Jiniko Lakes
Juniko Lakes
15

Furofushi Onsen
Furofushi Onsen is a coastal inn at Koganezaki, near Shirakami Sanchi, with stunning sunset views over the Sea of Japan.
Its unique gourd-shaped open-air bath offers unbeatable scenery and a relaxing atmosphere.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car
Higashi-Noshiro Station
1 hr.
20 min.- It is about a 1 hour 20 minute drive to Furofushi Onsen.
Furofushi Onsen
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
1 hr.
30 min.- Take the JR GONO LINE to HENASHI STATION
Henashi Station
15 min.
- Walk for about 15 min. to Furofushi Onsen
Furofushi Onsen
16

Hirosaki Park
Hirosaki Park is a famous spot known for its spectacular cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn colors.
The park features a historic castle, scenic walking paths, and seasonal beauty that attracts visitors year-round.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car
Higashi-Noshiro Station
2 hr.
- It is about a 2 hour drive to Hirosaki Park.
Hirosaki Park
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
15 min.
- Take the JR OU MAIN LINE to HIROSAKI STATION
Hirosaki Station
10 min.
~
30 min.- Option 1: Bus
Take the bus from Hirosaki Station to Hirosaki Park. The bus to Hirosaki Park runs about every 10 minutes.
- Option 2: Walk
It's about a 30 min. walk from Hirosaki Station to Hirosaki Park.
Hirosaki Park
17

Akita Dog Visitor Center
The Center features the Akita Dog Museum and a souvenir corner, as well as the Akita Dog Exhibition Room where visitors can meet real Akita dogs.
Google Maps
Route details
-
Via rental car
Higashi-Noshiro Station
1 hr.
- It is about a 1 hour drive to the Akita Dog Visitor Center.
Akita Dog Visitor Center
-
Via train
Higashi-Noshiro Station
50 min.
- Take the JR OU MAIN LINE to ODATE STATION
Odate Station
5 min.
- Walk about 5 min from the station to the Akita Dog Visitor Center
Akita Dog Visitor Center
こんにちは、
秋田犬の里
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Akita Dog Visitor Center
こんにちは、
弘前公園
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Hirosaki Park
こんにちは、
不老不死温泉
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Furofushi Onsen
こんにちは、
十二湖
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Juniko Lakes
こんにちは、
白神山地世界遺産センター
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center
こんにちは、
岳岱自然観察教育林
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Dakedai Nature Education Forest
こんにちは、
ポンポコ山公園
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Ponpoko Yama Park
こんにちは、
鹿之浦展望台
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Kanoura Observatory
こんにちは、
ハタハタ館
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata-Kan
こんにちは、
森岳温泉郷
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Moritake Onsen Neighborhood
こんにちは、
ことおか中央公園
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Kotooka Central Park
こんにちは、
道の駅 ことおか
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Roadside Station Kotooka
こんにちは、
きみまち阪公園
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Kimimachizaka Park
こんにちは、
幸壽莊
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Akita Dog Center “Noshiro Kojuso”
こんにちは、
天空の不夜城
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Tenku no Fuyajo Festival
こんにちは、
能代バスケミュージアム
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Noshiro Basketball Library and Museum
こんにちは、
能代市旧料亭金勇
までお願いします。
Hello,
Please take me to:
Kaneyu