Discover the winter magic of Shirakami Sanchi, one of Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Snowshoe through pristine forests with a local guide, leave footprints in fresh powder, search for wildlife tracks, and finish your adventure with a comforting local lunch. This beginner-friendly experience is the perfect introduction to winter in rural Akita.

After your adventure, warm up with a delicious local lunch at Mori no Eki, making this an ideal half-day winter experience for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Highlights

Explore the snowy landscapes surrounding Shirakami Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage area
Suitable for beginners—no previous snowshoe experience required
Guided by a certified local nature guide
Snowshoes (or traditional Japanese kanjiki) and poles included
Enjoy a local lunch after your trek
Great for families with children aged 6 and above
Chance to discover wildlife footprints in untouched snow

What You’ll Experience

Your adventure begins at Mori no Eki, the gateway to Shirakami Sanchi.

After a short introduction to snowshoe walking, your local guide will lead you into the quiet winter forest. Walking at a relaxed pace, you’ll discover the beauty of deep snow, frozen trees, and the peaceful atmosphere unique to northern Japan.

This tour focuses on the foothills rather than steep mountain terrain, making it accessible even for those trying snowshoeing for the first time.

One of the most enjoyable moments is simply stepping off the trail and diving into the soft powder snow—a favorite photo opportunity for many visitors.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also find tracks left by wild animals that inhabit the forests around Shirakami Sanchi.

Lunch Included

After returning from the trek, enjoy your choice of lunch at the restaurant inside Mori no Eki. It’s the perfect way to warm up while sampling local flavors after your winter adventure.

Please note: Lunch is unavailable from December 27 to January 3 due to the restaurant’s seasonal closure. Tour prices are adjusted accordingly during this period.