Experience Overview

Walk through the beautiful Dakedai Beech Forest with a local Shirakami guide, where you’ll discover the rich ecology and stories of the forest while exploring an area preserved in the same natural condition as the UNESCO World Heritage core zone.

After the hike, experience Nabekko, a beloved local tradition unique to Akita. Rather than simply eating lunch, you’ll prepare and enjoy Kiritanpo Nabe or Damako Nabe together outdoors, surrounded by nature. Similar to a picnic, Nabekko is a cherished way for family and friends to gather around a hot pot and share a meal in the open air.

This private experience offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy Akita’s natural beauty, food culture, and local traditions in a relaxed setting.

Highlights

• Private guided hike through Dakedai Beech Forest
• Learn about the nature and ecology of Shirakami Sanchi from a local guide
• Experience Nabekko, Akita’s traditional outdoor hot pot picnic culture
• Cook and enjoy Kiritanpo Nabe or Damako Nabe in nature
• Visit the scenic Garo Waterfall
• Flexible start time available upon request

Sample Itinerary

9:00 Meet at Shirakami Sanchi Mori no Eki and drive to the trailhead.
10:00 Guided hike through Dakedai Beech Forest.
12:30 Outdoor Nabe lunch in nature.
1:30 PM Drive to Garo Waterfall and enjoy a short visit.
2:30 PM Tour ends at Shirakami Sanchi Mori no Eki.

The itinerary is flexible. Start times can be adjusted (for example, 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM) upon request.

Choose Your Nabe

When booking, please choose one of the following:

A. Kiritanpo Nabe

Akita’s most famous hot pot made with grilled mashed rice sticks.

B. Damako Nabe

A local variation made with soft rice balls instead of grilled rice sticks.

Both dishes use the same delicious broth and ingredients—the only difference is the shape of the rice.

Typical Ingredients

• Kiritanpo or Damako (your choice)
• Chicken
• Local soup broth
• Burdock root
• Maitake mushrooms
• Spring onions
• Japanese parsley (seri)
• Konjac noodles

Ingredients may vary depending on seasonal availability.

Transportation

Guests are asked to arrange their own transportation (private car or rental car) from the meeting point to the hiking area. Your guide will ride with your group.

If you are unable to arrange a vehicle, transportation can be provided at an additional cost. Please contact us for pricing, as the fee depends on the size of your group.