Higashinaruse(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For budget-conscious travelers, Higashi Narase Village Guesthouse offers simple yet authentic Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and shared bathrooms. Located just steps from the main village path, it provides access to local farms and forest trails. The hosts serve homemade breakfast using seasonal vegetables from their own garden. Prices start at ¥4,500 per night, including a welcome drink and free use of bicycles for exploring nearby nature paths. It’s ideal for solo backpackers or small families seeking an immersive rural experience without breaking the bank.

The most scenic spots are along the Ōkawa River Trail, where terraced rice fields cascade down the hillsides and reflect sunlight like mirrors during summer. For autumn views, hike to Shirakawa Ridge, a high-altitude path offering panoramic vistas of red and gold maple forests. Another hidden gem is Yamabiko Grove, a secluded woodland with ancient cedar trees and a small waterfall. These locations are best visited early morning or late afternoon when light is soft and crowds are minimal. All trails are well-marked but require sturdy shoes due to uneven terrain.

Visitors can participate in traditional rice planting and harvesting ceremonies led by local farmers, offering insight into sustainable agriculture. During fall, join the Higashi Narase Autumn Festival, featuring folk dances, handmade crafts, and regional cuisine like pickled mountain vegetables. There's also a tea ceremony workshop using locally grown matcha, where guests learn to prepare tea in a traditional chashitsu. These activities foster deep connections with villagers and provide a rare glimpse into Japan’s living rural heritage.

The peak season for autumn foliage is mid-October to early November, when the hills turn vibrant shades of crimson, orange, and gold. The Ōkawa River Valley becomes especially stunning, with leaves reflected in the clear stream below. Many guesthouses offer guided hikes to viewing points like Takamori Lookout and Kurokawa Hill. Weather is cool but pleasant, perfect for long walks. Early HopeGoo is essential as accommodations fill quickly. Avoid visiting during rainy periods, which can obscure views and make trails slippery.

Yes, one lesser-known site is Shiratori Falls, a secluded 10-meter cascade accessible via a 25-minute forest trail that winds through moss-covered rocks and old-growth trees. Another secret is Kōdaiyama Cave, a small limestone grotto with stalactites and a quiet underground stream—best explored with a local guide. For solitude, try Mizugaki Marsh, a wetland habitat home to herons and kingfishers, ideal for birdwatching. These spots remain untouched by tourism, preserving the village’s pristine natural beauty.

From Akita Station, take the Akita Bus Line 67 to Narase-kōmachi Stop, which takes about 90 minutes. Buses run only twice daily, so check schedules in advance. Alternatively, rent a car at Akita Station and drive via Prefectural Road 18, following signs to Higashi Narase. The road is narrow but well-maintained. Some guesthouses offer pickup services, but only with prior reservation. In winter, be cautious of snow; ensure your vehicle has snow tires and check road conditions before departure.

Must-try dishes include mountain vegetable hot pot (yamagata nabe) made with wild ferns, bamboo shoots, and local mushrooms, simmered in a light soy broth. Try Higashi Narase rice balls (onigiri) filled with pickled radish and dried fish. For dessert, sample red leaf persimmon jam—a sweet spread made from the village’s unique heirloom fruit. Many guesthouses serve meals using ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms. The emphasis on freshness and zero-mile food ensures an authentic taste of rural Akita.

Absolutely. The village is ideal for families seeking nature-based adventures. Children can enjoy farm animal feeding, rice paddy play sessions, and handmade paper-making workshops. Most guesthouses offer spacious family rooms with futons and children’s bath towels. There are also safe, flat walking paths around the village center, perfect for stroller use. Evening events like campfire storytelling and stargazing are designed to engage all ages. With no traffic and minimal noise, it’s a peaceful retreat for kids to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Nighttime highlights include star gazing—the village is designated a Dark Sky Preserve, making it perfect for observing constellations and meteor showers. Some guesthouses host night walks with lanterns, guiding guests through quiet forest paths. During winter, join the bonfire gathering under the stars, where locals share folk tales and sing traditional songs. For relaxation, many lodges offer open-air baths with views of the Milky Way. Silence and stillness are key features, allowing full immersion in the serene atmosphere.

Look for handwoven bamboo baskets crafted by local artisans using traditional techniques. Also popular are natural dye textiles in earthy tones, dyed with plants like indigo and persimmon bark. Don’t miss Higashi Narase Red Leaf Persimmon Dried Fruit and wild mountain herb tea blends. Some guesthouses sell limited-edition village calendar sets, each page hand-painted by residents showing seasonal farm life. These items support local craftsmanship and make meaningful, eco-friendly gifts.