2025 Edition! Let's enjoy driving, hiking, and the Hukubari Autumn Foliage Festival at Akita's autumn color spot [Lake Tazawa] and [Hukubari Canyon]!

  • Akita
  • Sightseeing
Hodogari Gorge, famous for its fresh greenery and autumn leaves, is a 10-km-long gorge that runs along the middle reaches of the Tamagawa River, which flows through Lake Tazawa and Kakunodate. The canyon is open to traffic until the Iimura Boy's Monument, and there are many spots along the way! Here are some recommendations for a 40-minute hike.

Visit Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, before going to Hukomeri Valley.

If you want to drive, the area around Lake Tazawa is recommended.

Lake Tazawa is approximately 20 km in circumference and can be circled by car in about 30 to 40 minutes. There are various stores around Lake Tazawa, where you can take a break and enjoy yourself. The north and south sides of the lake offer different views of Lake Tazawa, so it is a good idea to drive around while looking for your favorite spot!
The contrast between the blue of the lake and the red and yellow of the autumn leaves is eye-catching!

Hiking in Hodogari Valley, famous for its autumn leaves

Named after the narrow and steep mountain road

Hodogari Valley is a 10-km-long valley that runs along the middle reaches of the Tamagawa River, which flows through Lake Tazawa and Kakunodate, and is known as the "Yabakei of Tohoku" and is famous for its fresh green leaves and autumn foliage. The name "Hagori-gori" comes from the fact that the mountain road was so narrow and steep that people had to hug each other back when passing each other to get through.
The canyon is 10 km long.

Start hiking!

The path, which was very narrow in the past, has now been paved for hiking. There are few ups and downs along the way, but comfortable walking clothes and sneakers are recommended. Turn left at the stone monument of Hagaraki Canyon, and you will find the entrance to the trail.
Paved road
Mikoishi (maiden stone) can be seen on the right
After a 6-minute walk from there, you will see a red suspension bridge. The 80-meter-long red suspension bridge is called "Kami no iwa-bashi (God's rock bridge)" and was built in 1926 for the forest track. It is the oldest suspension bridge in Akita Prefecture and offers a spectacular view of the valley and blue water.
The red bridge stands out amidst the autumn leaves

Kaikou-no-taki waterfall

The Kaikeno-Taki Waterfall is one of the most famous spots in the Hagaraki Valley. Kaikou-no-taki Falls, with its seasonal expressions, was so named because it is so beautiful that you will look back again and again.
Kaikou-no-taki waterfall
After passing the Kaiken-no-taki Waterfall, it is a 40-minute hiking course to the Iimura Boy's Monument. Hogareri Canyon, which shows different expressions from season to season, looks forward to seeing what it will look like during the fall foliage. We hope you will tour around Lake Tazawa and Hodogari Valley to find your favorite spots!

Hodogari Valley Autumn Foliage Festival

The best time to view the autumn leaves is usually from mid-October to early November. The date of the 2025 "Hodogari Autumn Foliage Festival" has not yet been determined. For details, please visit the website of the Tazawako/Kakunodate Tourist Association.
Autumn leaves at their best
Tazawako/Kakunodate Tourist Association HP

Combine your favorite train with lodging or a day trip plan for a great travel experience!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable price individual travel product available only on the web. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to get a discount as early as the day of departure. We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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