7 must-visit tourist spots around Kisakata Town in Nikaho City! Enjoy Mount Chokai and the Sea of Japan

Kisakata Town (Kisakata-machi), located in the Kisakata area of Nikaho City, Akita Prefecture, was shaped by the eruption of Mount Chokai, which created a lagoon. This unique landscape has earned Kisakata the nickname "Matsushima of the East, Kisakata of the West" and is designated as a national natural monument within Chokai Quasi-National Park.

Surrounded by the Sea of Japan and Mount Chokai, Kisakata Town is a scenic area near the border with Yamagata Prefecture. The popular sightseeing route "Chokai Blue Line" offers breathtaking panoramic views, while the sunset sinking into the horizon provides a serene experience for visitors. Here, we introduce some of Kisakata's most captivating tourist spots.

1. Mount Chokai

Mount Chokai (Chokai-san) is located on the border of Akita and Yamagata prefectures, where Kisakata is situated. It stands at an elevation of 2,236 meters, making it the second-highest peak in the Tohoku region and the main attraction of Kisakata. Also known as "Dewa Fuji," it has long been revered as a guardian deity of Kisakata and the surrounding Chokai area.

This rare mountain faces the Sea of Japan, with a distance of about 15 km from the coastline to the summit. It is an essential destination for Kisakata tourism. From the observation deck at the 5th station, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan and admire the V-shaped valley. The area attracts many tourists throughout the year, especially during the fresh greenery of spring and the vibrant autumn foliage.

Numerous well-maintained hiking trails lead to the summit from both Akita and Yamagata prefectures, with an average climb time of about five hours. Though winters are harsh due to strong seasonal winds, the accumulated snow melts into streams that support rice cultivation and local livelihoods.

As one of Japan’s most famous mountain tourist destinations, Mount Chokai is especially popular in spring and summer, drawing visitors from across the country. If you visit Kisakata, challenge yourself with a climb!

2. Kujukushima (Ninety-Nine Islands)

Kujukushima is a unique sightseeing spot in Kisakata, where around 60 small islands appear to float within a rural landscape. This scenery is designated as a National Natural Monument, making it a rare sight that can only be experienced in Kisakata. The breathtaking and distinctive view attracts many tourists.

Historically, Kisakata was a bay dotted with numerous islands, but a major earthquake caused the land to rise, forming the present landscape. Once a famous stop along the "Oku no Hosomichi" travel route, Kisakata was often compared to Matsushima. Today, the rice fields in the area provide a glimpse into what Kujukushima may have looked like before the earthquake, especially during the rice-planting season when water fills the fields, mirroring the bay’s past.

You can admire this rare and scenic view from the observation deck of "Michi-no-Eki Kisakata Nemunooka."

3. Naso no Shirataki Waterfall

Naso no Shirataki is a dynamic waterfall, standing approximately 26 meters tall and 11 meters wide. The rock formations surrounding the falls are lava deposits from Mount Chokai, dating back over 100,000 years.

Recognized as a National Scenic Beauty site and one of the "Top 100 New Japanese Scenic Spots," Naso no Shirataki offers stunning views from an observation deck, a suspension bridge, and even the precincts of Kinpo Shrine or the waterfall basin itself.

4. Roadside Station Kisakata Nemunooka & Nikaho City Tourist Information Center Nikahoto

A popular stop for tourists visiting Kisakata is "Michi-no-Eki Kisakata Nemunooka." Next to it is the "Nikaho City Tourist Hub Nikaho-tto," where visitors can access tourist information not only for Akita Prefecture but also for the neighboring Shonai region of Yamagata Prefecture.

The facility features a food court with approximately 80 seats and offers a variety of local seafood, vegetables, and specialty products. A display monitor inside the center allows visitors to create customized travel routes and download them to their smartphones.

Regular events are held at Nikaho-tto, serving as a place for local community interaction between tourists and Kisakata residents. Adjacent to the facility is a free foot bath, and on the fourth floor of Michi-no-Eki, an observation hot spring provides a perfect spot to unwind after sightseeing.

As a gateway to exploring the Sea of Japan and Kisakata, this is a must-visit location.

5. Misaki Park

Misaki Park (Misaki Koen), located along National Route 7, is a beloved relaxation spot in Kisakata. It is one of the top tourist attractions in the region, positioned near the border between Akita and Yamagata prefectures. The name "Misaki" originates from three capes—Fudozaki, Daishizaki, and Kannonzaki—that extend into the Sea of Japan.

Historically, this area was considered one of the more challenging routes along the coastal road. However, it is now admired as a scenic destination where visitors can enjoy the striking contrast of rugged rock formations created by Mount Chokai’s lava, the blue sky and sea, and the white waves crashing against the shore. The prefecturally designated "Misakiyama Old Highway" remains a cherished historical walkway for tourists visiting Kisakata. Additionally, Misaki Park is famous for being the earliest location in Akita Prefecture where cherry blossoms bloom.

Feel the natural beauty of Kisakata as you stroll along the historic Misakiyama Old Highway, just as the renowned poet Matsuo Basho once did. With a campground and lighthouse, it’s also a great destination for a scenic drive.

6. Mototaki Subsoil Water

Mototaki Subsoil Water (Mototaki Fukuryusui) is one of Kisakata’s most renowned natural attractions. Approximately 50,000 tons of water per day gushes from underground after seeping through Mount Chokai, ensuring a constant and abundant flow year-round. It has been recognized as one of the "Top 100 Heisei-era Famous Waters." Surrounded by lush greenery, this location offers a refreshing and rejuvenating experience in nature.

The short walk from the parking lot to the falls is accompanied by views of a beautifully clear stream, which is strikingly blue and transparent. The contrast between the crystal-clear water and the vibrant green moss-covered rocks creates a mesmerizing scene, providing a sense of serenity and natural wonder.

Standing about 5 meters tall and 30 meters wide, the falls captivate many visitors with their mystical appearance. Even in the heat of summer, the area remains cool, making it an ideal retreat. Why not immerse yourself in the refreshing negative ions of Mototaki Subsoil Water and enjoy a truly soothing experience in Kisakata?

7. Naso Shirataki Waterfall

Naso no Shirataki is a dynamic waterfall, approximately 26 meters in height and 11 meters in width. The rock formations surrounding the falls are lava deposits from Mount Chokai, dating back over 100,000 years.

Recognized as a National Scenic Beauty site and one of the "Top 100 New Japanese Scenic Spots," Naso no Shirataki offers breathtaking views from an observation deck, a suspension bridge, and even from the precincts of Kinpo Shrine or the waterfall basin itself.

◎ Summary of sightseeing spots around Kisakata Town in Nikaho City

We have introduced five must-visit tourist spots in Kisakata. Hopefully, this has helped you appreciate the natural beauty of this remarkable area. During summer, you can also enjoy the sight of white buckwheat flowers in full bloom.

In addition to the attractions listed, Kisakata offers delicious local cuisine, shopping, and relaxing hot springs. Why not savor seasonal gourmet dishes, soak in a hot spring, and unwind for a truly rejuvenating experience?

If you visit Akita Prefecture, be sure to stop by Michi-no-Eki Kisakata, where you can admire the breathtaking view of the Sea of Japan while indulging in seasonal delicacies and a warm onsen bath. It will surely be a memorable trip!