Lake Hachirogata and Ogata Village: Agricultural Heartland Born from Japan's Largest Land Reclamation

Lake Hachirogata and Ogata Village

Ogata Village in Minami-Akita was born in 1964 from the reclamation of Lake Hachirogata, once Japan's second-largest lake. The vast agricultural expanse of about 173 km² is also known as a production area for Akitakomachi rice.

Highlights

- Ogata Village Straight Roads: Farm roads so straight you can see the horizon (agricultural heritage landscape) - Solar Sports Line: Spectacular spring scenery with canola flowers in full bloom - Hachirogata Remnant Lake (East Water Channel): Traces of the former lake remaining after reclamation - Ogata Village Reclamation Museum: Facility to learn about reclamation history and agriculture

Nature and Agriculture

- Canola Flowers (May): Striking contrast of canola yellow and blue sky stretching to the horizon - Rice Harvest (September): Vast paddy field harvest scenery - Swan Migration (Winter): Swans fly to the remaining wetlands after reclamation

Getting There

- Alight at JR Ou Main Line Hachirogata Station (about 40 minutes from Akita) - About 10 minutes by car from Akita Expressway Ogata Smart IC

Tips

Cycling on Ogata Village farm roads is popular. Pedaling through the vast farming village on a rental bicycle is a unique experience.