Mt. Moriyoshi (1,454 m) in Kitaakita is a gentle peak reached by ropeway, famed for two very different seasons — winter ‘snow monsters’ (juhyo), fir trees encased in wind-sculpted rime ice, and summer carpets of alpine flowers across the highland. The ropeway makes both spectacles accessible without a hard climb.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Kitaakita, Akita |
| Hours | Ropeway seasonal (winter & green season) |
| Admission | Ropeway fee applies |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours |
| Best time | Feb (snow monsters); summer flowers |
What to See
- Winter ‘snow monsters’ (juhyo) of rime-encased firs.
- Summer carpets of alpine wildflowers.
- The ropeway to the highland (no hard climb).
- Panoramas over the Kitaakita mountains.
Combine Your Visit
- Ride the scenic Akita Nairiku Line through Kitaakita.
- Visit the Oga Namahage folk culture.
- Soak at Nyuto Onsen .
Getting There
- By car: to the Ani Ski Area ropeway base in Kitaakita.
- By train: Akita Nairiku Line to Aniai, then taxi/bus.
Tips
For snow monsters, come on a clear February day (the ropeway runs in winter). The Ani area’s ropeway is far less crowded than Zao’s famous juhyo.
