The Oirase Gorge Ecotourism Project Committee developped the overall concept for Promoting Ecotourism in Oirase Gorge, which sets out the framework and rules for utilizing the natural environment in Oirase Gorge. It received government approval in May 2024.

What is ecotourism?
Ecotourism is a style of tourism that focuses on experiencing and learning about the natural environment and historical and cultural background of the destination, while also taking responsibility for preserving those environments.

See here for the full text (Open PDF)

　The areas subject to this plan are the Oirase Gorge and its surrounding areas, such as the Nenokuchi and Yakeyama, spanning 14 kilometers.
　Based on the status of initiatives and necessity, we will also consider expanding the target area through collaboration with other areas in Towada city or other municipalities.

View the target area map (Open PDF)

　The basic policies for promoting ecotourism under the overall concept for Promoting Ecotourism in Oirase Gorge are as follows:

１．Preservation of the Natural Environment -Ecotourism to preserve the Oirase open-air museum of natural history for future generations-

２．Tourism and Revitalization of the Area -Tourism and revitalization of the area by utilizing Oirase's unique natural environment, and ecotourism that creates encounters between people-

３．Promoting Interaction Between People and Nature -Ecotourism that creates "a new relationship between people and nature"-

　Based on these policies, we will establish various rules concerning the natural environment, usage, and the quality of eco-tours in the area's nature while preserving it as a natural museum of nature.
　In addition, to understand the current state of and preserve the natural environment and usage, the natural environment will be continuously monitored by local guides, relevant personnel and related organizations.

[Basic rules]

Use the area in a way that does not impact its current state
*The Oirase Gorge is designated as a Special Protection Zone within a national park, a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument, and a natural conservation area within a national forest, and is under strict protection. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation in preserving the magnificent natural environment of the Oirase Gorge for future generations.

　In this area, the nature experience program, including guided walks along the paths and numerous waterfalls, tours to observe moss and other plants nurtured by the natural environment unique to Oirase, tours for distinctive topography and geological features, tours to experience the healing effects of abundant nature, and snowshoeing tours and frozen waterfall observation tours offered in the winter season.

View the tour brochure (Open PDF)