(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
At “Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel” in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, a special event was held on August 10th, known as “Moss Day,” specifically for junior high school students. This event offered participants the chance to deepen their understanding of the local natural environment and its unique charm through hands-on experiences with moss.
Oirase Gorge is recognized as one of Japan’s premier “moss sanctuaries,” home to over 300 species of moss out of the approximately 1,800 species found in Japan. In 2013, it was designated as one of “Japan’s Precious Moss Forests,” and efforts to promote moss as a tourism resource have continued. Last year, the hotel held a session focused on tourism promotion centered on moss, where the idea was raised that “we hope to instill a love for the local nature in our children, ultimately leading to a greater appreciation and preservation of our natural environment.” Inspired by this suggestion, this year’s “Moss Day” event was organized.
(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
On the day of the event, junior high school students from Towada City, along with their parents and local tourism business operators, participated. The Oirase Natural Tourism Resource Research Association (Oiken), the Oirase Moss Ball Workshop, and the Oirase Keiryu Hotel’s stream concierges each introduced their activities, providing participants with insights into local tourism and various ways to appreciate moss. The event also featured the inaugural ride of the “Oirase Koke Bus,” which showcased the allure of moss. This bus was designed with an exterior featuring a magnified moss print and an interior wall themed after the “Phoenix Moss.” The students enjoyed the design and decorations while immersing themselves in the world of moss.
Following this, the group headed to Oirase Gorge to join a nature tour called “Koke Sanpo” (Moss Walk). Guided by Oiken staff, the students used magnifying glasses to observe the mosses growing along the gorge, learning about their unique fragrances and translucent colors. The observation took place at iconic spots within Oirase Gorge, such as “Kumoi Falls” and “Shiraito Falls,” where the students were deeply captivated by the intricate world of moss.
(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
Additionally, under the guidance of the Oirase Moss Ball Workshop, the students also tried their hand at making moss balls. Recalling the mosses they had observed during the “Koke Sanpo,” they crafted small moss balls, expressing the scenery of Oirase Gorge through their creativity. Through this experience, it is hoped that the students will develop a deeper understanding of the local natural environment and a heightened awareness of the importance of preserving nature for the future.
Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel continues to promote the charm of the local area both domestically and internationally by embracing harmony with nature and advancing sustainable tourism. This event was a significant opportunity to reaffirm the value of moss as a local tourism resource and to pass on its allure to the next generation.