This site is a web media that delivers all kinds of trivia, from sightseeing and gourmet spots in the six Tohoku prefectures to local, customs, and history.
Niteko Cider, a popular local cider, is a traditional cider made from pure water in Misato Town, Akita Prefecture, with a refreshing and exquisite taste
We also introduce a cafe that serves food using famous water, and sake made using the town's unique lavender
We will explore the charm of the Rokugo Springs in Misato Town, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 famous springs, so please read to the end
What does the "Niteko" in Niteko Cider mean?
The word "Niteko" has its origins in the Ainu language. It is said to have evolved from "Nitaikotsu," which means "lowland with puddles," and is a combination of "Nitai" (forest) and "kotsu" (puddle)
Niteko Cider is made using the pure water from the Rokugo Springs in Misato Town, where Niteko Shimizu is located, and where many puddles of pure water are scattered
What is the Rokugo Spring Group, where the pure water used to make Niteko Cider comes from?
Rokugo Springs
Misato Town, located in the southeastern part of Akita Prefecture, was formed in 2004 by the merger of Senhata Town and Sennan Town, and is home to the Rokugo Springs, which produce a wealth of pure water that has been selected as one of Japan's 100 famous waters
The underground water from the river that flows west from the Ou Mountains, including Mount Chokai that stands on the border with Yamagata Prefecture, is filtered over a long period of time before springing forth
The town is blessed with an abundance of spring water, with 126 springs gushing forth from the water, and it is said that the water is so clear that you can count the pebbles at the bottom, and even see the endangered freshwater fish (the Japanese spiny-spotted thornfish)
The spring water has an average temperature of 15 to 20 degrees Celsius throughout the year, and is so pure that it is home to many scientifically valuable organisms
The people of this town don't need a water supply and still rely on natural spring water. That's quite enviable!
What's the secret behind Niteko Cider's popularity?
Niteko Cider
Niteko Cider, which has a history of 120 years, does not emphasize the carbonation too much, allowing the deliciousness of the water to stand out.The subtle sweetness and the flavor of the natural water are balanced, making it a nostalgic cider
Nowadays, there are many different flavored ciders available, and they continue to be popular with people of all ages and genders
The ingredients other than the famous water that determines the flavor have been kept secret for over 110 years
Rokugo's water is naturally smooth and mellow, making it easy to drink, and the fine carbonation it adds to the flavor has captivated many cider fans
The labels that exude a Showa retro feel are also gaining popularity
Where can I buy Niteko Cider?
Niteko Cider is sold at roadside stations in Misato Town, as well as in lavender fields within the town. It can also be purchased online through Amazon, Rakuten, and Yahoo!
Niteko Cider, made by Akita Misatozukuri Co., Ltd., is extremely popular both within and outside the prefecture, and various gift sets are also popular
There is also a cafe nearby that uses delicious water
Niteko Meisui-an
Niteko Meisui-an (kura cafe), located next to the Rokugo springs, is a very popular cafe where you can enjoy food and drinks made with the spring water while looking out at the spring water right in front of you
Many people are also looking forward to the Nagashi Somen, which is only available in the summer
There is also sake made from Misato Town's unique lavender and pure water
Takahashi Sake Brewery is located in the Rokugo area, which is home to a group of springs. They use the underground water from the "Egao Shimizu" spring on their premises as the brewing water for their sake
(Junmai Daiginjo) is garnering attention, and is made using this pure water and
Sake made from flowers, and using white lavender yeast, is very stylish
Its sweet muscat-like scent is said to be highly rated by women
The Rokugo area of Sango Town, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 famous water sources, has 126 springs within the town. Blessed with an abundance of fresh water, the cider made with this pure, delicious water is gaining popularity from all over the country
In this article, we have introduced Niteko Cider, which has a 120-year history, as well as a sake made using Shimizu and Misato Town's unique white lavender
Watching the purest water in the country bubbling up all over town makes you feel refreshed and pure
It would be nice to take a short trip to see beautiful water views and drink delicious cider!
I'm originally from Tokyo, but I've lived in Yamagata Prefecture for 30 years. Nowadays, I am able to speak the dialect and become a local. He goes to the nearby prefectures of Miyagi and Fukushima about two to three days a month to gather information. I belong to the middle-aged group who loves cats, local sake, and side dishes. (The icon is a beloved cat)
