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Oirase Keiryu Hotel

“Poisonous Mushroom Walk” 2024: A Glimpse into the Fascinating World of Toxic Fungi

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Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, the only resort hotel located along the Oirase Gorge, will once again host the "Poisonous Mushroom Walk" from September 1st to October 7th, 2024. This program offers a unique opportunity to delve into the captivating world of mushrooms. Participants will learn about the ecology of these fascinating organisms from experienced Keiryu Concierges, who possess extensive knowledge of the Oirase Gorge's natural environment. The walk allows participants to observe a wide variety of mushrooms in their natural habitat, showcasing their diverse shapes and colors. In 2024, a new feature will be introduced: the "Oirase Poisonous Mushroom Map." This original map will enable participants to share real-time information about poisonous mushrooms they encounter during their walks, making it easier than ever for everyone to appreciate the allure of these intriguing fungi.

Background
The Oirase Gorge, situated within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, is a designated Special Protection Area, Natural Monument, and Special Place of Scenic Beauty. It boasts a rich and diverse natural environment. During the autumn season, a stroll along the Oirase Gorge reveals a plethora of mushrooms, ranging from delicious edible varieties to highly toxic ones that can be fatal if consumed. While poisonous mushrooms are often avoided due to their toxicity, they exhibit a remarkable array of colors and play a crucial role in the forest ecosystem. They decompose fallen leaves, enriching the soil with nutrients and contributing to the growth of trees. Since 2021, the hotel has organized the "Poisonous Mushroom Walk" to allow guests to experience a unique and lesser-known aspect of the Oirase Gorge during autumn. In 2024, marking the fourth year of this program, the hotel aims to create more opportunities for guests to interact with poisonous mushrooms during their stay. To achieve this, they have introduced a collaborative original map and a "Poisonous Mushroom Discovery" activity to enhance the enjoyment of subsequent walks.

Features

1Two Activity Programs to Encounter the Wonders of Poisonous Mushrooms

The Oirase Gorge, primarily composed of deciduous broadleaf trees such as Japanese beech and painted maple, is a treasure trove of mushrooms. The more you learn about poisonous mushrooms, the more you’ll be captivated by their diverse colors, intricate designs, and the profound allure of fungi. Two programs are available to explore the mysterious charm of these organisms, offering a unique perspective on the Oirase Gorge during autumn.

 

<Daytime Poisonous Mushroom Walk: Discovering the Unique Poisonous Mushrooms Growing Along the Oirase Gorge>
The poisonous mushrooms found in the Oirase Gorge forest vary widely. They include the “Podostroma cornu-damae” (known as “Kaentake” in Japanese), which can cause severe skin irritation upon contact, and the “Amanita virosa” (known as “Dokutsurutake”), which is highly poisonous and can be fatal if ingested. Keiryu Concierges, experts in the Oirase Gorge’s natural environment, will guide participants to various poisonous mushrooms based on the current conditions.

  • Period: September 1st to October 7th, 2024
  • Time: 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
  • Fee: 5,500 yen per person (tax included)
  • Inclusions: Transportation, guidance for the Daytime Poisonous Mushroom Walk
  • Capacity: 6 people (minimum 1 person)
  • Reservation: Accepted up to 7 days in advance on the official website (https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/oirasekeiryu/)

 

<Nighttime Poisonous Mushroom Walk: Searching for Poisonous Mushrooms Glowing in the Dark>
In the Oirase Gorge at night, you can witness the faint glow of the “Omphalotus japonicus” (known as “Tsukiyotake”), the mushroom responsible for the highest number of accidental poisoning cases due to misidentification. Its luminescence is subtle and best observed through a camera lens, revealing a mesmerizing floating-like appearance. The Tsukiyotake has a short fruiting period and can only be encountered during a limited time in early autumn. Join the Keiryu Concierge on a quest to find the faint glow of the Tsukiyotake. For safety, the path will be illuminated with Tsukiyotake lights, exclusive to this activity.

  • Period: September 8th to 22nd, 2024
  • Time: 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM
  • Fee: 3,300 JPY per person (tax included)
  • Inclusions: Transportation, guidance for the Nighttime Poisonous Mushroom Walk, rental of Tsukiyotake lights
  • Capacity: 6 people (minimum 1 person)
  • Reservation: Accepted on-site on the day of the event
  • Note: The event period may change depending on the mushroom growth conditions.

2Original Map for a New Perspective on Poisonous Mushrooms [NEW]

The “Oirase Poisonous Mushroom Map” was created to encourage guests to appreciate poisonous mushrooms from a different perspective. This map is linked to the hotel’s official website, allowing guests to share photos and information about mushrooms found in the Oirase Gorge during their walks using designated hashtags. By doing so, everyone can access the latest information on poisonous mushrooms, making it a collaborative and interactive map created by all participants. With the cooperation of the local NPO Oirase Nature Tourism Research Association, the map introduces not only the toxicity but also the beauty, characteristics, and other fascinating aspects of poisonous mushrooms. By using this original map during their walks, anyone can easily delve into the captivating world of poisonous mushrooms.

3"Poisonous Mushroom Gacha" - Spin the Capsule Toy Machine by Posting Photos on Instagram

During your stay, post photos of poisonous mushrooms you find in the Oirase Gorge on Instagram with the hashtags “#poisonmushroomwalk,” “#oirasekeiryuhotel,” and “#hoshinoresorts.” Show the post to the hotel staff, and you’ll receive a chance to spin the “Poisonous Mushroom Gacha,” a capsule toy machine featuring original poisonous mushroom-themed items. The gacha contains various prizes, including original can badges and figurines designed after representative poisonous mushrooms found in the Oirase Gorge forest. From the vibrant red can badge of the “Kaentake” to the glow-in-the-dark figurine of the “Tsukiyotake,” these unique designs capture the individuality of each poisonous mushroom. Take home these original goods and continue to admire the poisonous mushrooms even after your trip.

4Learn About the Characteristics of Poisonous Mushrooms with Poisonous Mushroom Discovery [Power up]

The Oirase Gorge forest is home to various poisonous mushrooms, some causing vomiting and diarrhea if ingested, while others possessing deadly toxins. However, these mushrooms pose no harm to humans unless touched or eaten. Keiryu Concierges, experts in the Oirase Gorge’s natural environment, will provide accurate and easy-to-understand information about the ecology, design, and unique characteristics of poisonous mushrooms, ensuring a safe and enjoyable mushroom observation experience. By learning about the roles these mushrooms play in nature, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of their significance and further enhance your enjoyment of the following day’s walk.

  • Location: West Building 2F, Keiryu-BASE
  • Time: 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM
  • Fee: Free
  • Reservation: Not required
Period
September 1st to October 7th, 2024
Fee
Varies depending on the program
Location
Hotel West Building 2F, Keiryu-BASE, Oirase Gorge (walking locations may vary depending on mushroom growth conditions)
Reservation
Varies depending on the program
Eligibility
Elementary school students and older hotel guests
Note
The event may be canceled in case of bad weather.