On March 9th, in Owani-cho, Aomori Prefecture, an event called “Forest Expedition-Satoyama Walking” was held to explore the satoyama in early spring when the thaw started.

It is held every year in Owanimachi, a famous hot spring town. The event in the Hayaseno and Shimada districts is organized by the Mori Poets Executive Committee. It aims at "environmental awareness", "natural experience", and "health promotion".

Participants range from university students to middle-aged and older. About 30 people participated, including foreigners studying at Hirosaki University.

For walking, walk around the satoyama with snowshoes under the guidance of an animal and plant expert. He found footprints such as antelopes and hares and traces of bears climbing trees, and explained that wild animals live near the village.

After a 90 minute walk, participants interact with each other while eating Hachinohe's specialty rice cracker soup and curry at "Hiba no Kuni guesthouse". Many participants participated every year, saying, "I feel spring by attending the event."