Facts About Akita Prefecture That Will Surprise You

Are you curious to learn some facts about Akita Prefecture?

This region is in the northern Tōhoku area of Honshū island, Japan.

From cold, snowy winters to its reputation for producing fine rice and sake, Akita offers plenty to explore.

What makes Akita Prefecture truly unique?

This article will share 21 unusual facts about Akita Prefecture that might surprise you.

1) The dance of the Namahage demons

In Akita’s Oga Peninsula, you’ll find the Namahage demons.

They are famous for their intense, traditional dance rituals.

Namahage dancers often wear scary, ogre-like masks and straw capes.

They usually perform during the New Year celebrations.

The Namahage dance involves loud drumming, chanting, and enthusiastic movements.

The goal is to scare away laziness and bad behaviour.

2) Home to the Akita breed of dog

The Akita breed of dog originated in Akita Prefecture, a region in northern Japan.

Akitas are loyal and protective in nature.

They were originally used for hunting and guarding.

You can even visit statues and museums dedicated to these impressive dogs in Akita Prefecture.

It’s a great way to learn more about their history and importance in Japanese culture.

3) Inaniwa udon noodles: a local delicacy

Inaniwa udon noodles are a must-try if you’re in Akita Prefecture.

These noodles come from Inaniwa and are known for their exceptional craftsmanship.

What sets Inaniwa udon apart is the unique process of making them.

The noodles are handmade, kneaded, aged, and then kneaded again to create tiny air bubbles, which give them a chewy texture.

Inaniwa udon has a translucent, milky white colour.

Despite being thin and soft, it never gets soggy when cooked.

4) The stunning Lake Tazawa

Lake Tazawa sits in the heart of Akita Prefecture.

This lake is known for its incredible beauty.

It’s the deepest lake in Japan, plunging to a depth of 423 meters.

The waters are clear and have a remarkable sapphire blue colour.

The surrounding area is perfect for sightseeing.

You can enjoy hiking, swimming, or boat rides on the lake.

There are many hot springs nearby where you can relax.

5) Traditional Kanto Matsuri festival

The Kanto Matsuri festival is a must-see event if you visit Akita Prefecture.

It takes place every year from August 3rd to 6th.

You’ll find it in Akita City, the capital of the prefecture.

At the festival, performers balance kanto, which are long bamboo poles.

These poles can be as tall as 12 metres and are covered with lanterns.

Imagine trying to hold that up on your palm or hip!

The lanterns glow beautifully against the night sky.

There are about 280 poles, each adorned with multiple lanterns.

6) The Akita International University: renowned for its English-taught programs

You might be surprised to learn about Akita International University (AIU) in Akita City, Akita Prefecture.

All the courses here are taught in English, which is pretty unique for a Japanese university.

This small public university, founded in 2004, focuses on a liberal arts education.

7) Hot springs of Nyuto Onsen

Nyuto Onsen is a hidden gem in Akita Prefecture.

This secret hot spring town offers you beautiful views and relaxing experiences in the heart of nature.

Numerous open-air baths are available here, where you can soak while enjoying the stunning scenery.

The hot springs help with various ailments, making them popular among visitors.

Nyuto Onsen consists of six unique ryokans and one hotel.

Each has its history, style, and special spring quality.

This variety makes your stay here even more interesting.

9) Akita’s rich samurai history

When you think of Akita prefecture, samurai should come to mind.

The area is famous for its close ties with these iconic warriors.

Many samurai families lived in Akita, especially in the village of Kakunodate.

They built beautiful homes and estates, some of which you can still visit today.

Dating back to the 17th century, these samurai homes in Kakunodate are well-preserved.

10) Kakunodate: the ‘Little Kyoto’ of Akita

Kakunodate is a charming town in Akita Prefecture.

Known as the “Little Kyoto” of the north, it’s famous for its historic atmosphere.

You can walk along its well-preserved streets and see traditional samurai houses.

These residences give you a peek into Japan’s rich past.

Cherry blossoms in Kakunodate are breathtaking.

The streets lined with “shidarezakura”, or weeping cherry trees, are a sight to behold, especially in springtime.

11) Namahage Sedo Festival’s traditional rituals

You’ve probably never seen anything like the Namahage Sedo Festival in Oga City, Akita.

This festival blends the Shinto ritual of Saitousai with local folklore.

It has been a tradition since 1964, and it is held every second weekend of February.

Participants dress as Namahage, demon-like ogres, and visit homes to scare children and warn against laziness.

13) Akita’s famous sake breweries

Akita has some of Japan’s top-quality sake breweries.

In Akita Prefecture, brewing begins around November, when winter arrives.

The cold season purifies the air, perfect for sake production.

One of the oldest breweries, Hideyoshi, has been crafting sake since 1689.

You can even visit and taste their best rice alcohols with a reservation.

In Akita, rice is delicious, making the local sake popular among fans.

The prefecture’s rich history in sake brewing continues to attract enthusiasts and tourists from all over.

14) The Omagari National Fireworks Competition

The Omagari National Fireworks Competition is held in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture.

It’s called Japan’s “Olympics of Fireworks”.

The event happens every year on the last Saturday of August.

Fireworks experts from across Japan come to compete.

They show off their best creations, set to music, in a stunning display of light and sound, which attracts thousands of spectators.

15) The beauty of the Oga Peninsula

The Oga Peninsula is a stunning part of Akita Prefecture.

You’ll find it jutting into the Sea of Japan, with its unique shape and rugged coastline.

This place attracts you with its beautiful scenery and rich culture.

Don’t miss the picturesque coastal drive, especially during sunset.

The Godzilla-shaped rock is a quirky sight you’ll enjoy.

16) Shirakami-Sanchi: a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Shirakami-Sanchi is a stunning wilderness area in the Tōhoku region.

It straddles the border between Akita and Aomori prefectures.

This place is known for its untouched beech forests.

These forests have been there for about 8,000 years.

Shirakami-Sanchi boasts the largest virgin beech forest in East Asia.

This natural treasure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you want to visit, follow entry procedures, especially on the Aomori side.

17) Akita Senshu Museum of Art

The Akita Senshu Museum of Art is located in the heart of Akita City.

It opened in 1989.

The museum has many works from the Akita ranga school.

This unique style blends Western and Japanese art techniques.

The building was designed by the famous architect Tadao Ando.

Its modern design is quite striking.

18) Aniai Station: A station without station staff

Aniai Station is a unique spot in Kitaakita, Akita Prefecture.

Known for its unstaffed platform, Aniai Station is one of several unstaffed stations in Akita Prefecture

Feel free to explore this peaceful station if you visit.

20) Akita’s picturesque coastal landscapes

You’ll love Akita’s stunning coastal views.

The prefecture has some of the most beautiful coastlines in Japan.

Akita’s coastal areas feature dramatic cliffs and peaceful beaches.

You can explore rugged landscapes and quiet coves.

Don’t miss Oga Peninsula.

Its rocky shores and clear waters are perfect for stunning photos and peaceful walks.