If you’re looking for a unique travel destination in Japan, Akita Prefecture is definitely worth considering.
Located in the northern part (Tohoku region) of Honshu Island, Akita is known for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Akita.
One of the most popular attractions in Akita is Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan.
Surrounded by mountains and forests, the lake is a breathtaking sight to behold.
You can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, rent a boat to explore the water, or even soak in a hot spring while admiring the view.
Another must-visit spot in Akita is the Kakunodate Samurai District, a well-preserved historic neighborhood that takes you back in time to the Edo period.
Here, you can see traditional samurai houses, visit museums, and learn about the local culture.
Getting to Akita
If you’re planning a trip to Akita Prefecture, you have a few options for getting there.
Here are some of the most common ways to reach Akita:
ANA Flights
If you’re coming from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, you can fly to Akita Airport (AXT) with ANA.
The flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Tokyo, 1 hour and 40 minutes from Kyoto, and 1 hour and 50 minutes from Osaka.
Once you arrive at Akita Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to your final destination.
Komachi Shinkansen
If you prefer to travel by train, the Komachi Shinkansen is a great option.
The train runs from Tokyo Station to JR Akita Station, with stops in Sendai and Morioka along the way.
The journey takes about 4 hours from Tokyo.
Once you arrive at Akita Station, you can take a bus or taxi to your final destination.
By Car
If you’re planning to explore Akita Prefecture by car, you can rent a car at one of the major airports or train stations in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.
The drive from Tokyo to Akita takes about 7 hours, while the drive from Kyoto or Osaka takes about 9 hours.
Keep in mind that you’ll need an International Driving Permit to drive in Japan.
No matter how you choose to get to Akita, you’re sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery and unique culture of this charming prefecture.
Top Attractions When Exploring Akita City
If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Japan, Akita City is the perfect destination.
With its rich history and culture, there are plenty of things to see and do here.
Historic Buildings
Akita City is home to many historic buildings that are worth exploring.
One of the most famous is the Kubota Castle; built in the 16th century.
Although the castle was destroyed during the Meiji Restoration, the ruins have been preserved and are now a popular tourist attraction.
Another must-visit destination is Senshu Park, which is home to the Akita Prefectural Museum of Art.
The museum is housed in a beautiful Western-style building that was originally built as a bank in 1908.
The whole area comes alive when the cherry blossoms bloom.
Akita Port
Akita Port is a great place to soak up the local atmosphere.
The port area is home to many seafood restaurants, and you can watch the boats come and go while enjoying a delicious meal.
If you’re interested in history, you can also visit the Akita Port Tower Selion, which offers a great panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area from the top floor.
Built in 1970, it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Shopping
If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to take home, Akita City has plenty of shopping options.
One of the best places to shop is the Akita Furusato Village, which is a traditional-style shopping complex that sells local crafts and food products.
For more modern shopping options, head to the AEON Mall Akita, which is a large shopping center that has everything from fashion to electronics.
Cultural Experiences in Akita
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in Akita’s rich culture, there are several must-visit destinations that offer unique experiences.
Here are some of the top cultural experiences in Akita:
Kakunodate Samurai House
Kakunodate is a town that has well-preserved samurai houses.
Here, you can step back in time and get a glimpse of what life was like for samurai warriors during the Edo period.
The houses are open to the public and offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the samurai.
You can also visit the nearby Samurai Armor Museum to see a collection of samurai armor and weapons.
Namahage Museum
Namahage is a traditional festival that takes place in Akita every year.
During the festival, on New Year’s Eve, men dressed in demon masks and straw coats go from house to house, scaring children into being good.
At the Namahage Museum, you can learn about the history and significance of the festival, as well as see some of the costumes and masks up close.
This would probably not be accepted in Western culture these days but this is Japan.
Outdoor Activities in Akita
If you’re looking for adventure, Akita Prefecture offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to everyone’s interests.
From hiking in the Shirakami Mountains to skiing at Mt. Moriyoshi, you’ll find something to keep you entertained.
Hiking in the Shirakami Mountains
The Shirakami Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer some of the best hiking trails in Japan.
The mountains are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Japanese serow and the Akita dog.
The trails cater to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes.
Skiing at Mt. Moriyoshi
If you’re a fan of skiing, then Mt. Moriyoshi is the perfect place for you.
The mountain offers a variety of ski runs for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
The ski resort has modern facilities, including ski lifts and rental equipment.
You can also take ski lessons if you’re a beginner.
The best time to visit is from December to March when the snow is at its best.
Sunset at Sea of Japan
The Sea of Japan is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset.
The coastline offers stunning views of the ocean and the mountains in the distance.
One of the best places to watch the sunset is at Godzilla Rock, a popular tourist spot that offers a great view of the sea.
Make sure to bring a camera to capture the moment.
Festivals in Akita
If you’re looking for a cultural experience, one of the most popular things to do is check out the local festivals.
Here are two of the most popular festivals in Akita:
Akita Kanto Festival
The Akita Kanto Festival is one of the most famous festivals in Japan, and it takes place every year from August 3rd to 6th.
During the festival, performers balance long bamboo poles with lanterns attached to them on their foreheads, shoulders, and hips.
The poles can weigh up to 50 kilograms, and the performers walk through the streets of Akita City while balancing them.
It’s an impressive sight to see.
Aside from the pole balancing, the festival also features food stalls, music performances, and a parade.
If you’re here during the festival, you won’t want to miss it.
Kamakura Festival
The Kamakura Festival takes place every February in Yokote City, Akita.
During the festival, locals create snow huts called Kamakura and decorate them with candles.
Inside the Kamakura, you can enjoy sweet sake and local snacks.
It’s a cozy and unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Aside from the Kamakura, the festival also features a parade and food stalls.
Food and Drink in Akita
Local Cuisine
This prefecture is known for its delicious local cuisine that reflects the region’s unique culture and history.
One of the most popular dishes is Kiritanpo.
Basically mashed rice that is grilled on a stick.
You often eat it with miso soup and pickles.
Another must-try dish is Inaniwa Udon, which is a type of thin, chewy noodle that is handmade and served in a light broth.
Sake Tasting
Akita is also famous for its sake, which is made from locally grown rice and pure water.
There are many sake breweries in the region that offer sake-tasting experiences.
You can learn about the brewing process and sample different types of sake.
Some of the most popular breweries include Dewazakura Sake Brewery and Akita Seishu Sake Brewery.
Accommodation in Akita
If you’re planning to visit, you’ll need a place to stay.
Luckily, there are plenty of accommodation options available to suit every budget and preference.
Hot Springs Resorts
Akita is famous for its onsen, and staying at a hot springs resort is a great way to experience them.
Some of the most popular hot springs resorts include:
- Tazawako Onsen Hot Spring Resort: This resort is located near Lake Tazawa and offers a variety of hot springs baths, as well as traditional Japanese-style rooms.
- Nyuto Onsen Hot Spring Resort: This resort is located in a secluded mountain valley and offers a range of hot springs baths, as well as a traditional Japanese-style inn.
- Oyu Onsen Hot Spring Resort: This resort is located in the city of Akita and offers a variety of hot springs baths, as well as a modern hotel.
Hotels in City Center
If you prefer to stay in the city center, there are plenty of hotels to choose from as well.
Some of the most popular hotels in Akita City include:
- Hotel Metropolitan Akita: This hotel is located in the heart of Akita City and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a restaurant and bar.
- Dormy Inn Akita Natural Hot Spring: This hotel is located near the Akita station and offers comfortable rooms, a natural hot spring bath, and a free ramen noodle bar for guests.
No matter where you choose to stay in Akita, you’re sure to have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Memorable Souvenirs
When you travel to Akita prefecture, you’ll want to bring back some unique souvenirs to remember your trip. Here are two items you won’t want to miss.
Local Woodwork
Akita has some beautiful woodwork, which makes for great souvenirs.
You can find a variety of wooden items, from small trinkets to larger pieces of furniture.
Some popular items include:
- Wooden sake cups
- Chopsticks
- Lacquered bowls
- Wooden figurines
One popular type of woodwork is magewappa, which is a traditional Akita craft.
Magewappa involves bending thin strips of cedar wood into shapes, such as bento boxes or trays.
These items are not only beautiful but also practical and durable.
Hinai Chicken
Hinai chicken is a type of chicken that is raised in Akita prefecture.
The chickens are free-range and fed a special diet, which results in tender and flavorful meat.
Hinai chicken is a popular food here but it also makes for a great souvenir.
You can buy Hinai chicken in a variety of forms, including:
- Canned chicken
- Chicken jerky
- Chicken sausages
If you’re looking for something more substantial, you can also buy whole chickens or chicken cutlets.
Just be aware that these items may not be allowed through customs if you’re traveling internationally.
Unique Attractions
If you’re looking for something different to do, there are a few unique attractions that you won’t want to miss.
Here are two that are definitely worth checking out:
Lake Tazawa
Lake Tazawa is a stunningly beautiful lake located in the eastern part of Akita prefecture.
It is the deepest lake in Japan, with a maximum depth of 423 meters.
The lake is surrounded by mountains and forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
One of the most unique things about Lake Tazawa is its color.
The water is a deep shade of blue, which is caused by the high levels of sulfur in the lake.
There are several viewpoints around the lake where you can get a great view of the water and the surrounding scenery.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a boat tour of the lake or go hiking in the nearby mountains.
There are also several hot springs in the area where you can relax and soak in the natural beauty of the region.
Godzilla Rock
If you’re a fan of Japanese pop culture, you won’t want to miss Godzilla Rock.
Located in the city of Oga, this rock formation is said to resemble the famous movie monster.
The rock is located on the coast, and there are several viewpoints where you can get a great view of it.
In addition to the rock itself, there is also a Godzilla museum in Oga.
The museum has a collection of memorabilia from the movies, as well as information about the history of the character.
If you’re a fan of the movies, this is definitely a must-visit attraction.
The Akita Dog
If you are a dog lover, you must visit Akita Prefecture to see the famous Akita Dog, which is a national treasure of Japan.
These large and powerful dogs are known for their loyalty, courage, and intelligence.
Here are some interesting facts about them:
- Akita Inu (dogs) are one of the oldest dog breeds in Japan, with a history dating back over 400 years.
- They were originally bred for hunting and guarding but later became popular as family pets.
- Akita Dogs have a thick double coat that comes in various colors, including white, red, brindle, and sesame.
- They have a distinctive curled tail and a broad head with triangular ears.
- Akita Dogs are known for their strong will and stubbornness, which can make them challenging to train for inexperienced owners.
- They are also very protective of their family and can be aggressive towards strangers or other animals if not socialized properly.
If you want to learn more about the Akita Dog, you can visit the Akita Dog Museum in Odate City.
The museum has a collection of artifacts, paintings, and photographs that showcase the breed’s evolution and importance in Japanese society.
You can also visit the Akita Dog Village in Odate City, where you can interact with the Dogs and learn about their daily care and training.
The village has a breeding center, a training field, and a dog park where you can see the dogs in action.
Before You Go
Although a little off the beaten path, Akita Ken (prefecture) is perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors and is looking for fresh air.
Mix in some onsen and traditional Japanese culture and you’ll experience a part of Japan few outsiders get to.
Being away from the hoards of tourists is one of the best things when visiting here.
