Akita (prefecture) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Akita (Prefecture) with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Akita (Prefecture)

Akita (Prefecture) is located in the Tohoku region of Japan, on the north-west coast of the island of Honshu. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Oga Peninsula and Shirakami-Sanchi, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and its rich culture and traditions, which are celebrated in many local festivals and events throughout the year.

List of Places to Visit in Akita (Prefecture)

If you’re planning a trip to Akita (Prefecture), here are some of the must-visit places you should include in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kakunodate Samurai District: A well-preserved samurai district where you can see the traditional samurai residences and gardens from the Edo Period.
  • Odate Magewappa Village: A village where you can learn about the traditional craft of Magewappa- a technique for crafting bentwood containers and utensils.
  • Kubota Castle: A reconstructed castle that dates back to the Sengoku Period and has beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Natural Attractions of Akita (Prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Tazawa: A deep, clear, and beautiful lake that is said to be the deepest in Japan. It is surrounded by mountains and is a popular spot for boating and hiking.
  • Akita Komagatake: A mountain that is part of the Iwate-Akita-Komagate National Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Nyuto Onsen: A hot spring resort in the mountains known for its beautiful natural scenery and rustic atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Akita (Prefecture)

Akita (Prefecture) offers a variety of hiking and biking routes for all skill levels. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Oga Namahage Trail: A 17-kilometer trail that takes you through the Oga Peninsula and its beautiful coastal scenery.
  • Dakigaeri Gorge Trail: A scenic trail through the Dakigaeri Gorge, with several waterfalls and stunning views.
  • Akita Inu Fureai no Sato Road: A biking route that takes you through picturesque countryside and allows you to meet the famous Japanese dog breed - Akita Inu.

Best Things to Do in Akita (Prefecture): Activities and Tours

Akita (Prefecture) offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Hanawa Snow Festival: A winter festival that features huge snow sculptures and fireworks.
  • Namahage Sedo Matsuri: A traditional festival that celebrates the new year and features performances by men dressed as Namahage - demons that come to visit households and scare away evil spirits.
  • Tazawako Snow Resort: A popular ski resort that offers a variety of slopes for both beginners and experienced skiers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Akita (Prefecture)

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for a trip to Akita (Prefecture):

  • Day 1: Visit the Kakunodate Samurai District and Kubota Castle.
  • Day 2: Explore the Oga Peninsula and its scenic views.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Lake Tazawa and Akita Komagatake.
  • Day 4: Experience the Namahage Sedo Matsuri festival.
  • Day 5: Go skiing or snowboarding at the Tazawako Snow Resort.
  • Day 6: Relax in Nyuto Onsen and enjoy the hot springs.
  • Day 7: Visit the Odate Magewappa Village and do some souvenir shopping in Akita City.

Food and Drink Scene of Akita (Prefecture)

Akita (Prefecture) is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes a variety of local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kiritanpo: Grilled rice skewers made from pounded rice that are a famous Akita dish.
  • Inaniwa udon: Thin and chewy udon noodles served in a light broth or with dipping sauce.
  • Hatahata-zushi: Fermented sushi that is made with hatahata, a local fish.

Local Beverages

  • Akita Sake: Sake (rice wine) that is made in Akita and is known for its smooth, clean taste.
  • Namahage Beer: A local beer that is named after the famous Namahage demons.

Where to Stay in Akita (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Akita (Prefecture) offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some recommendations include:

  • Hotel Metropolitan Akita: A centrally located hotel in Akita City that offers comfortable and spacious rooms.
  • Kakunodate Samurai House Guesthouse: A traditional guesthouse that is located in the Kakunodate Samurai District and lets you experience the local culture and traditions.
  • Tazawako Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that is located near Lake Tazawa and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

What to Buy in Akita (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Akita (Prefecture) is known for its unique and high-quality local products. Here are some souvenirs you might want to pick up:

  • Kokeshi dolls: Wooden dolls that are a traditional craft in Akita and are known for their simplicity and elegance.
  • Akita cedar products: Handmade products made from Akita cedar, such as kitchen utensils, furniture, and decorative items.
  • Namahage masks: Masks that are modeled after the Namahage demons and are used in local festivals and events.

Local Culture and Customs of Akita (Prefecture)

Akita (Prefecture) has a rich and unique culture and is known for its festivals, crafts, and traditions. Some of the things to keep in mind when traveling to Akita include:

  • Namahage: A famous local tradition where men dressed as Namahage demons visit households on New Year’s Eve to scare away evil spirits.
  • Kanto Festival: A summer festival where performers balance lanterns on long bamboo poles and perform acrobatics.
  • Magewappa: A traditional craft where wooden containers and utensils are made from bentwood.

Best Time to Visit Akita (Prefecture)

The best time to visit Akita (Prefecture) depends on your interests and what you want to see and do. Here are some recommendations:

  • Spring (March-May): Cherry blossom season is a popular time to visit, and the weather is mild and pleasant.
  • Summer (June-August): The Kanto Festival and other summer festivals are held during this time, but it can be hot and humid.
  • Fall (September-November): The fall foliage is beautiful, and there are several harvest festivals and events.
  • Winter (December-February): The winter festivals and snow activities are a unique experience, but it can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Akita (Prefecture)

Here are some general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when traveling to Akita:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Attend a festival or event.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to local traditions or people.
  • Leave your trash or litter in public places.
  • Touch or disturb wildlife or natural environments.

Safety and Health

Akita (Prefecture) is a safe place to travel, but it’s always a good idea to take some precautions.

Safety in Akita (Prefecture)

  • Crime rates are low in Akita, but it’s still important to take normal precautions for personal safety.
  • Be aware of natural hazards, such as strong currents at the beach or icy roads in the winter.

Health in Akita (Prefecture)

  • Medical facilities are good in Akita, but it’s recommended to have travel insurance.
  • Mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Japanese encephalitis, can occur in rural areas during the summer months.

Getting to Akita (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several ways to get to Akita (Prefecture) from other parts of Japan.

Airports Near Akita (Prefecture)

  • Akita Airport: Located in Akita City, it has flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other cities in Japan.

Bus Stations Near Akita (Prefecture)

  • Akita Station: The main train and bus station in Akita City.
  • Odate Station: A smaller train and bus station in Odate City.

Other Options

  • Train: The JR Akita Shinkansen runs from Tokyo to Akita City and takes around 4 hours.
  • Car: Akita is accessible from other parts of Japan by car via the Tohoku Expressway.

How to Get Around in Akita (Prefecture)

If you plan to visit multiple places in Akita (Prefecture), it’s recommended to rent a car. However, there are also public transportation options available:

  • Train: The JR East Akita Nairiku Line runs through the prefecture and connects various cities and towns.
  • Bus: There are several bus routes that operate within Akita and also connect with other prefectures.

Where to Go Next from Akita (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Japan, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you might want to consider:

  • Aomori Prefecture: Located to the north of Akita, it is known for its beautiful nature, festivals, and local cuisine.
  • Iwate Prefecture: Located to the south of Akita, it offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic locations, including the famous Geibikei Gorge.
  • Matsushima Bay: A beautiful bay with many small islands located in Miyagi Prefecture.

Conclusion

Akita (Prefecture) is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or festivals, there’s something for everyone in Akita. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and discover all that Akita has to offer.

Akita in Japan Akita in Japan Ikeda-shi Garden in Daisen (Akita) Ikeda-shi Garden in Daisen (Akita) Godzilla Rock in Oga Godzilla Rock in Oga


    Nikaho
    Noshiro
    Nyuto Onsen
    Odate
    Ugo
    Yuzawa (Akita)