Things To Do
in Akita
Akita is a prefecture located in the northern part of Honshu, Japan's main island. Known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountains, hot springs, and rice fields, Akita is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The region is also famous for its traditional festivals, such as the Kanto Matsuri and the Namahage festival.
Visitors to Akita can also enjoy local delicacies like Kiritanpo and Hinai chicken.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the beautiful Akita Prefectural Natural History Museum area. Enjoy the stunning scenery and immerse yourself in local flora and fauna.
Visit the historic Kakunodate Samurai District to experience traditional Edo-era architecture. Stroll through cherry blossom-lined streets and explore quaint shops.
Wind down with a kaiseki dinner, where you can taste the seasonal delicacies of Akita. Consider visiting a local onsen to relax and rejuvenate.
Head to Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, for a serene boat ride. Capture breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery.
Enjoy lunch at a lakeside café with local specialities, then explore the scenic hiking trails around the lake. Don't forget to visit the iconic statue of Tatsuko, the lake's legendary princess.
Return to Akita city and visit a traditional izakaya for a taste of local cuisine. Experience the vibrant nightlife in the city center.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and lakes.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with traditional festivals and local crafts.
- Less crowded than larger cities, offering a more peaceful environment.
- Delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and rice from the surrounding farms.
- Strong sense of community and friendly people.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall, which can be challenging for residents.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transportation can be less frequent and less extensive.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers, as English is not widely spoken.
Best Activities in Akita
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural scenery and famous hiking trails such as the Oga Peninsula and Shirakami Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the picturesque Omono River, taking in the tranquil surroundings and charming rural landscapes.
During the winter season, experience the thrill of snow sports at popular ski resorts like Hachimantai and Tazawako.
Tours
Uncover the best of Akita with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Akita
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, as well as views of the surrounding mountains and the Osumi River.
Known for its crystal-clear blue water and beautiful surrounding landscapes, making it an excellent spot for photography.
Features well-preserved samurai houses set against a backdrop of cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, providing picturesque views for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Akita
Akita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty of Akita, kiritanpo is made from pounded rice formed into a cylindrical shape and then grilled. It is often served with a hot pot or as a skewer.
Must-Try!
Hinai chicken, known for its rich flavor and tender meat, is a prized local ingredient in Akita. It is commonly used in various dishes such as yakitori or hot pots.
Kakunimochi is a traditional New Year's dish in Akita. It consists of mochi (rice cake) simmered in a sweet and savory broth with vegetables and chicken or duck.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Akita better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Akita City, this bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and prepared foods. Visitors can sample snacks like kiritanpo skewers and grilled seafood from the stalls.
In the historic samurai district of Kakunodate, street food stalls offer regional delicacies such as yakisoba (fried noodles), mitarashi dango (skewered rice dumplings with sweet soy glaze), and freshly grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Akita, it is important to show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures, and acknowledging their wisdom and experience.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering a Japanese home or certain traditional establishments in Akita as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Being aware of and following local customs, such as bowing when greeting others and observing traditional ceremonies and rituals, is a key part of showing respect in Akita.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Akita with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Akita
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Akita, Japan. It is not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Payment in Akita, Japan is predominantly done in cash. While credit cards are accepted in some establishments, especially in larger cities, it's always advisable to carry enough cash for transactions in smaller towns and rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms and enjoy pleasant weather
Warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals
Beautiful fall foliage and pleasant temperatures for sightseeing
Snowy landscapes, great for winter sports and hot springs
Akita at Night
Hiking in Akita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historic town surrounded by beautiful nature, offering various hiking trails that provide views of cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage.
A popular hiking destination with trails leading to the summit, known for its scenic views and diverse flora.
The highest peak in the Dewa Sanzan region, offering challenging trails and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.
A recreational area with well-maintained trails, suitable for leisurely hikes and nature watching.
A vast area with numerous hiking trails through beautiful landscapes, including marshlands, forests, and volcanic terrains.
Aiports
How to reach Akita by plane.
The primary airport serving Akita, Japan with domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 145 km south of Akita, Sendai Airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Tokyo's main international airport, located about 500 km from Akita, serving numerous global destinations.
Another major Tokyo airport, about 450 km from Akita, that provides a large number of international flights.
Located approx. 600 km from Akita, this is a key international hub serving the Osaka region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, comprising approximately 98% of the population in Akita.
A significant minority group, often descendants of migrants from the Korean Peninsula.
Another notable minority group, including recent migrants and long-term residents with historical ties.
Includes Japanese-Brazilians and other Brazilians, many of whom have moved to Japan for work, particularly in factories.
A growing community due to immigration for work and family reunification.
An increasingly prominent group due to recent immigration trends.
Includes individuals from various countries, contributing to the multicultural makeup of Akita.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Akita, with many local teams and schools participating in competitions. The region has a strong history of producing talented players.
Soccer has gained popularity in Akita, with local clubs and youth programs fostering talent. The presence of J-League teams has further increased interest in the sport.
Due to its snowy winters, skiing is a favorite pastime in Akita, with several ski resorts attracting both locals and tourists.
Sumo wrestling has roots in traditional Japanese culture and is followed closely in Akita, where regional tournaments sometimes take place.
Running events, including marathons and local races, are popular among residents, promoting a healthy lifestyle and community participation.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and kendo, are practiced widely in schools and clubs, emphasizing discipline and physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Akita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Akita's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants and cafes in tourist-centric areas offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure suitable options.
Gluten-free options may be limited in Akita due to the prevalent use of soy sauce and wheat-based products. However, some establishments may accommodate gluten-free requests with advance notice.