Things To Do
in Akitakata

Akitakata is a charming city located in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by lush mountains and rivers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Akitakata is also famous for its traditional crafts and local cuisine, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's rural life.

With its serene environment and friendly locals, Akitakata is an excellent spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Akitakata
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Akitakata City Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic Hōman-ji Temple, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk and admire the traditional architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya to experience authentic Japanese cuisine and socialize with the friendly locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a hike on the nearby Mount Kōbō to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Visit the local farmers' market to sample fresh produce and homemade goods.

evening
:

Relax at an onsen (hot spring) to unwind after your adventurous day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🏨Hotel Night$70
🚍Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation may have limited schedules
  • Few English-speaking locals
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Akitakata

Visit one of these nice places.

Hōman-ji Temple

This historic temple offers stunning architecture and serene gardens, perfect for capturing the essence of traditional Japanese culture.

Mount Kōbō

A beautiful hiking destination that provides panoramic views of Akitakata and its surrounding landscapes, ideal for landscape photography.

Akitakata River

The picturesque river flows through the city, providing numerous spots for capturing reflections and nature scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Akitakata

Akitakata offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that showcase the region's agricultural bounty.

Akitakata Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Akitakata Soba

Akitakata's signature buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a soup.

Must-Try!

Ikameshi

A traditional dish of squid stuffed with rice, often grilled or steamed.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Akitakata Farmers' Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Akitakata experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 10°C (30°F to 50°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Quiet Spaces

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public transport and temples as a sign of respect.

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Polite Greetings

Use polite greetings such as 'Konnichiwa' (Hello) and bow slightly as a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Akitakata is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Akitakata

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected, and tips may be seen as rude.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and while credit cards are becoming more common, it's advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a perfect time for outdoor excursions and photography.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, ideal for enjoying water activities and visiting local festivals.

Autumn

Autumn brings vibrant foliage, making hikes and scenic viewpoints particularly stunning.

Winter

Winters are cold, and while snow is rare, it can be a tranquil time to enjoy hot springs and cozy cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Akitakata at Night

Akitakata's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Most of the nightlife consists of cozy izakayas (Japanese pubs) that offer local drinks and food in a relaxed atmosphere. Occasionally, local festivals provide vibrant night events with traditional performances, making for a culturally enriching experience.

Hiking in Akitakata

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kōbō Trail

A moderately challenging trail that offers stunning views from the summit, with well-marked paths suitable for hikers of various levels.

Shiroyama Hiking Course

A scenic trail that takes you through forests and along ridges, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Airports

How to reach Akitakata by plane.

Hiroshima Airport

Located about 50 kilometers from Akitakata, Hiroshima Airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing easy access for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Akitakata is quite walkable, especially in its central areas where most attractions, eateries, and shops are located within a reasonable distance. The city has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of locals who are engaged in agriculture, traditional crafts, and small businesses.

Tourists

Akitakata attracts both domestic and international tourists seeking a peaceful getaway and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, and local teams often engage in community events and games.

Soccer

Soccer is also widely played, with many amateur leagues and youth programs throughout the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Akitakata is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect different parts of the city, although schedules may be limited, especially in the evenings.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Akitakata.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While many local dishes are meat-based, several restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly meals and can accommodate dietary requests.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but buckwheat soba is a safe choice for those with gluten restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Akitakata is generally good, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of emergencies.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide