Things To Do
in Kitaakita
Kitaakita is a city located in the northern part of Akita Prefecture in Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and rivers. The city is also famous for its traditional hot springs resorts, offering relaxation and wellness to visitors.
Kitaakita is a great destination for those looking to experience the tranquility of rural Japan and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
- "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 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the scenic Oyu Stone Circle. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit the Kitaakita City Traditional Museum to learn about the local culture and history. Don’t forget to grab a traditional lunch at a nearby eatery.
Relax at a local onsen to unwind and soak in the healing waters. Dine at a cozy restaurant to savor some regional delicacies.
Stroll through the breathtaking Akita Komagatake Park, famous for its stunning autumn foliage. Take plenty of photos as you immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Head to the local market to taste seasonal produce and snacks. Engage with local vendors and learn about the area's agricultural heritage.
Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner to experience the art of Japanese cuisine. Spend your evening soaking in the tranquility of the countryside.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes including mountains and forests.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and events.
- Low population density and peaceful living environment.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
- Strong community spirit and friendly locals.
- Limited job opportunities and economic growth.
- Challenges in accessing modern amenities and services.
- Harsh winter conditions with heavy snowfall.
- Potential isolation due to remote location.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options.
Best Activities in Kitaakita
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike through the Tashiro Wetlands, which are known for their diverse plant and animal life. There are well-maintained trails that offer beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Experience the thrill of skiing at Takanosu Mountain, which offers various slopes suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. The area also provides stunning winter views.
Relax and enjoy a camping trip at the picturesque Lake Tazawa. The area offers campsites with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kitaakita with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kitaakita
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, especially during autumn foliage season.
Provides a unique and historical backdrop for photos, particularly at sunrise or sunset.
Allows for panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape and the opportunity to capture action shots of skiing and snowboarding.
Food in Kitaakita
Kitaakita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty of the Akita region, Kiritanpo is made from pounded rice formed into a stick and grilled. It is often served in a hot pot with chicken and vegetables.
Must-Try!
Inaniwa Udon is a type of udon noodle that is hand-stretched to create a delicate texture. It is typically served in a light soy-based broth.
Hinai Chicken, also known as Hinai-jidori, is a local breed of free-range chicken known for its rich flavor and tender meat. It is commonly prepared in various ways, such as grilled or in a hot pot.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kitaakita better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Takanosu Morning Market is a bustling marketplace where visitors can find an array of fresh local produce, snacks, and handmade crafts. It's a great place to sample street food like yakisoba (fried noodles) and imagawayaki (sweet filled pancakes).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kitaakita, Japan, it is important to show respect to elders through polite language and behavior, such as using honorifics and bowing when greeting or showing gratitude.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments in Kitaakita, Japan, as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Visitors to Kitaakita should make an effort to learn and observe local customs, such as proper etiquette at onsens (hot springs) and respect for sacred places like shrines and temples.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kitaakita with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kitaakita
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kitaakita, Japan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service-oriented establishments.
In Kitaakita, Japan, cash is the primary method of payment. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, but it's a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller businesses and more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kitaakita.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and mild temperatures
Warm weather and ideal for hiking and outdoor activities
Beautiful fall foliage and pleasant weather for sightseeing
Great for winter sports and enjoying the snowscape
Kitaakita at Night
Hiking in Kitaakita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot known for its scenic views and diverse flora and fauna, Kaminoyama Mountain offers several trails for various skill levels.
This mountain is renowned for its challenging trails and beautiful landscapes, attracting both experienced hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Akita Komagatake features stunning alpine scenery and is a great destination for those looking to experience more rugged hiking paths.
Part of the Hachimantai National Park, this area offers well-maintained trails with panoramic views and hot springs nearby for a relaxing end to a hike.
While primarily known for its picturesque lake, there are numerous trails around Tazawako that allow for a pleasant hiking experience amidst nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kitaakita through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kitaakita by plane.
Located approximately 30 km southeast of Kitaakita, Akita Airport serves both domestic and a few international flights.
Located about 150 km south of Kitaakita, Sendai Airport is the largest airport in the Tohoku region, with a variety of domestic and international flights.
Situated around 400 km north of Kitaakita in Hokkaido, New Chitose Airport is the busiest airport in Hokkaido, offering many international connections.
Located approximately 400 km southeast of Kitaakita, Narita International Airport serves as a major hub for international air travel to and from Japan.
Approximately 450 km to the southeast of Kitaakita, Haneda Airport is one of the primary airports serving Tokyo, with extensive international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Kitaakita, consisting mainly of native Japanese citizens.
Includes small groups of Ainu and other ethnic communities.
A growing number of expatriates and foreign workers from various countries.
The Soul of Kitaakita
Discover the essence of Kitaakita through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, including in Kitaakita. It enjoys a strong following at both amateur and professional levels, with local teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Soccer has been gaining popularity in Kitaakita, with local clubs and youth teams contributing to the growth of the sport in the area.
Basketball is also favored among the youth in Kitaakita, with schools and local leagues fostering interest through competitions and practices.
Sports such as Sumo and Kendo have cultural significance in Japan and are practiced in Kitaakita, reflecting the traditional sporting values of the region.
Tennis is popular in Kitaakita, with local courts available for recreational players and competitive matches held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kitaakita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Akita cuisine prominently features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Kitaakita offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes upon request. Look for establishments with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients for the best options.
Due to the prevalence of soy sauce and wheat-based noodles in Japanese cuisine, finding gluten-free options can be challenging. However, some restaurants in Kitaakita may offer rice-based dishes or have the flexibility to accommodate gluten-free requests.