Things To Do
in Ōmagari

Ōmagari is a charming city located in the Akita Prefecture of Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural surroundings. It is particularly famous for its traditional festivals, including the iconic Ōmagari Fireworks Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the country. The city also offers a unique blend of urban conveniences and rural tranquility, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

With its warm community and plethora of outdoor activities, Ōmagari is a hidden gem worth exploring.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ōmagari
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ōmagari Station area, exploring local shops and enjoying a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Akita Senshu Museum of Art to admire beautiful artworks and learn about the region's artistic history, followed by a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Kitasenju Park.

evening
:

Wrap up your day by dining at a local izakaya, where you can savor authentic Akita cuisine, and then take a walk around the illuminated streets of Ōmagari.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Mount Takanosu, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical sites in the city, such as the Ōmagari Shrine, and indulge in local street food at the Ōmagari Food Market.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a karaoke bar or a traditional sake house to mingle with locals and try some regional drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$10
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel night$70
🚉Train ticket$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and festivals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transport may not reach remote areas.
  • Cold winters can deter some visitors.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/I'm sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Ōmagari

Visit one of these nice places.

Ōmagari Fireworks Festival

A spectacular annual event that lights up the night sky, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Kitasenju Park

A beautiful park with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, perfect for nature photography.

Ōmagari Shrine

A historic shrine surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing traditional architecture and serene landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ōmagari

Ōmagari offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects the flavors of Akita Prefecture, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Ōmagari Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kiritanpo

Rice skewers grilled over an open flame, often served in a hot pot with chicken and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Inaniwa Udon

Thin, smooth udon noodles that are a specialty of the region, typically enjoyed in a hot broth.

Akita Sake

Locally brewed sake known for its smooth and rich flavor, perfect for pairing with various dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ōmagari Food Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, street food stalls, and artisanal products, ideal for sampling regional flavors.

Street Vendors

Various vendors selling yakitori, taiyaki, and other popular snacks during festivals and events.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ōmagari experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, while summer (June to August) is warm and humid, ideal for outdoor events. Autumn (September to November) showcases beautiful foliage and cooler weather, and winter (December to February) can be cold with heavy snowfall, providing opportunities for winter sports.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Behavior

Always bow when greeting someone and be polite in conversations.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Keep noise levels low in public transport and shared spaces to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ōmagari is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and securing valuables. In winter, be cautious of icy sidewalks and roads.

Tipping in Ōmagari

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, and excellent service is typically included in the price.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted at many restaurants and shops; mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Witness cherry blossoms in full bloom, especially in parks and along streets, creating picturesque scenes.

Summer

Enjoy warm weather and vibrant festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Experience stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures, making it a fantastic time for outdoor activities.

Winter

Expect cold temperatures with snow covering the area, perfect for winter sports and experiencing traditional Japanese winter festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Ōmagari at Night

Ōmagari's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with numerous izakayas, karaoke bars, and local pubs offering a taste of Japanese culture. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes paired with drinks, and many places stay open late for socializing. The atmosphere is friendly, and it's common to see groups of friends enjoying their evening together. Festivals often add to the excitement, with street performances and food stalls enhancing the nightlife experience.

Hiking in Ōmagari

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Takanosu Trail

A scenic trail that offers panoramic views and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Akitakanto Trail

A moderately challenging trail known for its beautiful landscapes and varied terrain, suitable for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Ōmagari by plane.

Akita Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Ōmagari, Akita Airport offers domestic flights and limited international services, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ōmagari is a walkable city, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located close to each other. The streets are generally safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and public transport options are available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Ōmagari's population consists of local Japanese residents who have lived in the area for generations.

Tourists

Visitors from both Japan and abroad come to experience the city's culture and festivals, especially during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and high school tournaments drawing significant crowds.

Sumo

Sumo wrestling is another traditional sport that garners interest, with local tournaments held during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ōmagari is generally light, with manageable congestion during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and trains, which are reliable and connect to nearby cities. Biking is also a popular way to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ōmagari.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes meat, many restaurants in Ōmagari can accommodate vegetarian diets if informed in advance.

Gluten-Free

Options are limited, but dishes like sashimi and certain rice-based dishes may be available; it's best to check with restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ōmagari is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and many medical professionals speak basic English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide