About Akita
Akita Prefecture is a region in Japan that faces the Sea of Japan and is surrounded by snowy mountains.
It’s a place full of stunning landscapes, shaped by its harsh yet beautiful nature.
Akita also has a unique food culture, offering flavors you can’t find anywhere else.
Plus, it’s rich in history and traditions, with some truly unique festivals held throughout the year!
Famous Tourist Spots in Akita
Tazawa Lake
“Lake Tazawa is the deepest lake in Japan, with a depth of 423 meters.
By the lakeshore, you’ll find the statue of Tatsuko, a woman who, according to legend, drank the lake’s water and turned into a dragon.
On the northern shore, there’s Gozanoishi Shrine. With the lake as a backdrop, the view of the torii gate creates a truly mystical scene.”
Kakunodate
Kakunodate is a historic town where you can still see many buildings from Japan’s samurai era. It’s a great place to experience the country’s past.
It’s also famous for cherry blossoms! Along the Hinokinai River, you’ll find a breathtaking 2-kilometer stretch of cherry trees, attracting lots of visitors when they’re in full bloom.
Known as ‘Little Kyoto,’ Kakunodate’s samurai district is perfect for a stroll. Walk through the old streets and imagine what life was like back in the day!
Nyuto Onsen Kyo
Nyuto Onsen Village is a famous hot spring that’s even topped Japan’s popular hot spring rankings.
What makes it special is the charming, old-fashioned atmosphere created by its location in the midst of a beech forest.
Another highlight is the variety of hot springs you can enjoy, each with its own unique mineral properties. You can even visit for a day trip, but be careful not to overdo it while hopping between baths!
Oga Peninsula
On the western edge of Akita Prefecture, you’ll find the large Oga Peninsula, which juts out into the Sea of Japan.
At the tip of the peninsula, you can catch beautiful views, like the sunset over the Sea of Japan at Nyudozaki.
The Oga Peninsula is also famous for being the home of Akita’s well-known culture of ‘Namahage,’ traditional masked figures that are especially iconic here.
Delicious Food in Akita
Kiritanpo
Kiritampo is a traditional dish from Akita where rice is mashed, wrapped around a cedar stick, and then grilled.
You can eat it with miso or add it to a hot pot to make Kiritampo Nabe. It’s been loved by the people of Akita for a long time, and even today, many families enjoy Kiritampo Nabe on special occasions.
Inaniwa Udon
Inaniwa Udon is a famous noodle from Akita and is considered one of Japan’s top three udon varieties.
Compared to regular udon, Inaniwa Udon is thinner and flatter, with a smooth texture and a slippery, refreshing finish when you eat it.
It tastes great whether served hot or cold. If you ever visit Akita, make sure to give it a try!
Akita Rice
Akita is well-known as one of Japan’s top rice-growing regions.
Among Akita’s rice varieties, ‘Akitakomachi’ is especially famous and is sold all over Japan.
It’s possible that dishes like the ‘Kiritampo’ I mentioned earlier were first created in this rice-rich area, where delicious rice is abundant!
Traditional Pickles of Akita
In Akita, pickles are called “gakko” and there are all kinds of different types enjoyed here.
Pickles might have an old-fashioned vibe, but when you lay out a colorful variety, they really brighten up the table.
One especially unique pickle is “Iburigakko” which is smoked to give it a nice, savory aroma. It’s a rare and distinctive Akita pickle that you won’t find many places around the world!
The Charming Culture of Akita
Namahage
Namahage are gods who scare off bad kids and lazy people while also driving away evil spirits.
Every year, in the middle of January, Namahage visit homes, and each family offers them drinks and other treats to welcome them.
Although they look pretty scary, Namahage are a symbol deeply rooted in the lives of the people in Akita.
Kanto Festival
The Akita Kanto Festival is a traditional summer celebration that’s been held in Akita for a long time.
In the festival, people lift poles over 10 meters long with lanterns hanging from them, either holding them with one hand or balancing them on their foreheads to wow the crowd.
The lively Kanto music played alongside the festival really adds to the excitement.
If you ever visit Akita, make sure to join in and experience it for yourself!
Omagari Fireworks Festival
The Oomagari Fireworks Festival is one of Japan’s biggest and most famous fireworks displays.
It’s called ‘Oomagari Fireworks’ because the festival takes place in Daisen City, which used to be called Oomagari.
Fireworks craftsmen from all over Japan compete with their skills, making it a luxurious and dazzling event!
Did you find Akita interesting?
Did you become interested in Akita?
It may not be as famous as places like Tokyo or Osaka, but it’s full of charm and hidden gems that many people don’t know about.
I’m really happy if this article helped you discover even a little bit of what makes Akita so special!
We’ve also posted a video version of this article on our school’s YouTube channel.
The video includes photos that we couldn’t share in the article.
It’s in both Japanese and Burmese, so if you’re interested, feel free to check it out!
