Akita Prefecture is situated in the northeastern part of Honshu, the main island of Japan. It is located on the Sea of Japan side and shares its borders with Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, and Yamagata Prefectures. Akita Prefecture is known for its beautiful nature, rich history, and unique culture. With its stunning natural landscapes, delicious food, and welcoming people, Akita Prefecture is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Japan beyond the popular tourist spots.
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Getting to Akita Prefecture from Tokyo
Getting to Akita Prefecture from Tokyo is quite easy. The easiest way to get there is by train. You can take the JR Akita Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Akita Station, which takes approximately 4 hours. Another option is to take a domestic flight from Haneda Airport to Akita Airport, which takes less than an hour. Once you arrive at Akita Station or Airport, you can easily take a bus or train to your destination in Akita Prefecture.
Best season to Visit Akita
The best time to visit Akita Prefecture depends on what you want to see and experience. During the winter months from December to February, Akita Prefecture is covered in snow, offering a unique winter wonderland experience. The famous Akita Kanto Festival is also held in August, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The weather is mild and comfortable during spring and autumn, making it a great time to participate in outdoor activities and enjoy the stunning nature of Akita Prefecture.
Must-see places in Akita
Lake Tazawa
The deepest lake in Japan, Lake Tazawa, is located in the eastern part of Akita Prefecture. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings make it a popular tourist spot.
Namahage Museum
This museum showcases the unique Namahage ritual of Akita Prefecture, where men dressed as demons visit homes to drive away evil spirits. The museum provides an insight into the history and culture of the ritual in Akita Prefecture.
Omagari Fireworks Festival
Known as one of the top three fireworks festivals in Japan, the Omagari Fireworks Festival is a spectacular display of fireworks held annually in August. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, making it a must-visit during your trip in Akita Prefecture.
Kakunodate Samurai District
Kakunodate is a town located in the north of Akita Prefecture, famous for its well-preserved samurai houses and beautiful cherry blossom trees. The town is also home to the Samurai Armor Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the samurai.
Oga Peninsula
The Oga Peninsula is located in the western part of Akita Prefecture and is known for its stunning natural beauty and traditional culture. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming in the sea, and visit the Namahage Museum to learn about the region’s unique folklore.
Akita City
Akita City is the capital city of Akita Prefecture known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. The city offers a blend of modern and traditional attractions, including historical sites, museums, and natural beauty. One of the notable festivals in Akita City is the Kanto Festival. This annual event takes place in August and features participants balancing long bamboo poles adorned with paper lanterns on their palms, shoulders, and foreheads. The festival showcases impressive displays of skill and coordination, creating a mesmerizing sight as the lanterns illuminate the night sky. It is a must-see event that attracts visitors from around the world.
Akita Prefecture is also renowned for its delicious food. Some of the must-try dishes include kiritanpo, a grilled rice stick, and hinaijidori, a local chicken breed known for its tasty meat. Other popular dishes include Iburigakko, which is smoked pickled radish, and sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine made in Akita Prefecture.
Cuisines you can enjoy in Akita
Akita, a prefecture located in the northern part of Japan’s main island, offers a unique blend of flavors that showcases the region’s pristine landscapes, traditions, and culture. Visitors who come to this picturesque destination can expect to sample traditional dishes such as rice, seafood, pickled vegetables, and more. Whether you are a meat lover, vegetarian or vegan, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we will explore some of the cuisines you can enjoy in Akita.
Kiritanpo nabe
Kiritanpo nabe is a traditional seasonal dish that is popular in the Akita region. This hot pot dish consists of grilled rice skewers that are simmered in a broth of chicken, vegetables and other ingredients. It is a perfect soul-warming meal that is served during the cooler months of the year.
Hata hata meshi
Hata hata meshi is considered Akita’s most distinctive and sought-after local dish. It is a delectable rice dish made with hata hata fish, which is a type of freshwater fish found in the nearby rivers of Akita. The fish is cooked with soy sauce and sake, mixed with Akita’s premium rice, and served with a dash of fresh parsley to enhance the flavor and aroma.
Inaniwa udon
Inaniwa udon is the most famous type of udon noodle in Akita. This dish uses a special method of kneading and stretching the dough, which creates a unique texture and chewiness. The noodles are usually served in a light broth with toppings such as dried seaweed, green onions, and grated radish.
Wappameshi
Wappameshi is a unique type of sushi that is a specialty of Oga Peninsula in Akita. This sushi uses an edible cedar leaf as the wrap, giving it a distinctive aromatic flavor. The sushi is filled with various ingredients such as salmon, sea urchin, and sea bream, which are then wrapped in rice and the cedar leaf.
Iburigakko
Iburigakko is a type of pickled vegetable that is smoked using a special type of hay. This pickling method gives the vegetables a unique smoky flavor that is distinctive to Akita’s cuisine. The most common vegetables used are daikon radish and eggplant, and they are usually served as a side dish or garnish.
Nambu senbei
Nambu senbei is a type of light, crispy rice cracker that originated in the Nambu region of Akita. The crackers are made from rice flour, soy sauce, sugar, and salt, and are usually served with tea or as a snack. They come in various shapes and sizes, and are sometimes flavored with sesame seeds or black pepper to enhance the taste.
Akita has an abundance of traditional dishes that showcase the region’s history, culture, and natural resources. Visitors to Akita can indulge in the many unique and flavorful cuisines that are not found elsewhere in Japan. From local seafood dishes, comforting hot pots, to delectable rice cakes and snacks, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Akita.
Recommended Accommodations in Akita
Daisenya Hotel
This hotel is located on the shore of Lake Tazawa, which is famous for its crystal-clear deep blue water. Here, you can enjoy both the beautiful scenery and hot springs. The hotel offers traditional Japanese-style rooms and suites with private outdoor hot spring baths.
Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen
This resort offers you the perfect indulgent experience, ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy nature. As a guest, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Lake Tazawa from the rooms, which are equipped with private baths. The resort offers two types of baths: indoor and outdoor. Additionally, you can also try their Japanese-style private open-air bath.
Towada Prince Hotel
This stunning hotel offers guests the chance to enjoy a relaxing spa and mineral bath. Here, you can find Western-style rooms as well as traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats. All rooms come equipped with a TV, refrigerator, and a private, heated bathroom.
Akita View Hotel
This luxurious hotel is located in the center of Akita city, and it’s an excellent choice for first-timers. You can enjoy different kinds of hot springs such as a rock-filled hot spring or cypress bath. All of the rooms are fitted with modern amenities like high-speed internet, a private bathroom, a TV, and air conditioning.
Akita Diamond Hotel
This hotel is located in front of one of the most stunning scenic routes in Japan, Ugo-Honjozu, and offers beautiful mountain views. The hotel has an array of indoor and outdoor hot springs to soak in, complete with beautiful alpine views. The hotel also boasts a spa that offers different types of massages and other therapeutic treatments.
Oga Kanko Hotel
This hotel is built on the southern coast of Akita prefecture, facing the Japan sea. Oga Kanko Hotel features both Japanese-style and Western-style rooms, which come with beautiful ocean views. Here guests can unwind and relax in the hot springs, or enjoy a peaceful stroll in the surrounding forest.
Akita Castle Hotel
This luxurious hotel is located beside a deep blue lake named Senshu-ko in the heart of Akita city. It’s the perfect spot for guests who want to experience both the culture and nature of Akita. Akita Castle Hotel has an onsite restaurant that specializes in delicious traditional Akita cuisine.
Oga Grand Hotel
This hotel is located on the snow-covered mountain of Oga in Northern Akita. It’s a perfect fit for those looking to ski or just relax in the hot springs after a day outdoors. The interior of every room is very spacious and elegantly decorated.
Goshono-Yu
This hotel is a Japanese-style Ryokan located near the hot spring town of Nyuto Onsen. You can relax in your room or the hotel’s indoor or outdoor hot springs while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area. With the experience of the owner who won several local cooking competitions, guests can enjoy the unique and delicious Natto Pot One-Pot Dish.
Nyuto Onsen Village
Nyuto Onsen is a village of hot springs located in the Southwestern mountains of Akita. It is a perfect fit for nature lovers looking for an authentic Japanese experience. This Ryokan offers guests traditional Japanese-style rooms with futon beds and shared hot springs. The hot springs are surrounded by stunningly beautiful forests that change throughout the year.
Conclusion
In summary, Akita Prefecture offers a unique and exciting opportunity to experience Japanese culture and nature. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals, it is a must-visit destination in Japan. Whether you’re looking to explore the unique Namahage ritual, participate in outdoor activities, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, Akita Prefecture has something for everyone.
ピンバック: Tohoku – You have a friend in Japan