Akita Hidden Gems
8 spots
Kakunodate Samurai District — Feudal Streets & Cherry Blossoms
Kakunodate (角館) is known as the 'Little Kyoto of Tohoku,' preserving one of Japan's finest samurai districts from the Ed…
Namahage — Demon Folklore & New Year Rituals
Namahage (なまはげ) are demon-like deities from Oga Peninsula folklore, integral to Akita's New Year traditions since the Ed…
Akita Kanto Festival — Pole Lantern Balancing Spectacular
The Akita Kanto Festival (秋田竿燈まつり) is one of Tohoku's three great festivals, held annually August 3-6. The centerpiece i…
Senshu Park — Kubota Castle Ruins & Cherry Blossoms
Senshu Park (千秋公園) occupies the site of Kubota Castle (久保田城), the Edo-period stronghold of the Satake clan who ruled Aki…
Akita Inu Dogs — Hachiko's Loyal Breed
Akita Inu (秋田犬) are one of Japan's six native dog breeds, designated a Natural Monument in 1931. Originating in the Odat…
Yokote Kamakura Festival — Snow House Candle Ritual
The Yokote Kamakura Festival (横手のかまくら) is a 450-year-old winter tradition held annually February 15-16, where the city c…
Shinzan Shrine — Namahage Costume Rituals
Shinzan Shrine (真山神社) in Oga Peninsula is the spiritual home of the Namahage tradition, where ritual demon costumes are…
Akita Museum of Art — Foujita's Akita Masterworks
The Akita Museum of Art (秋田県立美術館) is a striking triangular glass building designed by architect Tadao Ando, housing the…