Akita - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Akita

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Akita, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Akita and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Akita, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Akita for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Akita

Akita is a prefecture located in the northern part of Japan's main island, Honshu. It is known for its natural beauty, including the famous Lake Tazawa, and the Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Akita is also known for its traditional festivals, such as the Kanto Festival, in which participants balance long bamboo poles with lanterns attached on top of them. The prefecture is also famous for its rice, sake, and local cuisine, including Kiritanpo, grilled rice skewers, and Hinai-jidori, a type of chicken raised in the area. Akita is accessible by both train and plane, with the regional Akita Airport serving domestic and international flights.

What to visit in Akita

Sure, here are some of the famous tourist attractions of Akita, Japan, along with some information about each: 1. Kakunodate Samurai District - This district is famous for its well-preserved Samurai houses that were built in the Edo period. It's a great place to experience the old Japanese lifestyle.
2. Lake Tazawa - This lake is the deepest lake in Japan, and it's surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Visitors can take boat rides, explore the hiking trails, or relax in the hot springs nearby.
3. Oga Peninsula - This area is known for its rugged coastline, traditional fishing villages, and beautiful nature. It's a great place to explore the outdoors and see some of Japan's unique coastal landscapes.
4. Senshu Park - This park is located in Akita city and is known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring. It's a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
5. Nyuto Onsen - This hot spring resort is located in the mountains of Akita and is known for its luxurious accommodations and therapeutic hot springs. It's a great place to relax and unwind.
6. Yokote Kamakura Festival - This festival is held in the winter and features traditional snow huts (kamakura) that are decorated with candles and used for various activities. It's a unique cultural event that attracts many visitors each year.
7. Akita Omotenashi Village - This village is a cultural theme park that showcases the traditions and customs of Akita. Visitors can try traditional crafts, watch cultural performances, and sample local cuisine.
Overall, Akita is a great destination for nature lovers and those interested in experiencing Japanese culture and traditions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Akita.

When to go on holiday to Akita

The best time to visit Akita, Japan is between late April and early May when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Another good time to visit is in the fall from late September to early November when the leaves change color and the weather is mild. However, Akita is known for harsh winters with abundant snowfall and low temperatures, which might be a unique experience if you enjoy winter sports, snow festivals, and hot springs. It's important to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Akita

There are a few ways to get to Akita, Japan depending on where you are coming from. Here are some options: 1. By Air: Akita Airport is the main airport in the Akita Prefecture. It is serviced by various airlines such as Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Skymark Airlines. From here you can either take a taxi or a bus to the city center.
2. By Train: Akita is accessible by train through the JR Akita Shinkansen Line and Ou Main Line. The Shinkansen line connects Akita to Tokyo in about four hours. You can also take a train from other cities like Sendai, Morioka, Aomori, and Niigata.
3. By Bus: Akita is well-connected by bus from various cities like Tokyo, Sendai, and Morioka. Several bus companies run services to the Akita Bus Terminal in the city center.
I recommend checking the schedules and fares of the different options to choose the one that works best for you.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Akita, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Akita

Akita, a prefecture in the northern part of Japan, is known for its rich food culture and unique cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Akita with a short description for each of them: 1. Kiritampo: A traditional dish made by mashing cooked rice into a sticky paste, wrapping it around a stick, and grilling it over an open fire. It is often served with miso soup and various toppings like sesame seeds, seaweed, and green onions.
2. Inaniwa udon: A type of thin, chewy udon noodle that is hand-stretched and dried on split bamboo. It is typically served with a light soy sauce or tsuyu broth and topped with scallions, grated daikon radish, and grated ginger.
3. Hatahata zushi: A type of sushi made with pickled sandfish, a common fish found in the waters off Akita. The fish is first marinated in vinegar and salt, then layered with sushi rice and wrapped in seaweed.
4. Kari-kari don: A rice bowl topped with crispy fried chicken or pork cutlets and slathered in a sweet and savory sauce. It is often served with a side of pickled vegetables.
5. Gakko: A type of pickled vegetable made with thinly sliced radish, carrot, and cucumber that is seasoned with salt, sugar, and vinegar. It is a popular side dish in Akita cuisine.
6. Kurosawa beef: A type of high-quality beef from the Kurosawa Ranch in Akita. The cattle are raised on a special diet and treated with care to produce tender, flavorful meat. It is often served as a steak or in a hot pot dish.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique foods that Akita has to offer.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Akita an expensive destination for tourists?

Akita is generally considered to be a moderately expensive destination for tourists in Japan. Accommodation and transportation costs can be high, and dining at some of the nicer restaurants can also be expensive. However, there are also plenty of affordable options for travelers on a budget. One way to save money is to explore the local area on foot or by bicycle, as many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Additionally, there are many inexpensive eateries and street food vendors throughout the city, offering delicious local cuisine at reasonable prices. Overall, with some careful planning, it's possible to enjoy a fantastic trip to Akita without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Akita

In Akita, it is best to find accommodation in the city center of Akita City or in the nearby hot spring resort town of Nyuto Onsen. This will give you easy access to attractions such as Akita Castle, Senshu Park, and the Akita Museum of Art. Additionally, staying in Nyuto Onsen provides the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) accommodations and onsens (hot springs). Another option is to stay in the coastal town of Oga, known for its scenic coastline and the Namahage Museum.
You can check hotel prices at Akita here:
Booking.com

Is Akita a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Akita is considered a safe place for tourists. Japan, in general, has a low crime rate, and Akita is no exception. The locals are generally friendly and helpful, and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's always important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Akita.

What type of travelers will enjoy Akita the most?

Akita, Japan has something to offer for everyone, however, certain types of travelers may enjoy it more than others. Couples will love the serene beauty of the area and its outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and onsen hopping. Akita is known for its hot springs, which offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in natural settings.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the annual Kanto Festival in August, featuring hundreds of paper lanterns hung on bamboo poles, which creates a magical and exciting atmosphere. Additionally, there are many bars and restaurants in the city, especially around the station area, which provide late-night entertainment.
Families will enjoy the many cultural exhibits, museums and local traditional festivals like the Namahage Festival, where costumed men wander around the streets and visit homes to scare away evil spirits. Families can also visit Lake Tazawa which is one of the deepest lakes in Japan and offers several recreational activities like boating, fishing and camping.
Overall, Akita has something for each kind of traveler, and it is recommended to visit any time of the year, depending on your interests and preferences.

How to get around Akita

There are several transportation options to move around Akita, Japan: 1. Train: Akita has a well-connected rail network with multiple train lines that cover most of the city and surrounding areas.
2. Bus: Bus services are widely available in Akita and provide an affordable and convenient way to get around the city.
3. Taxis: Taxis are available in Akita, but they tend to be expensive.
4. Rental Car: For travelers who want to explore the city and its outskirts on their own, rental cars are available.
5. Bicycles: Akita is a bike-friendly city, and bike rentals are available for reasonable prices. It's also a great way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

What to see around Akita

Certainly! Here are some nice places you could visit in a day trip from Akita: 1. Kakunodate: Known as the "little Kyoto" of Tohoku, Kakunodate is a well-preserved castle town with beautiful samurai residences and cherry blossom trees.
2. Lake Tazawa: The deepest lake in Japan, Lake Tazawa is known for its stunning blue color and scenic views.
3. Nyuto Onsen: A hot spring resort nestled in the mountains, Nyuto Onsen is a great place to relax and rejuvenate.
4. Senshu Park: Located in Akita City, Senshu Park is a large park with beautiful gardens, a traditional Japanese teahouse, and a museum.
5. Oga Peninsula: Known for its rugged coastline and scenic views, the Oga Peninsula is a great place to go for a scenic drive or hike.
6. Kakudatejima Island: Located off the coast of Akita, Kakudatejima Island is known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.
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