Akita is the birthplace of the world famous Akita breed of dog.
Also known for its unique culture, the traditional folklore Namahage, in which a demon in an ogre mask makes the rounds of people's homes, is a distinctive Akita winter event.
Akita is also home to many original dishes, such as kiritanpo, mashed rice wrapped around a stick; inaniwa udon, said to be one of the three famous udon in Japan; and nabe hotpots using with shottsuru, a locally-made fish sauce.
Popular among tourists is Nyuto Onsen, a nearly undiscovered hot spring deep in the mountains of eastern Akita.
Although you can drop by for a soak, spend the night and relax.
Nearby is Japan's deepest lake, Lake Tazawa, and its sapphire blue water is an incredibly mystical sight.
The Akita Kanto Festival held in the summer is one of the three great festivals of the Tohoku region, and the sight of the 15 meter high bamboo poles winding their way down the main street oozes beauty and power.
Getting from Tokyo to Akita
Recommended routes
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Festivals of Akita
Local specialty shop
