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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Akita.
Nestled in the heart of northern Japan, Akita is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and scenic attractions waiting to be explored.
From winding rivers that dance beneath cherry blossom trees to ancient shrines that whisper stories of times gone by, Akita is sure to enchant visitors with its mystical allure.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the rugged mountains or hoping to find inner peace at a serene onsen, there are plenty of things to do in Akita that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Akita:
1. Namahage Museum
The Namahage Museum is a cultural museum in Akita, Japan that celebrates the local folk tradition of the Namahage.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history and significance of Namahage through interactive exhibits, videos, and displays.
The museum also hosts live performances featuring actors dressed as Namahage and interactive experiences where visitors can try on traditional costumes.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the Namahage performance, which takes place every hour. Visitors can witness the fearsome Namahage dancing and chanting while wearing their traditional masks and costumes.
Insider travel tips: – The museum’s gift shop offers a variety of Namahage-themed souvenirs, including toys, masks, and t-shirts.
2. Tazawa Lake
Tazawa Lake is a caldera lake located in Semboku, Akita Prefecture, in northern Japan. It’s the deepest lake in Japan, with a depth of 423 meters.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of water activities such as fishing, kayaking, and cruising along the lake.
At the southern end of the lake, there’s a statue of a beautiful girl named Tatsuko, who according to a local legend, wished to become a dragon that inhabits the lake.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the lake from the mountain observatories, namely Tamagawa Observation Deck and Gozaisho Observation Deck. The clear blue color of the lake, especially on a sunny day, is a sight not to be missed!
Insider travel tips: Visit during mid-October to mid-November to enjoy the vibrant fall colors surrounding the lake.
Consider trying out the local specialty food, Kiritanpo, mashed rice grilled on a stick, which is a perfect comfort food for cold winter days.
3. Akita Omoriyama Zoo
Akita Omoriyama Zoo is a popular zoo located in Akita, Japan.
What to see or do: The zoo features a wide range of animals including lions, tigers, bears, elephants, giraffes, and many more.
Visitors can watch the animals up close in their habitats, and there are also many interactive exhibits for children, such as petting zoos and pony rides.
Don’t miss: The zoo’s most popular attraction is the daily animal show, featuring talented animals and their trainers performing amazing tricks and stunts.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the zoo on weekdays and arrive early in the morning. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your visit.
Also, be sure to check the zoo’s website for special events and exhibits that may be taking place during your visit.
4. Akita Kanto Festival
Akita Kanto Festival is a traditional Japanese festival held in Akita City, Japan.
What to see or do: The festival is famous for its huge lantern poles called “kanto,” which are lit up with dozens of lanterns. During the festival, participants balance the poles on their foreheads, shoulders, and lower backs while parading through the streets.
There are also food stalls and carnival games at the festival.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the festival is the Kanto Competition, where teams compete to balance the most lanterns on their poles. The sight of dozens of lit up kanto poles being carried through the streets is truly awe-inspiring.
Insider travel tips: If you want to beat the crowds, go early in the morning before the festival gets too busy.
Also, be sure to try the Akita specialty dish, kiritanpo, which is made from pounded rice and served on a stick.
Finally, bring cash as some food stalls may not accept credit cards.
5. Kakunodate Samurai Village
Kakunodate Samurai Village is a well-preserved Edo period district in Akita, Japan, that showcases the lifestyle and culture of samurai warriors.
What to see or do: Explore the streets of this historic village and visit the well-preserved samurai houses, museums, and gardens that showcase the way of life during the Edo period.
You can also participate in cultural activities such as traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and swordplay.
Don’t miss: The Aoyagi Samurai House and the Ishiguro Samurai House both offer an immersive experience of the traditional samurai lifestyle. You can also stroll along the Hinokinai River, which is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees in the spring.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the spring to see the cherry blossom trees in full bloom or during the autumn to witness the beautiful foliage.
Make sure to grab a local snack called “kakunodate senbei,” a rice cracker that has been enjoyed for generations. Also, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are thinner for a more peaceful experience.
6. Nyuto Onsen Village
A picturesque hot spring village located in the mountains of Akita Prefecture.
What to see or do: Soak in the natural and therapeutic hot springs in various ryokans and public baths. Hike through the forests and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Visit the nearby Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan.
Don’t miss: The Jigokudani or “Hell Valley” hot spring spot with its bubbling mud pools and steam vents. The nighttime illumination of the village during the winter months.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try the local cuisine, especially the Akita Kiritanpo, a grilled rice cake skewer dish. The autumn foliage is also a must-see, with the mountain ranges being painted in beautiful shades of red and gold.
Consider staying overnight at one of the ryokans to fully experience the relaxing atmosphere of the village.
7. Senshu Park
Senshu Park is a spacious park located in the heart of Akita, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the serene park and enjoy the views of the beautiful cherry blossoms during springtime. While there, catch a glimpse of the autumn foliage in the fall.
Apart from that, explore the historic Senshu Castle ruins, which also houses a history museum.
Don’t miss: Do not miss visiting the Senshu Koen Iris Garden, with over 600,000 irises in full bloom during the early summer.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the annual Akita Kanto Festival, held in early August. Also, grab some local street food from the vendors set up around the park’s entrance.
Additionally, rent a bicycle at the park’s bike rental center to fun around the massive park with ease.
8. Akita Nairiku Jukan Railway
Akita Nairiku Jukan Railway is a scenic train route in Japan that runs across the mountainous region of Akita prefecture.
What to see or do: The train journey offers breathtaking views of the countryside, with tunnels, bridges, and viaducts cutting through the mountainside.
The train also stops at several small towns and villages along the way, allowing for exploration of local shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Don’t miss: Make sure to keep an eye out for the panoramic views from the train’s large windows, including the impressive Ani Ski Resort, the deep Gonohe Gorge, and the stunning Omagari Fireworks Festival site.
Insider travel tips: To fully enjoy the scenic route, it’s recommended to take the train during the autumn foliage season between late October to early November or in the spring when cherry blossoms bloom.
Purchase a Norokko Train pass which allows for unlimited rides to get on and off at any station along the way.
9. Oga Aquarium GAO
Oga Aquarium GAO is an aquarium located in Oga, a city in Akita prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The aquarium features a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, penguins, and jellyfish.
Visitors can watch the dolphins and seals perform in shows, and there are interactive experiences available, such as the chance to touch and feed some of the animals.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the aquarium is the “Oceanic Tunnel,” which allows visitors to walk through a tunnel surrounded by large tanks filled with various fish species and marine animals.
Insider travel tips: The aquarium can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s recommended to arrive early or visit during off-peak times for a more comfortable experience.
Additionally, booking tickets in advance can save time and money.
10. Akita Prefectural Museum
The Akita Prefectural Museum is a cultural institution showcasing the history and traditions of the Akita Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various exhibitions on the art, folklore, and archaeology of the Akita region.
The museum also features a collection of samurai armor and swords, as well as displays on the Ainu, an indigenous group of people from Hokkaido.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the permanent exhibition on the history of Akita, which takes visitors on a journey through the prefecture’s past from prehistoric times to the present day.
Additionally, the museum often hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: If you can, try to visit the museum during the annual Kanto Festival in August.
This is one of Akita’s most famous cultural events and the museum plays an important role in showcasing the festival’s history and traditions.
Additionally, the museum’s gift shop offers a variety of unique souvenirs and traditional crafts from the Akita region.
11. Yokote Kamakura Festival
Yokote Kamakura Festival is an annual winter festival that takes place in Yokote, Akita prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the mesmerizing sight of snow igloos called Kamakura, which are illuminated with hundreds of candles. There are also food stalls, events, and performances showcasing the local culture.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the festival is the Kamakura snow hut where visitors can enjoy local food and beverages inside the cozy snow hut while being surrounded by the magical ambiance.
Insider travel tips: Dress warmly as the festival takes place during the winter season. Also, try the local delicacy “Kakigori”, which is shaved ice usually served with sweet red bean paste.
Avoid weekends if possible as it could get crowded.
12. Omagari Fireworks
Omagari Fireworks is an annual fireworks festival held in Omagari City, Akita Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Watch spectacular fireworks display showcasing more than 20,000 fireworks launched into the sky over two hours. Spectators get to witness various types of fireworks including colorful star mines, waterfalls, and traditional Japanese designs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the competition element of the festival where skilled pyrotechnicians from across Japan compete against each other to create the most impressive and creative fireworks display.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to grab the best viewing spot. Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy the fireworks while sitting on the banks of the river.
Check the weather before attending, as the event may be postponed or cancelled in the case of strong winds or rain.
13. Taiheizan Miyoshi Shrine
Taiheizan Miyoshi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Akita, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the shrine, including the main shrine building, smaller shrines, and the surrounding forest. The shrine also has a large torii gate and several stone lanterns that are popular photo spots.
Don’t miss: The annual autumn festival held at the shrine, known as the Miyoshi Autumn Festival, which features a parade of portable shrines and traditional music and dance performances.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try the local specialty food, kiritanpo, a dish made from mashed rice that is roasted on a cedar stick and served with miso soup.
Also, consider visiting the nearby Akita Omoriyama Zoo, which is home to over 100 species of animals, including Japanese macaques and red pandas.
14. Lake Tazawa Ski Resort
Lake Tazawa Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located near Lake Tazawa in Akita prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Skiing and snowboarding are the main activities offered at Lake Tazawa Ski Resort.
The resort has a variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers, including beginner-friendly slopes and more challenging runs for advanced skiers.
There are also areas for snow play and a snow park for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
Don’t miss: The views of Lake Tazawa from the top of the ski slopes are breathtaking and not to be missed.
In addition to skiing, visitors can take a dip in the local hot springs, which are said to have healing properties.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to visit on a weekend or during peak season, it’s best to book your accommodations and lift tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
The resort can get very busy, especially on weekends and during holidays, so be prepared for crowds. For a unique experience, try night skiing on the illuminated slopes.
15. Inakadate Rice Fields Art Museum
Explore the well-known Inakadate Rice Fields Art Museum which is among the top tourist attractio in Akita.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the luscious green rice fields and see how they have been transformed into a stunning art museum.
Be amazed by the incredible art pieces embedded into the rice fields that showcase numerous cultural heritage sites of Japan, nature, and even pop culture.
Don’t miss: The spectacular view of the rice fields from the observation deck, offering a stunning vantage point of the artwork. Also, see how the farmers meticulously craft the artwork starting from April and ending in October.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and make sure to come during August-September to witness the full beauty of the rice fields in bloom.
It’s recommended to rent a bicycle to fully explore the art museum, and the nearby town Higashinaruse is also worth a visit.