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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Nikaho sharing quite a few of those!
Step into a world of wonders, where the sea dances with the sky and the mountains whisper ancient tales.
Nikaho is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be discovered.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nikaho:
1. Kakunodate Samurai District
The Kakunodate Samurai District is a well-preserved neighborhood of traditional samurai homes in Nikaho, Japan.
What to see or do: Stroll along the streets lined with grand, black-walled residences built by samurai in the Edo period. Visit the Kakunodate Samurai House Museum to get a glimpse into the lives of samurai families.
Drop by the nearby Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum to see original artifacts like weapons and armor.
Don’t miss: The magnificent cherry blossoms that bloom in spring, painting the streets in hues of pink. Catch the annual festival in early May, where the district comes alive with traditional music, dancing, and food stalls.
Insider travel tips: Visit in late April to early May to avoid crowds and see the cherry blossoms at their peak. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets.
Explore the nearby Hinokinai River, known for its picturesque red bridges and autumn foliage.
2. Nyudozaki Cape
A scenic cape located on the Sea of Japan in Nikaho, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy stunning views of the sea and rocky cliffs from the lighthouse. Take a peaceful walk along the coastal trail and admire the wildflowers and native vegetation.
Don’t miss: Nyudozaki Beach, one of the best places in the area to watch the sunset. Also, keep an eye out for the resident sea eagles that can often be seen hunting in the area.
Insider travel tips: Bring a jacket as it can get quite windy on the cape. If you’re a photography enthusiast, consider visiting during the golden hour for stunning photos.
Additionally, be aware that the cape is closed to visitors during bad weather.
3. Lake Tazawa
Lake Tazawa is a picturesque lake located in Nikaho, Japan, and is considered one of the deepest lakes in the country.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the promenade to take in the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Boating and fishing are also popular activities.
Don’t miss: A visit to the bronze statue of the legendary Tatsuko, a young woman who is said to have made a deal with a dragon to bring prosperity to the area.
Insider travel tips: Head to the nearby Nyuto Onsen after a day of exploring the lake for a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs.
Additionally, visiting during the autumn season will reward visitors with beautiful fall foliage.
4. Kuroishi Yosuke Inari Shrine
Kuroishi Yosuke Inari Shrine is a striking Shinto shrine located in the coastal town of Nikaho in Akita Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the unique architecture and design of the shrine, including the spectacular red torii gate at the entrance. The shrine is also home to a small museum exhibiting traditional artifacts and artwork.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to walk around the beautiful grounds of the shrine, which offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the autumn season when the leaves are changing color.
5. Dakigaeri Valley
Dakigaeri Valley is a stunning mountainous valley located in Nikaho, Japan.
What to see or do: Hike through the valley and take in the breathtaking views of waterfalls, streams, and vibrant greenery.
Admire the natural rock formations and be sure to keep an eye out for unique wildlife such as deer or wild boar.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Dakigaeri Keikoku Suspension Bridge, a 90-meter long footbridge that spans across the valley and offers incredible panoramic views.
Also, check out the Dakigaeri Valley Visitor Center to learn more about the history and ecology of the region.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable hiking shoes and dress for the weather. During the fall, the foliage in the valley is especially vibrant and worth a visit.
Also, consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy in the peaceful surroundings of the valley.
6. Taiko no Yudachi
Taiko no Yudachi is an annual festival held in Nikaho, Akita Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: During the festival, participants carry portable shrines called mikoshi through the streets while beating taiko drums and chanting. The festival also features fireworks, traditional dancing, and food stalls.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the festival is the yudachi, or “evening shower,” where spectators will experience a downpour of water from the gods symbolized by the mikoshi carriers.
It’s a traditional ritual that locals believe brings good luck and fortune.
Insider travel tips: To fully enjoy Taiko no Yudachi, bring an umbrella or raincoat as you will surely get wet during the yudachi.
Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and visit the food stalls for delicious local specialties such as kiritanpo, a type of grilled rice skewer.
7. Tazawako Ski Resort
Ski resort in Nikaho offering various winter activities.
What to see or do: Ski or snowboard on the 12 courses with different levels of difficulty. Take a ride on the gondola for panoramic views of Lake Tazawa.
Enjoy other winter activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sledding.
Don’t miss: The Tama no Yu hot spring resort located near the base of the ski resort. Relax in the natural hot springs after a day on the slopes.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the peak season in mid-February to enjoy quieter slopes. Purchase the Tazawako lift pass to get access to both the ski resort and Tama no Yu.
Stay overnight at one of the many lodgings near the ski resort for a true winter experience.
8. Oyasukyo Onsen
Oyasukyo Onsen is a hot spring resort town located in Nikaho, Akita, Japan. It is known for its therapeutic hot spring waters and picturesque natural scenery.
What to see or do: Visitors can soak in the hot springs at one of the many ryokans or public baths in the area. The Oyasukyo Gorge is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
There are also several museums dedicated to the history of the area’s hot springs and geology.
Don’t miss: The Oyasukyo Dam is a must-see attraction in the area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also sample the local specialty cuisine, including Akita’s famous kiritanpo hotpot and other traditional dishes.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, try the foot baths located throughout the town. These free baths allow visitors to enjoy the soothing hot springs while taking in the stunning views of Oyasukyo.
Be sure to bring a towel and change of socks as the baths are outdoors and can be chilly in colder weather.
9. Akita Omoriyama Zoo
A zoo located on the Omoriyama mountain in Nikaho, Akita prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various animal exhibits featuring over 100 species including lions, tigers, bears, giraffes, monkeys, and more. The zoo also features a petting zoo, where children can interact with domesticated animals such as rabbits and goats.
Don’t miss: The zoo’s signature attraction is the daily animal parade, where animals are brought out in a procession for visitors to see up close and interact with them.
The zoo also has a variety of seasonal events such as cherry blossom viewing, special night time illumination displays, and unique animal performances.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit the zoo early in the day to avoid the crowds. It is recommended to bring a lunch and enjoy a picnic on the spacious grounds.
The zoo is also conveniently located near the Omoriyama Onsen hot springs, so visitors can relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the animals.
10. Akita Senshu Museum of Art
The Akita Senshu Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in the city of Nikaho in Japan.
What to see or do: The museum has a collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art, with a special emphasis on works by artists from the Akita prefecture.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, featuring everything from traditional Japanese paintings to cutting-edge multimedia installations.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of works by the renowned Japanese artist Yuzo Saeki, who was born and raised in Akita.
Visitors can see a number of his stunning works on display here, in addition to works by many other talented artists.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to check the museum’s website for information on upcoming exhibitions and events before you go.
11. Yokote Masuda Manga Museum
The Yokote Masuda Manga Museum is a must-visit for manga lovers in Nikaho, Japan. It is a museum dedicated to the works of Masuda Hikari and other famous manga artists from the area.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of Masuda Hikari’s original artwork, browse through shelves of manga titles in the library, and watch anime screenings in the theater room.
Guests can also participate in workshops to learn how to draw manga characters or attend special exhibitions.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the unique “Manga Elevator” that is decorated with manga panels that change every few months. Additionally, visitors can take a break at the onsite coffee shop that offers themed drinks and snacks.
Insider travel tips: Be aware that the museum is closed on Mondays and holidays. It is also advised to check the museum website for updates on special exhibitions or events.
Visitors should also consider purchasing souvenirs from the gift shop that sells exclusive merchandise only available at the museum.
12. Namahage Museum
The Namahage Museum is a small museum located in Nikaho city in Akita prefecture, Japan. It is dedicated to the traditional Namahage folk festival.
What to see or do: The museum showcases exhibits on the Namahage festival, including its history, rituals, and costumes. Visitors can also enjoy a live performance of the Namahage dance and interact with the performers.
Don’t miss: The highlight of a visit to the Namahage Museum is the live performance of the Namahage dance.
This high-energy dance is performed by men in demon costumes who move rhythmically to the beat of drums and other traditional instruments.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to check the museum’s schedule before visiting to make sure you can catch a live performance of the Namahage dance.
13. Akita Shirakami Ski Resort
Akita Shirakami Ski Resort is a ski resort located in the city of Nikaho in Akita prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The resort offers a variety of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. There are 7 courses catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, where the longest course runs for 3.
5km. The resort also features a hot spring bath, a hotel, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop.
Don’t miss: The beautiful scenery of the Shirakami Mountains, which can be viewed while taking a ski lift. The view of the Sea of Japan from the summit of the mountain is also said to be stunning.
Insider travel tips: The ski resort is easily accessible by bus from JR Nikaho station, and there are ski equipment rentals available onsite. The resort also offers night skiing, which is a unique experience.
Visitors can take a dip in the hot spring bath after a day on the slopes and enjoy dinner at the restaurant, which serves local Akita cuisine.
14. Ani-no-Matsukura Site
Ani-no-Matsukura Site is an ancient castle ruin located in Nikaho city, Akita prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the ruins and discover the remnants of the castle. The site features a stone wall that once protected the castle’s grounds, the main gate, moat, and a historical garden.
Visitors can learn about the site’s history through exhibits in the nearby Ani-no-Matsukura Castle Museum.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and the Ani mountain range from the site’s observation deck.
Insider travel tips: – Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.