Akita Prefecture

Akita Prefecture — Proud Echoes of Harsh Nature and Rich Traditions

Namahage (standing statue)

Akita Prefecture, blessed with abundant nature and proud traditions, stands as one of the cultural jewels of Touhoku. Centered around Akita City, its ancient customs and natural treasures are preserved with care.

The Namahage ritual, where men don demon masks and visit homes on New Year’s Eve to encourage perseverance among children, is now registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The dazzling Kantou Festival, held in summer, showcases spectacular skills as performers balance towering bamboo poles adorned with lanterns.

kantou matsuri

In terms of nature, Akita boasts the primeval beech forests of Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, and the mystical depths of Lake Tazawa, where the legend of Tatsuko-hime lives on. Visitors can also stroll through the preserved samurai townscape of Kakunodate or soak in the famed hot springs of Nyuutou Onsen.

shirakami sanchi

tazawako (lake tazawa)

Nyuutou onsen

Akita’s agricultural bounty includes premium rice like Akita Komachi and celebrated sake brands. Local culinary treasures feature kiritanpo hot pot, inaniwa udon, flavorful dishes made with Hinai Jidori (a prized native chicken breed), and the distinctive smoked pickle iburigakko. Wild mountain vegetables such as tonburi and junsai also delight gourmets. The people of Akita are known for their resilience, sincerity, and profound respect for living in harmony with nature.

Oyako-don (hinai jidori)

kiritanpo nabe

In music, Hamabe no Uta, composed by Akita native NARITA Tamezou and selected as one of 100 Best Japanese Songs, captures the serene shorelines of Akita, evoking gentle waves and nostalgic longing. Narita’s influence also extends to songs like Kanariya and various instrumental and vocal compositions, marking him as a towering figure in Japan’s musical heritage.