Akita City is a destination where the prosperity once brought by the Kitamae-bune (northern-bound merchant ships) intertwines with a rich culture deeply connected with nature. The area around JR Akita Station offers a charming blend of historic streetscapes, vibrant art, and nature—including unique spots where you can even see Akita dogs. You will find the essence of Akita in daily life—Discover its authentic charm and create unforgettable memories, while savoring delicious local cuisine paired with the region's renowned sake.

1. Access and Connectivity
Akita City is located in the central part of Akita Prefecture and offers access to a Shinkansen station, an airport, expressways and a port, providing excellent connectivity to major cities throughout Japan. The Akita Shinkansen offers direct service from the Tokyo metropolitan area without transfers, and there are multiple daily flights from Haneda Airport, making travel to and from Akita very convenient. Furthermore, by utilizing public transportation or rental cars, the city serves as an ideal base for exploring tourist destinations throughout the prefecture, such as Kakunodate (samurai residences), the Oga Peninsula (Namahage), Lake Tazawa and the Nyuto Hot Spring Resort.

2.Akita Kanto Festival: A Designated National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property
Held from August 3 to 6, the festival is a summer tradition in Akita City, performers balance swaying kanto poles adorned with lanterns which resemble ears of rice —to pray for protection against misfortune and for an abundant harvest. The festival's origins trace back 270 years to Neburi-nagashi, a traditional Tanabata (Star Festival) custom meant to wash away the lethargy, impurity, and illness associated with summer. Today, the sight of approximately 270 glowing Kanto poles swaying like stalks of golden rice as they fill the main street continues to captivate visitors from all over Japan and beyond.

3.City Strolling: A Condensed Experience of Nature, History, Art and Gourmet
The city center is a compact, walkable area where you can immerse yourself in nature, history, and the arts. Senshu Park is the heart of it all, offering seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, lotus flowers in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and pristine snowscapes in winter. Cultural landmarks such as Satake Historical Museum, Akita Museum of Art and Akita City Folk Performing Arts Heritage Center are located nearby. As a renowned rice-producing region, Akita boasts several sake breweries. Don't miss the chance to fully enjoy Akita's famous specialties, including delicious sake, fresh seafood, and wild mountain vegetables, which is one of the area's many appeals.

4.Senshu Park is a captivating destination for tourists, offering a beautiful look at the changing colors of Japan's four seasons. Within the park, you'll find Satake Historical Museum, which exhibits historical artifacts related to the Satake clan—the former lords of the Akita Domain. The park is packed with unique experiences you won't find anywhere else: you can experience an authentic tea ceremony at the tea house, Sen-an. Akita Inu Freaidokcoro in Senshu Park, and enjoy Maiko dance performances at Matsushita, a cultural and industrial facility. In addition, seasonal events keep visitors entertained year-round, including the Cherry Blossom Festival, nighttime illuminations for azaleas and lotus flowers, and snow walks with an Akita dog.

5. A Special Moment with an Akita Dog
Akita Convention & Visitors Bureau operates "Akita Inu Fureaidokoro in Senshu Park*", where visitors can see these beloved dogs. In winter, we also offer an exclusive, reservation-only program for small groups, allowing you to enjoy private time with an Akita dog through walks and photo opportunities. Please come visit Akita and spend a special, heartwarming moment with Akita dogs. *Scheduled to reopen in the autumn of 2026. Please check the official website for details.