With charming sightseeing trains running along the coast, rediscover the culture of Akita on this trip to Akita City, Oga and Noshiro

Meet Akita Maiko and Akita Geisha carrying on the traditional culture of Kawabata!

The building, located in Senshu Park, has been renovated and was once home to a former ryotei (traditional Japanese-style restaurant) called Matsushita. This tourist facility serves to communicate the history and culture of Akita. Here, you can experience the hospitality of Akita Maiko and Akita Geisha who have inherited the traditions of Akita Kawabata's world of Geisha.

The Akita Maiko Mame Zashiki experience features a weekday-only plan in which you can rent out a large hall of approximately 80 tatami mats and enjoy dancing performances by Akita Maiko, tea ceremonies, commemorative photos, and more. While people usually picture Maiko Ozashiki gatherings held in a tatami room as being expensive, this one is definitely not, as a group of two to nine people can enjoy Japanese culture at an affordable price of 33,000 yen per hour.

A Geisha dancing glamorously to the sounds of songs and shamisen music. They perform four different dances for the audience.

Maikos dance in Akita Obako costumes to the Akita folk song “Donpan-bushi.” They teach the choreography as well, so the audience can enjoy the performance together by making hand gestures.

The most exciting part of the experience was the Ozashiki Asobi game. The rule is to take turns placing your hands on the bowl to the tune of the song “Kompira Funafune” and to place your fist on the table only when the other person has taken the bowl. As the tempo picks up, the audience becomes thrilled and everyone in the venue comes together in unison.

In the middle of the performance, a tea ceremony began and the Akita Maiko made tea for the audience.

The tea service, where matcha green tea is served, does not come with Japanese sweets, but rather with super cute icing cookies. The cookies change with the seasons, featuring shapes such as the Akita dog and the full moon.

Iroha-san, an Akita Maiko, and Otoha-san, an Akita Geisha, were in charge today. In addition to doing Ozashiki gatherings, they also travel throughout the prefecture to give lectures and promote the culture of Akita Maiko and Akita Geisha.

Souvenirs such as Akita folk crafts and knick-knacks are sold near the reception desk on the first floor. The 4,000-yen Akita dog mascot wearing a kimono with the same pattern as the Maiko and Geisha is a popular piece of merch for fans.
Hotel staff were also treated once again to the true feeling of the wonders of Japanese culture as they enjoyed an elegant moment in the Taisho-era tatami room. Every Saturday, they also put on an event called the Akita Maiko Matsushita Theater, which is a stage show that comes with lunch. You don’t even need to be part of a group to attend (reservations are required for both courses).

A place where you can meet big and fluffy natural treasures that are Akita dogs

Developed on the ruins of Kubota Castle, the park is the former residence of the Satake clan, who were once the lords of the Akita domain. Approximately 700 cherry trees are planted in the lush green park, making it a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. This time around, we went for the Akita Inu Fureaidokoro (a place to meet Akita dogs) located in one corner of the park.

Akita Inu Fureaidokoro is a place where visitors can see Akita dogs in a rich natural setting. Visitors are essentially allowed to watch the dogs from outside the hut. The Akita dogs may be walked outdoors for exercise only during breaks and when entering and exiting the hut. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll get to see them strolling around.

Jiru was taking a pleasant stroll. He is only one year old, so he's very interested in his surroundings.

In consideration of the physical condition of the Akita dogs, the petting area may have breaks or only allow visitors to observe the dogs. The condition and mood of a dog at a given time also need to be considered, so if you want to pet an Akita, be sure to ask the owner.

Hokushoren greeted us with a friendly smile. Her fur was so fluffy. She is four years old and very calm.

Jiru still has not had enough time to play. Both Jiru and Hokushoren have competed in contests, so they have beautiful standing postures and their curled tails are adorable.

It was getting a bit hot, so the dogs went back inside the hut. They regulate their body temperatures by lying sprawled out on the cold floor.

After being soothed by nature and Akita dogs, you can take a break for a bite of honey soft-serve ice cream, which sells for 350 yen at the Satake Historical Museum (reopened in October 2025 after renovations).

The noteworthy decor of the museum is sprinkled with traditional Akita crafts

In June 2022, the facility was established as a center for culture and the arts in Akita. It is equipped with a large hall featuring high acoustic performance and stage functions, a medium-sized hall with an emphasis on immersion, as well as practice rooms, training rooms, creative production rooms, and more.

Facing Nakadobashi Street, the multipurpose space features floor-to-ceiling windows and is flooded with natural light. Curved shelves and chairs using bentwood technology create a warm and inviting space.

Adjacent to the theater is the View Terrace, a relaxing space with a view of the zelkova trees. Chairs and tables are set up for visitors to relax and forget about time.

A promenade is maintained along the building, so enjoy a walk while admiring the moat and main street. There are periods of closure, such as during the winter season.

A large bent-wood design adorns the outer wall of the main hall. A closer look reveals that Kabazaiku wild cherry bark work and Kawaren lacquerware are inlaid into the bent-wood, integrating traditional Akita craftsmanship.

Even the walls in the background of the general information center look gorgeous, with bentwood, Kabazaiku wild cherry bark work, and Kawaren lacquerware interspersed throughout.
A variety of events are scheduled to be held in the main, medium, and small halls, including concerts by famous artists, plays, and ballet. When you visit the museum to appreciate some art, please direct your attention to the decorations inside the museum as well.

Enjoy fresh Hinai Jidori chicken in the form of succulent skewered chicken, as part of a rice bowl, or in other ways.

Honke Abeya Akita Restaurant serves Akita’s Hinai Jidori chicken, which is one of the “three most delicious chickens in Japan,” with the other two being the Nagoya Cochin (Aichi) and Satsuma Jidori (Kagoshima). At Honke Abeya, Hinai Jidori chicken shipped directly from the production area is carefully processed at the restaurant and served in a variety of dishes.

The photo shows the Ultimate Oyakodon for 1,390 yen. The meat, egg, and broth all come from the Hinai Jidori chicken. The aroma of binchotan charcoal, the richness of the Jidori chicken, and the melt-in-your-mouth egg come together to make a superb bowl of rice.

Kiritanpo Nabe, a quintessential local delicacy in Akita, is 2,970 yen per person (photo shows two servings). Kiritanpo, Hinai Jidori chicken, maitake mushrooms, etc. in a clear broth made from Hinai Jidori chicken. The local way to use celery is to use not only the leaves and stems, but also the roots.

Place over heat for a few minutes, and when the Hinai Jidori chicken changes color, it is ready to eat. The kiritanpo soaks up the broth, delivering full of flavor, and features a glutinous texture. It warms the body up to the core.

The yakitori (skewered chicken) is grilled to different degrees for each part of the chicken, and finished with a combination of various seasonings such as special salt, Yuzu Sansho, balsamic vinegar, and unroasted sesame oil. Rare cuts of meat, such as the “furisode” taken from the portion found around the shoulder blades and the “chicken oyster skewers” found at the base of the thighs, are also available to enjoy. Enjoy rare yakitori with the Omakase (chef’s choice) Assortment of 6 pieces for 2,700 yen.

The dinner time Yakitori and Kiritanpo Hot Pot Course for 5,000 yen per person offers a variety of dishes, including appetizers, yakitori, homemade Akita beauty tofu, and Kiritanpo hot pot. They also have a selection of junmai sake from Akita Prefecture available, so you might as well enjoy your meal with some sake.

A relaxed dining area on the first floor of Area Nakaichi. Private rooms with sunken kotatsu tables are also available, allowing families and groups to use the restaurant without hesitation.

Special feature on upgraded versions of famous confections from long-established stores and Akita’s latest souvenirs

From the 2nd floor of Topico (Akita Station Building), we introduce seasonal souvenirs from Tohoku and Akita Prefecture in particular.
The most popular product from Teian is Wakasagi Smelt & Shottsuru Soy Sauce Rice Crackers (24 packages with 48 pieces in total for 1,890 yen). These are crispy baked rice crackers made of a special dough kneaded with Akita Komachi brown rice into Akita Sakihokore rice. Bite-sized and easy to eat, you can enjoy the deep flavor of Shottsuru (Japanese fish sauce).

At Tohoku Meguri Irotoiro, you can find famous confections, crafts, and cute merchandise from the Tohoku region. The Akita dog’s smile on the wristband “Akita Inu, Always Together” (880 yen; on the left) warms your heart. The Suica Penguin Onsen Key Ring Akita (990 yen; shown in front) is a key ring that looks like a locker key with wrist strap for the hot spring, and the Dentama (E6 Series Komachi; 605 yen; on the right) is a mysterious toy that gets up and runs even if it falls down.

The staff’s top recommendation is Babahera Ice Cream Langue de Chat Cookies, perfect for buying based on the packaging. A box is 1,674 yen and contains 16 cookies. You can enjoy two flavors, banana and strawberry, all in one cookie. This is an authentic version of the product, which was supervised by Kodama Frozen Sweets, the maker of Babahera Ice Cream.

The staff here selected food souvenirs. Hachiko Cup Ramen, which is sold for 498 yen (left), features the flavor of soy sauce made with Hinai Jidori chicken stock, while Kiritanpo Cup Soup (Seafood Bouillabaisse Flavor) is sold for 594 yen and is jam-packed with seafood flavor. Both can be enjoyed simply by adding hot water.

Akita Kurasu is a shop specializing in products made in Akita and offers about 200 items, including foods and goods that Akita is proud of. This is a monaka made in the image of the Omagari Hanabi Otoko, a character of Daisen City drawn by Kenji Sonishi, the author of the popular manga Neko Pitcher. Each monaka is now 260 yen! Fill them with your own red bean paste from Hokkaido azuki beans and enjoy.

Daiginjo Sake Lee Baumkuchen Sticks are sold for 890 yen and consist of baumkuchen with a hint of sake made with Daiginjo sake lees from Akita’s famous sake Yuki no Bosha, rice flour produced in Akita Prefecture, and Hinai Jidori chicken eggs.

Found at the Kinman Topico Store is a pack of 8 individually wrapped Kinman confections for 778 yen. Freshly made raw kinman manju have a 3-day expiration date, but this product features a whopping 14 days. The castella cake and slightly sweet white bean paste are exquisite and easy to share, making it the perfect souvenir.

A heartwarming experience with a space which provides the feeling of Akita and a breakfast full of local flavors

Hotel Metropolitan Akita opened its annex, called the North Wing, in May 2021. At the same time, the lobby and front desk of the main building were reopened after renovations. The lobby of the main building features an eye-catching Akita cedar counter and benches, and the ceiling is designed to resemble a butterbur-leaf umbrella inspired by an Akita Ondo folk song.

This time around, we will introduce the guest rooms in the annex called the North Wing. Room design is based on the motif of the four seasons in Akita. The concept of the “Corner Twin” consists of two elements: “Autumn in Akita” and the “Land of Rich Harvests.” These rooms offer a chic and relaxing atmosphere, two Simmons beds, and a magnificent view from the large windows.

All guest rooms are equipped with tissue boxes made of Akita cedar and Naraoka-yaki mugs from Kakunodate, allowing guests to experience the qualities of Akita just by being inside the room.

The room key case features a design that includes a Namahage and the Akita Kanto Festival. Mineral water was available in the refrigerator.

The elevator halls on the 3rd through 9th floors of the North Wing are decorated with Kumikozaiku artwork featuring Omagari fireworks. A traditional craft handed down in Noshiro City and other places throughout Akita Prefecture, the craft is also known as “wooden lace weaving” because the wood is assembled into geometric patterns without the use of nails.

Various things that go well with rice: Breakfast that you want to eat even if it means getting up early

Breakfast is served in a buffet style with Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisine provided at the CHINESE RESTAURANT OF SHANGHAI on the 3rd floor of the main building. The menu includes Tamagokakegohan (TKG), which is a delicious way to enjoy freshly cooked rice made from Akita Komachi rice, the pride of Akita Prefecture, as well as watershield, smoked daikon radish, and Inaniwa udon, all of which are rich in local flavor.

What surprised us more than anything else at breakfast was the rice ball corner. Choose your favorite ingredients, place your order, and the dedicated staff will wrap the ingredients in freshly cooked rice and make your rice ball on the spot. Savor every bite of a softly, gently hand-pressed rice ball.

Rice toppings all in a row. The lineup includes salted salmon, pickled plum, salted salmon roe, shiso-seasoned kombu, and salted cod roe. I would definitely like to try these together with this delicious rice!

There was also Kiritanpo Nabe, a quintessential local dish of Akita. The Hinai Jidori chicken and maitake mushroom broth soaks through and warms you up in the morning.

Western menu items such as bread, scrambled eggs, and salads were chosen for their colors, which are reminiscent of the vitamins they provide.

The french toast (available in limited quantities) is also very popular and uses an abundance of eggs procured from Takita Chicken Farm in Akita City! You will enjoy the richness of butter and vanilla flavor together with a moist and fluffy texture. A sprinkle of honey or cinnamon is also recommended.

The Gibasa Donuts (left) and Iburi Gakko Donuts are original baked donuts that incorporate gibasa, a type of seaweed, and iburi gakko, an Akita pickle made from daikon raddish, to make them healthy.

The hotel’s original luggage tags sold at the front desk cost 1,600 yen each (discounts available for guests who are JR Hotel Members). They feature cute Akita icons such as Akita dogs and Kanto lanterns, and are available in three colors: beige, burgundy, and blue. How about a souvenir or a travel companion?

An aquarium with polar bears and Akita Prefecture’s prefectural fish

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, this is the only aquarium in Akita Prefecture. Standing in a perfect location overlooking the Sea of Japan, the aquarium showcases about 10,000 specimens from around 400 species from Japan and other parts of the world, including Akita Prefecture’s prefectural fish (Sailfin sandfish) and polar bears.
At Hireashi’s Pavilion, harbor seals and California sea lions are on display. Looks like we’re just in time for feeding time.

At Oga Aquarium GAO, feeding time for the animals are events which are held every day, and visitors can watch as keepers feed the animals and provide commentary. The harbor seal in the photo is being fed with fish such as horse mackerel, sardines, and mackerel.

Feeding time for the California sea lions. They opened their mouths wide for us at the signal of the staff.

Balancing and lifting with a ball. Sea lions detect the movement of the ball by feeling with their whiskers, so they can do it even with their eyes closed.

The Oga Grand Water Tank located by the entrance inside the facility has a water volume of approximately 800 tons, is eight meters high, and displays 2,000 creatures of about 400 species. Stingrays, amberjacks, and other fish of all sizes swim peacefully—truly impressive!

Gouta, a polar bear, has remained as popular as ever for almost 20 years since he first came to the museum in 2005. Oga Aquarium GAO is dedicated to the preservation of the polar bear species, which is facing possible extinction, and is also committed to their reproduction.

The aquarium store sells original goods and souvenirs that are only available here.
The hotel staff’s top picks are Polar Bear and a Cone and Polar Bear and a Tire at 1,800 yen each. Cute stuffed animals are holding the cone and tire that Gouta is always playing with.

The aquarium also has rare Sailfin Sandfish goods available, with there being original Sailfin Sandfish Key Chains on sale for 1,000 yen each. The Penguin Feather Key Ring (680 yen) has a transparent glass part containing a penguin feather that has fallen out due to re-growth.

Original bus can (crunchy chocolate snacks) with rolling tires: 1,400 yen. The bus-shaped tin is filled with crunchy chocolate snacks and can be played with as a toy after you are done with the snacks contained inside.

The aquarium also features other exhibits with a regional flavor, such as a corner showing the ecology and food culture of Akita Prefecture’s prefectural fish (Sailfin sandfish) and an Akita forest and river fish corner exhibiting the creatures that live in Akita’s rich forests and rivers. After admiring the creatures, we recommend spending time relaxing at the restaurant overlooking the Sea of Japan.

Even adults cry?! Experience the fear and excitement of Namahage lore

On the night of New Year's Eve, the Namahage appears in the village of Oga and goes from house to house shouting in the local dialect, “Are there any crying children?!” The Namahage is actually a deity that warns people against laziness and brings good health.
The Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum is a place where visitors can experience the traditional event called the Namahage of Oga throughout the year.

Passing through the torii gate of the Oga Shinzan Shrine, visitors will find the Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum at the end of a mountain path lined with trees. In the traditional magariya, a learning course called the Namahage Custom Learning Course is held. There, visitors can experience the Namahage custom of the Shinzan area (takes 20 minutes).

The setting for the study course is the sunken hearth room, and participants sit in the hall in front of it to observe. On New Year's Eve, as the year draws to a close, the head of the family sits down to greet his guests and give them year-end greetings in his Akita accent.

With a loud roar, the shoji door was opened and suddenly some Namahage appeared! Not going up to the room immediately, the Namahage stomped their feet while waving their arms seven times. They roared in rough voices, “Are there any crying children?!” and “Are there any lazy ones?!” They then would search the room.

There, the head of the family entertains the Namahage with a meal and sake after asking, “Namahage-san, would you take a little break here?” Before sitting down, they stomp their feet and flail their arms five times.

The Namahage enjoy some hospitality while sporting frightening appearances.

With the Namahage ledger out, the Namahage holds a Namahage Q&A session to check on the family's condition, such as whether the children are taking their studies seriously.

After praying for good health and a bountiful harvest for the family in the coming year, they stood up and turned to the visitors. “So you're the lazy wife?!” the Namahage loudly cry as they approach us, tension filling the air.

Though from Akita City, the hotel staff could not understand what the Namahage were saying (due to the regional dialect) and couldn't help but burst into a fit of giggles.

“We'll be back next year! Take care!”
Although we had thought the Namahage to be frightening, the hands-on course ended with us feeling energized. The Namahage stomp their feet while flailing their arms seven times when going up to the house, five times when getting to the table, and three times when standing up from the table. It is said that by stomping their feet, flailing their arms, and making loud noises, they drive away evil spirits.

The rice straw that fell from the kede clothing that the Namahage wears is known as a good luck charm, and if wrapped around the head, it is said to function like a charm, such as one which makes a person wise.
The Namahage event is also an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage called “Raiho-shin, ritual visits of deities in masks and costumes” in 2018. Come to the home of Namahage to meet a real Namahage, who are scary but really kind.

Various colors and expressions to be found: Large gathering of Namahage from all over Oga

Adjacent to the Oga Mayama Folklore Museum is the Namahage Museum, where visitors can learn about the Namahage. In the Namahage Seizoroi Corner of the exhibition room, there are more than 150 Namahage masks of various kinds that were actually used in various places in Oga City.

The Namahage look like they are about to start moving at any moment. Their expressions differ depending on the region.

Maybe a cute Namahage like this one isn't so scary.

At the Namahage Transformation Corner, visitors wear masks and costumes to transform themselves into Namahage!

We held on to these large masks for a commemorative photo. Deba knives used to shave off the namomi, and gohei wands (a symbol of the gods) are indispensable items for the Namahage.

The building is made of stone using a variety of Oga Stone collected from Mt. Kanpu in Oga. There are many attractions to be found here, including an exhibition introducing the nature and customs of Oga, and the Namahage Densho Hall, which shows a film about the Namahage event taking place on New Year’s Eve.

A piece of art called the Namahage Dama is displayed in the outdoor cedar forest. The work is said to be based on the motif of the sea, mountains, the night sky, and three Namahage in Oga, and is a mysterious work that sits in harmony with the natural surroundings.

Enjoying a bowl of seafood on rice that transcends time and space at Nyudozaki, which overlooks exhilarating scenery

We discovered the new monument completed in 2024. It is named after the Nyudozaki Lighthouse, which was selected as a “lighthouse of love.” It looks like a heart depending on the angle.

This monument was erected in 1990 because Nyudozaki is located at 40 degrees north latitude. The circular sun stage in the center has a sundial stone and a map stone, and at the tip is a North Star stone representing the line of true north.

If you visit Nyudozaki, get a taste of the seafood of Oga at Namahage Goten New Hatakane. The Seafood Namahage Rice Bowl (with Abalone) pictured here is priced at 4,700 yen. It is filled with fresh seafood such as sea urchin, salmon roe, salmon, and button shrimp!

The Seafood Rice Bowl Transcending Time and Space is priced at 3,700 yen. It is a sumptuous bowl of rice topped with button shrimp, scallops, crab claw, and other delicacies. There are also a wide variety of other rice bowls available, such as the Raw Sea Urchin Rice Bowl and the Tuna Rice Bowl, all of which come with miso soup and pickles.

The Seafood Ramen (1,600 yen) features a light, salty soup with oozing seafood broth that is full of flavor. It warms the body on cold days.

There is a spacious tatami room on the first floor, meaning that families or groups can visit with ease. You can also enjoy shopping at the attached store, which offers a variety of folk crafts and local products from Oga and Akita.

The Namahage statue at the entrance of the store is a great photo spot. Mitsuyoshi Hatakeyama, the friendly and famous owner (also known as “Oga's Hairless Namahage”) will also be waiting for you.

Don’t just try the delicacies of the sea and mountains of Oga: Also try the much talked-about gelato!

The roadside station offers fresh seafood and vegetables, processed goods, folk crafts, and other charming items unique to Oga. It has restaurants and snack corners, and among the most popular is Oga Gelato, which sells seasonal gelato.
The most popular Oga no Tai Gelato (800 yen; shown on the left) consists of a waffle topped with Oga Salted Milk gelato and tai monaka, whipped cream, chocolate, and pineapple-flavored blue jelly.

Regular gelato is available in eight varieties, starting at 440 yen per scoop. Prices differ for standard items such as Oga Salted Milk and Mango Passion, and premium items such as Oga Pear and Milk Chocolate.

The Oga Red Crab has an overwhelming presence in the product hall. It is a brand name for red snow crab from Oga, and is only sold during the fishing season spanning from March to December.

The sea bream is an amazing 500 yen (market price)! There are many other featured items, so we recommend that you visit with your own cooler box.

Ogare original Namahage Cider is 280 yen per bottle. Oga salt flavor, Oga melon flavor, and Oga pear flavor make for a unique lineup!

At the attached restaurant, you can also enjoy Oga specialties such as the Ishiyaki Nabe Set Meal, Shottsuru Yakisoba, and Soraage from the JASDF Kamo Sub Base in Oga, Akita. Please check out Oga's attractive gourmet foods and souvenirs.

A panoramic view of Mt. Kanpu! Visit the reborn Oga Station

A new station building in Oga was built in 2018. Located 100 meters away from the original old station building, the new station building has a rooftop terrace that is based on the concept of providing a panoramic view of Mt. Kanpu.

There was a Namahage face-in-hole board set up at the station building, so we immediately took a commemorative photo. In front of the board are buttons labeled with Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, so you can hear the famous line of the Namahage in each language, which translates to “Are there any crying children?!”

From the observation deck, you can see Mt. Kanpu across the railroad tracks.

The Oga Line running between JR Akita Station and JR Oga Station is nicknamed the “Oga Namahage Line.” At Oga Station, depending on the time of arrival and departure, Namahage voice announcements, Namahage drums, and folk songs will be played to enhance the mood of your trip to Oga.

Resort train with a view of the World Natural Heritage Site Shirakami-Sanchi and the spectacular Sea of Japan

If you want to enjoy a trip with spectacular views that will make you think about how nice Japan is, we recommend Resort Shirakami without hesitation. This sightseeing train connects Akita Station with Hirosaki Station and Aomori Station, allowing passengers to travel at a leisurely pace while making stops along the way. For example, at Noshiro Station, during the short time when the train is stopped, you can try your hand at shooting some hoops since there is a basketball hoop on the platform, meaning there is all kinds of fun to be had.
The three train cars that are coveted by riders and photographers are also worth mentioning! Aoike looks great against the Sea of Japan and blue sky, Kumagera has a beautiful vehicle body that is dyed by the setting sun, and Buna (in the photo) is environmentally friendly with its hybrid system. Check out the JR East Joyful Tain website to get information on the train you want to ride!

This is the interior of the Buna train. The interior is richly decorated with symbolic beech trees, Akita cedar, Aomori cypress, and other pieces of timber to create a warm and inviting space. The seats are also amazingly cute and designed in the image of Tohoku's summer festivals. In the observation room and event space, there will be a storyteller-based demonstration in the Tsugaru dialect, making for an enjoyable ride.

If you end up boarding the Resort Shirakami, an ekiben boxed lunch is a must. Rice with chicken made with Hinai Jidori chicken, an Odate specialty (1,380 yen; see photo), can be purchased at the bento box lunch counter at JR Akita Station. Be sure to get there early as they can sell out by mid-morning.
In addition, the Gonotabi mobile ordering service for Resort Shirakami users is a convenient service that allows users to specify the date, time, and pickup station via web reservation. For example, a variety of menu items are available, such as Patisserie Parterre’s Premium Fruit Tart for 780 yen (reservations must be made by noon four days prior to boarding), which can be picked up at Akita Station.
*Gonotabi Mobile Ordering
https://maas-portal.com/uketrip/tickets/3768

The Resort Shirakami is a train that you will want to try riding at least once, and various onboard events are held throughout the year. The dynamic and spectacular scenery which spreads out from the train windows and the nostalgic regional accent will make you feel the real pleasure of travel.

A building that symbolizes Noshiro (the “wood capital”) called the Hall of Natural Akita Cedar.

The restaurant's roots go back to 1890, when Yusuke Kaneya founded it as a tatami room rental business called Kaiunro. The present building was built in 1937 by the second-generation owner and is known as a symbol of Noshiro, which prospered as a lumber processing town centering on the lumbering of Akita cedar. Although it was operating as a ryotei (traditional Japanese-style restaurant) at the time, it was donated to Noshiro City in 2009 and has since been open to the public as a tourism exchange facility.

The first floor's Full Moon Room (photo) features a 9-meter high, nakamoku ceiling and other woodworking techniques using an abundance of Akita cedar. On the second floor, there is a large hall that is about 110 tatami mats in size and has a stage. Take your time to observe the differences in construction, including when it comes to the ceiling and transoms.

From the Full Moon Room, a medium-sized hall on the first floor, one can view a beautiful garden that changes from season to season. The deep landscape offers a variety of views: fresh greenery, autumn leaves, snow, and more.

The two-story wooden building viewed from the garden side is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.

A casual and enjoyable kimono dressing experience at a historic former ryotei is recommended

If you are in a wonderful space, you'll want to go back in time to the good old days.... The kimono dressing experience (1,000 yen for 60 minutes; reservation required) makes for precious time to unwind and relax. It is perfect for those who just want to enjoy the atmosphere, since the process by which the kimono is put on is a simplified one. You can take pictures inside the facility, or even outside if you are on the grounds.

Noshiro is the wood capital and is blessed with timber. It is also known for its various wood processing techniques.

The Noshiro Tanabata Nightless Castle in the Sky event is held every year on August 2 and 3. A model (1/10th size) of a castle-shaped lantern, about 24 meters high, was also on display. We'd love to visit again during the giant festival as well.

A specialized museum with various exhibits in Noshiro, a city of basketball

The museum includes basketball-related magazines and comics, as well as a section for basketball teams based in the prefecture.
The reason why Noshiro is known as a city of basketball is tied to the glorious history of the basketball team of Noshiro Technical High School (now called the Noshiro Science and Technology High School), one of the most skilled schools in Japan when it comes to basketball, having won the national championship 58 times. The brilliant plays of the players are something the children aspire to, and surprisingly, two of the hotel staff members also have experience playing basketball. When wearing the uniform of Noshiro Technical High School (the uniform in the photo is from the 1990s) and holding a ball, one can’t help but get excited.

In SLAM DUNK, a manga about high school basketball, Sannoh Industry Affiliated High School, representing Akita Prefecture, is depicted as the overwhelming champion. It is said that Noshiro Technical High School is the model for the school, so Noshiro is a sacred place among fans of the manga.
The uniforms of Sanno Koukou High School were on display, along with those of Shohoku High School of Kanagawa Prefecture, the school which the protagonist Hanamichi Sakuragi goes to.

This is the exhibition space for the JR East Akita Peckers. Named after the Black Woodpecker (a wild bird that is a natural treasure found in the Shirakami Mountains), this company team has a brilliant track record, including five consecutive national championships. There is also a section for other Akita-based teams, such as the Akita Northern Happinets, a popular professional team in the B1 League, and Aranmare Akita of the W-League.

The goods corner has original goods on sale that are ideal for souvenirs. The Akita Cedar Key Chain (600 yen), created in collaboration with Mokuto x Basketball and the Akita Cedar Plate (3,000 yen) depicting a basketball court, are just a few of the items that are only available here. The popular NOSHIRO BASKETBALL T-shirt, which features the same design as the practice uniform of the Noshiro Technical High School basketball team, sells for 2,500 yen.

There was also space to play a basketball shooting game. It seems to be a popular spot for elementary school students on their way home from school.

You can get an original sticker (left) to commemorate your visit. Seasonal stickers are also available, so make sure to visit a few times to complete your collection. It is also a Noshiro City manhole card distribution point, so those who collect the cards should stop by.

Noshiro City, also known as a basketball city, is visited by many basketball fans. The city also has manholes with basketball-themed designs. There are basketball dice, wall art, and other basketball-related photo spots around the basketball museum, so you can get a feel for basketball while walking around town.

The staff will teach you thoroughly, so beginners don’t have to worry.

This hands-on workshop allows both children and adults to enjoy making things based on the concept of “enjoying crafts while smelling and feeling the warmth of wood.” This time, we will try our hand at making a nabeshiki pot mat comprised of Akita cedar (210 yen; 30 minutes to 1 hour required). There are a variety of molds to choose from, including animal faces and cherry blossom petals! The process begins with careful drafting using a pencil.

The scroll saw, which is a familiar sight in school classes and so on, is a highlight of the experience. Carefully move the saw in accordance with the pencil draft. It is a relatively safe tool, so don’t be afraid, don't overdo it, and be thorough. Skilled craftsmen are nearby to help you if you need assistance.

The key to finishing the work as drafted is to use a horizontal sander. Carefully change your position, to sitting or standing, according to how easy your line of sight makes it to handle the work being done.

The wood shavings fly off during the process, meaning that the process allows one to feel the aroma of the wood. Keep your hands away from the belt as you work.

Finally, sandpaper was used to shape and trim the edges, resulting in a smooth piece.

In the woodworking class exhibit space, a variety of woodworking pieces created by artisans are on display. If you find something you like, from small items such as coasters to toys and figurines, you can purchase them or participate in a woodworking class to create them for yourself.
The photo shows a welcome board of an Akita dog. It is also displayed in the passageway connecting the main building and the North Wing of Hotel Metropolitan Akita.

There were also toy capsules containing wooden key chains for 300 yen per capsule. The conscientious system allows you to spin it three times and choose one of the three pieces you like. The hotel staff like the Akita dogs and dolphins.

Other experiences include the building of animal key hooks (380 yen; 30 minutes to one hour required) and the building of block cars (300 yen). Regular woodworking classes are also held, where students can create more serious works of art. Please feel free to make an inquiry for more details.

A stylish café operated by a long-established sake brewery, where sake is also sold by weight

It is a 3-minute walk from Higashi-Hachimori Station on the JR Gono Line, where the Resort Shirakami runs. This café is attached to a sake brewery known for its Yamamoto and Shirataki brands. Opened as an experimental space in search of the next generation of sake breweries, it is now a place visited by locals and many local sake fans alike.
The photo shows a sake tasting set for 2,000 yen. 3 kinds of sake in quantities of 100 ml each served in special silicon glasses. Poured from a dedicated server, you can enjoy local sake that can only be found here.

Since many people access the area by car due to its location, there is a plenitude of food and café menu available as well. We recommend the Cafe Latte Macaron Set for 1,030 yen. Shown in the photo is a Shirakami macaron with sake lee-flavored cream, a product limited to this store.

Yamamoto Brewery's local sake is displayed in the store. The word “LABO” in the name of the restaurant means that behind the counter seats in the restaurant is a brewery. If you are lucky, you can see the brewing process in action.

An impressive entrance with an S-shaped arcade. It is a mysterious space that embodies the nature of Akita and is so innovative and exciting that it is hard to believe that it is directly operated by a sake brewery. The store is also equipped with stylish rental bicycles, making it a good starting point for sightseeing in Shirakami.

Pierre Hermé Paris macarons, which are rare in Akita, are also available. The store's exclusive Shirakami, as well as Infiniment Pistache, Infiniment Rose, and others, start at 1,705 yen for a set of three. You can choose your favorite from among five flavors, and they will come in a decorative box, so it will make a great souvenir.

Yamamoto Brewery is a long-established sake brewery established in 1901. Based on the concept of “not just deliciousness, but also joy,” its sharp and crisp flavor is gaining popularity. The brewery is not open to the public, but after using the café, you can take a commemorative photo in front of this brewery.

A variety of famous Noshiro sweets loved by locals and tourists alike

Since its establishment in 1937, the establishment has been selling Japanese and Western confections made from the finest ingredients, from the well-loved oyaki to manju, yokan, and Western-style confections associated with Noshiro.
The photo shows Noshiro's specialty, Shinko®️, which starts at 1,650 yen for a small. Mochi made from Akita-grown Uruchi rice are intertwined with a special red bean paste for a simple taste.

This is the standard Damako Mochi, which starts at 8 pieces for 810 yen. When you eat one of these bite-sized rice cakes, the sesame sauce overflows from the inside.

Oyaki are 200 yen per piece (seasonal from late September to mid-March). Rice cakes made of Uruchi rice are wrapped with a sweet bean paste and slowly steamed and baked. No preservatives are used, so they should be consumed within the day. For those who prefer home delivery, we recommend CAS Oyaki, which are freshly made and CAS frozen.

The store also offers colorful cakes and baked goods. Go shopping and put some cookies and baked goods of your choice in a basket to eat on the train.

The log house-style building stands out conspicuously along National Route 7. On the 7th of each month, Kisabachan Day is celebrated with a limited number of confections that change on a monthly basis.

At the entrance of the store was a vending machine selling Japanese sweets. You can easily purchase the standard Damako Mochi as well as Akita Minori Mochi and Osekihan even during regular holidays and after business hours.

Founded 430 years ago, its traditional Japanese malt candy has a gentle sweetness that lingers in the mouth

This is a Japanese sweets shop with a long history, founded in 1592. The company created the sweet Okina Ame in 1812, and continues to maintain the traditional technique of making all of its candies by hand. Known as a supplier to the Akita Domain, the maker of this candy named it Okina Ame for its health benefits and ease of eating, especially for the elderly.

Okina Ame is made only from glutinous rice and barley. No sugar or additives are used, and the product is solidified by blending maltose syrup together with special ingredients. Since it takes as long as a week from preparation to completion, it cannot be mass-produced.

Take one bite and the treat is as elastic as a rice cake. The more you chew, the more the gentle sweetness of malt syrup spreads around. The taste is unlike any other candy you have ever experienced, and once you try it, you won't be able to stop.

The current owner, Kichitaro Takeda, is the 20th-generation owner! He has inherited the techniques passed down from one generation to the next, and the entire process is made by himself. Okina Ame is available starting at packs of 12 for 630 yen. Since it is only sold in the store, be sure to stop by and pick up a rare Okina Ame as a souvenir when you visit Noshiro.