A Quick Wander Through Akita, Japan

Sailing into the Akita cruise port was my first glimpse of Japan’s quieter, rural side. Akita (秋田市 – Pronounced Ah-kee-tah) sits in the northern Tohoku region and offers a slower pace compared to the country’s big-name cities. It’s known for loyal Akita dogs, rice fields, and a unique New Year’s tradition involving masked demon-like figures called Namahage.

The city has long been a hub for agriculture and folklore, and that charm comes through right away. With panoramic views from Mt. Kampu, seasonal lotus ponds, and folklore museums tucked into the hills, Akita invites a slower, more reflective type of exploration.

Even on a short cruise stop, you can get a sense of what makes this region distinct. There’s just enough time to sample the local culture, see the coastline, and chase a few prizes from Japan’s famously addictive claw machines.

After docking, I set out for a solo walk around the city before joining an excursion. My first stop? A local shopping mall, where I tried Japanese claw machines for the first time. They’re every bit as tricky and fun as people say. I ended up spending about 5,000 yen and left with a handful of snacks and a few prize-worthy wins.

Later in the day, I joined an excursion out to the Namahage Museum. These traditional straw-clad figures are part of Akita’s regional folklore and appear during the New Year to check if children have been behaving. The museum features a recreated Namahage visit scene and dozens of masks and costumes. A few playful statues outside added some levity to the otherwise intimidating lore.

The tour continued up Mt. Kampu, a small peak offering panoramic views of the Oga Peninsula. From the revolving observatory at the top, you get a 360-degree look at rice fields, rolling hills, and coastline. It was peaceful and offered a strong contrast to the arcade buzz earlier in the day. Back in the city, I wandered past quiet graveyards and a blooming lotus pond before spotting a massive plush Akita dog statue near the station — a fitting farewell.