Akita

From Hakodate we continued to Akita Prefecture, on the northwest side of Honshu, Japan’s main island. Akita is a scenic destination known for its dramatic landscapes and deeply rooted cultural traditions. Framed by rugged mountains, dense primeval beech forests like the UNESCO-listed Shirakami-Sanchi, and serene spots like Lake Tazawa, the region offers a tranquil escape into rural Japan. Akita is also famous for its sake, brewed from what locals say is the finest rice, grown in paddies throughout the area.

We started with a long drive to Lake Tazawa. This volcanic lake is Japan’s deepest (~1,400 feet) and is known for its beautiful sapphire-blue color. It is considered one of Japan’s most scenic spots, though its beauty came at a cost. In the 1940s, an engineering project diverted a highly acidic hot spring into the lake, which quickly harmed its ecosystem, killing most all wildlife and making it unsafe to swim. The lake also features a golden statue of Tatsuko, the subject of a local legend.  (See photos below.)

From there, a further ride took us to one of the preserved samurai districts of Kakunodate. Walking through this historic town felt like stepping back in time. At the first home we visited, we had a tour led by a relative of the original family who lived there. We also toured other homes that had been restored and included relics from the past, complete with cutout of turtles. It was fascinating to understand that the samurai were not only warriors but also community leaders.

Akita’s culture includes the Namahage, demon-like figures in fierce masks and straw capes, and tributes to them appear throughout the area. One of our highlights was a shoreside performance by the Namahage. Traditionally, they appear on New Year’s Eve to scold lazy children and bring good luck for the year ahead. Here they danced and pounded large taiko drums.

Another cultural experience we had in Akita was sitting on the floor on a traditional mat at a low table for dinner. We enjoyed amazing food and sake this way at several restaurants. Warning: getting up is not easy!

Akita is, of course, the namesake of the fluffy, loyal Akita Inu. Smaller than the Akita breed we see in the US, this beloved dog has a history in Japan going back more than 1,000 years. The most famous Akita of all is Hachiko, who was born in Akita Prefecture and became a legend for waiting nearly ten years at Tokyo’s Shibuya Station for the owner who never came home. Trivia: Who is credited with introducing Akitas to the United States

Answer: Helen Keller, in 1937.