A guide to enjoying Akita in winter! A summary of how to spend your time with spectacular views, events, and gourmet food
This time, winter Akita Special feature on tourism!
Spectacular snow scenery
・
Winter Festival
・
Seasonal gourmet information
We will introduce all of these at once.
Why not visit Akita, a northern region full of charm, this winter?
table of contents
- 1 Why is winter travel to Akita so popular?
-
2
7 recommended ways to enjoy and spend winter in Akita
- 2.1 1. Enjoy Akita's winter specialties | Kiritanpo and Damako Nabe
- 2.2 2. Akita Snow Country Activity Experience | Snowshoeing and Snow Play
- 2.3 3. Enjoy Akita's winter craftsmanship experience | Traditional crafts and workshop tours
- 2.4 4. Interact with Akita dogs | Enjoy the winter snow scenery
- 2.5 5. Winter-only events and traditional events | Namahage, Yokote Kamakura, etc.
- 2.6 6. Warm up in a snow-viewing open-air bath | Experience Nyuto Onsen and hidden hot springs
- 2.7 7. Spectacular views unique to a snowy country | The frost-covered trees and fantastic snowscapes of Mt. Moriyoshi
- 3 Preparations and precautions for traveling to Akita in winter
- 4 [Akita Winter Fun Discount] Campaign now underway!
- 5 Enjoy Akita in winter in your own way
- 6 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
![[Up to 50% OFF (weekdays) / Up to 25% OFF (holidays)] Enjoy Akita to the fullest with the Akita Winter Asobi Discount Campaign Coupon! Image](https://img.activityjapan.com/wi/akita_fuyuasobi2025_campaign_thumb.jpg)
Why is winter travel to Akita so popular?
Winter Akita There are many attractions to enjoy, including snow-covered nature, traditional events passed down from ancient times, hot springs that will warm your body and soul, and local cuisine! Spectacular views and experiences unique to a snowy country This is one of the reasons why Akita is so popular in the winter.
The frost-covered trees, the fantastic snow scenery, and the experience of entering a snow igloo are things you can hardly experience in the city. In addition, there are also events such as the world-famous "Namahage" and the "Dog Festival," a small New Year's event.
Experience Akita's unique events up close
This is also a key point.
There's also a wide variety of gourmet foods that are essential for enjoying your trip! There are flavors that will warm you from the inside out, such as the famous Kiritanpo hotpot, dishes using Hinai chicken, and local sake that's perfect for the cold winter weather.
Akita is a place where you can enjoy nature, culture, and food. Recommended destinations for a special time is!
7 recommended ways to enjoy and spend winter in Akita
Below we introduce 7 carefully selected "recommended ways to enjoy and spend your time in Akita in winter."
1. Enjoy Akita's winter specialties | Kiritanpo and Damako Nabe
When it comes to winter in Akita, it's all about the food! One of the most famous dishes is "Tanpo," made by crushing new year's rice into mochi-like mochi, wrapping it around a skewer, and grilling it. This is simmered in a soy sauce-based broth with Hinai chicken, parsley, burdock, mushrooms, etc.
Akita's local dish "Kiritanpo Nabe"
is.
A local dish similar to Kiritanpo nabe,
"Damako Nabe" is a hot pot made by crushing rice and putting "damako" into it
It is a soul food that is loved in Gojome Town and other areas, and its simple taste is appealing!
Delicious local sake
Enjoy it together and you'll be able to fully enjoy Akita in winter!
Activity Japan also has plans for making local dishes such as Kiritanpo nabe and Damako nabe! If you're interested, be sure to check out the following!
[Akita Winter Asobi Discount] Up to 50% off campaign underway! (Until February 28, 2026) When purchasing, be sure to enter the four-character coupon code ATK1 (for weekdays/50% off) or AKT2 (for holidays/25% off). Please note that this campaign may end without notice depending on the budget usage situation. Displayed price
Kiritanpo is a famous Akita specialty, but in fact its "hometown" is Odate City! Odate is the number one producer of Hinai Jidori chicken in Japan, which is essential for the stock and ingredients of Kiritanpo, and the culture of eating Kiritanpo hotpot at home or at celebrations is also deeply rooted. In the authentic Kiritanpo making experience, you can enjoy the authentic taste using delicious, rich Hinai Jidori chicken.
Why not experience farm life by making Kiritanpo and doing farm work while staying at a farm inn? We offer experiences and hospitality that will allow you to interact with local people and make you want to come back to Odate! At farm inns in Odate, you can experience making authentic Kiritanpo with the farmer's mother, or relax and soothe your body in the nearby hot springs.
2. Akita Snow Country Activity Experience | Snowshoeing and Snow Play
In snowy Akita,
A winter outdoor experience
What do you think?
You can walk through the snowy fields on snowshoes or enjoy the feeling of being an explorer while looking at the snowy scenery on snow trekking.
Enjoy playing in the snow
Why not try moving your body while enjoying the winter and the great outdoors, feeling like a child again?
At Activity Japan, you can make reservations for snowshoeing and snow trekking experiences that can be enjoyed in the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site and Mt. Kanpu in Oga City!
Powder snow and spectacular views unique to Akita
Please enjoy it.
・Held at Oga's tourist attraction, Mt. Kanpu, known as one of the Three Most Scenic Views in the World. ・A certified guide from the Oga Peninsula and Ogata Geopark will guide you through a mysterious experience that can only be seen and felt in winter! ・Enjoy the mysterious hot air hole where a warm breeze blows out and the spectacular scenery created by the volcano. ・Recommended by Oga Geoguides! Includes a special lunch of locally produced three-meal bowls and zappa soup!
This is a snowshoeing experience at the foot of the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site. Walking on the fluffy snow will be a special memory. You might even be able to dive into the snow! Can you find animal footprints? Coffee (or cocoa) brewed with Shirakami spring water and a roasted marshmallow experience are also included. There is also a pick-up option available for those who wish, so even if you are worried about driving on snowy roads,
[Akita / Shirakami-Sanchi] Shirakami Snow Trekking with a choice of lunch ♪
[Akita Winter Asobi Discount] Up to 50% off campaign underway! (Until February 28, 2026) When purchasing, be sure to enter the four-character coupon code ATK1 (for weekdays/50% off) or AKT2 (for holidays/25% off). Please note that this campaign may end without notice depending on the budget usage situation. Displayed price
3. Enjoy Akita's winter craftsmanship experience | Traditional crafts and workshop tours
For an indoor crafting experience,
Comfortable even in cold weather
You can enjoy it.
Experience making traditional crafts unique to Akita and visiting local workshops.
Popular activities that allow you to capture memories of your trip
is.
At Activity Japan, Lacquerware making and handmade goods experience We offer a wide range of plans that can be enjoyed by both children and adults, such as the following. The crafting experience can be participated in regardless of the weather or temperature, so it is recommended not only for families with children who find it difficult to make sudden changes to their plans, but also for couples who want to enjoy a smart trip.
You can choose your favorite "experience kit" and enjoy the process of making Odate Magewappa while experiencing the handmade experience. Traditional craftsmen will provide you with careful support until completion! While enjoying the production process, you can also learn about traditional techniques, Akita cedar, and how to handle Magewappa. Various Magewappa works are on display and for sale in the store.
This is a hands-on lesson where you can create a gorgeous gathering arrangement in a workspace with heating and air conditioning. Since you will be using plants from all four seasons, you can enjoy the experience every time, no matter how many times you participate. By caring for the finished arrangement, you can enjoy it for a long time. Since you will be working indoors, you can take the class regardless of the weather. ~Experience Outline~ 10:00/1
Even first-timers are welcome! Experience the traditional craft of Kawatsura lacquerware with maki-e lacquering. This plan allows customers to choose from five types of Kawatsura lacquerware, such as bowls and plates, and then experience maki-e lacquering on the product they have created. You can take home the product you have made on the same day! Maki-e is a uniquely Japanese craft technique in which pictures are drawn on the surface of lacquerware with lacquer and then sprinkled with gold and silver metal powder and colored powder. Same-day reservations are also possible.
[Akita | Yokote] "Light interior that brings happiness" Suncatcher experience ♪
Ruri Kobo is a workshop in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, where you can experience making accessories. This plan involves making a "suncatcher," an item that is said to bring good luck along with the sunlight! Just choose the crystal parts, arrange them, and thread them together... and it's finished in no time! You might be overwhelmed by the unlimited number of parts available! ~ Suncatcher
[Akita, Semboku City] Pottery experience - making pottery while feeling the seasons
In this plan, you will use 800g of clay to freely create teacups, plates, coffee cups, etc. Why not take your time and enjoy pottery making while feeling the flow of the seasons?
4. Interact with Akita dogs | Enjoy the winter snow scenery
With its large body and cute face, it is a popular animal worldwide. Akita dog " The experience of walking with an Akita dog through the snowy scenery and taking photos with it is truly soothing.
Interacting with Akita dogs This event is being held in Odate City, Mitane Town, and other areas, and participating in it is sure to become an unforgettable memory of your visit to Akita! A plan that combines a traditional culture experience with an Akita dog encounter There is too!
[Akita Winter Play Discount] Use the coupon code "6AKC" to get 50% off! (Until February 28th) Take a "walk" through nature with a cute Akita dog! We walk slowly at the dog's pace, so even those who aren't confident in their physical strength can easily participate! Start your health journey by having fun walking with a cute Akita dog!
[Akita Prefecture, Mitane Town] Walking in nature with an Akita dog and making "Miso Tsukekiritanpo"
In Mitane Town, overlooking the Oga Peninsula, you can experience walking with an Akita dog through the pristine scenery of Akita. From the observation point on the hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the remaining lake of Lake Hachirogata and the Oga Peninsula. The guide will take you to and from JR Moritake Station in a car. You can participate empty-handed. Regarding allergies and dietary restrictions: For those with food allergies
The beautiful Japanese garden of Karasugata Kaikan, the Red Arched Bridge in Katsuragi Park, and the Sakura Yagurakan are some of the attractions. Why not experience traditional Japanese culture, enjoy tea in a kimono, and take some elegant photos as a souvenir?
5. Winter-only events and traditional events | Namahage, Yokote Kamakura, etc.
If you visit Akita in winter, Winter-only traditional events and winter festivals Don't miss out! Around February every year, there are many events such as Yokote City's "Yokote Snow Festival," Yuzawa City's "Dog Festival," and Oga City's "Namahage Sedo Festival." A variety of winter events are held every year in Akita will be done.
At the Yokote Snow Festival, candles are lit inside snow huts at night, creating a fantastical sight. At the Dog Festival, which has been held for over 400 years, snow sculptures in the shapes of dogs and shrines are made, and you can also enjoy fireworks and candlelight events.
We especially recommend the Namahage Sedo Festival, where Namahage, illuminated by the flames of torches, parade through the city of Oga in a spectacular display! This festival is so popular and well-known that tourists from all over the world visit Akita just to see it.
According to your travel purpose and preferences
So, choose an event to visit.
6. Warm up in a snow-viewing open-air bath | Experience Nyuto Onsen and hidden hot springs
When talking about winter in Akita, one thing that is essential is the "
Snow-viewing open-air bath
". The most famous one is,
Nyuto Onsenkyo, located at the foot of Mount Nyuto in Towada-Hachimantai National Park
is.
This famous hot spring attracts hot spring enthusiasts from all over the country, and you can enjoy more than ten different types of hot springs at seven inns!
Among them, Tsuru-no-yu Onsen, the hot spring inn with the longest history, is a nostalgic inn with a thatched roof that retains the atmosphere of a hot spring resort.
The snow-covered scenery is like a postcard
And it looks great in photos!
It is possible to use it for a day trip, so why not stop by in between sightseeing?
7. Spectacular views unique to a snowy country | The frost-covered trees and fantastic snowscapes of Mt. Moriyoshi
Speaking of spectacular views unique to snow country Akita, The frost-covered trees of Mount Moriyoshi This phenomenon is usually seen between January and March. It is also counted as one of the "Three Great Ice Trees of Japan" This makes it a popular destination for visitors from both within Japan and overseas. The frost-covered trees, also known as "snow monsters," are truly works of art created by snow and wind!
If you take the gondola, you can enjoy a stroll through the air while looking out at the pure white snow fields that spread out below you. Once you get off the gondola, you can walk along the walking course at "Juhyodaira" and enjoy a close-up look at the various shapes of frost-covered trees!
A fantastic and impressive sight
You will surely be captivated by it.
Preparations and precautions for traveling to Akita in winter
To enjoy Akita in winter safely and comfortably, it is essential to prepare in advance. Below we will introduce what to wear, what to wear to protect yourself from the cold, and tips for traveling.
Average winter temperatures, clothing and essentials for staying warm
Akita's winters are very cold
The average maximum temperature falls below 7°C even during the day. January is the coldest month, with the average minimum temperature in Akita City reaching around minus 2°C. In areas with heavy snowfall,
Heavy snowfall can also occur.
This further reduces the perceived temperature.
Therefore, when visiting Akita in winter, it is essential to take proper measures to protect yourself from the cold.
The basic rule of clothing is to dress in layers, so it's a good idea to wear innerwear or tights made of heat-generating material, thick sweaters or fleece, and windproof and waterproof outerwear.
To prepare for the snow, we recommend wearing boots or rubber boots with anti-slip pads. Winter accessories such as gloves, scarves, and knit hats are also essential.
In cold regions, indoor heating is often on full blast, The key to staying comfortable is to wear layers that are easy to put on and take off! Also, bringing a hand warmer or an insulated bottle to carry hot drinks with you will help you protect yourself from the cold while sightseeing.
Precautions when traveling on snowy roads
Next, we will explain how to get around Akita in the winter, when there is a lot of snowfall.
When using public transportation
If you are using public transportation such as the Shinkansen, conventional trains, or route buses, please take into consideration the possibility of delays or cancellations due to snow.
A schedule with ample time
Let's try to put it together like this.
By using scheduled sightseeing buses or tours with transportation, you can reduce travel worries and enjoy sightseeing.
[Akita, Semboku City] Akita Inland Line All-Day Pass
This is a one-day unlimited ride experience on the Akita Nairiku Line, a local train line that runs through the inland mountainous areas of Akita Prefecture. You can visit tourist spots such as Kakunodate and Lake Tazawa, and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and viewing the frost-covered trees at Moriyoshiyama Ani Ski Resort along the line. Enjoy the ride freely according to your own plans.
When using a car (private car or rental car)
If you are traveling by car,
Be sure to use studless tires
let's.
It can easily cause an accident,
Sudden braking and sudden steering are prohibited!
Please keep your speed moderate and be mindful of keeping a sufficient distance between vehicles.
To prepare for road closures or getting stuck due to heavy snow, it's a good idea to keep a tow rope, snow shovel, work gloves, flashlights, jumper cables, etc. in your car. These are great preparations to ensure you can enjoy driving safely on snowy roads.
[Akita Winter Fun Discount] Campaign now underway!
Currently, Activity Japan is
Akita Winter Play Campaign
" is currently being implemented!
Discounts on activities in Akita
become
Distribute coupons
We are doing it.
Akita in winter That's why you can experience Fun Activities but, Save money by using discount coupons You can enjoy it! Coupons that can be used for ski pack products There is too!
Enjoy Akita in winter in your own way
The charm of "Akita in winter" We featured about. What did you think?
Spectacular natural scenery, traditional events, gourmet food such as Kiritanpo hotpot and local sake,
Akita in winter offers heartwarming ways to have fun and spend time
.
This winter,
Why not enjoy a special trip to Akita?
*The content of this article is current as of November 2025.
Featured image provided by:
photoAC
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