Japan’s Akita: Adorable Attractions & the Heartwarming Akita Dog Route

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team Compilation & Report

According to statistics from the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation, from January to November 2016, the number of Taiwanese tourists visiting Japan exceeded 4 million trips. When converted into a population ratio, this means that one out of every five Taiwanese has traveled to Japan, an astonishing proportion. Akita Prefecture, hailed as one of the “Top Ten Hidden Maple Viewing Spots in Northeastern Japan,” has launched an ultra-cute “Heartwarming Akita Dog Route” to promote tourism among Taiwanese travelers. For the first time, they also invited three well-known bloggers—twin bloggers Chen Xinxin and Chen Tongtong, and Morita—to Japan’s Akita Prefecture to film a tourism promotional video, generously sharing a complete guide to independent travel in Akita, Japan.

Hachikō’s Hometown – Akita: The “Kingdom of Fine Sake” and a Hidden Maple Viewing Spot
Akita Prefecture in Japan, famous for “Hachikō,” is located in the northwest of Japan’s Tohoku region, about 450 kilometers from Tokyo, along the Sea of Japan coast. From the cherry blossoms of spring, summer festivals, autumn leaves, to winter snowscapes, the area offers diverse natural scenery throughout the year. Additionally, Akita is also renowned for its sake, earning it the title of the “Kingdom of Fine Sake.”

To help Taiwanese travelers better understand the beauty of Akita, Akita Prefecture in Japan has introduced a new tourism route: the “Heartwarming Akita Dog Route.” Through this travel itinerary, visitors can ride local trains to enjoy the rich mountain and water landscapes while exploring Hachikō’s hometown, “Akita.”

The “Heartwarming Akita Dog Route” Guide Revealed: A Deep Cultural, Natural Beauty, and Super-Cute Akita Dog Fun Trip Combined
The starting point is one of Akita’s most iconic tourist spots, “Kakunodate Town,” known for its samurai residences, and the endpoint is “Kosaka Town,” home to Japan’s oldest theater. By taking a train on the Akita Inland Railway, you can not only admire the beautiful natural scenery of Akita but also enjoy local cuisine, experience regional culture, and have fun with the incredibly adorable Akita dogs along this route.

The soothing scenery and profound cultural heritage of Akita Prefecture allow everyone to find the perfect itinerary. This year, Akita Prefecture has specially designed the super-cute “Heartwarming Akita Dog Route,” allowing Akita dog lovers to get up close and personal with these adorable dogs.