Things to Do in Akita

A spacious city park on the site of old Kubota Castle. The central pond and reconstructed corner turret are the main draws, with cherry blossoms in April.

🕐 Park open 24 hours; turret hours 9:30-16:30 (closed Mon Dec-Feb)

💡 Walk to the top of the stone wall base for a clear view over Akita city. The adjacent Akita City Hall observation deck is free and open weekdays.

A striking concrete-and-glass building from the 1960s, designed by Kenzo Tange. Its swooping roof and exposed structure are worth a look from outside and the lobby.

🕐 Exterior accessible anytime; interior open during events only (typically 9:00-21:00)

💡 Go around back to see the external spiral ramp. There is no official tour, but the entrance hall is open during events. Best photo light is late afternoon.

Free 100-metre-high observatory overlooking Akita city, the port, and on clear days the Oga Peninsula. Small exhibits explain port history.

🕐 9:00-21:00 (last entry 20:30)

💡 Walk from Akita Station along the covered shopping arcade (about 25 min) or take bus stop 5 at the station – 'Selion Mae' stop. Best at sunset for city lights.

Small museum dedicated to Akita's signature Kanto Festival, featuring real poles used in the balancing performances. Video footage shows the festival in motion.

🕐 9:30-16:30 (closed Mon, except public holidays)

💡 Entry costs ¥310 – cheap by Japanese standards. Go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. You can also try lifting a small practice pole in the corner.

Modern gallery showcasing works by local artist Tsuguharu Foujita, plus rotating exhibitions. The building itself is a sleek glass cube designed by Tadao Ando.

🕐 10:00-18:00 (closed Mon; last entry 17:30)

💡 Free on the first Sunday of each month. Even if paid, the ground-floor lobby and shop are free to enter – you can see the Ando concrete wall without a ticket.