Recently, the five prefectures in Japan’s Tohoku region have become increasingly popular tourist destinations, including Akita Prefecture.
Akita offers many scenic and cultural attractions, such as the Samurai Residences in Kakunodate, Lake Tazawa, and Nyuto Onsen.
Additionally, this prefecture is home to various unique foods that reflect its regional charm. Here are six must-buy souvenirs from Akita!
Must-Buy Souvenir #1: Akita Inu Dorayaki
When it comes to Akita, the most famous symbol is the Akita Inu. As a result, you’ll find many Akita Inu-themed products, with the most famous being Rokugatsudo’s Akita Inu Dorayaki.
This sweet treat features a brown sugar dorayaki pancake imprinted with an Akita Inu tail design.
It comes with two types of fillings, red bean paste and red bean cream. Packaged in an adorable Akita Inu-themed box, this dorayaki is sure to melt hearts!
- Price: ¥370 per piece
- Where to Buy: Rokugatsudo
Must-Buy Souvenir #2: Kiritanpo Hot Pot Set
Akita’s kiritanpo (rice sticks) are a well-known local specialty. The largest producer, Saito Shoichi Shoten, offers various kiritanpo hot pot sets, such as grilled kiritanpo with broth, grilled kiritanpo with broth and Hinai chicken, or grilled kiritanpo with rice balls and broth.
These sets are incredibly popular, allowing you to relive the flavors of Akita at home!
- Price: ¥886
- Where to Buy: Saito Shoichi Shoten, souvenir shops in Akita
If you don’t have access to a stove, there’s also a microwaveable version of the kiritanpo hot pot, making it extremely convenient for travelers!
- Price: ¥711
Must-Buy Souvenir #3: Smoked Pickled Daikon (Iburi-Gakko)
Next, we have Iburi-Gakko, which ranked #1 in the Akita souvenir ranking on Jalan. This is a traditional pickled daikon radish from southern inland Akita.
The preparation method involves hanging daikon radishes to dry, then smoking them with hardwoods like oak, beech, and cherry before pickling them with rice bran and salt.
This results in a deliciously smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with rice or as a snack with alcoholic drinks!
- Price: ¥820 (260g per piece) / ¥585 (small pack, 60g)
- Where to Buy: Akita Prefecture Product Plaza, JR Akita Station, Akita Airport
Read:
7 Popular Souvenirs from Osaka You Shouldn’t Miss!
Must-Buy Souvenir #4: Kinman (Golden Manju)
A beloved Akita confectionery for over 70 years, Kinman ranked #2 in Jalan’s Akita souvenir ranking.
The soft outer layer is made from honey and eggs, while the inside is filled with a sweet white bean paste.
Baked using traditional methods, it has a fluffy texture and a delicate sweetness—perfect for personal treats or as gifts!
- Price: ¥778 (8 pieces)
Must-Buy Souvenir #5: Pumpkin Pie
Ranked #3 in the Jalan souvenir rankings, Pumpkin Pie is made from locally grown Kuritaisho pumpkins from Oga Peninsula’s Ogata Village, an area known for its abundant agricultural products.
Each pie is hand-baked using 100% locally grown pumpkin and Japanese-made butter, resulting in a crispy texture and naturally sweet flavor that has made it a favorite among visitors!
- Price: ¥772 (5 pieces)
- Where to Buy: JR Akita Station, Akita Airport, various supermarkets in Akita
Must-Buy Souvenir #6: Atsumi Karinto
Hailing from Konoura in Nikaho City, Akita, Atsumi Karinto is a crispy sesame-flavored snack made with malt syrup. Its light and crunchy texture make it highly addictive—you won’t be able to stop at just one bite!
Although Atsumi Karinto isn’t as widely known among tourists as some of the other Akita souvenirs, it’s a beloved local snack.
However, since the malt syrup used in its production is sensitive to heat, it’s only sold outside of the summer months. Additionally, there is a purchase limit per person, making it a rare find!
- Price: ¥680 (215g)
- Where to Buy: Atsumi Confectionery Shop, Akita Airport, souvenir shops
If you’re visiting Akita, don’t forget to pick up these six must-buy souvenirs to bring a taste of Akita’s charm home with you!
