Last Updated: Sep 29, 2024

Northern Akita

Home of the the Matagi & the Akita Inu

This story was originally published on donnykimball.com and has been syndicated here on Medium.

When I originally published my in-depth primer on Akita Prefecture, I thought I had covered it all. Alas, as is always the case with Japan, no endeavor to thoroughly introduce a place is ever fully complete. In my foolishness, I had left out the prefecture’s northernmost extremes. Today, I’d like repent for my former sins and introduce you to what might very well be Akita’s best kept secrets—the areas of Odate, Kosaka, Kami-Koani and Kita-Akita.

Northern Akita is famous for two things that truly embody the spirit of this rugged region: the Akita Inu and the Matagi hunters. The Akita Inu, known for its loyalty and strength, is more than just a breed of dog — it’s a symbol of the prefecture’s resilience and natural beauty. Equally iconic are the Matagi, traditional hunters who have lived in harmony with the mountains for centuries, preserving ancient customs and techniques. Together, these two cultural treasures offer a glimpse into a way of life deeply connected to the wild landscapes of Akita’s northern reaches.

While certainly off the beaten path, northern Akita rewards those adventurous enough to make the journey with some of Japan’s most breathtaking scenery. From the tranquil shores of Lake Towada to the dramatic slopes of Mt…