Homeland of the Akita Dog：Get to Know Akita Dogs

Sep / 3 / 2019

Akita dog

In 1931, the Akita dog, a breed native to northern Japan was designated a natural monument by the Japanese government. Best known for its loyalty, obedience and intelligence, this breed of hunting dogs are normally reddish-brown, white, or brindle in colour. Other unique features of the Akita dog are its fluffy coat, triangular ears and curly tail. Helen Keller, a blind U.S social activist, was credited with bringing the first Akita dog to the States. Other famous Akita dog owners include Olympic figure skating champion Alina Zagitova and Russian President Vladimir Putin. In 2009, the true story of a loyal Akita dog named Hachi also made headlines worldwide.

MEET-UP WITH FRIENDLY AKITA DOGS!

秋田犬ふれあい処
AKITA DOG VISITOR CENTER

Visitors can say hi to these adorable Akita dogs at this facility, which is located next to JR Odate Station. The centre will be open until the end of March 2019, after which it will be moved to a new location that is slated to open on 8 May 2019.

Akita Dog Visitor Center (old)
[Open] Wed, Sat, Sun & PH 9am-3.30pm, closed on Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri
[Access] In front of Odate Station on the JR Ou Line or Hanawa Line

Akita Dog Visitor Center (new) *open from 8 May
[Access] A few minutes walk from Odate Station on the JR Ou Line or Hanawa Line
[Web] akitainunosato.jp/en/

秋田犬会館
AKITA DOG MUSEUM

AKITA DOG MUSEUM

The third floor of the Akita Preservation Society World Headquarters doubles as a museum where visitor can gain a deeper insight into the history and life of Akita dogs. After that, head to the first floor where you can pet and play with real Akita dogs!

[Open] 9am-4pm, closed on Sat afternoon, Sun & PH (21Nov – 20 Apr), 13 Aug afternoon, 28 Dec – 3 Jan
[Access] A 16-min walk from Higashi-Odate Station on the JR Hanawa Line

ふるさわおんせん
FURUSAWA ONSEN

This Japanese-style hot spring hotel has had Akita dogs as part of their greeting staff since 2017. It is the perfect place to wind down, with fantastic hot spring facilities and a fluffy companion.

[Access] 7-min drive from Odate Station on the JR Ou Line or Hanawa Line
[Web] visitakita.com/en/hotel/004/