Akita
Akita, Japan, is a charming and historic port city on the Sea of Japan coast, in the heart of the Tohoku region. It is a city that is famous for its stunning natural beauty, with a lush countryside and beautiful coastline. For a cruiser, Akita is an excellent destination for those who want to experience a unique slice of Japan, with a rich history, a vibrant local culture, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Akita Cruise Terminal, which is a modern, purpose-built facility. The terminal is a short, 15-minute drive from the city center, and a complimentary shuttle bus service will be provided by the port to take you to the city center, typically to Akita Station.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Akita Cruise Terminal is a permanent building with a variety of amenities for your comfort. The walk from the ship to the terminal is short and easy, and once you are in the terminal, you can get a taxi or take the shuttle bus to the city center.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions, and a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. You'll also find a currency exchange service and ATMs that accept international cards. The terminal offers free Wi-Fi, which is a big plus. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Japanese. While you will find that English is spoken in the main tourist areas, especially on Kokusai Street, it is not as universally spoken as in some other countries. It is highly recommended to have a few basic Japanese phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Konnichiwa (kon-ni-chi-wa) - Hello
Arigatou (a-ri-ga-to) - Thank you
Sumimasen (su-mi-ma-sen) - Excuse me
Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (ei-go o ha-na-se-ma-su ka) - Do you speak English?
💰 Money
The official currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). While major credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, major restaurants, and department stores, it is wise to carry some cash for smaller shops, local markets, and public transportation. ATMs that accept international cards can be found in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and post offices.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to the city center of Akita, you have a few options:
Shuttle Bus: The port provides a complimentary shuttle bus that takes you to Akita Station, a major transit hub in the city. This is the most recommended way to get to the city center.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The ride to the city center will cost around ¥2,000-¥3,000.
Public Bus: The public bus system is a very affordable way to get around the city. The bus stop is located near the cruise terminal, and you can buy a ticket on board.
Train: The train is a great way to explore the region, with many popular day trips to places like Kakunodate. The Akita Station is a major transit hub.
♿ Accessibility
Akita has an accessibility rating of 5 out of 10. The cruise terminal is modern and fully accessible, with ramps and elevators. The city has made a great effort to make its public transportation system and main attractions accessible. However, some of the historic areas may have uneven surfaces and stairs that can be challenging to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town from the cruise port is to take the complimentary shuttle bus provided by the port. It's a short and easy ride that will take you directly to Akita Station, where you can then explore on foot or get public transportation to other parts of the city.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Akita, especially at major tourist attractions, train stations, and shopping centers. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
Matsumoto Kiyoshi: There are many Matsumoto Kiyoshi pharmacies throughout the city, and they are a great place to get everything from over-the-counter medications to cosmetics.
Welcia Drugstore: This is another major drugstore chain that you can find in the city.
✨ Authentic Experience
Walk to the Senshu Park and the Akita Museum of Art: For a taste of the city's unique culture, take a walk from Akita Station to Senshu Park, a beautiful park that was once the site of a feudal castle. From there, you can visit the Akita Museum of Art, which is a modern and well-curated museum with a collection of works by the famous artist Tsuguharu Foujita.
Dine on Local Kiritanpo: For a truly authentic culinary experience, seek out a local restaurant and try a dish of kiritanpo, a local specialty made from pounded rice that is grilled and served in a hot pot with chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables. It's a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for a cold day.
Visit the Akita Dog Station: The Akita dog is a famous breed that is from the Akita region. For a unique and charming experience, visit the Akita Dog Station, which is located in the town of Odate. Here, you can see a variety of Akita dogs and learn about their history.
