POINT1

What kind of dog is an Akita?

There is a theory that dogs have been human partners and good understanding companions since ancient times. The Akita dog is said to be a typical Japanese dog with a one-owner characteristic. Another attractive feature is its adorable temperament, which allows it to develop an intimate relationship once it has gained its trust. Odate City, the hometown of "Loyal Dog Hachiko," who fostered a strong bond with humans, is said to be the birthplace of the Akita dog.

POINT 2

A must-visit place for dog lovers

Odate City is home to the Akita Inu Hall, Japan's only Akita dog museum, and the headquarters of the Akita Inu Preservation Society, which manages Akita dogs around the world, is located inside the hall. The society aims to promote the prosperity and preservation of Akita dogs by promoting their appeal. It issues pedigrees, holds competitions, and has about 3,000 members, including breeders and Akita dog owners.

"It's difficult to increase the number of Akita dogs in Japan due to the declining birthrate, aging population, and declining population. In line with the current era, I would like people to take an interest in Akita dogs through social media and other means, and let them know that they are a natural monument of Japan. I would like to see even a few people from that background decide to keep them," says Shoji, Secretary General of the Akita Dog Preservation Society.

In contrast to the small dog boom in Japan, Akita dogs have been popular overseas in recent years, especially in Europe. When asked about the appeal of Akita dogs, he said, "They are quiet and gentle with people (laughs), so we can enjoy a slow life together. They are easy to be around, and you can get along with them in a natural way." Not only their physique, but their temperament is irresistible!

"Exhibitions used to be a place only breeders could enjoy, but recently we've been bringing in food trucks to bring in the general public and create an environment where people can come and see Akita dogs," he said with a smile. Since its establishment, the hall has been exhibiting and showing Akita dogs for nearly 50 years, and currently three Akita dogs can be seen in the office on the first floor.

"If the timing is right, we might be able to go for a walk together," says Mr. Ito, who walks his dogs around the nearby Katsuragi Park in the morning, afternoon, and evening. On the second and third floors of the hall, there are many exhibits related to Akita dogs! It might be a good idea to wait for the right timing to go for a walk while spending a meaningful time deepening your knowledge of Akita dogs.

POINT3

We have a nationally renowned kennel!

Noshiro Kojuso in Noshiro City has been selling Akita dogs for about 30 years. At the headquarters exhibition of the Akita Dog Preservation Society, there are classes for puppies, young dogs, adult dogs, and adult dogs. Under the guidance of Akita dog breeder Motose, who has produced many honorary medal-winning dogs, including winning first place 14 times, the highest award in Japan, and the Akiu Honorary Medal, which is awarded only to adult dogs in the A group (4 years and older), three times, you can interact with Akita dogs that are raised freely in a natural environment. You can also take a walk, so if you're a dog lover, this is a rich experience that will make you smile.

If you visit the kennel, you may even meet some puppies! Their inquisitive behavior never tires you. "I want to leave behind for future generations an Akita with the tiger-hair coat color and strong bones that I'm aiming for. It's difficult to imagine what kind of dog will be born when this male and female are mated, but watching the development process is also an interesting part of the experience."

There are about 20 dogs in the kennel, ranging from puppies to adults. Motose, who has been a breeder for nearly 40 years, lives a dog-centered life, taking good care of them, as he says, "I feel pressured to breed good dogs for the owners." Updates on the kennel are posted on social media, so it's a good idea to visit after finding the dog you're looking for.

POINT4

Natural hot springs and Akita dogs await!

Furusawa Onsen in Odate City is a popular hot spring inn where you can meet mother and daughter Akita dogs Haru and Hana. The inn is run by a mother-daughter duo (sisters). There is a reservation-only day-trip interaction plan that includes a bath in the beauty waters or a set with their famous Kiritanpo hotpot, so you can enjoy the charm of the inn to the fullest.

When guests who stayed with them told her they had no chance to see Akita dogs, Ms. Sasaki (the older sister), the managing director, realized that even though she lived in Odate, she had very few opportunities to interact with them on a daily basis. This prompted her to want to own one herself, and after talking to breeders, she was told to raise them with love and strictness, just like raising a child.

Sasaki-san had met Atsushi around ten times. "Atsushi was special. I had a feeling for him, and I thought, 'This is definitely the one!'" he said with a fond look in his eyes as he recounted the moment he decided to keep him. At first, Atsushi was used as the mascot dog from the time he was three months old, and customers were surprised to see an Akita dog when they happened to be visiting the place.

Now, there are many repeat visitors from outside the prefecture! Some visit at least once a year, and some as many as seven times a year, and they come to see the two dogs like family. Also, about 6,000 people visit every year and take photos. The casual interaction plan that includes a drink is also popular, but why not try a truly soothing experience with a bath in a quaint bathtub?

There are many things about animals that are soothing to watch, but when it comes to Akita dogs, seeing is believing. When you meet an Akita dog in person, you will realize its charm that cannot be expressed in words. Let's go on a trip filled with fluffy, heart-warming happiness.

Article created by: Akita Town Information