Atsumi's Karinto

[Akita Prefecture] From standard items to rare items! 7 recommended souvenirs to buy in Akita

What comes to mind when you think of Akita Prefecture? Namahage? Iburi-gakke? Akita dogs? Akita Prefecture is a place in the Tohoku region that has many unique things that are unique to Akita

Akita Prefecture, which has a unique presence even within the Tohoku region, has a wide variety of unique souvenirs. There are plenty of delicious items to choose from, including skin care products that women will love and simple, old-fashioned items, depending on the recipient. This time, we have selected seven recommended souvenirs from Akita Prefecture. Please use this as a reference!


Originally a preserved food for Matagi hunters, "Butter Mochi"

Butter mochi
©Akita Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division

The first item is the classic Akita souvenir, butter mochi. It is a local confectionery that originated in Kitaakita City and is so beloved that everyone in Akita Prefecture knows about it

As the name suggests, butter mochi is made by adding butter and sugar to glutinous rice, giving it a fragrant and flavorful taste. The addition of butter means that it can be eaten as is without baking, and it has a smooth texture that doesn't harden even when left for a long time  

The popular butter mochi is sold by many different manufacturers, but we recommend Miuraan's butter mochi "Mochi Mochi Triangle." It's a staple item that's always available at train stations and airports


Akita's famous confectionery, "Kinman," has a simple taste and is wrapped in a thin skin containing honey

Kinman
©Akita Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division

The next recommended souvenir is "Kinman." This is also a standard snack in Akita Prefecture, and is even advertised on television within the prefecture

Kinman is round, like a small Imagawayaki, and has a fluffy castella cake filled with white bean paste.It has no strong flavor and is a great souvenir to give to everyone, as it is a gift that anyone will be happy to receive

The fluffy dough becomes even more chewy and delicious when heated in the microwave. The elegant sweetness goes perfectly with Japanese tea and is a favorite among older people. You can purchase them at train stations and airports


Karinto? Senbei? The perfect match of sweetness and savory flavor: "Atsumi's Karinto," a local specialty

Atsumi's Karinto
©Akita Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division

You might be thinking, "Karinto is available all over the country!" It's true that it's a traditional sweet that can be easily purchased at any supermarket across the country. However, this "Atsumi Karinto" is not just any other Karinto

Atsumi's Karinto is different from regular Karinto. It is shaped like a thin, square rice cracker and is amber in color instead of black. It is crunchy and easy to eat, and one bite will fill you with just the right amount of sweetness and the fragrant flavor of sesame

Atsumi's Karinto is not too sweet, yet retains the rich flavor that is characteristic of Karinto. It has such an addictive taste that you'll finish the whole bag in no time! To maintain quality, it is a special candy that is not produced in the summer. If you come across it, be sure to give it a try!


Kiritanpo Cup Soup: A miraculous cup soup created by a local web marketing company!

Kiritanpo cup soup
© TSUBASA Co.,Ltd.

Kiritanpo is a local dish of Akita Prefecture. Kiritanpo is made by mashing non-glutinous rice, wrapping it around a stick, and grilling it until golden brown. It is usually used as an ingredient in hot pot dishes. "Kiritanpo hot pot" is a staple in Akita Prefecture, and many people buy kiritanpo hot pot sets as souvenirs

However, what we'd like to introduce here is "Kiritanpo Cup Soup." This is an original product created by Tsubasa Co., Ltd., a web marketing company in Akita City. It's hugely popular among the younger generation because it's easy to enjoy the local dish, Kiritanpo, and its stylish packaging! It comes in four appealing flavors: Hinai Jidori Soy Sauce, Spicy Curry, Seafood Bouillabaisse, and Spicy Jjigae

Of course, the main dish, kiritanpo, is also authentic, with thick meat and a nicely grilled surface. It is perfect for those who have never tried kiritanpo, and also makes a stylish souvenir


Akita Inaniwa Udon is one of Japan's three great udon noodles

Inaniwa udon
©Akita Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division

A recommended souvenir for yourself or your family would be the classic "Inaniwa Udon." Inaniwa Udon, one of Japan's three major udon noodles, was originally a gift, and is still considered a luxury item in Akita Prefecture

A recommended souvenir for yourself or your family would be the classic "Inaniwa Udon." Inaniwa Udon, one of Japan's three major udon noodles, was originally a gift, and is still considered a luxury item in Akita Prefecture

Inaniwa udon, which is made using a limited method and origin, is characterized by its flat shape and smooth texture. It is not a thick, chewy udon, but a thin, elegant udon that is easy to eat

Dried noodles are the most common, but semi-dried noodles are also available in Akita Prefecture. They are quite heavy, so we recommend purchasing them at the airport or having them delivered


The secret of Akita beauty? "Sake Shop Skills Series"

Sake Shop Skills Series
© TakashimizuCosmetics Co.,Ltd.

Akita Prefecture is also famous for having many beautiful women. The secret to Akita beauties is their pure white skin! Akita Prefecture has the shortest hours of sunlight in Japan, so it is less exposed to ultraviolet rays, and many women have beautiful skin. Fermented foods such as koji and miso, which are commonly eaten in Akita Prefecture, are also said to play a role in beautiful skin, but skin care products exclusive to Akita Prefecture may actually be the secret

A popular souvenir for women is the skin care products in the "Sakaya no Skill" series sold by Takashimizu Cosmetics. Akita Prefecture, a rice-producing region, is also a major producer of sake. In fact, sake has a very high beauty effect, making it perfect for skin care

All products in Sakaya's Skill Series contain "Rice Fermentation Liquid," a fermented rice extract, which is known for its moisturizing and firming properties! It includes a lotion, emulsion, and face mask, so it's a great gift idea. The prices are also reasonable


A must-have for dog lovers! A series of soothing Akita dog goods

Akita dog goods
©Akita Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division

When you think of Akita, you think of the Akita dog! The large, soft-furred Akita dog is now extremely popular all over the world. Akita dog goods are an easy-to-understand and recommended souvenir from Akita

Airports, train stations, and souvenir shops almost always have a section for Akita dog goods. You can find a wide variety of items, including stuffed toys and pouches modeled after Masaru, the Akita dog given to figure skater Zagitova, as well as practical eco-bags and unique sweets. Akita dog goods are sure to make people say "Oh, you went to Akita!" at a glance, and are recommended as souvenirs


A wide variety of Akita souvenirs!

Akita Prefecture is a great place to enjoy souvenir hunting, one of the joys of travel. There are wonderful products to choose from, from things you want to eat or use yourself to gifts for special people. When you visit Akita, be sure to pick up some unique souvenirs as well as standard items!


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