Akita
Cuisine Winter in Japan Is Incomplete Without Hot Pot
Winters in Japan are intensely cold, and that's when a variety of hot pot dishes—known as nabe—make their comforting appearance. Families and friends gather around a steaming pot, savoring the piping-hot ingredients. The contrast between the freezing air outside and the warmth within brings not only physical comfort but also heartfelt connection. Nabe is a beloved symbol of Japanese winter, warming both body and soul.
Culture Namahage : The Night When Oni Visit
One of Japan’s Three Great Eccentric Festivals, Namahage, is a traditional event held on New Year's Eve in Oga City, Akita Prefecture.Men wearing massive demon masks and straw garments march through the town holding torches, shouting, "Are there any crying children? Any lazy ones?" as they visit each household. This eerie and intense festival may seem terrifying, but what meaning does it hold? Let's delve into its origins.