Where Coastal Charm Meets Local Flavors at Akita Port
Nestled along the vibrant waterfront of Akita City, Akita Port roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich maritime heritage and culinary pride. More than a mere stop for travelers, it’s a dynamic cultural hub where the rhythm of the sea meets the warmth of local craftsmanship.
Home to the iconic 94-meter Port Tower, the station offers panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding landscape from its observation deck. Visitors can savor regional specialties like kiritanpo and Iwate udon at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a refreshing treat from the popular udon vending machine. With a bustling marketplace featuring seasonal produce, pickles, and local sake, and family-friendly attractions including a natural play zone and a rooftop café, Akita Port delivers a uniquely authentic experience for every traveler.
Why Visit
Akita Port roadside station is home to the only elevated observation tower in the region, offering panoramic views from 94 meters above sea level with sweeping vistas of the Sea of Japan and the bustling port. Visitors can enjoy the exclusive Akita Port Babbala Soft, a local twist on the classic soft-serve, made with regional milk and served in a uniquely shaped cup. The station also features a working fish market where fresh, daily-caught seafood is sold directly from the dock, providing an authentic taste of coastal Akita life.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Akita Port roadside station, from daily specials to iconic Akita treats.
Restaurant with Daily Menu
日替わりメニュー等を楽しめるレストラン
Specialty
Diverse daily menus with seasonal ingredients
A restaurant offering a variety of daily-changing menus featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is welcoming and casual, ideal for families and travelers seeking a local dining experience.
Café with 94m View
展望94mにあるカフェ
Specialty
Panoramic views from a 94-meter-high café
A cozy café located at a height of 94 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. Perfect for relaxing with a drink or light snack while enjoying the scenery.
Baba Hela Soft
秋田名物ババヘラソフト
Specialty
Local specialty soft serve ice cream
A popular food stall serving a unique soft serve ice cream known as 'Baba Hela,' a beloved regional treat from Akita. The stall offers a fun, casual experience with a focus on local flavor.
Udon Vending Machine
話題のうどん自販機
Specialty
Popular udon vending machine offering fresh noodles
A trendy vending machine that dispenses freshly made udon noodles. It's a modern, convenient way to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal on the go.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional favorites and handmade goods at Akita Port roadside station’s vibrant marketplace.
Farmers Market
旬の野菜や果物、漬け物、加工品等が揃っております。
A market offering seasonal vegetables, fruits, pickled goods, and processed foods. Features local produce and traditional food items from Akita.
Products
Must-Try Item
Akita Kiritanpo
Sake Shop
各蔵の日本酒を取り揃えております。
A shop specializing in Japanese sake from various local breweries. Offers a wide selection of regional sakes, perfect for souvenirs or gifting.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Akita Sake
Souvenir Shop
秋田名物きりたんぽ・稲庭うどん等のお土産
A souvenir shop featuring popular Akita specialties such as kiritanpo and Ina-udon. Ideal for visitors looking to take home authentic local products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kiritanpo
Featured Products
Taste the essence of Akita with signature items like kirishitanpo, Iwagami udon, and local sake.
Akita Kiritanpo
きりたんぽ
Traditional Akita-style rice cake made from pounded rice, often grilled and served with miso or in stews. Known for its unique texture and flavor.
Ina Udon
稲庭うどん
A famous type of thick, chewy udon from Ina, Akita Prefecture. Known for its smooth texture and rich flavor, often served in a hot broth.
Pickled Vegetables
漬け物
Assorted traditional pickled vegetables from Akita, made using local methods and seasonal produce. Offers a tangy, refreshing taste.
Akita Sake
日本酒
Premium sake brewed in Akita Prefecture using local water and rice. Known for its clean, balanced flavor and smooth finish.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including a 94-meter-high observatory and family-friendly natural zones.
Parking
A parking area is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Near the main entrance and throughout the facility
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors, including accessible facilities.
Throughout the facility, including near the restaurant and play area
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility, including the restaurant and information center
Information Center
A visitor information center provides guidance, maps, and assistance with local attractions and events.
Main entrance area
Play Area
A family-friendly play area featuring a natural zone and a free-to-climb observation deck at 100 meters above ground.
Near the outdoor play zone and observation deck
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitor convenience.
Near the main entrance
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal events and check opening times for smooth access to all facilities.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekends to secure the day’s fresh batch of milk bread from the bakery, which is released at 9:30 AM and typically sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for seasonal pickled vegetables and local fermented products, including a special batch of kamaboko made exclusively for Akita Port
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the kitchen truck at the central plaza serves ikura rice balls made with fresh salmon roe from local fisheries
- Unique Experience: Climb the Port Tower to the observation deck on the 94-meter level between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to catch the best light for photography, especially during the monthly tower lighting events
- Best Purchase Time: Visit the retail shop on weekdays between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to find discounted seasonal items like kiritanpo and Innate Udon that are marked down after the lunch rush
- Special Event Tip: Attend the Aozora Market on the second Saturday of each month (e.g., November 29, 2025) to sample exclusive local artisan products not available elsewhere at the roadside station
- Family Activity Tip: Use the free entrance to the Natural Zone area between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekdays when staff conduct guided nature discovery walks for children with handouts in English and Japanese
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; seasonal vegetables appear from April.
Summer (June–August): Summer events and the popular udon vending machine operate through August.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn harvest products featured; the 11/29–30 Aozora Market and seasonal light-ups occur.
Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal activities; light displays run in November–December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features a free 100m-high observation tower and a natural zone for children. Offers stroller-friendly paths and family activities. Includes kid-friendly food options and educational elements like local culture displays.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse dining with local specialties like kiritanpo, Iwate udon, and regional sake. Includes fresh produce, unique food items, and a variety of restaurants and vending machines, enhancing the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines, with a quiet location near the harbor. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly advertised. Limited comfort for extended stays due to lack of dedicated camping facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic sea and city views from the 94m-high observation deck. Features excellent photo spots, seasonal landscapes, and a scenic atmosphere with evening light displays and natural surroundings.