Private Half Day Akita Namahage Tour With Licensed Guide

The Akita Namahage tour offers an immersive cultural experience in Japan’s Akita Prefecture. Led by a licensed guide, the half-day excursion explores the region’s centuries-old Namahage tradition through visits to key sites like Mount Kanpuan and the Namahoge Museum. With transportation and admission fees covered, the tour provides a convenient and comprehensive way for travelers to discover this unique aspect of local heritage. Whether you’re seeking an authentic cultural encounter or simply want to expand your understanding of Japan, this private tour might just be the perfect addition to your itinerary.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Guided Tours In Akita Prefecture.

Key Points

• This private half-day tour explores the cultural heritage of Akita Prefecture, focusing on the Namahage tradition, with a licensed English-speaking guide.
• The tour includes visits to Mount Kanpuan, the Namahoge Museum, and Ogashinzan, providing an immersive experience into the local culture.
• Transportation options include a private car or hired taxi, ensuring a comfortable and efficient start to the tour.
• The tour starts and ends at the JR Akita Station, making it convenient for travelers to continue their journey or return to accommodations.
• The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy and is priced from SEK 2,683.13 per group of up to 3 people.

Tour Details

This private half-day Akita Namahage tour takes visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of Akita Prefecture in Japan.

Led by a licensed guide, the tour provides an immersive experience into the local traditions and customs surrounding the Namahage, mythical ogre-like figures.

Guests will visit Mount Kanpuan, the Namahage Museum, and Ogashinzan, where they’ll learn about the history and significance of the Namahage ritual.

The tour includes English-language guidance, lunch, and admission fees to these cultural sites.

Transportation is available via private car or hired taxi, with the tour starting and ending at the JR Akita Station.

This experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems.

Inclusions

The private half-day Akita Namahage tour includes English-language guiding, a provided lunch, and admission fees to key cultural sites such as Mount Kanpuan (550 JPY), the Namahage Museum (550 JPY), and Ogashinzan (700 JPY).

This ensures participants can fully enjoy the local culture without worrying about additional costs.

The English-speaking guide will provide in-depth information and insights throughout the tour, enhancing the overall experience.

Lunch is included, so travelers don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat during the tour.

With all the major admission fees covered, guests can focus on taking in the sights and learning about the Namahage tradition without any added financial considerations.

Transportation

Travelers can choose between a private car (5,000 JPY) or a hired taxi (25,000-30,000 JPY) to reach the tour’s meeting point at JR Akita Station. The private car option is more cost-effective for smaller groups, while the hired taxi may be preferable for larger parties. Both modes of transportation provide a comfortable and efficient way to arrive at the starting point, ensuring a seamless start to the Akita Namahage tour experience.

Transportation	Cost (JPY)	Capacity	Convenience	Flexibility
Private Car	5,000	Up to 3 passengers	Good	Moderate
Hired Taxi	25,000 – 30,000	Up to 4 passengers	Excellent	High

Meeting Point

The tour meeting point is at the JR Akita Station, right in front of the ticket gate. Participants can easily locate this convenient starting point, which is centrally located and easily accessible.

From there, the group will embark on their half-day Akita Namahage tour, led by a licensed guide.

The tour will end back at the same meeting point, making it seamless for travelers to either continue their journey or head back to their accommodations.

This straightforward meeting and end point setup ensures a smooth and organized start and finish to the immersive Namahage cultural experience.

End Point

At the tour’s conclusion, participants return to the same JR Akita Station meeting point where the experience began. This convenient end location allows guests to seamlessly continue their travels or easily transfer to their accommodations after the Akita Namahage cultural tour.

Meeting Point	End Point
JR Akita Station, in front of the ticket gate	Back at the meeting point

Finishing the tour at the original starting point ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience for all travelers. With the tour’s private transportation included, participants can relax and fully enjoy the Namahage tradition without worrying about logistics or navigation.

Additional Information

Confirmation of this private Akita Namahage tour is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems.

Participants will join a private group experience, as this tour is operated solely for the booked group. It’s offered by Tomio Yokouchi and priced from SEK 2,683.13 per group of up to 3 people. Customers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Key highlights include:

1. Secure your spot with a Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
2. Enjoy a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
3. Explore the Akita Namahage cultural experience as a private group.

Confirmation and Cancellation

This private Akita Namahage tour can be confirmed within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Once booked, the tour is secured, and travelers can reserve their spot while staying flexible.

Should plans change, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, local time. This ensures travelers have the flexibility to adjust their itinerary as needed.

The tour is operated by Tomio Yokouchi and is priced from SEK 2,683.13 per group of up to 3 people.

With confirmation and cancellation policies in place, travelers can book this private Akita Namahage tour with confidence, knowing their plans are secured and can be easily modified if necessary.

Pricing

The private half-day Akita Namahage tour is priced from SEK 2,683.13 per group, accommodating up to 3 people.

This cost includes:

• English-speaking guide
• Admission fees for key sites like Mt. Kanpuan, Namahage Museum, and Ogashinzan
• Lunch

Travelers have the option to book either a private car for 5,000 JPY or a hired taxi for 25,000-30,000 JPY.

The tour starts and ends at the JR Akita Station, providing convenience for participants.

With a flexible reservation policy and confirmation within 48 hours, this Akita Namahage tour offers an exceptional cultural experience at a reasonable price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Significance of the Namahage Tradition?

The Namahage tradition in Akita, Japan, is a cultural ritual where people dress up as fearsome mountain ogres to visit homes, scolding children and scaring them into good behavior. It’s a longstanding New Year’s custom with deep cultural significance.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Namahage tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems. Participants of all ages can enjoy this cultural experience.

What Is the Weather Typically Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour is typically cool and crisp. Akita Prefecture experiences a continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Visitors should dress in layers to prepare for fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.

Can I Take Photographs During the Experience?

Yes, participants are typically allowed to take photographs throughout the experience. Photography is generally permitted at the various sites and attractions visited during the tour, unless otherwise specified by the guide or local authorities.

Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour is suitable for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, as the included lunch can be tailored to accommodate their needs. The guide will work with the participants to ensure their dietary requirements are met.

Recap

The Akita Namahage tour offers an immersive cultural experience, exploring the local heritage with a licensed guide.

Covering key sites like Mount Kanpuan and the Namahoge Museum, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to this unique Japanese tradition.

With convenient transportation options and an inclusive package, this tour ensures a hassle-free and enriching exploration of Akita’s cultural treasures.