HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Meet the Maiko of Akita Prefecture
Enjoy the elegant dance performances of trainee geisha and savor traditional cuisine in a historical building in Noshiro
Akita Shirakami Tourism
Kaneyu, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property in Noshiro City, offers a unique chance to experience Akita’s maiko culture.
Watch the graceful dances of the maiko (apprentice geisha) while savoring regional delicacies, then chat and take memorable photos with them. For an even more immersive experience, you can wear a kimono and take pictures alongside the maiko.
Akita maiko constantly hone their craft, taking lessons in Japanese dance, tea ceremony, and other traditional arts, to carry on the legacy of the Kawabata geisha for which the prefecture was once renowned. By performing at Kaneyu, they bring back the feel of elegance that permeated Noshiro’s heyday.
Built using precious Akita cedar, Kaneyu is a masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship. Once a luxurious reception hall for distinguished guests during the time when Noshiro's lumber industry flourished, it has since been transformed into a venue to welcome visitors, preserving its historical charm.
Please note that reservations are required for this experience due to the maikos’ busy schedule.
How to get there
From Tokyo Station, take the Akita Shinkansen to Akita Station (about 3 hours 50 minutes). Switch to the JR Ou Line train and ride to Higashi-Noshiro Station (1 hour 10 minutes), then take the Gono Line train to Noshiro Station (5 minutes). Kaneyu is a 10-minute walk away.
From Haneda Airport, take a flight to Odate Noshiro Airport (around 1 hour 10 minutes). Kaneyu is a 40-minute drive from the airport.
13-8 Yanagi‐machi, Noshiro-shi, Akita-ken
