NOV 18. Sunny

Today is a very special day. My day started full of great memories.

As I overheard that the Statue of HACHI-KO at Shibuya Station will be returned to his home in AKITA.

That was on the news which was inspiring.

My Hachi…

We were always together and Hachi is same kind of AKITA dog as HACHI-KO at Shibuya Station.

I can recall the good old days with Hachi, full of wonderful memories when we traveled together throughout AKITA, where you were born.

My memories are full of the beautiful nature, sceney and warm-hearted people.

Our taste buds were tantalized together with the variety of so many tasty foods and amazing cuisine there.

AKITA…… That is the place, even for me as an American, where I discovered the unforgettable hidden things that stay in my heart forever.

Hachi…… Whenever I think of you I can’t wait to go back to AKITA…….

Now I can’t wait to revisit AKITA.

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NOV 23, Cloudy and sometimes rainy.

Now I am back in AKITA.

AMASAGIGO……. I wanted to revisit here first, as it reminds me of the time that was so fulfilling that I savored with HACHI…

From there, I revisited many other beautiful places that reminded me of the great memories I spent with Hachi.

#1. AMASAKI-GO

One of the special places in AKITA, is called “MAGARIYA” and Japanese Gardens where I can see the real traditions and authenticity of the Japanese architecture of AKITA.

Everyone can sense the life and people here just like the old days in Japan.

As an American living in Japan, TATAMI and IRORI (Japanese Fireside) were new to me but always made me feel tranquil, and now was so nostalgic.

#2. DAIBUTSU of AKADA

In Akada I was welcomed by the amazingly magnificent DAIBUTSU and was in awe by its sheere scale and beauty.

I remember Hachi being so astonished with the size and scale of this DAIBUTSU,and you were so excited to run and play around it!

This place is well known as Japan’s 3 major HASE KANON (Goddess of Mercy). I recall that they have a very unique festival where they combine Shinto and Buddhism.

Shinto religion and Buddhism have coexisted and integrated into Japanese society for a long time in Japan….

I love this place, as the DAIBUTSU is always open as a courtesy for everyone to feel empowered when they visit….

#3. SAIYA Sake Brewery

I was lucky to be invited to have a tour inside when I visited Saiya Sake Brewery…

The last time I visited with HACHI I was not able to get in to see the tour.

This time was an unprecedented experience for me…

I have never seen how they make such special Japanese Sake before.

I was feeling intoxicated by its taste and could feel the real beauty of Japan in every sip.

#4. HONJO UDON

I was so impressed that the owner remembered me despite the fact that my last visit was many many years ago…even though I only visited once. I was very honored!

Moreover, he also remembered that I came with Hachi….

The People of AKITA are so warmhearted….

You can taste the heart and soul of the people who make the HONJO UDON as a true reflection of the warm-hearted kindness that was shown to me on my visit.

Its gentle, warm, soft….truly exquisite. Its impossible to compare.

#5. OSAKANA Kitchen

Hachi used to love fresh fishe and seafood… I used to wonder if he was a cat!

Hachi could not wait to enjoy the all the fresh fishe that the chef would prepare.

The owner was a true professional. He not only recognized Hachi’s favorite fish but skillfully cleaned the fishe in front of us and then prepared such wonderful meals.

I cannot wait to find out what lunch he has made for us today. And as thought, he made the perfect meal just like last time. I thought I was dining in Heaven.

#7. CHOKAI KOGEN Railway

At the end of my first day back to AKITA I decided to take the train. It’s still unfamiliar to me but indispensable in order to enjoy the grand beauty of AKITA’s magnificent landscape.

This train runs from the coastline towards the mountains, and my eyes gaze upon the beauty of all its nature.

That beauty brought tears to my eyes, thinking of HACHI and all the days we spent together.

And then I noticed the sunset…..

The train was heading to our final destination.

All I can think about is Hachi.

His memories are rushing through my head and I am reminded of all his traits that I had forgotten…

Hachi, my Hachi….I would love to see you again.

Now that I am back in AKITA, I dream of the possibility to see you again.

I know its not possible, but I wish I could see you again. Hachi, I wish that you could come back to me. I would love to see you running happily back to me, my Hachi!

Robert.

Nov 24, Cloudy then sunny

After I met a mysterous AKITA dog that reminds me of my Hachi, I enjoyed further trips to AKITA where I traveled around with Hachi.

Unlike the past, this AKITA dog really looks like my Hachi and he is guiding me through AKITA. Immediately, we headed for the Akita citizen market where we enjoyed the seasonal taste of Akita.

And continued to walk around from the market to other venues and spots, where I recalled the good old days with Hachi.

#1 Akita Food Market

Not only the people in Akita, but also many other visitors from all over are visiting this place, as all can tantalize their taste buds with a variety of tastes.

Indeed, all kinds of food and drinks, from fresh seafood to vegetables to fruits and even to the tasty Japanese SAKE from all the regions in AKITA. It was nice to be able to taste the samples that they offered me while I walked around!

The AKITA dog together with me acted just like my Hachi – who used to stop at the fish market, wisely waiting for me to enjoy his favorite fish…….. Yes, that’s exactly what Hachi and I used to do…

#2 AKITA MUSEUM OF ART

This Museum was designed by the internationally well-known Japanese architect named Tadao Ando. It is so mpressive with its symbolic triangle motif!

AKITA NO GYOJI (Events in Akita), drawn by Leonard FUJITA (Tsuguharu FUJITA) in 1937 was so magnificent, it was huge, approx 4m x 20m!

The ambience in the museum was so tranquilizing, and I stayed there for a while looking outside the view of city.

#3 MATSUSHITA

MATSUSHITA is located near by the entrance of SENSHU PARK, and one of my favorite place to enjoy tea time, Japanese Sake, and even AKITA GEISHA (MAIKO) traditional dance performances.

All my heart and soul are with the beauty of their KIMONO and their Japanese dance that made my time so fulfilling with tea and Sakes that followed….. Last time I was here with my Hachi, I was drinking SAKE too.

Hachi was looking at me as if he also wanted to try the SAKE!

This Akita dog looks at me now as if he knows something happened with me and my Hachi in the past. This dog is always close to me, even when I was enjoying SAKE, always eying and envying the SAKE I enjoyed……

#4 SENSHU PARK

After the wonderful time at MATSUSHITA, we walked up to the park. This park is the designated tourist spot recommended by the Akita City.

This is the site where the ruins of the old castle, called KUBOTA-JYO that was built in 1604 used to be. This dog walked ahead of me just like my Hachi used to. He then stopped and looked back as if he is confirming that I am following him and we are together. This dog behaves exactly like my Hachi used to, It brought a smile to my face.

#5 IYATAKA SHRINE

This shrine is located in the Senshu Park, and built in 1819, a tangible cultural property registed by the AKITA prefecture.

The atmosphere is just so sacred.

The charms at the shrine office caught my eye.

#6TAKASAKODO TENPO

Walking around made me a bit hungry and I thought of revisiting the traditional Japanese confectionery shop called TAKASAGODO which is the place I used to visit with Hachi.

This shop started in 1902, and now is a tangible cultural property registered by Japan. It is in the same location, has the same recipes ever since, and is so amazing.

It was quite a surprise that the shop owner remembered me and Hachi! I used to buy the same confectionary and share it with Hachi.

#7 Traditions of AKITA, Exhibition Center

This is a must-visit place to fully understand AKITA’s traditions and cultures.

Last time I visited with Hachi, I tried KANTO. KANTO is AKITA’s famous festival, with the echoing sounds of bamboo flutes and over 250 Kanto poles that rise at the same time. Performers concentrate on the Shinto offering of cut paper (Gohei) which is placed at the very top of the 15 meters high bamboo pole - the Kanto.

I also visited AKITA’s traditional old house, called the KANEKO House, which was built in the Edo Era. AKITA is truly where memories never fade.

#9 NABA Paper Shop

Traveling with Hachi I always found amazing discoveries of Akita and Japan.

This shop is exceptional in selling all different kinds of paper in colors and designs, particularly; Japanese WASHI paper that is an art to create. This AKITA dog looked at what I had purchased as souvenirs with a quizzical look on his face.

#10 The Red Bricks Building – Ex HQ of AKITA BANK

This western style architecture is Japan’s important cultural property built in 1912, during the MEIJI Era. Inside the building, you can enjoy the masterpieces of the well-known woodblock artist, Tokushi Katsuhira.

Recalling those days in AKITA, I then walked to the KAWABATA area.

#11 KAWABATA

By the time I arrived here, the sun was just starting to set.

KAWABATA is the No 1 entertainment district in AKITA with many bars and restaurants. I revisited the place I used to go and knew well.

This Akita dog reminds me of Hachi as it stops by all the fresh fish restaurants along the way. Watching this AKITA dog behave and act like my Hachi made me yern to see my Hachi again.

We both walked around KAWABATA and enjoyed the local food and SAKE.

The evening air began to cool me down but I felt the warmth of the good people, wonderful food and tasty SAKE that kept me warm.

This AKITA dog was waiting for me ahead. Then this AKITA dog took the lead and took me in a different direction than I was thinking so I decided to just follow him.

There must be something very important there that this AKITA dog wants to show me. I wonder what it is?

Robert.

Dec 13, Sunny

After returning from AKITA I was basking in the serenity of the recent days spent on those AKITA trips.   As if I was in a dream with the AKITA dog that looked like my HACHI and I was filled with joy recalling the days back then.

That evening the air was very clear and cold.

I was not aware why The AKITA dog that guided me to the authentic Japanese Ryokan called OKABE-SO, at OOYU ONSEN took me there, but I decided to stay and enjoy the hot springs.

The next day I recognized that this trip with him was truly destiny and no coincidence.  I took a step back to reminice about all my great memories of the last day in AKITA….

#1 OOYU ONSEN (OKABE Ryokan)

This Ryokan started in 1959 and blends the traditions of the past and present very well, and has a variety of ONSENs which is the reason many people stay here.

The time at the open-air bath was splendid, with views of beautiful nature, and a Japanese garden in front.

I was completely rejuvinated after soaking in the hot spring.

I slept deeply last night and woke up early next morning just because I wanted to walk around outside and enjoy the beautiful white snow.

Surprisingly the AKITA dog was waiting for me calmly sitting near by the entrance of the Ryokan.

#2 KAZUNO BBQ

Dogs have an extremely high sense of smell.  My Hachi used to make the most of such talents, and he often guided me to many tasty shops. This AKITA dog was identical and lead me to many such places.

Needless to say, the boiled pieces of pork from the same recipe and cooking style since the restaurant started, was so exquisite.

#3 former SEKIZEN Sake Maker

I was astonished with the complex structure of the ceiling, and heard that such architecture is called “Colonnade Wood Style” – a traditional technique to enhance the ceiling structure to protect it from the heavy snow.

I admired the wisdom and intelligence that people had from the old days and I just stayed there for a while to enjoy the workmanship.

#4 A-N-TO-RA-A Country Road Station

The Hanawa Bayashi is Japan’s 3rd major music festival. The views are magnificent looking up at all the stalls (each of them differ depending on the town and village they are from).  They use these during their traditional summer festival called “Hanawa Bayashi”.

Like my HACHI, this AKITA dog also dances to the music as it hears the flut and drums playing in the background.

#5 ODATE Traditional Craft – MAGEWAPPA

What a interesting name, MAGEWAPPA…    I actually got to experience making it on my own!

While I struggled to make it I had a nice and gentle coach to guide me through the process.  And of course, the AKITA dog was anxiously waiting for for me to finish my masterpiece.

#6 HOKUSHU CLUB

KIRITANPO, Akita’s traditional local dish is originally from ODATE and KAZUNO.

He may have known that I have never tasted this before or maybe he wanted me to taste this which is why the AKITA dog guided me to this place.

The way to make this, and the shape itself were so unfamiliar to me.   Of course, I have never seen this style in the U.S. where I am from. This is an anciant dish of slightly wet rice squeezed onto a cedar wood stick and let grill around the open fire.   Once it is finished it is seasoned with MISO, or they put the KIRITANPO in hot pots (Japanese NABE)… yummy!

Now I am a fan of KIRITANPO for its unique texture and taste that is very different from either normal rice or OMOCHI.

And it is so cozy sitting around the heath (IRORI) enjoying rice on a stick, KIRITANPO. This special dish in the cold winter must be of interest to visitors from the overseas!

#7 KOURAKU-KAN, KOSAKA MINE Office

These 2 architectures are Japan’s most important cultural properties.   MINE OFFICE is a spectacular European style building with its whiteness fused into the white snow. While KOURAKU-KAN is Japan’s oldest Kabuki Theater, and they still have regular KABUKI performance now.

Those days, more than 100 years ago, were the days where most Japanese must have been attracted by many new things and styles from the western cultures.   I was simply wondering how the people in those days would see such modernized Japan now.

#8 TORIGATA HOUSE

In AKITA, there are many cultural properties from the old days.   This old house is one of them with over a 400-year history.

The view was entirely white in snow that reminded me of the “WABI-SABI” culture of Japan that I am still learning.

I was surprised to find out I could enjoy wearing the traditional Japanese kimono and I realized that there are still many things I need to uncover in AKITA!

At UOZUMI, the owner kindly found the special KIMONO for me, designed for the traditional ceremony, and she helped me get dressed.  That kimono was for the tea ceremony, and I felt as if I were a Japanese aristocrat from the old days.   I looked at the AKITA dog who guided me here and he was proudly smiling at me.

#10 ZERO DATE ART GALLARY

I was then introduced to the AKITA dogs friend, named “NONO-chan”, at a place located in the ODATE Shopping Arcade.

NONO-chan is slightly darker in color, and looks wise compared to the AKITA dog that I had been with.   My Hachi was more like this AKITA dog, than NONO-chan.

#11 AKITA DOG Preservation Socity

The AKITA dog was continuously leading me, but he stopped just at the front of the AKITA DOG Hall.

I found myself curious in this place so I went up to 3rd floor where there is an AKITA DOG Museum.   There were many interesting findings about the history of the AKITA dog.

I well understood why this AKITA dog had guided me to this place, and my eyes are captured to all the exhibitions and photos in this place.

He must be trying to tell me something, but it is not yet clear…   and the time flies by and my departure from AKITA back to Tokyo is just around the corner.

Then, this Dog took me to ODATE Station as the last destination.

I must go back now to catch the train, and this dog also must go home, and somebody must be waiting for him.   The moment of saying Good-bye to him is soon.

We just stopped by the restaurants in front of the station and I bought the famous TORIMESHI (Chiken Rice Bento), to enjoy on my way back to Tokyo.   I then returned to the place, the exact place that I said Good-bye to the dog.

He was there, still there alone, as if he knew I would be back to him.

In that moment I realized what he wanted to tell me.

He was indeed waiting for me for all these long days and years.

You are the HACHI-KO at the Shibuya Station!  You are my Hachi! And you wanted me to recognize that you have returned to AKITA.

And that’s why you made the trip with me all around AKITA.

My Hachi always walked ahead of me…. My Hachi loved fish and seafood… No wonder that you behaved exactly like my Hachi.

Filled with joy and happiness, I called your name, HACHI,「ハチ！」 My Hachi!

Robert.