With the Tokyo Game Show 2026 just around the corner, many game development companies are currently announcing their highly anticipated titles.
As the gaming and anime industries continue to thrive, the number of foreign tourists interested in Japanese culture and actually visiting Japan is on the rise.
Amid this trend, the “Committee for the Promotion of Orderly Inbound Tourism,” operated by the Public Policy Research Institute (a specified nonprofit organization), will carry out a project in Akita Prefecture on Friday, September 4, and Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Chinese-speaking influencers Fu Yumeng (WEIBO ) and Zhang Qianqian ( REDNOTE ) participated in the event to cover the charms of Akita Prefecture.
Chinese-Speaking Influencers Visit Akita Prefecture to Experience Its History, Culture, and Cuisine
As local governments have advanced their inbound tourism policies, opportunities for cultural exchange between visitors to Japan and local residents have increased.
However, as a result, incidents have frequently occurred due to insufficient mutual understanding stemming from regional cultural differences.
In response to these situations, the Public Policy Research Institute, a specified nonprofit organization, established the “Committee for the Promotion of Orderly Inbound Tourism ” in 2025.
To date, the committee has promoted the attractions and tourism etiquette of four regions—Chichibu, Nasu, Yamanashi, and Nara—through influencers.
Now, as the fifth installment of this series, the “Akita Prefecture Project” will be held over two days—Friday, September 4, and Saturday, September 5, 2026—in Kakunodate, Akita City, and Oga, Akita Prefecture, to raise awareness of the local cultures in these areas.
With Fumihiro Sato—an expert in the field of inbound tourism—serving as an advisor, Chinese-speaking influencers Fu Yumeng ( WEIBO ) and Zhang Qianqian ( REDNOTE ) conducted a reporting trip in Akita Prefecture, which boasts a diverse array of tourist attractions, including the Namahage festival.
Day 1: Exploring culinary culture while enjoying historic townscapes in Kakunodate, Semboku City, and Akita City
The coverage began in Kakunodate.
While touring the historic streets—including samurai residences—by rickshaw, the group visited the “Kakunodate Historical Village: Aoyagi House,” which preserves a samurai residence to this day, and “Ando Brewing Main Store,” founded in 1853 during the Edo period.
After reflecting on the depth of history, the two then visited the traditional Japanese restaurant “ Inaho ” to explore the unique culinary culture of Kakunodate.
On the same day, they traveled to Akita City and covered Akita’s culinary culture at “Toppinpararinpu,” a restaurant specializing in local sake and campfire-grilled dishes.
Day 2: Oga City: Moved by the Power of Namahage and Iridozaki
After traveling from Akita City to Oga City, the two immediately began covering the “Namahage Museum.”
By experiencing the traditional culture that has been passed down through the generations in the region and learning about its background, they gained a deeper, firsthand appreciation of Akita’s charm.
They also feasted on Oga’s unique cuisine, including seafood, at the “Namahage Goten (New Hatake-kan) ” in Iridozaki. Afterward, they covered the magnificent scenery at the Iridozaki Lighthouse and shared its charm on social media.
Toward a Society Where Inbound Tourists and Local Residents Respect One Another
PR TIMES
Through this reporting trip, the influencers commented, “By actually visiting Kakunodate, we were able to gain a deeper appreciation for Akita’s unique charms, such as its historic townscape, samurai culture, and locally rooted culinary traditions.” “I felt that learning about the diverse cultures and customs unique to each region—such as the Namahage of Oga—is important for international travelers to Japan to travel while respecting the local communities.”" They also expressed enthusiasm for future outreach, stating, "We plan to continue promoting Akita’s charms to the Chinese-speaking world via social media, while also introducing the region’s culture, cuisine, and tourism etiquette."
The Committee for the Promotion of Orderly Inbound Tourism has stated that it will continue to advance initiatives—such as this Akita Prefecture project—that foster mutual understanding between international visitors to Japan and local communities.
We look forward to following their future activities.
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