Akita Citizen's Market

Akita Citizens’ Market began in 1951 and has over 50 years of history, drawing everyone from home cooks in Akita to professional chefs looking for quality ingredients. Beyond fresh foods, it also offers flowers, tea, clothing, daily necessities, local sake, and a wide range of Akita souvenirs, making it a popular stop for tourists as well. The market is divided into five main lanes: Foods/General Goods/Clothing Lane, Produce Lane, Dried Goods & Produce Lane, Salted Seafood & Dried Goods Lane, and Seafood Lane. Each lane typically has around 10 shops lined up, and the seafood section in particular features nearly 20 shops. Fresh fish landed in the Oga Peninsula area is a major draw, along with popular items like bodakko, sujiko, and tarako packed tightly across the counters. Bodakko refers to salted red salmon (shiozake) and is considered such a familiar staple that it is almost indispensable for Akita breakfasts. At this market, you’ll find a "Market Special Bodakko" lineup sold in three levels—mild, medium, and extra spicy-salty—with the most popular being the extra spicy-salty bodakko. It is said to be so punchy that a single bite can make you want a whole bowl of rice. Access is very easy: about a 3-minute walk from JR Akita Station.