An Airport Where You Can Meet Akita Dogs!?Odate-Noshiro Airport, the Gateway to Northern Akita for Animal Lovers

The Only Airport in Japan Where Real Akita Dogs Greet Visitors

Akita dogs, with their fluffy coats and calm, loyal eyes, have fans all over the world. Beloved for their dignified charm, they capture the hearts of animal lovers everywhere.
Did you know there’s an airport in Japan where you can actually meet real Akita dogs?

That airport is Odate-Noshiro Airport, located in Kitaakita City, Akita Prefecture. On specific days each month, these regional canine celebrities appear at the airport as its friendly ambassadors to welcome travelers.

Meet Them Only on the 8th, 18th, and 28th of Each Month

You can meet the Akita dogs only on three days each month: the 8th, 18th, and 28th—days with an “8” in the date.
Timed with the morning arrival flights, the dogs Rensui and Ruka warmly greet incoming visitors. In celebration of the 10th anniversary of this airport greeting initiative in 2025, the two dogs were officially appointed as honorary “Airport Directors.”

Passengers preparing to depart, families seeing off loved ones, and animal-loving travelers just arriving in Akita all stop in their tracks to smile, take photos, and enjoy the moment.
It’s a heartwarming experience—just the kind of welcome that makes the perfect prologue to any journey.

Please note: the dogs may not appear depending on their health or mood on the day.

Showcasing Akita Pride Across the Airport

The airport courtyard features an Akita dog statue, and a large stuffed Akita dog greets visitors in the arrival lobby—both popular spots for photos. The airport gift shop also sells a wide variety of Akita dog-themed souvenirs.

Designated a National Natural Monument, the Akita dog is the only large-sized breed among Japan’s native dog species. Odate-Noshiro Airport is a one-of-a-kind travel hub where you can fully experience the charm of these remarkable dogs.

One of the Few Airports in the World Where You Can Meet an Animal

Airports are often seen as impersonal spaces—just points of transit. But Odate-Noshiro Airport offers something different: a meeting with an Akita dog that adds a special story to your journey.

These dogs can gently ease your heart at just the right moment.
For animal lovers, this airport isn’t just a place you pass through—it’s a destination in itself.

So why not spend an unforgettable moment with a fluffy Akita under the skies of northern Akita?