All Reviews of Oga Peninsula

The peninsula has a perfect coastline.

The hotel serves the famous stone-grilled fish soup, and it was incredibly fresh and delicious. The chef was amazing—moving the glowing hot stones around, and in no time a fresh, flavorful fish soup was ready.

The Japanese pronunciation of Oga is (O-GA).

Oga Peninsula is in Akita Prefecture, Tohoku, jutting out into the Sea of Japan. It's not very easy to get to, so it still keeps its unique local customs.

I led a tour group to Tohoku and stayed at a hot spring hotel by Lake Tazawa in Akita. During dinner, someone suddenly appeared wearing a fierce mask, straw clothes, holding a knife and a wooden bucket, and scaring everyone with a deep, raspy voice.

That's when I learned about the Namahage legend in Tohoku. It was fascinating, and now I always share this fun story with my tour groups when we visit.

Actually, Namahage is kind of like Santa Claus, but the opposite. One rewards good kids, while the other warns and scolds lazy or naughty children—and even reminds adults to work hard and not slack off!

I'm looking forward to visiting Oga Peninsula again next time I'm in Akita, Tohoku...

The stone-cooked dish here is a local specialty of the Oga Peninsula. They toss piping hot stones into the pot to quickly bring it to a boil, so all the fresh flavors stay in the soup. Definitely worth trying!