The Headquarters Exhibition, organized by the Akita Dog Preservation Society, is held every year on May 3.

It is held with the aim of preserving the Akita dog—designated as a National Natural Monument—in its original form and promoting the breed.

Individual evaluations are held in the morning, followed by comprehensive evaluations in the afternoon, with judges conducting detailed assessments based on the “Akita Dog Standard,” which serves as the judging criteria.

The Akita Dog Preservation Society has branches all over the world, and each regional branch holds its own dog show; however, the Headquarters Show, held in Odate City—the “holy land” of the Akita dog—attracts the most attention, drawing more than 150 Akita dogs from around the globe.

Also, don’t miss the exciting events at the venue, food stalls serving Akita cuisine, and the chance to meet local favorites such as “Hachi-kun,” Odate City’s tourism mascot, and “Kouraizer,” Odate’s local superhero.

Please note that this is not a petting event.

We ask that you refrain from approaching Akita dogs that are being judged or resting at the show without permission, or from doing anything that might attract their attention.

[About the Shuttle Bus Service]

On May 3 only, the “Hachiko Retro Bus” shuttle service will operate between Akita Inu no Sato and the venue (Odate City Hall parking lot).

If you board the bus at Akita Inu no Sato, you’ll receive a raffle ticket to participate in the “Fun Raffle” for a chance to win fantastic prizes!

*Limited to the first 200 passengers; tickets are distributed only when boarding at Akita Inu no Sato.

Don’t forget—you can participate in the raffle at the event’s vendor area from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on May 3!

Shuttle Bus Operator: Sakura Kanko

Prize Sponsors: Sakura Kanko, Akita Hina-ya, JA Akita Kita, Hanazen, Hokushika, Akita Inu Tourism (in no particular order)