While Aomori is famous for its apples, northern Akita Prefecture—which has a similar climate—is also a renowned apple-growing region.

In particular, apple orchards stretch across the Nakayama district of Odate City and the Fushikage district of Kitaakita City.

Apples grown in these areas, where the temperature difference between day and night is extreme, are characterized by their concentrated sweetness.

It is said that they become sweeter than other apples and develop a deeper skin color.

Up to 30 varieties of apples are grown in these areas, but “Akita Beniakari”—a variety developed in Akita and grown almost exclusively within the prefecture—offers an exquisite balance of intense sweetness and just the right amount of tartness.

It is one of the culinary delights you’ll want to savor in Akita.

While the apples themselves are available from fall through spring, you can enjoy 100% apple juice—freshly squeezed from just-picked apples—all year round.