Namahage Museum

A really unique tradition that is interesting to learn about. The museum is stunning and does a thorough job. The architecture is enchanting. The surrounding nature and drive to get there are stunning as well. For only 400¥ more you can actually experience Namahage coming to your "house" yourself. Definitely recommend, and you can spend a gorgeous day exploring the unique Oga Peninsula too.

We went to Oga for the Namahage Sedo Festival and wanted to study up before the festival in the evening. Everything in the museum is very informative from history to present day. Seeing all the masks people have put effort in to making was astounding. Lots of English and English audio is readily available to learn more in depth. The demonstration outside in another building is worth the extra small cost and they gave us a tablet so we could follow along with the script. You get to meet and be scared by real Namahage! The souvenirs shop was well stocked with Namahage goods and local things. We bought a mask and afterwards had a chance to see someone making one inside the museum. They have refreshments and food which was very welcome. You can also dress up as a Namahage for fun and a photo. As for the festival it was staggeringly amazing and exciting! Do attend if you have the chance.

This place exceeded my expectations. I did not know about the 'Namahage' culture prior to coming to this museum, and was really impressed with the culture and how it kept the community together. They also had a demonstration of the culture using local dialect which was hard to understand, but it was a fun watch especially because one of the guests brought their kids. I would highly suggest getting the museum ticket as well as the ticket for the demonstration to truly experience the culture.

It was our first time in Japan, in Akita, in this museum, and we had such an amazing time learning about Namahage. Such a wonferful tradition! My husband watched the children being scared and he was laughing and vouched that he will invite Namahage to come scare our children if it was available in New York City. High recommend to visit here! The craftsman at the museum made handmade decorations that are just do detailed and awesome. It's great!

Such a great visit. Scared the kids, then they laughed. Shuttle worth it! Reserve shuttle in advance. ~1.5-2 hours ok.