Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ)

Odate Noshiro Airport (ONJ), also known as Akita Kita Airport, is a unique regional facility in Kitaakita, Akita Prefecture, notable for being one of only two airports in Japan that also functions as a "Michi-no-Eki" (Roadside Station). The compact, three-story terminal building features an interior design that makes extensive use of local Akita cedar wood, creating a warm and traditional atmosphere for both travelers and local visitors. The terminal layout is efficiently organized across three floors, with the first floor handling arrivals, check-in, and housing a tourist information center. The second floor is the main departures hub, featuring the "Port One" restaurant, which serves local Akita specialties such as Hinai Jidori and Inaniwa Udon, alongside an ANA FESTA kiosk for regional souvenirs. The third floor offers an observation deck for panoramic views of the runway and surrounding landscape. Ground transportation is well-synchronized with flight schedules, featuring limousine buses to Odate Station and Noshiro City, as well as a reservation-based shared taxi service. A unique cultural highlight of the airport is the Akita Inu greeting ceremony, where real Akita dogs welcome passengers on dates ending in eight. The airport grounds also include recreational facilities like tennis and basketball courts, making it a community hub beyond its role in aviation.