ABOUT EXHIBITION
AKIHO UNITED EUROPE SHIBUTEN 2026
Founded in 1927 in Odate, Japan, the Akita Inu Hozonkai (AKIHO) has spent nearly a century preserving and protecting the traditional Japanese Akita Inu.
The AKIHO United Europe Shibuten brings this unique tradition to the heart of Europe and offers exhibitors the opportunity to experience AKIHO judging exactly as it is practiced in Japan.
Unlike conventional dog shows, AKIHO evaluation focuses not only on structure and movement, but also on breed type, expression, dignity, temperament, harmony and overall quality. The objective is to assess each dog as a complete representative of the traditional Japanese Akita Inu.
The AKIHO United Europe Shibuten follows the traditional Japanese exhibition system without modification. Every dog receives an individual evaluation, a written critique and a final placement within its class.
The exhibition is open to all pedigree Akitas. Dogs holding only an FCI pedigree are welcome to participate after completing the official NINTEI certification, which will take place on Saturday, 17 October 2026.
More than a competition, the AKIHO United Europe Shibuten is a place for education, friendship and international cooperation, bringing together Akita enthusiasts from across Europe and Japan in a shared passion for the breed.
We look forward to welcoming you and your Akitas to Mladá Boleslav for a memorable weekend dedicated entirely to the Akita Inu.
The only official Hozonkai activities are:
- The official seminar conducted by the AKIHO judges; and
- The AKIHO United Europe Exhibition.
The following activities are separate from the official Hozonkai program and are not official Hozonkai activities. They are identified only as other activities taking place during the same two-day period. Their inclusion in a general schedule does not mean or imply that they are sponsored or presented by Hozonkai or that they form part of the official Hozonkai program:
FCI Specialty Show in cooperation with KCHMPP z.s.
Seminar presented by guest from Odate, Japan
Handling Workshop
Japanese culture corner featuring Matcha tasting, Kanji writing and more
Friendly Dinner and other accompanying activities
