Akita

Akita is a large prefecture at the Sea of Japan coast in the northern Tohoku Region. It is the birthplace of the world famous Akita breed of dog, is also home to many original dishes, and a perfect getaway for relaxation with its hot springs, a well-preserved samurai district and natural scenic beauty. Experience a slower pace of life in Akita where the vast and mostly untouched nature is waiting for you to discover it.

Kakunodate Samurai District

The Kakunodate samurai district, which once housed about 80 families, is one of the best examples of samurai architecture and housing in the country. Its wide streets and large courtyards are shaded by dozens of weeping cherry trees which bloom in early May.

Kakunodate Castle

Important regional fortification and a small castle town built around it in the late 1500s. The town was later moved to Kakunodate's current location in 1620, marking the founding date of Kakunodate Town, as well as the demolition of its castle due to a change in legislation by the shogunate.

Hinokinai river bank

In 1990, the riverbank was selected as one of the Sakura Meisho Hyakusen (100 great spots for cherry blossoms) , along with the Bukeyashiki-dori.

Lake Tazawa

Lake Tazawa is a caldera lake in the city of Semboku, Akita Prefecture. it is the deepest lake in Japan at 423 metres. It's a popular vacation area and several hot spring resorts can be found in the hills above the lake. Akita Prefecture's largest ski area, Tazawa Ski Area, overlooks the lake.

Dakigaeri Gorge

Dakigaeri Gorge is a popular place of natural beauty surrounded in summer by verdant greens and in autumn by colourful foliage in stunning contrast with the magical turquoise blue stream running through the river valley.

Nyudozaki Lighthouse

Nyudozaki is a scenic cape located at the northern tip of the Oga Peninsula offering a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan. The highlight is the view of the blazing sun setting over the sea as the sky and sea seamlessly merge on the horizon in shades of orange.

Namahage Museum

The masks and costumes on display represent the 60 former districts of Oga, showing the many different ways in which Namahage have been portrayed over the years.

Nyuto Onsen

The area is known for the hot spring baths found at its eight ryokan, some of which are quite traditional and rustic. With a history of over 300 years, Tsurunoyu is Nyuto Onsen's oldest and most famous inn.

Akita Dog Museum

The museum displays a range of artifacts and materials relating to the history of Akita dogs. It was built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Akita Dog Preservation Society and is the only musuem in the world dedicated to Japanese dogs.

Akitainu Hall

The Akita Inu Satellite Station is located at the west exit of Akita Station, where you can experience take a walk with Akita dog, twice a day on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays (11: 30-11: 50, 14: 15-14: 35).