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🕓 2025/2/14
＃観光地
Table of Contents
- The Mystical Blue Lake｜Lake Tazawa
- A Hidden Paradise of Hot Springs｜Nyuto Onsenkyo
- A Town Steeped in Samurai History｜Kakunodate Samurai District
Top 3 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Akita
— What is Akita Prefecture? —
Akita Prefecture is a captivating region located in the northwestern part of Japan’s main island, Honshu. Its abundant nature and unique history make it an attractive destination for international travelers.
Historically known as Dewa (出羽) in ancient times, Akita served as a key hub for trade and cultural exchange between Honshu and Hokkaido. The prefecture was also an important cultural center in the Tohoku region, flourishing under the influence of the Hiraizumi culture and shaped by the two powerful feudal domains: the Satake Clan and the Akita Clan.
Akita Prefecture is home to breathtaking landscapes, including Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Lake Tazawa, and the dramatic coastal views of the Oga Peninsula. Additionally, its rich food culture and traditional crafts provide visitors with an immersive cultural experience.
1. The Mystical Blue Lake｜Lake Tazawa
● The Charm of Lake Tazawa
Lake Tazawa, located in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, is Japan’s deepest lake, renowned for its mystical beauty and captivating scenery. The lake is nearly circular, spanning approximately 20 kilometers in circumference and reaching a maximum depth of 423.4 meters.
Its most striking feature is its vivid sapphire-blue surface, known for its remarkable clarity. This has earned it the nickname "Japan’s Baikal Lake", drawing comparisons to Russia’s famous Lake Baikal.
On the lake’s shore stands the golden Tatsuko Statue, a symbolic figure representing Princess Tatsuko, a legendary maiden said to have transformed into a dragon to become the guardian spirit of the lake. This statue adds a sense of mystique and historical depth to the lake’s charm.
Visitors can also enjoy boat cruises, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the water.
Additionally, Lake Tazawa is recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Moonlit Landscapes, with the reflection of the moon on its surface creating an enchanting spectacle. Its beauty evolves throughout the seasons, making it a must-visit destination any time of the year.
● The History of Lake Tazawa
Lake Tazawa is deeply rooted in the Legend of Princess Tatsuko, a beautiful folktale passed down through generations.
According to the legend, a young woman named Tatsuko lived in Innai Village. Desiring eternal beauty, she fervently prayed to the Kannon (Goddess of Mercy). Following divine guidance, she drank from a sacred spring in the northern mountains. However, this cursed water left her with an unquenchable thirst, and she eventually transformed into a dragon, becoming the guardian deity of Lake Tazawa.
Near the lake, Gozanoishi Shrine is dedicated to Princess Tatsuko, where visitors can find the sacred spring that played a pivotal role in the legend. Additionally, the golden Tatsuko Statue on the lake’s southern shore serves as an emblem of her story, allowing visitors to experience the mystical atmosphere of the legend firsthand.
● Access to Lake Tazawa
- Address: 〒014-1204 Tazawa, Tazawako, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture
- Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K2qkonhCDXbiWCdG8
- Public Transportation:
From JR Tazawako Station, take the Ugo Kotsu Bus (Tazawako Loop Line) and get off at Tazawako-han (Lake Tazawa Shore), approximately 15 minutes.
● The Charm of Nyuto Onsenkyo
Nyuto Onsenkyo is a secluded hot spring resort nestled at the foot of Mount Nyuto in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Akita Prefecture. It consists of seven unique ryokan (traditional inns), each with its own natural hot spring source, offering distinct water qualities, colors, and mineral compositions. This variety allows visitors to experience different types of onsen through a "hot spring pilgrimage" (Yumeguri).
Among the most historic baths, Tsurunoyu Onsen stands out as the oldest, dating back to the Edo period. It was once a retreat for feudal lords of the Akita Domain, and its iconic thatched-roof buildings exude a timeless atmosphere. Meanwhile, Nyono-yu Onsen blends traditional aesthetics with modern comforts, making it especially popular among female travelers.
Nyuto Onsenkyo’s charm lies in its harmonious blend of rich nature and historical ambiance. Surrounded by pristine beech forests, the area offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The winter season is particularly breathtaking, as visitors can soak in steaming open-air baths while admiring the magical sight of falling snow.
● The History of Nyuto Onsenkyo
Nyuto Onsenkyo has a history spanning over 350 years, dating back to the Edo period. Located within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, this hot spring area has been a healing retreat for centuries.
The oldest bathhouse, Tsurunoyu Onsen, is documented as early as 1688, making it the most historically significant in Nyuto Onsenkyo. It was also a favored destination for the feudal lords of the Akita Domain, who sought the onsen’s healing properties. Today, this rich history continues as the ryokan maintain their traditional architecture and therapeutic atmosphere, welcoming visitors from all over Japan and beyond.
● Access to Nyuto Onsenkyo
- 住Address: 〒014-1201 Semboku City, Tazawako, Komagatake, Akita Prefecture
- Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EQ5g26HKdtZT28Br8
- Public Transportation:
From JR Tazawako Station, take the Ugo Kotsu Bus (Nyuto Line) to Nyuto Onsenkyo, approximately 45 minutes.
3. A Town Steeped in Samurai History｜Kakunodate Samurai District
● The Charm of Kakunodate Samurai District
Kakunodate Samurai District, located in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, is a beautifully preserved historical area known as "Little Kyoto of Tohoku." This district retains the elegant atmosphere of a former castle town from the Edo period, and it is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Japan.
The wide streets are lined with black wooden fences and traditional samurai residences, many of which are open to the public. Among them, the Aoyagi House and the Ishiguro House allow visitors to experience authentic Edo-period architecture and learn about the lifestyle of samurai families.
Kakunodate’s beauty is enhanced by the changing seasons. In spring, weeping cherry blossoms along the Samurai District and Somei Yoshino cherry trees along the Hinokinai River create one of Japan’s most scenic cherry blossom viewing spots. The lush greenery of summer, vivid autumn foliage, and snow-covered streets in winter offer breathtaking sights throughout the year.
● The History of Kakunodate Samurai District
Kakunodate Samurai District dates back to 1620 (Genna 6), when Ashina Yoshikatsu, the ruler of the region, relocated the castle town to its current location.
Originally, the castle town was situated on the northern slope of Furushiroyama, but frequent floods and fires led Yoshikatsu to move it to the southern slope, which offered better defense and fire protection. The town was strategically designed, featuring wide streets for better visibility and safety measures against fire hazards.
Today, this well-planned historic district remains one of Japan’s most well-preserved samurai quarters, drawing visitors from around the world.
● Access to Kakunodate Samurai District
- Address: 〒014-0332 Kakunodate-machi, Higashishogakucho, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture
- Public Transportation:
JR Kakunodate Station → 20-minute walk to the samurai district. - Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YHqUsfN79jjVuR558
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