Semboku travel guide and discussion

#itinerarycheck Ready for an epic adventure in Northeast Japan? 🗾 Pack your bags—I've just pulled together the ultimate Tohoku itinerary after my second trip, and trust me, this one's got all the vibes! afriendlytriptome japantravel northeastjapan travelguide Here’s the speedy rundown: Day 1: Arrive from Shanghai, hit up Tokyo, then hop to Aomori for 3 dreamy nights. Day 2: Explore Hirosaki (cute town alert ⛩️) and chill in Aomori—don’t miss the apple treats and Nebuta Museum! 🍏 Day 3: Day-trip to Morioka from Aomori for the famous wanko soba challenge 🤯 and snap the retro city views. Day 4: Off to Akita! Try Akita’s iconic kiritanpo hot pot—sooo good! 🌾 Day 5: Check out Kakunodate’s samurai old town and cruise by Lake Tazawa (the bluest lake ever). Both are must-sees! Day 6: Road trip to Sendai (hello big-city buzz), then settle in for two nights. Sendai’s got killer gyutan (beef tongue) and cool shopping streets. Day 7: Explore Matsushima Bay’s dreamy islands with boat rides and fresh oysters—totally Insta-worthy! 🦪 Day 8: Time to say bye to Sendai, head back to Tokyo, then jet home to Shanghai. Pro tips: · Aomori Nebuta Museum (1-1-1 Yasukata, Aomori) is open daily, 9am-7pm—drop by for those legendary parade floats! · Hirosaki Castle (1 Shimoshiroganecho, Hirosaki): Best cherry blossoms in spring, open 9am-5pm. · Lake Tazawa (Senboku): Crystal clear water, perfect for a photo sesh! · Kakunodate Town (Kakunodate, Senboku): Samurai houses mostly open 9am–5pm. · Sendai and Matsushima: Easy to explore with a day pass or JR Tohoku Line. Ready to crush your Tohoku goals? Drop your questions or travel tips below, and check trip.com for hotel deals, JR passes, and local experiences to make it all super smooth! Safe travels fam—Tohoku’s waiting for you! 🇯🇵✨ afriendlytriptome #japantravel #northeastjapan #travelguide

#easytravelpost Nyuto Onsen-gō is a cluster of seven secluded ryokan on the eastern flank of Mt. Nyuto (1,476 m), 50 min by Akita Kotsu bus from JR Tazawako Station (800 JPY one-way, 6–7 services/day, last down-bus ~17:10). I slept at Tsurunoyu once (from 19,000 JPY/person 2-meals-in, book 3 months ahead for winter), and the magic isn't the baths — it's the 400 m lane between Kuroyu and Tsurunoyu at 06:40 in November: beech-and-fir forest where moss laps the flagstones 3 cm thick, steam from the open-air baths drifting through the cold air, 3°C, a Japanese serow track crossing the lane. The "Yumeguri-gō" circulating van (1,500 JPY day-pass, overnight guests only) links all seven inns; day-bathers pay per-ryokan (Tsurunoyu 800 JPY, Magoroku 600 JPY, cash only — many inns don't take cards at the bath desk). I did Tsurunoyu → Kuroyu → Ganiba in one morning, the moss on Ganiba's wooden bath-house base silver with frost, then a 600 JPY soba at the Kuroyu parking stand. Mistake: I arrived by rental car in a January thaw — the last 2 km of prefectural road 214 ices over by 16:00, and the parking lot gates lock; bus in, or park at Tazawako and stay the night. Another: Tsurunoyu's mixed outdoor bath has no partition — bring a modesty towel, not a swimsuit. Would you pay 19k JPY for a Tsurunoyu overnight just to walk the 06:40 mossy lane between Kuroyu and Tsurunoyu, or day-trip the Yumeguri van and skip the splurge?

✨ Follow the Colors Across Japan Japan’s autumn foliage begins in the cool mountains of Hokkaido and gradually moves south to Kyushu, offering nearly three months of spectacular scenery. Since peak colors vary by region, checking the latest foliage forecast is the best way to plan your trip. · 🍁 Peak colors usually last 7–14 days. · 📅 Book accommodation early for late November. · 📸 Visit popular spots early in the morning for the best views and fewer crowds. Best overall travel period: Late October – Early December 2026. 🍁 Hokkaido Mid Sep – Late Oct · Daisetsuzan · Sounkyo Gorge · Jozankei · Sapporo (Early Nov) 🍂 Tohoku Early Oct – Mid Nov · Oirase Gorge · Lake Towada · Yamadera · Kakunodate 🍁 Nikko Early Oct – Mid Nov · Yumoto · Lake Chuzenji · Irohazaka · Toshogu Shrine 🏔 Japanese Alps Mid Oct – Mid Nov · Kamikochi · Tateyama Kurobe · Shirakawa-go 🗻 Mt. Fuji & Kawaguchiko Early – Late Nov · Momiji Corridor · Lake Kawaguchiko · Chureito Pagoda 🌆 Tokyo Mid Nov – Early Dec · Rikugien Garden · Mt. Takao · Meiji Jingu Gaien ⛩ Kyoto • Nara • Osaka Nov 20 – Early Dec · Eikando · Tofuku-ji · Arashiyama · Kiyomizu-dera ⛩ Hiroshima Mid – Late Nov · Miyajima · Momijidani Park 🌋 Kyushu Late Nov – Mid Dec · Mt. Aso · Beppu · Fukuoka

#slowtraveling Kakunodate is the one Tohoku stop where arriving early actually changes the photo. From Akita Station the Komachi Shinkansen takes 45 min (¥5,000–6,000); from Morioka 50 min. I boarded the 08:10 from Akita, reached Kakunodate at 08:55, and was on Bukeyashiki-dori by 09:10 — 20 minutes on foot north from the station, flat, no taxi needed (¥800 if you’re lazy). The mist sits in the lane until about 09:30 in October. Black wooden fences, weeping cherry trunks (bare now, but the posture is the same), and no tour bus. The Ishiguro House opens at 09:00 (¥400, cash), and if you’re the first in you get the tatami rooms with east light hitting the sword rack. Aoyagi House (¥500) is bigger but more curated; skip it if you only have 90 minutes. The side lane behind Omotemachi-dori has zero signs and three cats — that’s the frame you want. Rent a bike at the station kiosk (¥500/day) and ride the 2 km to the Hinokinai River embankment. Off-season it’s a gravel path with zelkova leaves in the water. In late April this same stretch is 400 weeping cherries and 10,000 people; in October it’s yours. Lunch at Nishinomiyake (samurai residence turned restaurant) is ¥1,200 for okaribayaki chicken, cash or PayPay. Mistake: everybody trains in for the 09:30 bus group. Beat it by 40 minutes and the street belongs to you and the fence carpenter. Carry ¥3,000 coins — the cherry-bark craft shops (kabazaiku) open at 09:30 and a small tea caddy starts at �araound ¥3,000. Would you trade the pink bloom for black wood and river mist? I’d take the mist — it’s the town without its costume.

If you've already explored Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, or simply want to see a different side of Japan—save this list. Japan is more than just the crowded streets of Shibuya and thousands of tourists at Fushimi Inari Shrine. The country still holds incredible spots where you can experience the authentic Japanese atmosphere without the crowds. Here are 10 places you should definitely add to your itinerary. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 1. Ainokura Village 📍 Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture 📍 Address: Ainokura, Nanto, Toyama Prefecture A small, traditional village with gassho-zukuri style houses surrounded by mountains. It's much quieter here than in the famous Shirakawa-go. Best time to visit: winter and autumn. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 2. Kiyotsu Gorge 📍 Niigata Prefecture 📍 Address: 2119-2 Koide, Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture One of Japan's most beautiful gorges, featuring a unique tunnel and a mirrored observation deck. The perfect spot for incredible photos. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 3. Noto Peninsula 📍 Ishikawa Prefecture 📍 Address: Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa Prefecture A scenic coastline, fishing villages, seaside rice terraces, and authentic rural Japan. It's best to rent a car and spend at least 2–3 days exploring the area. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 4. Sado Island 📍 Niigata Prefecture 📍 Address: Sado City, Niigata Prefecture An island where you can see traditional wooden tarai-bune tub boats, old gold mines, and stunning seascapes. You can get there by ferry from Niigata City. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 5. Takachiho Gorge 📍 Miyazaki Prefecture 📍 Address: Mukoyama, Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture One of Japan's most spectacular natural wonders. Here, you can rent a boat and row right past waterfalls nestled among towering basalt cliffs. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 6. Kakunodate Samurai District 📍 Semboku City, Akita Prefecture 📍 Address: Kakunodate-machi, Semboku, Akita Prefecture An authentic samurai town with beautifully preserved historic manors. It's especially breathtaking in spring during the cherry blossom season. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 7. Yamadera Temple Complex 📍 Yamagata Prefecture 📍 Address: 4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata City To reach the temple, you'll need to climb around 1,000 stone steps. Your reward will be a stunning view of the mountains and valleys below. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 8. Iya Valley 📍 Tokushima Prefecture, Shikoku Island 📍 Address: Miyoshi, Tokushima Prefecture One of the most remote and picturesque regions in Japan. Its main attractions are the ancient vine suspension bridges and secluded mountain villages. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 9. Shiretoko National Park 📍 Hokkaido Island 📍 Address: Shari, Hokkaido A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can spot brown bears, waterfalls, lakes, and untouched wilderness with almost no signs of civilization. Best time to visit: June–September. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 10. Onomichi City 📍 Hiroshima Prefecture 📍 Address: Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture An atmospheric port city with narrow winding streets, hilltop temples, and sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea. This is exactly where the famous Shimanami Kaido cycling route begins. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ✨ If you want to experience Japan without the tourist crowds, venture beyond the typical Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka route.

#easytravelpost Lake Tazawa, Japan’s deepest lake, is surrounded by a cliff mossy birch forest that’s best explored by the 4-kilometer “Tazawa Kohan Trail.” I took the Akita Shinkansen to Tazawako Station (2.5 hours from Tokyo, 11,000 JPY one-way, JR Pass accepted), then a local bus to the lake’s northern shore (15 min, 300 JPY, cash). The trail starts near the Tazawa Jinjashrine and climbs a moss-covered cliff to a viewpoint overlooking the lake’s cobalt blue water. The birch trees are covered in Betulamoss, which glows silver in the sunlight. The cliff face is stained blue by minerals from the lake, and the moss grows in thick patches that smell like damp earth. I visited in early July, when the hydrangeaswere blooming, and the moss was a deep green. Mistake: I forgot to bring insect repellent; the mosquitoes were relentless in the mossy sections. The trail is free, but the shrine asks for a 200 JPY donation. Bring 1.5 liters of water; there are no sources on the trail. The bus runs every hour, so check the schedule at the station. Cash is preferred, but some shops take IC cards. Kindness moment: A shrine maiden saw me swatting mosquitoes and gave me a small packet of yomogi(mugwort) leaves to rub on my skin. “The forest has its own medicine,” she said. Should a lake’s beauty be enhanced by a mossy forest, or does the forest distract from the water’s clarity?

Day 1: 5/08 (Fri) | Sen. 🚗 2026 Tohoku, Japan Road Trip: The Complete 8-Day, 7-Night Itinerary Guide 📅 Day 1: 5/08 (Fri) | Depart from Sendai, Head to Hiraizumi · 12:00 Pick up the rental car at Sendai Airport and officially hit the road. · 14:30 Hiraizumi & Chuson-ji Temple: Drive directly to the parking lot next to "Konjikido" (Golden Hall). · 16:30 Genbikei Gorge: Take in the stunning valley scenery. · 🏨 Accommodation: Bijin no Yu Sannozan Onsen Zuisenkyo (65-2 Kudarimatsu, Genbicho, Ichinoseki, Iwate 021-0101) 📅 Day 2: 5/09 (Sat) | Geibikei Gorge & Ryusendo Cave · 10:00 Geibikei Gorge Boat Ride (approx. 90 mins): A relaxing, elder-friendly boat ride while listening to traditional folk songs. · 15:00 Ryusendo Cave: Explore one of Japan's three major limestone caves and marvel at its mysterious blue-lit underground lakes. · 🏨 Accommodation: Jodogahama Park Hotel (Miyako, Iwate 027-0001) 📅 Day 3: 5/10 (Sun) | Morioka Castle Ruins & Famous Cold Noodles · 11:30 Morioka Castle Ruins Park: Admire the historic stone walls surrounded by fresh greenery. · 12:30 Lunch: Try the local specialty, "Morioka Reimen" (cold noodles). · 17:00 Arrive at the hotel in the Hakkoda Mountains. · 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Jogakura — Night 1 (Aomori City, Aomori 030-0111) 📅 Day 4: 5/11 (Mon) | Oirase Gorge & Lake Towada · 10:00 Oirase Gorge: Drive along the scenic mountain stream, stopping at the picturesque "Choshi Ohtaki" waterfall for photos. · 12:30 Lake Towada: Hop on a sightseeing boat to enjoy the breathtaking views of this magnificent crater lake. · 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Jogakura — Night 2 📅 Day 5: 5/12 (Tue) | Hirosaki Apple Blossoms & Seeing a Friend Off · 10:00 Hirosaki Apple Park: Witness thousands of white apple blossoms in full bloom with a panoramic view of Mount Iwaki in the background. · 15:30 Drop off a friend at "Shin-Aomori Station": Your friend will catch the Shinkansen to depart. · 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Jogakura — Night 3 📅 Day 6: 5/13 (Wed) | Lake Tazawa Sightseeing & Nostalgic Schoolhouse · 13:00 Lake Tazawa Tour: Snap photos at the golden "Statue of Tatsuko" and the iconic torii gate of "Goza no Ishi Shrine". · 15:00 Omoide no Kata Branch School: Step back in time as you explore this nostalgic wooden schoolhouse. · 🏨 Accommodation: Tazawako Kogen Onsen Resort Lodge Alice (2-32 Komagatake, Obonai, Tazawako, Semboku, Akita 014-1201) 📅 Day 7: 5/14 (Thu) | Kakunodate Samurai District & Final Shopping in Sendai · 09:30 Kakunodate Bukeyashiki (Samurai District): Stroll down the black-fenced streets of "Little Kyoto" and visit the historic samurai manors. · 12:00 Lunch, then prepare to depart from Akita. · 13:30 Drive back to Sendai: A smooth 2.5-hour drive via the expressway. · 16:00 Arrive in Sendai & Hotel Check-in: A hotel near Sendai Station (West Exit) is highly recommended. · 16:30 Elder-Friendly Shopping Time: · Drop the elders off at S-PAL Sendai (connected to the station) or the Sendai Ichibancho Shopping Arcade. · Once they're comfortably settled at a department store or large drugstore, you can drive solo to return the rental car. · 18:00 Dinner Meetup: After returning the car, head back to the shopping arcade to meet the elders for a final feast of Sendai's famous grilled beef tongue. · 🏨 Accommodation: (Suggested: Hotel Metropolitan Sendai or another hotel near the station) 📅 Day 8: 5/15 (Fri) | Final Sprint in Sendai City — Airport · 09:00 Last-Minute Shopping: · Do a final sweep for souvenirs and goodies at the department stores or local specialty shops inside the station. · 11:15 Take Public Transit: · Catch the [Sendai Airport Access Line] from "JR Sendai Station". · The ride takes just 17-25 minutes and drops you off right at the airport terminal, making it the most hassle-free option for the elders. · 12:00 Arrive at Sendai Airport: Check in for your flight, complete any final tax refunds, and do some last-minute duty-free shopping. · 14:30 Flight Departure: Fly safely back home, taking wonderful memories with you.

If you're tired of the massive crowds in the downtown commercial plazas, Gold Coast Craft Beer on Bailong Road in the North City District will be a breath of fresh air. Tucked away in an alley in the Expo Area, this industrial-style bar features concrete walls, exposed metal pipes, and dim, ambient lighting. Behind the bar, over a dozen craft beer taps are lined up. With a large screen mounted on both side walls and a smaller TV positioned right above the bar, you won't miss a single second of the action from any angle. For my match-viewing night, I called two days in advance to book a spot on the right side of the bar (the owner mentioned that for the knockout stages, you should book at least three days ahead). I ordered a pint of "Yunnan Plateau Wheat" — crisp with a hint of citrus — and paired it with some "fried potato balls" and a "smoked sausage platter". The crowd was intimate, about twenty people, mostly local office workers and expat teachers from the North City District. During the quiet moments, you could only hear the clinking of ice, but whenever a goal was scored, the room erupted into cheers in perfect unison. The beauty of having multiple screens is that they display the main broadcast alongside tactical replays, making it ideal for hardcore fans who want to seriously analyze the game. This is hands down the best spot in the North City District for focused football viewing, but a word to the wise: you must book in advance, or you'll be left standing with your drink. Practical Guide: Gold Coast is located in the Expo Area on Bailong Road, about a 20-minute bus ride from the city center. The venue has around 25 seats. For knockout matches, phone reservations are a must 2-3 days in advance; they don't accept same-day bookings. A wheat craft beer is about 45 RMB, and the sausage platter is around 60 RMB. They only accept credit cards or mobile payments.

Japan's Tohoku Hidden Gem: Limited Cherry Blossoms from April to May! Highly recommended off-the-beaten-path sakura viewing in Kitakami, Iwate~ 🌸 Why You Must Visit in April-May · Golden Blooming Season: Full bloom hits around 4/15-5/5, about two weeks later than Kansai. Perfect for dodging the Golden Week crowds and enjoying a stress-free, slow-paced trip. · Zero Tourist Crowds: Deep in the hidden regions of Tohoku (Michinoku), the number of tourists is literally less than 1/15th of Kyoto's. Every casual snap is an Instagram masterpiece—so chill. · Four Seasons in One Glance: Fresh green leaves paired with cherry blossoms, snow-capped mountains, vibrant canola flowers, and flying carp streamers. This incredibly dreamy, Tohoku-exclusive scenery is unmissable! · Century-Old Onsen Inns: Step back into Edo-period post towns with century-old hidden hot springs. Pair that with authentic local cuisine for the ultimate Japanese slow-living experience. · Ultimate Bang for Your Buck: Accommodations and food are half the price of Tokyo. You can comfortably enjoy a luxurious 5-day trip without breaking the bank, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers. 📅 5-Day Dreamy Slow-Living Itinerary (All about the aesthetics, no rushing) Day 1: Kitakami Tenshochi · The Grand Sakura Tunnel Location: Tachibana, Kitakami City, Iwate Prefecture · A 2-kilometer sakura path featuring 10,000 cherry trees over 80 years old creating a sea of pink and white! Walking under the falling petals feels like a true utopia. · Take a boat ride down the Kitakami River. With cherry blossom branches hanging over the banks and petals floating down, it's basically a fairy tale. · 100,000 azaleas blooming simultaneously in a massive patchwork of pink, purple, red, and yellow. Just imagining it brings joy. · Nighttime illuminations create stunning, tranquil reflections on the river. Day 2: Michinoku Folklore Village · Edo-Era Architecture × Carp Streamers Location: 14-59 Tachibana, Kitakami City, Iwate Prefecture · Stroll in a kimono among 29 perfectly preserved Edo-period buildings surrounded by spring blossoms—an absolute must for photos. · From 4/20 to 5/5, 300 colorful carp streamers flutter alongside the cherry blossoms. A total aesthetic paradise. · Traditional folk house experiences: Try making handmade soba noodles, weaving straw, and you must try the "Kitakami Mochi." · At dusk, the sunset + sakura + carp streamers + ancient wooden houses feel straight out of a movie set! Day 3: Shizukuishi · Snow-Capped Mountains, Lake Sakura & Onsen Towns Location: Shizukuishi Town, Iwate District, Iwate Prefecture · Along the shores of Lake Shizukuishi, get lost in a sea of cherry blossoms while gazing at mountains still dusted with snow. Absolutely breathtaking. · An 8-kilometer cycling route around the lake lets you see sakura, canola flowers, and snowy mountains all at once. Perfect for photography lovers. · Soak in the open-air baths at Shizukuishi Onsen while admiring the cherry blossoms—one of life's greatest pleasures! · For dinner, indulge in an Iwate beef hotpot, an ikura (salmon roe) bowl, and local sake. Sooo blissful. Day 4: Koiwai Farm · The Lone Cherry Tree × Spring Landscapes Location: 36-1 Maruyachi, Shizukuishi Town, Iwate District, Iwate Prefecture · The "Ipponzakura" (Lone Cherry Tree) at the foothills of Mt. Iwate offers a 360° photogenic view. Pair it with a sunrise silhouette for top-tier photos. · Walk around the farm among grassy plains, cherry trees, wooden cabins, and dairy cows. Springtime healing at its max. · Must-try fresh dairy desserts: Farm-fresh milk, soft serve, and pudding. The rich, sweet seasonal flavors are incredible. · The sunset glow painting the grasslands red is stunningly beautiful~ Day 5: Morioka Castle Ruins · Historic Castle Sakura × Cold Noodle Cuisine Location: 1-37 Uchimaru, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture · Morioka Castle Ruins pairs ancient stone walls with pastel pink blossoms. Less crowded and super chill. · Ishiwarizakura (The Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree): A 360-year-old cherry tree growing straight out of a boulder. A breathtaking National Natural Monument. · Have the "Three Great Noodles of Morioka" (Cold Noodles, Wanko Soba, and Jajamyeon) for lunch—you'll fall in love at first bite. · Before heading back, stock up on souvenirs: Sakura rice crackers, Iwate honey, and local sake are perfect choices! 🍴 Must-Try Food Recommendations · Morioka Cold Noodles: Chewy, bouncy noodles + chili oil + kimchi. Refreshing and packed with flavor. · Wanko Soba: Bite-sized bowls served one after another. You won't be satisfied until you've crushed at least 10 bowls. · Iwate Beef Hotpot: A5-grade Wagyu! A spring-exclusive treat featuring tender, juicy meat that guarantees a burst of happiness. · Kitakami Mochi: Red bean paste wrapped in mochi with the aroma of sakura leaves. A perfect 10/10 texture. · Local Sake/Rice Wine: Iwate Junmai Daiginjo pairs immaculately with sakura-themed cuisine. ✅ Tips for April-May Departures · The sakura peak is best around 4/15-5/5. Expect layers of cherry blossoms as Somei Yoshino, weeping cherry trees, and double-flowered cherry trees bloom one after another. · Outfit advice: Pack a light jacket and long sleeves. It drops to around 10°C in the mornings and evenings, while daytime temps are a comfortable 20°C. · Transportation: Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Morioka, then transfer to the JR Kitakami Line. Buses or renting a car are also super convenient options. · Best time for photos: Before 8 AM and after 4 PM. The lighting is softest, and the crowds are thinnest. Kimonos on sakura-lined streets look phenomenal. · Accommodation recommendations: Onsen inns in Kitakami or business hotels in Morioka. The value for money in April is unbeatable. Hurry up and bookmark this off-the-beaten-path Tohoku sakura route to dodge the crowds and enjoy a chill, slow-paced vacation~ Japan's purest, most beautiful hidden cherry blossom spots are waiting for you to discover!

Hot spring enthusiasts will definitely love this hidden gem where you can quietly enjoy the waters. Aoni Sanso in Mizusawa Onsen Village is an inn that brings peace to your heart. 100% natural, free-flowing, cloudy hot spring water is rich in "yunohana" (mineral deposits). It's an authentic acidic sulfur spring, known to be great for relieving cold sensitivity and recovering from fatigue ♨️. They also offer private baths, allowing you to relax with your loved ones. The guest rooms and indoor baths were renovated in 2020, providing a spotless and comfortable space 😌. ￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣ [Rooms] Renovated in 2020 to create a clean and tranquil space! Designed to let you feel the warmth of wood, it's perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway. The inn is well-maintained and beautifully kept overall 🫶. [Hot Springs] 100% natural, free-flowing from the source ♨️ An authentic sulfur spring characterized by its cloudy water and abundant floating mineral deposits. Private baths are available for guests to use free of charge. In addition to the large communal bath, you can also use the hot springs at their sister inn, giving you the fun experience of hot spring hopping ☺️. [Facilities] A peaceful hot spring inn surrounded by a beech forest. With only about 10 guest rooms, you can fully relax in a calm atmosphere. The best part is enjoying the "time of doing nothing" surrounded by nature ❤️. [Dinner] Dinner mainly features Japanese cuisine made with Akita's local ingredients. You can enjoy simple, heartwarming dishes that incorporate seasonal regional produce 🥰. [Breakfast] Breakfast is a traditional Japanese set meal. With mild, healthy seasoning, it's a comforting morning meal typical of a hot spring ryokan 🫶. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ❤️ Recommended Points ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ・ Enjoy the cloudy hot spring water in a private bath ♨️ ・ 100% free-flowing, authentic sulfur spring ・ Newly renovated, spotlessly clean guest rooms ・ A quiet environment where you can truly focus on the hot springs ・ A "water-focused" inn highly rated by hot spring lovers ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⚠️ Points to Note ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ・ Nestled in the mountains, so there are very few shops nearby ・ More of a "quiet retreat" rather than a luxurious resort Spot Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📍 Aoni Sanso, Mizusawa Onsen Village 🗺 Address: 73-14 Shimotakano, Obonai, Tazawako, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture 🚗 Access: Approx. 30-min bus ride from JR Tazawako Station; get off at "Mizusawa Onsen-kyo" and walk for approx. 3 mins / Approx. 60-min drive from Morioka IC

While driving around Lake Tazawa, you'll suddenly come across a stunning vermilion torii gate and a serene shrine.
Gozaishi Shrine has a breathtaking beauty that will instinctively make you want to pull your car over 😌 
Steeped in history, legend has it that around 600 years ago during the Muromachi period, an ascetic monk devoted to Kumano Gongen used this spot as a training ground. Later, during the Keian era, Lord Satake Yoshitaka of the Akita Domain toured the lake and sat on a rock by the shore to rest—which is actually how the shrine got its name ("Gozaishi" meaning "honorable sitting stone") 🏛️ 
The shrine offers a ton of blessings, including beauty, eternal youth, good luck, warding off evil, and victory!
It’s especially famous among women as a "power spot" for beauty. The "Tatsuko Princess Charm" and "Beauty Achievement Charm" are absolute favorites for those seeking everlasting youth, flawless beauty, and good matchmaking 🧧 
The true highlight of this shrine has to be the vermilion torii gate standing right on the water 📸
The striking red gate reflecting on the cobalt blue lake is so gorgeous you won't be able to stop snapping photos!
It's especially photogenic on sunny mornings when the light hits the water perfectly 🌅 
The goshuin (shrine seal) was beautifully handwritten right into my book 💓 
It’s only a quick 3-minute drive from the famous Tatsuko Statue, so definitely pair them up on your Lake Tazawa road trip 🫶 
Spot Info━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
📍 Gozaishi Shrine (Lake Tazawa shores • Shrine of Beauty)
🗺 Address: 1 Ainokata, Hinokinai, Nishikicho, Semboku, Akita 014-0602
🚗 Access: [Bus] Take the Ugo Kotsu Bus "Lake Tazawa Circuit Line (Clockwise)" from JR Tazawako Station → Get off at "Gozanoishi Jinja-mae" stop • 1-minute walk (Approx. 25-40 mins total)
[Car] Approx. 80 mins via Route 46 from Morioka IC (Tohoku Expressway) / Approx. 60 mins via Kakunodate Bypass from Kyowa IC (Akita Expressway) / Parking for 2-3 cars directly in front of the shrine, plus a free parking lot about 50m ahead
⏰ Hours: Open for worship anytime (24/7, year-round)
*Note: Winter office hours may vary, so be sure to check ahead.
💳 Payment: Cash only (for amulets, fortunes, etc.)
💵 Budget: Free to visit 
 


Did you know about Lake Tazawa's spring look that can only be seen during this time of year? 😌❤️ Boasting a depth of 423.4 meters, Lake Tazawa is the deepest lake in Japan! 🌊 The crystal-clear, cobalt blue surface of the lake is gorgeous no matter what season you visit, but its beauty is on a whole other level in spring. 🥺 The magic of Lake Tazawa in spring is the breathtaking view created by the perfect trio: cherry blossoms, the lakeshore, and Mt. Komagatake. ✨ Because the water is so incredibly clear, the contrast of the pink cherry blossoms reflecting on the blue water is absolutely picture-perfect from every single angle. 📸 ⚠️ Weekends during the cherry blossom season (late April to early May) get pretty crowded, so an early morning visit is highly recommended. Spot Info ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📍 Lake Tazawa 🗺 Address: Lake Tazawa (Entire Lakeshore Area), Semboku City, Akita 014-1204 🚗 Access: [Train] From JR Akita Shinkansen "Tazawako Station," take the Ugo Kotsu Bus "Tazawako Loop Line" → approx. 30 mins to "Katajiri (Tatsuko Statue)" bus stop / approx. 15 mins to "Tazawakohan (Sightseeing Boat Pier)" bus stop. [Car] Approx. 60 mins from Tohoku Expressway "Morioka IC" via Route 46 / Approx. 70 mins from Akita Expressway "Kyowa IC" / Free, conditionally free, and paid parking lots available around the lake. ⏰ Hours: Free to explore the lakeshore (24 hours) 💵 Budget: Lakeshore stroll & viewing the Tatsuko Statue are free!

Not Kyoto, not Osaka. It's the cherry blossom river at Hirosaki Castle, the weeping cherry blossom tunnel in Kakunodate, and the spring cherry blossoms and fireworks at Lake Toya. 7 days and 6 nights, full sea, land, and air experience 🚄✈️🚗 ✔️ Ride the Shinkansen first-class seat, traveling from Tokyo to Hokkaido ✔️ Stay at the Emperor’s favored Kashoen, soak in a century-old hot spring village ✔️ Stay at Lake Toya Tsuruga, enjoy a private hot spring with views of Mount Yotei ✔️ Enjoy a premium Wagyu beef dinner + traditional kaiseki meal Limited to April-May, only this season. Exclusive private business car + VIP Chinese-speaking guide, designed for the top 0.1% of travelers. 📅 Cherry blossoms wait for no one, seats are limited

Hanashin-tei Shirahama is a serene Japanese-style inn located by the shores of Lake Tazawa. It's the perfect retreat for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.♨️ The rooms are spacious, clean, and offer a tranquil environment for relaxation. Opting for a room with a view of Lake Tazawa allows you to enjoy breathtaking scenery right from the morning.✨ Dinner features a kaiseki meal made with local ingredients, with the highlight being Akita's specialty, Kiritanpo hot pot! Each dish is meticulously prepared, and the option to enjoy your meal in your room adds to the comfort and satisfaction.🥰 The hot spring facilities include a large communal bath, open-air baths, and private baths, providing a space to relax without any worries.♨️ The staff's hospitality was attentive and professional, leaving an overall impression of high-quality service. While not extravagant, this inn is ideal for adults seeking a quiet and soothing getaway.

♨️ Hidden Onsen in the Snowy Mountains of Akita, Japan If you’re looking for a truly quiet onsen experience, there’s a place highly favored by the Japanese. 📍 Natsuse Onsen – Miyako Wasurenoyu 夏瀬温泉 都忘れ This small onsen is tucked away in the mountains of Akita Prefecture. It has only about 9 rooms, and each room comes with a private onsen. It’s often referred to as the “little sister of Nyuto Onsen” because it’s located nearby but is less known, making it much quieter. The price for a one-night stay, including breakfast and dinner, is approximately 30,000 yen per night. Reservations are required in advance. ❄️ During winter, the mountain roads can be quite dangerous. Day trips are rarely available, but if you call ahead, the hotel may occasionally allow visitors to use the onsen. How to get there: From Kakunodate Station, wait for the hotel shuttle. The shuttle departs at around 11:30 AM and takes approximately 40 minutes to reach the hotel. At around 1:45 PM, the shuttle will take you back to the station. This service is free. Day Trip Onsen Prices: ♨️ Public Onsen: Approximately 1,500 yen ♨️ Private Onsen: Approximately 3,300 yen for 2 people This onsen gives you the feeling of escaping the world and retreating to a cozy cabin in the snowy mountains.

Akita Prefecture, located in the Tohoku region of Japan, is a destination renowned for its abundant natural beauty, samurai culture, and unique local festivals. Highlight Attractions Kakunodate Samurai Village: Known as the "Little Kyoto of Tohoku," this village features streets lined with historic samurai residences, especially stunning during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage. Lake Tazawa: The deepest lake in Japan, famous for the golden Statue of Tatsuko by the water's edge. Nyuto Onsen: A famous hot spring village nestled in the mountains, offering unique milky-white hot spring baths and a nostalgic atmosphere. Akita Dog Visitor Center: Located in Odate City, this center allows visitors to meet real Akita dogs and learn about their history. Oga Peninsula: The birthplace of the Namahage legend, featuring a museum showcasing traditional masks and dances. Best Times to Visit and Festivals Winter (Jan - Feb): Perfect for viewing "snow monsters" at Ani Ski Resort and experiencing the Kamakura Festival in Yokote City. Spring (Late Apr - Early May): Enjoy cherry blossoms along the Hinokinai River in Kakunodate. Summer (Aug): Witness the Akita Kanto Festival, featuring bamboo poles adorned with numerous lanterns. Autumn (Oct - Nov): Admire the autumn foliage at Dakigaeri Gorge, with its waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. Travel Tips and Useful Information From Tokyo: Take the Akita Shinkansen to Akita Station, approximately a 4-hour journey. Within the prefecture: Ride the romantic Akita Nairiku Line to enjoy scenic countryside views. Local Cuisine: Don't miss Kiritanpo, grilled rice skewers, and Inaniwa Udon, known for its thin and soft noodles.

Having visited Japan so many times, Sendai left a deep impression on me. I booked round-trip tickets to Sendai and some accommodations through Trip as usual. I must say, aside from the well-known Zao and Ginzan Onsen, what truly left me in awe was the scenery of Jōdo-no-hama in Miyako. It was absolutely stunning! For a moment, I thought I had entered a paradise! Additionally, Fox Village, Matsushima, Ōtani Coast, Lake Tazawa... all were breathtaking. Japan is indeed a perfect destination for self-driving trips.

verno e il Lago della Principessa Drago 🐉 【Legend of the Dragon Princess and the Mysterious Lake】 Here lies Japan's deepest lake - Lake Tazawa💦, guarded by a dragon that was once a young girl. Legend has it that the beautiful maiden Tatsuko-hime prayed to the gods for eternal beauty but was transformed into the dragon protecting the lake🐉. To this day, the Gozanoishi Shrine by the lake still honors this Dragon Princess (📍Address: Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, Lake Tazawa). 【Secret Shrine Pilgrimage】 🌟Gozanoishi Shrine: The bright red torii gate stands on the snow-covered lakeshore, sacred and dreamlike❄️ 🌟Kansagu Ukiki Shrine: Another shrine on the opposite lakeside, adjacent to the Dragon Princess Memorial. Its origin is even more magical – it was built to worship a huge floating log that appeared on the lake surface! (📍Address: Semboku City, Akita Prefecture) 【Winter Travel Tips】 ✅Best time to visit: December to February for the most beautiful snowy scenery ✅Transportation: About 15 minutes by bus from Tazawa Lake Station ✅Recommended photo spots: Gozanoishi Shrine + snowy scenery together is stunning📸 ❄️ The red and white shrine contrasts sharply with the pure white snow, truly super dreamy! Remember to dress warmly~

This time, we came here during the perfect season for viewing autumn leaves. Since hotels in Nyuto Onsen are difficult to book and quite expensive, we looked down at Mizusawa Onsen. It's also a hot spring hotel with excellent facilities, but at a much more affordable price. From the moment we entered the hotel, we felt the staff's attentive care. Because it was raining heavily, our luggage was soaked and we were quite embarrassed when checking in 😂. The staff immediately put our shoes in the shoe storage area and even cleaned our suitcases thoroughly and delivered them to our room while we were checking in – I was really surprised 😄. The two female staff members were incredibly kind and friendly, and even though I don't understand Japanese, they tried their best to explain the hotel's facilities to me. The room was large, comfortable, and heated. Dinner was quite unique; you had to ask the staff for white rice 😅😅. The biggest selling point of this hotel is that in addition to separate baths for men and women, there's even a family bath – free! And it's super spacious, with both indoor and outdoor areas, making it perfect for couples or families. They even provide straw hats for rainy days 🤣 – so interesting! Oh, and guests can also enjoy a free bath at the Mizusawa Public Hot Spring Bathhouse down below—it's incredibly convenient with your key! #Akita #MotoyuMizusawaSanso #MizusawaOnsen

🎎 Unique and Classic Picks · Nyuto Onsen Tsurunoyu (Akita Prefecture) Walk through the winter snow, where under the glow of rustic kerosene lamps, the milky white spring water steams warmly surrounded by pure white snow. This is recognized as a representative "hidden hot spring" in Japan. · Manza Onsen Nisshinkan (Gunma Prefecture) A hot spring at an altitude of 1800 meters. Known for having Japan's highest sulfur concentration, it is highly praised for its health benefits. · Tokachigawa Onsen Yumoto Ryugenkaku (Hokkaido) If you long for the vast northern scenery, this will be your perfect choice. · Sukayu Onsen (Aomori Prefecture) The impressive large bath for a thousand people, built from huge cypress wood, is magnificent. As one of Japan’s first national hot spring health resorts, it offers excellent spring quality, affordable prices, and a strong nostalgic atmosphere. · Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido) Sourced from the volcanic wonder "Hell Valley," Noboribetsu boasts a rich variety of spring qualities. In winter. · Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture) Japan’s top hot spring village, ranked first in Japan’s top 100 hot springs for many consecutive years, with the largest spring flow in Japan. · Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa Prefecture) The classic combination of Mount Fuji and hot springs. Convenient transportation from Tokyo makes it an ideal choice for first-time visitors. · Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture) The hot spring town is lined with retro wooden buildings full of Taisho era charm. When night falls, gas lamps light up and snowflakes fall, it feels like stepping into the dream world of "Spirited Away." 💡 Practical Tips Plan Early: Popular hot spring inns, especially those with excellent snowy views and "hidden hot springs," are often fully booked, so be sure to reserve early. Transportation Considerations: Many hidden hot springs are located deep in the mountains, and you may need to transfer to a bus or even arrange a pick-up from the station to the inn, so check routes in advance. Respect the Culture: If you encounter "mixed bathing" hot springs, please learn and strictly follow the relevant rules (such as women wearing towels). Choose Spring Quality: Select different spring qualities according to your needs, such as beautifying skin, relieving neuralgia, or eliminating fatigue.

If you don't have a car, you can still go to Nyuto Onsen. Just understand the transportation system here, as this village is nestled in the mountains of Akita Prefecture. Japan has a very well-established system. I got all my information from the information board at Kyukamura Nyuto Onsenkyo Hotel. In the lobby, they have pamphlets, maps, and bus schedules—from routes from the station to bus schedules throughout the village. It's like a map of the lives of people who come to soak in the hot springs here. I've taken the opportunity to compile this information for those planning a day trip. Start at JR Tazawako Station, the main gateway to the area. From the station, you'll find the "Nyuto Line" bus operated by Ugo Kotsu. It takes about 40 minutes up the mountain to the village. The journey passes through forests and streams before reaching Kyukamura, the center of the entire onsen village. From here, you can take another small bus called the "Yumeguri-go"—a sightseeing bus that circles the valley. It passes through seven hot springs, one at a time: Tsurunoyu, Taenoyu, Kuroyu, Magoroku, Ogama, Ganiba, and returns to Kyukamura. This bus isn't free; you need to purchase a ticket called "Yumeguri Tegata" for 2,500 yen. This is like a one-day pass, allowing unlimited rides and access to multiple hot springs. The bus schedule is posted on the hotel's bulletin board. The morning bus starts around 8:30 AM, the afternoon bus around 2 PM, and the last bus around 4:00 PM. If you want to try several hot springs, we recommend arriving in the afternoon; the bus returns just in time for the evening. In the evening, you can take the same bus back to Tazawako Station. The last bus leaves around 5:00 PM. If you have a little more time, you might want to try another route. During the autumn foliage season, there's a special bus called "Dakigaeri-go" that goes to Obakairi Valley, a beautiful scenic spot not far from the station. There's a red bridge and Mikaeri Falls. We stopped at Dakigaeri-go on October 20, 2025. The leaves hadn't changed color yet, so we expect it to be in early November. It should be beautiful. Simply put, even without a car, you can still see everything. Take the Shinkansen to Tazawako, then take a bus up the mountain to Kyukamura. Use Yumeguri-go to tour the village, soak in the hot springs, and hike through the forest. Then, return to the bus in the evening. If you miss the autumn leaves, Nyuto also has Dakigaeri-go, which should peak around early November. Source: Information board at Kyukamura Nyuto Onsenkyo Hotel ** Interested parties should check the schedule with the bus operator closer to the actual travel date, as bus schedules in Japan can change yearly/seasonally. #NyutoOnsen #AkitaJapan #TohokuTrip #JapanTravel #TravelJapanOnSelf #JapaneseOnsen #TravelWithoutACar

Kuroyu Onsen, Nyuto Onsen, Akita, October 21, 2025: Steam Route to a Hidden Hot Spring Village The morning at Kyukamura Nyuto-Onsenkyo began with a traditional Japanese breakfast. The highlight was sampling Akita's famous Akita Komachi rice, paired with fresh raw eggs from Hinaichi-dori chickens (one of Japan's renowned native chicken breeds) for the Japanese-style raw egg rice dish Tamago-kake gohan. Other dishes included simple and warm pickled vegetables. After our meal, we packed our bags, checked out, and drove up the mountain again to the next hot spring in the valley. The road continued to wind through the beech and oak forests, changing colors, with red, yellow, and orange leaves mingling along the way. A thin mist hung over the road, and the smell of damp earth lingered. As we approached Kuroyu, steam rose from a rocky crevice in the forest, signaling that we were approaching one of the most tranquil natural hot springs. Kuroyu literally means black water. The name comes from the mineral-rich nature of the hot spring water. Some say the water here was once a source of comfort for miners, as the heat and minerals effectively relieve fatigue. The outdoor hot springs are surrounded by small wooden houses, arranged in a tiered pattern. A few old wooden chairs stand on the stone terrace in front of the hot springs, facing the mountains. There's no talking, no music, just the sound of boiling water, the rustling of leaves, and the breath of nature. The konyoku (mixed-gender) outdoor baths here may seem unusual to the younger generation, but a deeper understanding reveals a culture that emphasizes gender and privacy, emphasizing a simple return to nature. Even though we didn't get to soak, just walking around, breathing in the sulfur, and standing amidst the steam and morning mist was enough to truly appreciate the experience. #Akita #JapanWinter #ForestOnsen #KuroyuOnsen #NyutoOnsen #TravelJapan #JapaneseNature

Finally, I visited Tsurunoyu, a place that had been on my bucket list for ages. It’s truly tucked away deep in the mountains of Akita. After taking a bus, transferring, and walking a bit further, I finally arrived. The air, the scenery, and even the flow of time here feel completely different from the city. The hot spring here is a natural milky-white bath. The moment you immerse yourself, it feels as if the tranquility of the mountains envelops you, and all your worries slowly dissolve into the steam. The coolness of the mountain in July makes soaking in the hot spring perfectly comfortable—not stifling at all. It’s so enjoyable that you’ll want to soak over and over again. The rooms are traditional Japanese tatami-style, with views of the forest outside. At night, the lantern-lit pathways look like scenes straight out of a movie. This isn’t one of those flashy or Instagram-worthy hot springs; it’s a place where you can truly slow down and experience the charm of "old Japan." If you’re feeling a bit tired and want to hide away for a while, I highly recommend staying here for a night. Doing nothing at all here feels just right.

🎯【Akita・Nyuto Onsen Village】A hidden hot spring surrounded by nature for healing the mind and body Nestled deep in Akita Prefecture, Nyuto Onsen Village is a renowned hot spring area featuring seven unique inns scattered across the region. The open-air baths, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, offer a chance to enjoy the beauty of each season. Using the 'Yumeguri Tegata' pass, visitors can conveniently explore multiple hot springs, making it a popular experience. ⸻ 🌟Highlights & Experiences ・Explore diverse hot springs like Kuroyu Onsen and Shirayu Onsen, which retain the charm of hidden retreats ・Winter's snowy landscapes create a special healing time in the open-air baths ・Each inn offers its own unique history and atmosphere to enjoy 🚉Access ・Approximately 40 minutes by bus from Akita Shinkansen's "Tazawako Station" (bound for Nyuto Onsen Village) ・Winter requires snow-appropriate clothing and footwear 🌿Recommended Seasons ・Winter: Snow-viewing open-air baths are stunning ・Autumn: Bathing surrounded by autumn foliage is exceptional ・Spring to summer: Refresh yourself amidst lush greenery 👣Travel Tips ・The Yumeguri Tegata pass (valid for three hot springs) is convenient and cost-effective ・Book accommodations early for the best options ・Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Lake Tazawa and Kakunodate for a complete trip ⸻

♨️ [Akita Kuroyu Onsen] A natural hot spring trip where you can heal your mind and body in a famous hidden hot spring Kuroyu Onsen, quietly located in Akita Prefecture, is a quiet hidden hot spring surrounded by nature. As the name suggests, it is characterized by its blackish water rich in iron, and the healing spring quality is gentle on the skin and warms you up. You can enjoy a relaxing hot spring time in the silence and clear air as if time has stopped. ⸻ 🌿 Experience here ・Reset your tired body and mind by soaking in the brownish black water ・We also recommend walking around the rich nature around. The fresh green leaves in spring and the autumn leaves in autumn are magnificent ・The dishes made with local ingredients are also excellent. There are many hot spring inns where you can taste the seasonal flavors ⸻ 🚗 Access ・About an hour and a half by car from the center of Akita City. Public transportation is limited, so renting a car is recommended. ・There is a lot of snowfall in winter, so be sure to bring your winter gear when visiting. ⸻ 📅 Recommended seasons ・Spring to autumn: The contrast between the hot springs and the fresh greenery and autumn leaves is beautiful. ・Winter: A hot spring in a snowy landscape is a special experience. However, be careful about access. ⸻ 💡 Travel tips ・There are facilities that allow day trips, so you can easily experience the hot springs of Kuroyu Onsen. ・If you are staying overnight, it is recommended to make reservations early. As it is a small hot spring area, the number of rooms is limited. ・There are many tourist spots nearby, so enjoy the nature of Akita along with the hot springs. ⸻ Akita's Kuroyu Onsen is a place where deep history and nature live. It is one of the secret hot springs that you should definitely visit when you want to relieve your fatigue. ⸻ #AkitaTourism #AkitaTrip #KuroyuOnsen #SecretHotSpring #HotSpringTrip #SoloTrip #CoupleTrip #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #DomesticTrip #AkitaOnsen

2025.4.25 *Kakunodate Kakunodate, located in Senboku City, Akita Prefecture, is a castle town that flourished during the Edo period, and the samurai residences that remain to this day are so charming that they are called "Little Kyoto of Michinoku".😊 It is also famous as a cherry blossom spot, but it also has seasonal charms such as autumn leaves and winter snow. A popular spot visited by over 2 million people a year✨ This time, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and it was bustling with people🌸 The highlights are the two areas of Samurai Residence Street, where samurai residences and black board walls continue, and Tamachi Samurai Residence Street, where merchant houses and other townscapes continue✨ The area is located within a walking distance of about 2km, so you can enjoy a leisurely stroll😊 The cherry blossoms of the nearby Hinokinai River were also in full bloom, and it was the perfect time to see them! ◾️Access About 20 minutes on foot from JR Kakunodate Station #0 yen travel #cherry blossom festival #domestic travel #Kakunodate #Akita #Akita tourism #Akita trip #cherry blossoms

Must-visit attractions in Lake Tazawa, Akita Prefecture, Tohoku: Lake Tazawa is Japan's deepest lake, known for its crystal-clear, vibrant blue waters and picturesque scenery throughout the year. Whether you choose to drive, take the lake bus, enjoy a boat ride, or rent a bicycle for a leisurely exploration, the stunning views around the lake are worth experiencing. ✓ Ukiki Shrine This unique shrine dedicated to driftwood is small yet exquisite, set against the backdrop of the lake's clear blue waters. It's a favorite spot for photographers. Built on a base of pebbles and concrete, supported by elevated wooden beams, the shrine creates an optical illusion of floating on the water when viewed from the road towards the lake, earning it the nickname "Floating Shrine." ✓ Tatsuko Statue On the shores of Lake Tazawa stands a golden statue of a woman known as "Tatsuko Statue," a popular photo spot for social media enthusiasts. The reflection on the lake adds to its charm. According to legend, a girl named Tatsuko wished for eternal beauty but was transformed into a dragon and became the lake's deity. The statue was erected to commemorate this tale. ✓ Gozaishi Shrine One of the well-known attractions along Lake Tazawa's shores, this shrine is dedicated to Tatsuko, the dragon goddess of the lake. It was previously known as "Dragon Shrine." Its highlight is the large vermilion torii gate by the lake, creating a striking contrast with the vibrant blue waters, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Akita, located on the Sea of Japan side about 450 kilometers north of Tokyo, is the sixth largest prefecture in Japan. It is covered with forests and rich in natural resources. The excellent natural environment produces high-quality agricultural products, with rice production being the highest in the Tohoku region and sold throughout Japan. In addition to the abundant agricultural products that locals are proud of, many people may also associate Akita with the adorable 'Akita dogs.' As the name suggests, Akita dogs come from Akita. They were originally mountain hunting dogs known as 'Akita Matagi' (pronounced: matagi), which were crossbred with local dogs in the Akita region during the 16th century. Initially, they were used as 'fighting dogs' to boost the morale of samurai. They were mainly found in the northern part of Akita, particularly in Odate, and were thus called 'Odate dogs.' During my trip to Akita, I was fortunate to encounter an incredibly cute Akita dog on the last morning. 🐕