【秋田観光】これ1本でOK！1泊2日王道モデルコース完全ガイド（角館・田沢湖）

I arrived at Sato Yosuke, a historic Inaniwa Udon shop, and ordered the two-flavor set. The Inaniwa Udon, one of Japan's top three, has an incredible smooth texture and firm chewiness. I loved dipping it in the creamy sesame miso sauce and the rich bonito dashi soy sauce, which really brought out the noodles' natural sweetness. It was so good, I didn't get tired of it until the last bite!

After lunch, I headed to Senshu Park, the site of Kubota Castle. Walking through the park, I saw the moat, which is full of lotus flowers in summer. I climbed the stairs to the main keep area, enjoying the rich nature. I saw the statue of Lord Satake Yoshitaka, a hero who protected Akita during the Boshin War, and the reconstructed Osumi Yagura, which served as a watchtower. I finished my walk at Yataka Shrine, which is said to grant academic blessings.

For dinner, I went to Suehiro Ramen, Akita's soul food. I ordered the Chuka Soba and Yakimeshi set. The ramen's black soup was surprisingly not too salty, but packed a powerful umami punch from the pork. The noodles were perfect with the soup. The yakimeshi, made with the ramen's sauce, had a delicious savory and mellow flavor. It's a great spot for dinner or a late-night meal after drinks.

Back at the hotel, I enjoyed the Dormy Inn's famous public bath. The indoor bath had natural hot spring water, and there was also an open-air bath. The sauna was fantastic, complete with a cold plunge pool, and the outdoor air bath was perfect for cooling down. After my bath, I grabbed some free ice cream and relaxed in the manga corner. It was the perfect way to end the first day.

I started my second day by driving to Kakunodate, the 'Little Kyoto of Michinoku.' First, I visited the Hinokinai River Embankment, a beautiful cherry blossom avenue. Then, I explored the Samurai Residence Street, admiring the black-boarded houses. I visited the Iwahashi House, a middle-class samurai residence, and saw the well that was a filming location. I also passed by the Kawara House and Oda House. I stopped at Tatsuko-do, a Kabazaiku craft shop, and learned about the cherry bark craft. Finally, I visited Ando Jozo, a historic soy sauce brewery, where I sampled soy sauce and dashi. It's a place where you can truly feel history and nature.

For lunch in Kakunodate, I went to Sakura no Sato and had their 'Ultimate Oyakodon.' The Hinai chicken, one of Japan's best, was perfectly seared, and the rich, runny egg was incredible. It's a very popular spot, so expect a line! Afterward, I walked to Akita Pudding Tei for dessert. I chose the 'Smooth Pudding,' made with Akita milk and Madagascar vanilla. Its texture was incredibly smooth and delicious, a perfect end to the meal.

I drove to Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake, with its stunning cobalt-blue water. I saw the golden Tatsuko Statue, linked to the legend of Princess Tatsuko who transformed into a dragon. I also visited Ukiki Shrine, beautifully situated over the water, said to grant blessings for beauty and longevity. Driving around the lake, I stopped at Goza no Ishi Shrine, where Lord Satake Yoshitaka once rested. The bright red torii gate facing the lake, dedicated to Princess Tatsuko, offered a truly beautiful view of the water.

My last stop was Yama no Hachimitsuya, a honey specialty store. I sampled various honeys and then indulged in their honey soft serve ice cream. It was sweet and refreshing, and the cute bee-shaped chocolate on top made it even more delightful.