Akita Travel Guide & Samurai Experience

Step back in time in Kakunodate, known as 'Little Kyoto,' and try on samurai armor at one of the well-preserved samurai residences. I wore a higher-ranked samurai armor, which was decorative, protective, and super heavy, weighing about 10 kilos. It requires help to put on, and you'll find it's not built for fighting, as I couldn't bend my elbows or knees well. You can take great pictures in the garden with traditional Japanese buildings. Both male and female guests, and even kids, can experience armor wearing.

Visit Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, especially beautiful in winter with snow. The contrast of the lake's unique color and the bright red torii gate is truly memorable. I really liked the view of the lake with the torii gate in the snow, which convinced me to come here. You can also offer prayers and thanks at Kozanoishi Shrine, which enshrines the lake god.

Head to Nyuto Onsenkyo, a cluster of seven hot spring resorts at the foothills of Nyuto Mountain. Each resort has its own hot spring source, and enthusiasts often visit more than one to compare water quality. I stayed at Oogama Hot Springs, which is a unique resort that removed and reconstructed an old wooden elementary school building. You can enjoy a rustic atmosphere while soaking in the tub. The open-air hot springs, combined with Akita's natural beauty, make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated. The spring water has therapeutic power, alleviating infections and rheumatic diseases, and it also conditions and moisturizes your skin. I try to soak at least once in the evening and again in the morning, as it feels so different in different kinds of light.