AKITA & YAMAGATA
Akita and Yamagata prefectures form the heart of Northern Japan’s Tohoku region, where the spirit of the samurai era remains beautifully preserved. It is a land of dramatic, snowy landscapes, time-honored villages, and restorative hot springs.
This subregion offers an authentic journey into Japan’s past, contrasting the austere elegance of samurai tradition in places like Kakunodate with the nostalgic, healing waters of its famed onsen towns.
Most Popular Attractions
Samurai History & Townscape:
Kakunodate Samurai District (Akita): Often called the “Little Kyoto of Tohoku,” this area preserves the atmosphere of an Edo-period castle town with its wide streets and former samurai residences.
Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum (Akita): One of the largest and most impressive samurai homes in Kakunodate, open to the public as a museum with historical artifacts and beautiful grounds.
Ishiguro House (Akita): The oldest surviving samurai residence in Kakunodate, where descendants of the samurai family still reside and offer tours of part of the house.
Kakunodate Cherry Blossoms (Akita): Famous for the hundreds of weeping cherry trees lining the samurai district and the Hinokinai River, a stunning sight in late April/early May.
Merchant District (Akita): The former commercial area of Kakunodate, separated from the samurai district, featuring historic storehouses and shops, like the Ando Jozo Miso Storehouse.
Furushiroyama Castle Ruins (Akita): The former site of Kakunodate Castle, offering commanding panoramic views over the town and surrounding mountains.
Nostalgic Hot Spring Towns (Yamagata):
Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata): An exceptionally picturesque, secluded hot spring town famed for its Taisho-era (1912-1926) wooden ryokan lining the Ginzan River and illuminated by gas lamps at night.
Waraku Ashiyu (Yamagata): A free public footbath in the center of Ginzan Onsen, perfect for relaxing while enjoying the nostalgic townscape.
Shirogane-yu Public Bath (Yamagata): A compact, modern public bath in Ginzan Onsen, noted for its design by architect Kengo Kuma.
Nobesawa Ginzan (Yamagata): The former silver mine that gave Ginzan Onsen its name; a short illuminated tunnel is accessible to visitors.
Secluded Hot Spring Villages (Akita):
Nyuto Onsenkyo (Akita): A collection of seven remote, rustic hot spring inns (Nyuto Onsen) nestled deep in the mountains of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, each with a different source and water quality.
Tsurunoyu Onsen (Akita): The oldest and most famous inn in Nyuto Onsenkyo, known for its iconic, rustic, mixed-gender outdoor bath.
Kuroyu Onsen (Akita): Another traditional inn in Nyuto Onsenkyo, known for its rustic atmosphere and mixed outdoor bath, accessible only in warmer months.
Tamagawa Onsen (Akita): Famous for having the highest flow rate and most acidic hot spring water in Japan, attracting visitors seeking its unique therapeutic properties.
Lakes, Nature & Culture:
Lake Tazawa (Akita): Japan’s deepest lake, known for its cobalt blue waters and the iconic golden Statue of Tatsuko on its western shore.
Gozanoishi Shrine (Akita): A vermilion-lacquered shrine located on the northern shore of Lake Tazawa, offering a beautiful contrast with the lake’s blue water.
Dakigaeri Gorge (Akita): A scenic river gorge near Kakunodate known for its dramatic cliff faces, turquoise river, and stunning autumn foliage.
Shirogane Falls (Yamagata): A beautiful 22-meter waterfall located at the far end of the Ginzan Onsen town, a short nature walk away.
Zao Onsen (Yamagata): One of Japan’s largest ski resorts and a famous hot spring town, known for its strongly acidic, therapeutic waters and the winter phenomenon of “Snow Monsters” (Juhyo).
Sakata City (Yamagata): A historic port city famous for its traditional merchant culture, including the restored Sankyo Soko Storehouses and the Somaro Maiko Teahouse.
Activities & Experiences
Go Onsen-Hopping in Nyuto Onsen Village: Experience the rustic charm of this secluded hot spring village in Akita. Purchase a Yumeguri-cho booklet for a discount on bathing fees across the seven different inns, each with unique water properties (including the famous milky-white baths of Tsurunoyu).
Stroll the Samurai District of Kakunodate: Wander down the beautifully preserved street of Bukeyashiki-dori, which retains the atmosphere of a 17th-century samurai stronghold with its black wooden fences and majestic gates.
Try on a Traditional Kimono in Kakunodate: Rent a kimono from a local shop and stroll the historic samurai and merchant districts to truly step back in time to the Edo Period.
Learn the Art of Kaba-zaiku (Cherry Bark Craft): Visit the Kakunodate Kabazaiku Denshokan Museum and join a workshop to learn about and try making items from wild cherry bark, a traditional craft unique to this region.
Hike through Dakigaeri Gorge: Enjoy a scenic walk along the cobalt-blue river in this stunning gorge, especially beautiful during the autumn leaves season (koyo). Look for the Mikaeri no Taki waterfall.
Visit the “Snow Monsters” of Mount Zao: During winter (typically January-February), take the Zao Ropeway in Yamagata to see the Juhyo, or “snow monsters”—trees encased in layers of ice and snow.
Experience the Retro Charm of Ginzan Onsen: Stroll the picturesque streets of this Yamagata hot spring town, famous for its wooden ryokan and gaslights that evoke a Taisho-era (1912-1926) atmosphere, especially at night.
Hike to Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji): Climb the thousand steps to this atmospheric mountain temple in Yamagata for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
Paddle or Cycle Around Lake Tazawa: Explore Japan’s deepest lake in Akita. Activities include sightseeing boat cruises, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), or renting a bicycle to tour the scenic perimeter, stopping to see the Statue of Tatsuko.
Savor Local Cuisine: Kiritanpo Nabe: Taste Akita’s signature dish, a hearty hot pot featuring skewers of mashed and grilled rice (kiritanpo), Hinai chicken, and seasonal vegetables.
Witness the Hachimantai Dragon Eye: Visit Kagami-Numa Lake near the summit of Mount Hachimantai in late spring (late May to early June) to see this mysterious, seasonal natural phenomenon where the thawing snow forms a perfect ring on the lake’s surface.
Attend a Traditional Winter Festival: Check local schedules for unique events like the Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival (Akita) or the Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival (Yamagata) if visiting in February.
Local Tips & Transport
Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The JR Akita Shinkansen (Komachi) provides the quickest access from Tokyo directly into Akita, stopping at major stations like Akita City and Kakunodate. The JR Yamagata Shinkansen connects Tokyo to Yamagata City. These lines are generally covered by the Japan Rail Pass and regional passes like the JR East Tohoku Area Pass.
Train Access to Kakunodate: Kakunodate station is the primary hub for the samurai district. The area is easily walkable from the station (15-30 minutes).
Access to Hot Springs (Onsen): Getting to the remote onsen towns like Nyuto Onsen Village (Akita) and Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata) often requires a combination of trains and local buses or a pre-arranged shuttle service from a major station (e.g., Tazawako Station for Nyuto Onsen, or Oishida Station for Ginzan Onsen). A rental car is highly recommended for flexibility, especially when visiting multiple rural sites, like the White Villages of Andalusia.
Onsen Village Shuttle Bus: For Nyuto Onsen Village, guests and day-trippers can purchase the Yumeguri Map for a day pass on the Yumeguri-go bus, which conveniently loops between the seven different hot springs.
Onsen Etiquette is Essential: Unlike in the west, Japanese hot springs are meant for naked bathing. Always thoroughly wash your body before entering the bath. Do not let your towel touch the water; you can leave it on the side or fold it on your head. Many onsen, particularly in Nyuto, offer rotenburo (outdoor baths), including a few rare mixed-gender ones.
Local Crafts to Look For: Don’t leave without a souvenir made of Kaba-zaiku (cherry-bark craft) from Kakunodate, known for its airtight and moisture-blocking properties, making it perfect for tea caddies. Also look for Odate Cedarwood Crafts (Akita) and Kawa-tsura Lacquerware (Akita).
The Power of Rice: The Tohoku region, and Akita in particular, is famous for its delicious rice. This is the source of many local specialties, including kiritanpo, quality sake, and regional dishes like Gyoza with locally-sourced ingredients.
Embrace the Seasonality: This region’s landscape and activities are highly seasonal:
- Spring (Late April/Early May): Famous for the weeping cherry blossoms in Kakunodate, a spectacular view against the black samurai houses.
- Summer: Perfect for hiking and water activities on Lake Tazawa.
- Autumn: Ideal for viewing the intense fall foliage (koyo) in gorges like Dakigaeri and around the onsen.
- Winter: The best time for enjoying the snowy views at Ginzan Onsen, skiing at Tazawako Ski Resort, and witnessing the Snow Monsters at Zao Onsen.
Hidden Gems:
- Okaribayaki in Kakunodate: Try this local specialty, which involves cooking and grilling chicken seasoned with miso and Japanese pepper, a dish with samurai-era hunting origins.
- Maiko Performance in Sakata: While in Yamagata, take a side trip to Sakata (a former port town) to see a traditional geisha (maiko) performance at a venue like Somaro.
- Niteko Shimizu Spring Water (Misato Town, Akita): This spring water, once offered to the Emperor, is still used by locals for daily life and produces local sake and cider.
Top Restaurants
Oshokujidokoro Kaisenya [$15-$25] – Located adjoining the Oga Seafood Market in Akita, this popular eatery is famous for its fresh, generously topped Kaihō-don (seafood rice bowl) and limited-quantity sashimi set meals, focusing on Oga’s bounty from the Japan Sea.
Kyodoryori Shizen-kan [$20-$35] – A traditional restaurant in Akita City specializing in kiritanpo nabe (hotpot with pounded rice skewers) and other Akita-specific regional cuisine, often featuring local Hinai-Jidori chicken.
Sato Yosuke Shoten (Akita Branch) [$20-$30] – One of the most famous places to try Inaniwa Udon, one of Japan’s three best udon types, known for its smooth, thin, hand-made noodles.
Ryotei Inaho [$30-$50] – Located near Kakunodate Station, this establishment is highly-rated by locals for authentic, traditional Japanese cuisine, including multi-course kaiseki meals featuring seasonal Akita ingredients.
Ginzan Onsen Yukemuri Shokudo Shirogane [$15-$25] – A humble dining bar and cafe in the Ginzan Onsen town in Yamagata, known for serving local specialties like Obanazawa Soba and other regional dishes in a cozy setting.
Aji No Suzuran [$20-$40] – A popular Izakaya in Yamagata City (near the station) that sources fresh seafood from the Shonai region and combines it with local, seasonal vegetables, emphasizing Yamagata’s local sake selection.
Robata (Zao Onsen) [$20-$35] – Located in the Zao Hot Spring area of Yamagata, this restaurant is a local favorite for its Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) and hearty nabe (hot pot) dishes, perfect after a day on the slopes or in the springs.
Honke Kamata [$15-$25] – A simple but well-loved spot in Yamagata Prefecture, focusing on local soul food like soba (buckwheat noodles) and the regional Imoni (taro stew).
Yamagata Tokusanhin Hanazen [$25-$45] – An excellent Izakaya in Yamagata City offering a wide variety of true local Yamagata cuisine, from Imoni to horse sashimi (a regional delicacy) and over 70 types of sake.
Domanin Kakunodate [$15-$25] – A local eatery in the samurai town of Kakunodate, known for its traditional atmosphere and unique dishes like Miso Pizza, using locally produced miso.
Tamachi Bukeyashiki Hotel Restaurant [$30-$50] – The restaurant within this Kakunodate hotel offers authentic Akita cuisine, including seasonal Akita specialties like kiritanpo and local fish, often served in a traditional setting.
Soba Aoyagi [$15-$25] – A casual spot in Kakunodate, popular for its simple, traditional noodle dishes, particularly the famous Inaniwa Udon and other seasonal soba options.
Kyokushokudo [$15-$25] – A hidden local spot, often a small diner, known for serving Yokote’s unique local ramen style, Jumonji Ramen, characterized by its light, Japanese-style broth.
Tsurunoyu Onsen Dining Hall [$30-$50] – The dining experience at this famous, rustic hot spring inn (Nyuto Onsenkyo, Akita) is non-touristic and authentic, with a fixed menu of traditional Akita home-style cooking and local grilled fish.
Shirasaki-ya [$20-$35] – A popular spot in Sakata (Yamagata) known for its local-style Sakata Ramen, which features a light soy sauce broth and is a staple in the coastal Shonai region.
Shokuji-dokoro Shirogane-ya [$15-$25] – A local favorite in the hot springs town of Ginzan Onsen, offering simple, hearty local fare and excellent grilled river fish, popular with those staying in the onsen area.
Genpachi [$20-$35] – Located in Kakunodate, this restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine and is known for its high-quality ingredients and strong focus on local Akita flavors.
Murasaki [$15-$25] – A traditional restaurant in Kakunodate, known for its delicious local dishes and high-quality soba and udon noodles.
Towa Chaya [$15-$25] – A charming tea house and dining spot in the Kakunodate area that serves light traditional meals and sweets, often featuring local rice and seasonal mountain vegetables.
Koraido Aoyagike-ten [$15-$25] – Simple dining room attached to a samurai manor in Kakunodate, focusing on local noodle dishes like Inaniwa Udon and tempura.
Yonezawa Beef Dining Uesugi [$60-$100] – A highly-regarded restaurant in Yamagata Prefecture specializing in the premium local Yonezawa Beef, offering it in various forms like sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, or steak.
Ryūzō [$80-$130] – A fine dining restaurant in Yamagata City known for its refined kaiseki (traditional multi-course dinner) and mastery of local seasonal ingredients, a favorite for special occasions.
Kisakata Iwagaki Specialty Shop (Seasonal) [$40-$70] – During the season (June-August), specialized shops and restaurants near Kisakata in Akita will serve the famous, large Iwagaki (natural oysters), known for their rich, briny taste.
Mizuno [$70-$120] – A fine Japanese restaurant in Yamagata known for its delicate preparation of local fish and seasonal mountain vegetables, offering a high-end experience without the tourist crowds.
Ginza Yonehachi (Ginzan Onsen Area) [$40-$70] – A secluded dining spot that focuses on local mountain cuisine, often utilizing charcoal grilling techniques and seasonal ingredients unique to the Obanazawa/Ginzan area, including local wagyu.
Wappa-Han [$40-$70] – Located in Odate (Akita), the birthplace of kiritanpo, this specialized restaurant focuses on using the local Hinai-Jidori chicken and fresh Akita rice for exceptional kiritanpo nabe and oyakodon.
Sushi Kumagai [$50-$90] – A highly-rated local sushi spot in Kakunodate, offering excellent fresh seafood with a particular focus on fish from the nearby Japan Sea coast.
Kaiseki Ryōri Chizuru [$80-$140] – A secluded and exclusive Japanese fine dining restaurant in Akita City, serving intricate, seasonal courses that showcase the best of Akita’s land and sea ingredients.
Shizen [$70-$110] – Located near Akita City, this restaurant is known for its focus on local wild game and mountain vegetables, offering a unique, non-touristic glimpse into the rustic flavors of the region.
Kaiseki Ryori Udon no Sato-tei [$40-$70] – A dining experience near the Inaniwa Udon region, offering both high-quality Inaniwa Udon and seasonal kaiseki that highlight local mountain ingredients.
Zest Garden [$35-$60] – A stylish and modern cafe/restaurant in Yamagata City that blends Japanese and Western cooking, using local Yamagata ingredients for creative light meals and desserts.
La Fuga (Kakunodate) [$30-$50] – An international cuisine restaurant in the historic Kakunodate area, offering a modern twist on local ingredients in Italian-inspired dishes.
Ippontei [$25-$45] – A popular contemporary izakaya in Akita City known for its inventive tapas-style dishes that apply modern techniques to local ingredients like Hinai-Jidori chicken and fermented foods.
TOSSI (Kakunodate) [$10-$20] – Not a traditional restaurant, but a very highly-rated local bakery and cafe in Kakunodate known for its modern and delicious baked goods and light fare, a good non-Japanese option.
Momi no Ki Tei [$40-$70] – A modern Japanese restaurant near Kakunodate that focuses on creative presentations of classic regional cuisine, offering multi-course menus.
Espoir [$40-$70] – A modern, high-quality French restaurant in Yamagata City that incorporates premium local ingredients like Yonezawa Beef and seasonal vegetables into classic French techniques.
Ginzan Onsen Obanazawa Kōsen [$30-$50] – A modern space that serves contemporary takes on local Yamagata dishes, often found in or near a modernized ryokan (traditional inn) in the Onsen area.
Sushi-dokoro Tsumugi [$40-$70] – A contemporary sushi restaurant in Akita City that focuses on the concept of omakase (chef’s selection), using the freshest seasonal fish from the Japan Sea.
Bistro de Yamamura [$35-$60] – A popular local bistro in Yamagata City that serves Italian and French dishes with a distinct regional flair, using local produce and meats.
Izakaya Hitsujiya (Kakunodate) [$20-$35] – A lively Izakaya near the samurai district that is popular with younger locals, offering a mix of traditional and slightly more contemporary bar food and local sake.
Akita Kiritanpoya (Akita Station) [$25-$40] – A well-regarded specialty shop for kiritanpo dishes, allowing easy access to this Akita soul food and local sake, popular with locals and in-the-know travelers.
Yamamo Soy Sauce & Miso Brewery (Masuda, Akita) [$15-$25] – Offers dining options that highlight the use of their premium, century-old fermented products (soy sauce and miso) in regional dishes.
Orae Lake Tazawa [$15-$25] – A rustic restaurant near Lake Tazawa (Akita) that serves local Hinai-Jidori Oyakodon and regional dishes, and is particularly known for a unique Beer Curry.
Kohan No Mori Restaurant ORAE (Tazawako) [$15-$25] – Located near Lake Tazawa in Akita, this spot offers traditional Akita local cuisine and often features the specialty hinai-jidori chicken.
Akita Nagaya Sakaba [$20-$35] – A local favorite Izakaya in Akita City with a focus on regional specialties and an extensive list of local Akita sake.
Syouji (Kakunodate) [$15-$25] – A straightforward, authentic dining spot in Kakunodate that serves home-style Akita local food and Japanese staples, a true non-tourist meal.
Tsuki no Shiori (Kakunodate) [$25-$40] – A Japanese restaurant in Kakunodate offering a variety of local seasonal dishes, perfect for an authentic dinner experience in the historic town.
Yamagata Marunouchi Hotel Restaurant [$30-$50] – While in a hotel, this restaurant is known among locals for its reliably high-quality set menus that showcase Yamagata’s best meats and produce.
Soba Kaido (Various locations in Yamagata) [$15-$25] – Various local soba shops along the so-called “Three Great Soba Highways” in Yamagata, offering authentic, hand-made buckwheat noodles, a local passion.
Teuchi-soba Kakunodate Soba [$15-$25] – A dedicated soba shop in Kakunodate, known for its hand-made noodles using local flours, a favorite quick and authentic meal.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
BAR Le Vert (Akita City): Rumored to be the home of the best Manhattan in all of Japan, this sophisticated cocktail bar in the heart of Akita City is led by a well-respected bartender known for his extensive knowledge of the alcoholic arts.
Jazz & Live THE CAT WALK (Akita City): Located in Akita’s Omachi district, this legendary jazz bar offers a swanky, old-fashioned, speakeasy-like atmosphere. It’s famous for its signature cocktails like the ‘Out of Blue’ and ‘Hi-hat,’ and often hosts live music.
BAR 3rd cork (Akita City): A popular establishment nestled in Akita’s bustling ‘Kawabata’ area. This bar offers a luxurious and intimate setting, with patrons praising the meticulously crafted cocktails and beautiful glassware.
Owls Bar (Akita City): A hidden gem situated in the Izumisoto area of Akita City, this cozy bar is noted for its rich selection of drinks and is a favorite among those in the know.
BAR LOTUS (Akita City): Found on the top floor of a hotel near Chishaku Park, this bar provides a luxurious setting with twinkling city views, perfect for a refined end to the day.
Radio’s Bar (Akita City): A laid-back spot in Akita City, close to the station, which serves as both a general bar and a sports bar, offering a relaxed atmosphere for a casual drink.
Nihonshu Dining KURO (Akita City): While focused on Japanese sake, this dining bar near Akita Station offers a sophisticated atmosphere to enjoy local spirits and regional cuisine, blurring the lines between bar and fine dining.
Tsuchizaki BAR RUMBLE (Akita City): A small, local bar in the Tsuchizaki port district, popular for its warm hospitality and strong focus on local Akita flavors, including sake and shochu.
Cocktail Bar Ginza (Yamagata City): A refined and classic bar located in Yamagata City’s Nanokamachi nightlife district, specializing in expertly prepared cocktails with a focus on fresh ingredients.
STREET BAR ON THE ROAD (Yamagata City): A modern and welcoming bar near Yamagata Station, known for its friendly service and good range of drinks, including local craft options.
food & bar Kaburetta (Yamagata City): A lively dining bar and izakaya near Yamagata Station, perfect for those who want a mix of delicious regional food, local sake, and classic cocktails in a casual setting.
Bar P.S. (Yamagata City – Near local area of Nanokamachi): An intimate and quiet bar offering a wide variety of whiskeys and original cocktails, favored by locals for its sophisticated but not stuffy atmosphere in the city center.
Kanazawa Music Bar (Kanazawa – Similar Samurai Town style): While technically in Ishikawa, the Kanazawa Music Bar offers a vibe similar to what one might seek in a samurai-era town—a cozy atmosphere with live music and delightful drinks, reflecting the cultural depth of a historic city.
NAGAMACHI JAZZ CLUB (Kanazawa – Similar Samurai Town style): Situated near Kanazawa’s Nagamachi Samurai District, this venue is a fantastic example of a jazz club in a historic city, focusing on quality drinks and an intimate, cultural evening.
Speakeasy Bar Ginza (Yamagata City – A nod to the classic style): A classic, hole-in-the-wall-style bar in the Nanokamachi area known for its traditional Japanese bartending techniques and a wide range of top-shelf spirits, perfect for a quiet, contemplative drink.