Akita Prefecture’s deep history and gourmet paradise: A travel guide to enjoy the charm of sightseeing to the fullest

The Deep Charm and History of Akita Prefecture: The Story of a Traveling Female Writer

What is Akita Prefecture? Exploring the history and charm of good old Japan

First impressions of Akita Prefecture

“I” have traveled all over Japan, but I have a special feeling for Akita Prefecture. When I first visited Akita Prefecture, I was enveloped in the feeling that time seemed to flow slowly. It was a place where you could forget the hustle and bustle of the city, with only the silence and the deep green scenery and the sound of the wind that accompanied it.

Historical Background of Akita Prefecture

Akita Prefecture has a long history, and many historical events have taken place here. For example, during the Kamakura period, it was the stage of the Boshin War, the predecessor of the Akita domain. In addition, in Akita City, there is Senshu Park, which is located on Mt. Tategami, which was the residence of the former Akita feudal lord, and is known as a scenic spot in Japan. You can enjoy the seasonal scenery and historical buildings in this park.

Beautiful scenery and traditional culture

Akita Prefecture is alive with rich nature and traditional culture. Unique traditional cultures such as the Japanese Kanto Festival and Oga Namahage are still loved by the locals. I myself have participated in the Kanto Festival and was overwhelmed by its splendor and enthusiasm. Also, as a result of the average number of tourists visiting, Akita Prefecture’s tourism industry earns about 30 million yen annually. This is proof that many people recognize the appeal of Akita Prefecture.

Delicious local gourmet food in Akita Prefecture

Have you ever heard the name “Akitakomachi”? This rice originated in Akita Prefecture and is very popular nationwide. When I visit, one of the things I look forward to is enjoying the dishes and rice balls that use this rice. Kiritanpo nabe, which is served at many restaurants and cafeterias in Akita Prefecture, is also excellent. Many tourists visit Akita Prefecture to enjoy these gourmet foods.

As you can see, Akita Prefecture is a place filled with many attractions, such as its historical background, traditional culture, and natural beauty. In the next section, we will introduce spots and activities to explore the charm of Akita Prefecture more deeply.

Akita Prefecture’s Hidden Sights and My Story

The beauty of Lake Tazawa, a beautiful lake

Lake Tazawa is one of the most beautiful lakes in Japan. The lake is highly transparent, and the clear blue water reflects the surrounding scenery like a mirror. When I visited, I saw locals lounging by the lake and tourists in canoes and boats enjoying the lake. Especially during the fall foliage season, the colorful foliage reflected in the lake is a masterpiece.

Encounter with an Akita dog

Akita Prefecture is also famous for Akita dogs. I was able to visit the “Akita Dog Village” in Akita City. Here, I was able to interact with many Akita dogs, and was fascinated by their adorable expressions and powerful appearance. Akita Inu is a Japanese dog with a long history, and it can be said that it is a part of the heart of the Japanese people.

Relax in the hot springs

Hot spring time is essential for me when traveling. Akita Prefecture is dotted with many hot spring resorts, such as Tamagawa Onsen and Nyuto Onsenkyo. I especially liked Tsurunoyu Onsen in Nyuto Onsen. The natural hot spring and the quiet space surrounded by mountains healed the fatigue of the trip. In addition, the hot spring facility has a full range of beauty and relaxation services for women, which was a great point for me as a solo female traveler.

interact with locals

The best part of traveling is interacting with the locals. I participated in the Sakigake Rural Experience Program in Akita Prefecture, and had the opportunity to experience farm work with local farmers. Through experiences that cannot be done in everyday life, such as rice harvesting and vegetable harvesting, I was able to deeply experience the nature of Akita Prefecture and the lives of the people who live there.

In this way, Akita Prefecture is not only a place of history, culture and natural beauty, but also a place where you can get new discoveries and impressions through interaction with the locals. In the next part, I will introduce recommended accommodations and gourmet information that I actually experienced.

The best part of staying in Akita! Recommended accommodations and exquisite gourmet food

Rest well: where to stay

There are various lodging facilities in Akita Prefecture, but my recommendation is “Akita Sakuraba”. This is an inn with a modern arrangement of a traditional Japanese house, where you can spend a leisurely time surrounded by nature. Feel the warmth of the wood in the open-air bath and forget about your daily fatigue. In addition, special amenities were provided for female guests, and I was very satisfied.

Enjoy the exquisite gourmet food of Akita

One of the pleasures of traveling is gourmet food. Akita Prefecture has many delicious dishes that make use of local ingredients. In particular, “Akita Shokudo” is a restaurant loved by both locals and tourists, and I have visited many times. The restaurant’s signboard menu, Inaniwa Udon, is exquisite. The combination of smooth noodles and unique soup stock is unforgettable once you try it.

For those who like local sake, we recommend Akita Sake Brewery. Sake made using traditional methods has a deep flavor and aroma. When I visited, I chose my favorite bottle while enjoying the tasting.

Selection of local souvenirs

Choosing souvenirs is essential at the end of your trip. Akita Prefecture’s specialty products are also appreciated as souvenirs. In particular, “Akita cedar crafts” and “Kagaya Honpo” baumkuchen were very popular with family and friends. In addition, there are so many attractive products to choose from, such as Akita dog stuffed animals and traditional crafts.

summary

So far, I have written about the charms of Akita Prefecture and my experiences. I would be happy if you could feel the deep charm and history of Akita Prefecture through this article. Also, please actually visit and feel the charm with your skin. Akita Prefecture is a place that reminds us of the original scenery and warmth of Japan that we have begun to forget. Once you visit, you will surely be able to refresh your heart and make new discoveries.

Historical building chosen by Kasumi

There are many historical buildings in Akita Prefecture, but we will introduce five that are particularly impressive. For each building, I will also introduce the unique charm that I felt and the “Kasumi Point” that shows the history and background of the area.

Kakunodate Historical Village (Semboku City)

Kasumi Point: Kakunodate Historical Village is known as a tasteful area with rows of samurai residences, and the atmosphere is just like the stage of a period drama. I was particularly impressed by the beauty of the gardens of each mansion and the silence that flows through them.

Lake Tazawa Legendary Village (Semboku City)

Kasumi Point: Based on the legend of Lake Tazawa, this village is a fantastic spot with buildings and objects that reproduce legendary creatures and stories. You will feel like you are lost in the world of legends.

Former Akita Bank Kinashi Branch (Akita City)

Kasumi Point: This building, which retains the architectural style of the Meiji era, has a stately appearance that makes you feel the prosperity of the past. As a building with high historical value, it is being preserved and used.

Shimizu Collection (Odate City)

Kasumi Point: This library was built using a bookstore from the Taisho period, and has a large collection of old books and documents. Reading old books in a wooden building will make you feel like you have slipped back in time.

Former Odate City Library (Odate City)

Kasumi Point: This library was built in the Taisho era with Western architectural style. The retro exterior and wooden bookshelves and stairs inside create an atmosphere of history.

This concludes our introduction to five historical buildings in Akita Prefecture. We would like you to actually visit the site and feel the history and charm of each building.