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One of Japan's most celebrated onsen destinations โ seven rustic ryokan lodges scattered through the snowy beech forests of the Nyuto mountains, each drawing from different spring sources with distinct mineral compositions and colours. The famous milky-white sulphurous spring at Tsuru-no-yu ryokan, operating since 1638, is among the most atmospheric outdoor baths in Japan.
Bathing in Nyuto Onsen's outdoor pools while deep snow blankets the surrounding beech forest is one of Japan's most sought-after winter experiences. Tsuru-no-yu's mixed outdoor bath (konyoku rotenburo) open since 1638 is the most photographed onsen in Japan โ arrive at dawn before tour groups for the full atmosphere.
Nestled deep in the mountains near Lake Tazawa, Nyuto Onsen is a cluster of seven rustic ryokan inns each tapping their own distinct spring โ some cloudy white with sulfur, others clear green or amber brown. The most celebrated is Tsurunoyu, a 350-year-old inn with open-air mixed-gender baths surrounded by beech forest, fed by springs at different temperatures. A 'yunใใใ' hot spring hopping pass lets visitors visit multiple baths in a single day.
The Oga Peninsula is the birthplace of the Namahage ritual, where men in terrifying demon masks and straw capes visit homes on New Year's Eve to drive out evil and laziness โ a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The Namahage Museum and adjacent Oga Shinzan Denshokan folk museum allow visitors to meet costumed Namahage year-round and witness dramatic performance demonstrations. The rugged sea cliffs and fishing villages of the peninsula add natural drama to the cultural visit.
Tazawako Ski Resort offers the extraordinary sight of skiing above Japan's deepest cobalt-blue lake โ runs with direct lake views are unique in Japan. The nearby Hachimantai resort system spans multiple connected areas and receives consistently deep, dry powder throughout winter (DecemberโApril).
Kakunodate's 200-year-old craft tradition of kabazaiku uses cherry tree bark to create lustrous, durable containers, tea canisters, and accessories. The bark is peeled, layered, and polished to a warm honey-brown sheen โ a uniquely Akita art form. Several workshops in the samurai district welcome visitors to watch artisans at work.
Odate City is the birthplace of the world-famous Akita dog breed and home to the Akita Dog Museum (Akitainu Kaikan), where visitors can interact with purebred Akita Inu dogs and learn about the breed's history including the legendary Hachiko. Breeding farms on the outskirts of the city offer guided meet-and-greet sessions with pups and adults. The city celebrates its beloved dogs at the annual Odate Akita Dog Festival each August.
The Akita is Japan's most famous dog breed โ designated a national natural monument in 1931. The Akita Inu Tourism Association in Odate city (breed's birthplace) runs an experience centre where visitors can meet and pet these powerful, loyal dogs. Odate also has a monument to Hachiko, the most famous Akita of all, who was born nearby.
Oga Aquarium GAO perches on the cliffs of the Oga Peninsula with a panoramic window overlooking the Japan Sea, showcasing the rich marine life of the Akita coast alongside polar bears, Humboldt penguins, and walruses. The open-ocean tank simulates the rough Sea of Japan, and the polar bear habitat โ one of the most naturalistic in Japan โ allows underwater viewing through a glass tunnel. The aquarium is a favorite family destination combining seaside scenery with diverse wildlife.
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