Introduction to Instagram-Worthy Photos in Akita Prefecture
Akita Prefecture, where majestic nature and tradition thrive, is actually a treasure trove of Instagram-worthy spots. For example, at the samurai residences in Kakunodate, you can take photos that look like scenes from a period drama, with the contrast of weeping cherry blossoms against black fences. At Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, you can capture breathtaking photos of the sky and clouds reflected on the water, set against the backdrop of fresh green or autumn foliage. In the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site, you can photograph mystical landscapes while trekking through untouched beech forests. In spring, the giant “Dragon Eye” created by the melting snow at Hachimantai appears, offering a natural masterpiece.Not only are the landscapes captivating, but the long-standing traditions and culture are also very attractive. The “Namahage” on the Oga Peninsula, with its demon-like appearance, is impressive and awe-inspiring. In winter, you can enjoy warm amazake inside a kamakura in Yokote, creating magical photo opportunities. The Kanto Festival in summer, with its large poles decorated to resemble golden rice ears, is spectacular. And the grand finale is the Omagari Fireworks Festival, one of Japan’s three major fireworks festivals, where you can capture stunning photos of large fireworks lighting up the night sky.
Samurai Residences in Kakunodate
Kakunodate, known as “Little Kyoto of the North,” retains traditional streetscapes from the Edo period. The samurai residences, such as the Aoyagi and Ishiguro families, are particularly famous, offering a glimpse into the lives of samurai. Each season brings different beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green in summer, autumn foliage, and snow scenes in winter. Renting a traditional kimono to stroll through the historic streets is highly recommended, giving you an experience that feels like stepping back in time.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: 20-minute walk from Kakunodate Station
Lake Tazawa
Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan with a depth of 423.4 meters, is known for its beautiful lapis lazuli-colored surface and circular shape, approximately 20 kilometers in circumference. The golden “Tatsuko Statue” related to the “Tatsuko Legend” stands by the lakeshore. Nearby, there are auto campgrounds (Jomon no Mori Tazawako), Gozanoishi Shrine, Heart Herb, and Ukiki Shrine, offering various activities. Gozanoishi Shrine is particularly popular for photos due to the beautiful contrast between the blue lake and the red torii gate.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn (partially closed in winter)
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: Infrequent public transportation car recommended
Shirakami-Sanchi
Shirakami-Sanchi, spanning Akita and Aomori Prefectures, is a natural area featuring one of the world’s largest primeval beech forests. Recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1993, this area covers about 130,000 hectares. The main highlight is the “Aoike” on the western side, known for its mysterious and beautiful blue water.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring,summer,fall(partially closed in winter)
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: Infrequent public transportation car recommended
Hachimantai Dragon Eye
The Hachimantai Dragon Eye is a mystical natural phenomenon near the summit of Hachimantai, straddling Akita and Iwate Prefectures. This phenomenon occurs when the snow and snowmelt combine in Kagaminuma, creating a shape resembling a dragon’s eye. The central part is lifted by buoyancy, and as it melts, the Dragon Eye forms. This can be seen from mid-May to early June.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity:Mid-May to mid-June
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: Infrequent public transportation car recommended
Namahage
The traditional “Namahage” event in Oga City involves young men dressed as demons with masks and straw outfits visiting homes on New Year’s Eve, carrying wooden knives. Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2018, this event is a representative traditional event of Japan. The Namahage, considered messengers of the gods living in Oga’s mountains, admonishes laziness and brings good harvests and catches.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: February 9-11
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: Shuttle bus from Oga Station available
Kamakura
In the heavy snowfall region of Yokote City, the traditional “Kamakura” event is held annually on February 15 and 16. This event, with a history of about 450 years, involves children playing inside snow domes, drinking amazake, and roasting mochi. A shrine dedicated to the water deity is also set up.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity:February 15-16
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: 23-minute walk from Yokote Station
Kanto Festival
The Akita Kanto Festival, one of the three major festivals in Tohoku along with Sendai’s Tanabata Festival and Aomori’s Nebuta Festival, has a history of about 270 years. The main feature of the festival is the performance of balancing large poles decorated with 46 lanterns, weighing around 50kg, on the hands, forehead, shoulders, and waist of the participants.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: August 3-6
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: Central Akita City
Omagari Fireworks Festival
The Omagari Fireworks Festival, officially the National Fireworks Competition, is held annually on the last Saturday of August in Daisen City. This large-scale fireworks event, known as one of Japan’s three major fireworks festivals along with those in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, and Nagaoka, Niigata, is enjoyed by many.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Last Saturday of August
Location Information: ▶ Map, Hours, Directions
Transportation Information: 23-minute walk from Omagari Station
