Follow 4 local influencers as they explore winter at the northern region of Tohoku ー with Tokyo as a gateway

Day 3 to 4: Rich history and a stunning winter lake, plus gourmet in the form of delicious sake and plump strawberries.

Links to the rest of this itinerary series:

Day 1 to 2 : Go snow monster-watching on a ropeway, then visit a classy hot spring town straight out of a fairytale
Day 5 to 7: Ride a boat down an awe-inducing natural gorge before shopping ‘till you drop in Tokyo

DAY 3: Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum

The Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum is a museum located in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, Japan. The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the folklore and traditions of the Oga Peninsula, focusing on the Shinzan area and its famous Namahage Festival. The museum features an exhibit on the history and cultural significance of the Namahage Festival, which involves costumed performers visiting local households to scare children into behaving throughout the year. Visitors can learn about the festival's origins, as well as its unique customs and rituals.

Kakunodate Bukeyashiki-dori

Kakunodate Samurai District is a historical district located in Kakunodate Town of Akita Prefecture. The district was once the residential area for samurai families during the Edo Period, and today, it is one of the best-preserved samurai towns in Japan. The district features numerous well-preserved traditional samurai houses, many of which are open to the public as museums. Visitors can explore the houses and learn about the daily lives, traditions, and culture of samurai families during the Edo Period.

Lake Tazawa

Lake Tazawa is a deep, freshwater lake located in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, Japan. It is the deepest lake in Japan, with a maximum depth of 423.4 meters, and is known for its clear, blue waters and scenic beauty. The lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, including the prominent Mount Akita-Komagatake, and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding area from various observation points and hiking trails.

DAY 4: Morioka Asabiraki（Sake Brewery Tour・Tasting）

Iwate has long been known as the home of Nanbu Toji, a sake-producing region. Since its founding in 1871, the Japanese sake "Asa-biraki" has been nurtured by loving people in this land blessed with rice, water, and skill, polished by the rich nature. 150 years later, it is highly regarded locally, nationwide, and overseas as a brand that represents the home of sake, Iwate.

Strawberry Picking

The strawberries at Strawberry House Takahashi are grown by electrolytic water farming, and are very sweet and very juicy. The inside of the greenhouse is barrier-free, so even wheelchair users can enjoy strawberry picking. The recommended season would be anytime between mid-December and early July.