What is a Ryokan? Ryokans are the best way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the true comforts of Japanese hospitality and service.
Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 "onsen" ,or hot springs, in Japan. Many can be found at the ryokans available on Japanese Guest Houses.
Akita Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region in northern Japan. The climate in Akita Prefecture is characterized by short summers and long winters. In fact, central Akita Prefecture has some of the highest snowfalls in all of Japan. Akita Prefecture is full of natural beauty, and includes many popular tourist attractions. Lake Tazawako is a crater lake located in eastern Akita Prefecture, and it is the deepest lake in Japan. Kakunodate is an old castle town also in the eastern part of the prefecture and it is full of well-preserved samurai houses. Lake Towada is another crater lake and with its many waterfalls and rapids it is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Tohoku region. The Hachimantal Plateau is located south of Lake Towada and it is known for its hot springs, mountain climbing, skiing, and snowboarding. The Ogahanto Peninsula in western Akita Prefecture sticks out into the Sea of Japan and has a beautiful, rugged coastline. In 1993, the Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range, which spreads over Aomri and Akita Prefectures, was declared a World Natural Heritage Site and contains one of the world's largest beech forests.
