Nestled in the volcanic landscapes of Akita, Semboku is a small city on the edge of beautiful Lake Tazawa. It’s home to a former samurai residence and is surrounded by spectacular hiking trails and scenic drives through Towada-Hachimantai National Park.

Things to do

Gain insight into the life of Semboku’s warriors at the Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum, a residence that once belonged to a high-ranking official. Step through the ornate yakushimon gate to explore the traditionally-decorated main residence and its vintage armoury, then visit the surrounding warehouses displaying artefacts from the period.

Want to see the deepest lake in Japan? Visit the azure waters of Tazawa, a caldera lake clustered with hot spring resorts. Admire the bronze statue of Tatsuko, which is the legendary maiden of beauty that overlooks the lake, or visit the skiing and snowboarding trails of the adjacent Tazawa Ski Area.

Follow the scenic driving route known as the “Aspite Line”, which winds through Towada-Hachimantai National Park. In addition to its autumn colours, it accesses hiking trails through evergreen forests to the plateau summit of Mount Hachimantai, which affords spectacular views across the national park.

Don’t miss the Dakigaeri Gorge where forests surround a turquoise mountain stream. Follow one of the walking trails to the gorge’s picturesque waterfalls, then cross the suspension bridge to peer down into the stream waters below.

Getting around

Semboku is just over an hour’s drive from Hanamaki Airport, which has regular flights from Osaka, Fukuoka and Sapporo. It’s also around four hours by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo. Semboku is small enough to explore on foot and having your own vehicle is the best way of accessing the surrounding sights.