Akita Prefecture

Akita is a mountainous northern prefecture on Honshu, Japan's main island. It's home to hot springs, notably those surrounding Lake Tazawa. Kakunodate town has a historic district of wooden samurai mansions, some of which are museums. Bordering the Sea of Japan is the capital city Akita, famous for Kanto Matsuri, a summer festival in which participants balance long bamboo poles topped with lanterns.