3 Best Hotels in Akita, Tohoku

Akita Castle Hotel has bright and airy rooms overlooking the moats of Senshu Park, with those on the fifth or sixth floor offering the better views, as do the window seats at the Japanese restaurant for breakfast. Upon entering the lobby you are greeted by a Picasso painting. Azaleas are in full bloom in the park in May and June. For a big splurge, request the Room Imperial where the imperial family stays.

The largest hotel in town, formerly the Akita View but now a member of the Crowne Plaza group, sits beside the Seibu Department Store right in the thick of all the shops that line the arcade extending out from the station, with many eateries located nearby. The hotel's facilities include a gym and sauna (for an extra ¥500), as well as several different dining options. A three-minute walk east will take you to JR Akita Station, and a seven-minute walk takes you to the edge of the entertainment district.

Adjacent to the JR Akita Station and ALS shopping mall, this hotel's location makes it a perfect choice for shopping and exploring the sights. Rooms are adequate, decorated with wood accents; some deluxe rooms include locally produced crafts and ornaments. Guests can also use a beautiful lounge filled with photography books and local crafts.