If you have a bit of extra time and you’re happy to travel 30 miles, check out Tsuruoka. This popular place offers up plenty to keep you entertained. Shonai Shrine, Tsuruoka Park and Dainichibo Temple alone make the drive out here worthwhile. Locals will also likely point you toward Yokote, 30 miles away. If you can only see one attraction here, make sure it’s Yokote Castle. (But we’re also big fans of Kamakaura Museum and Akita Furusatomura.)