The History of Towada Hotel
Enjoy the Fusion of the Great Landscape of the Lake,
Nature and the Akita Cedar Tree Hotel
Since its completion in 1938, this hotel has stood steadfast for over 80 years on the shore of magnificent Lake Towada. Crafted from natural Akita cedar trees, the building has matured with ages and keeps captivating our guests.
Beyond the Turbulent History History
Constructed as a Prefectural Hotel in the Best Location Overlooking the Panoramic View of the Lake
In June 1939, Towada Hotel opened its doors, offering a magnificent view of Lake Towada from the hillside. Our hotel was one of the hotels constructed as a part of Japanese Government project to host foreign visitors for the “Phantom Olympics” of Tokyo in 1940, cancelled due to the escalated international political tensions. Ever after, despite enduring the trials of wartime and post-war period, this hotel continues to be a witness of the history with the serene lake on this land.
Unchangingly Exists in the Changing History
Towada Hotel's management was initially overseen by Naoemon Seki, appointed by Akita Prefecture. In 1940, management shifted to the Ministry of Railways, and by 1942, the property officially transferred to the Ministry. However, the outbreak of the Pacific War in the prior year led to a suspension of its business operations.
After the conclusion of World War II, the US Occupation Force requisitioned the property, however, in 1952, upon its derequisition, Akita Prefecture repurchased the hotel, initiating operations under the Japan Travel Bureau Foundation from 1955. Subsequently, the Akita Tourism Development Public Corporation (now known as the Akita Prefectural Product Development Public Corporation) joined in the hotel's management from 1959 onwards.
Throughout its existence, Towada Hotel has stood by Lake Towada amidst significant historical upheavals. Over the years, with expansions and renovations, a segment of the main building earned recognition in 2003 as a 'Tangible Cultural Property.
Cherished by Imperial Family, VIPs, and Celebrities
Towada Hotel, having persevered through challenging historical periods, stands as a cherished destination for the Imperial Family and esteemed political figures. In October 1961, Their Majesties Emperor Hirohito and Empress Nagako honored us with their stay during the 16th National Sports Festival of Japan. More recently, Crown Prince Akishino chose our hotel for the Gakushuin Jr. High School's excursion and a university research group's trip.
Our hotel has been honored to host esteemed guests, including Ex-Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida, the former USA Ambassador of Japan, and a multitude of other influential figures over the past half-century. We eagerly await the chance to welcome you with sincere enthusiasm.
Temple Carpenter Artisan Technics Architecture
Discover the Perfection: Precise Calculations for the Best Harmony between the Architecture and the Lake Landscape
The Towada Hotel was meticulously crafted by a team of 18 skilled temple carpenters hailing from Akita, Aomori, and Iwate Prefecture. This three-story wooden structure was fashioned from natural Akita cedar trees, one of the Japan's three most beautiful trees, with its exterior adorned by logs. You will find and enjoy the different taste and atmosphere created by every carpenter’s unique woodworking in Tokonoma, ceilings, and lattice doors in each room. The lake can be seen from all guest rooms as if it’s a part of the garden of the hotel. The hotel was designed by Kensuke Nagakura, a distinguished Professor of Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at Nihon University. Mr. Nagakura traveled to Europe for an oversea research expedition to craft our Towada Hotel, lending its exterior a resemblance of a North European mountain cottage. The allure of this sophisticated woodworking is the never-ending source of learning and an important cultural significance.
Overwhelming Woodcraft Decoration at the Lobby
The entrance hall with an open ceiling is the best highlight in the interior space. The double use of the same-diameter logs for ceiling crosspieces impresses the visitors’ sight as “Towada Hotel of Akita Cedar Trees”. The cedar logs encircling the open ceiling originate from trees aged between 65 to 85 years old. Additionally, the unpeeled beech pillar positioned at the front entrance is estimated to have come from a tree nearly a century old. The entrance planks are crafted from Zelkova trees, while the stones adorning the entrance hall floor were specifically sourced from the shores of Towada Lake.
Reading by the Window with a Panorama of the Lake
Our Morino-Toshokan, the “Libray in the Woods”, is a perfect space to enjoy tranquilly reading by the window overlooking Lake Towada.
Car-Porch to Receive a Variety of Visitors
A horizontal use of log beams is a highlight of our main entrance car-porch. A Beautiful and historical architecture crafted with big trees will welcome you at the entrance.
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