Winters are extremely severe with heavy snowfall in Akita, owing to the Ou and Dewa Mountain Ranges. Akita's rigorous climate and topography has contributed to the beauty of its natural landscape.

Towada-Hachimantai National Park includes the awe-inspiring Lake Towada and Hachimantai highland known for its alpine plants and abundant hot springs. Oga Quasi-national Park boasts spectacular coastal scenery, featuring strange rocks carved out by the rough waves of Japan Sea. The sacred Mt. Chokai is located in Chokai Quasi-National Park, ranging between Akita and Yamagata Prefectures. The gentle slopes of Mt. Kurikoma and highlands can be enjoyed in Kurikoma Quasi-National Park. Furthermore, Akita has seven other Prefectural Natural Parks including legendary Lake Tazawa, beautiful valley "Tazawako Dakikaeri", and Mt Moriyoshi.

The Shirakami Mountain Range has the world's largest virgin forest of beech trees and is registered as a World Natural Heritage Site. The nature and seasonal changes of Akita continue to fascinate locals and tourists alike.