Do you need winter tires traveling from Tokyo to Akita during Golden Week?

Hello, I am planning on driving from Tokyo to Akita during Golden Week. I don't have snow tires. I've tried researching online if they are absolutely necessary but I am getting mixed results. Some sources say snow tires should be used in Tohoku through the end of Golden Week. Other sources say they are only necessary when passing through mountains.

For those who are familiar with the route, is it possible to get from Tokyo to Akita (via an overnight stop in Yamagata City) avoiding mountainous roads? It was hard to tell on Google maps. If not, I'll scrap the plan.

Thank you!