This former samurai town located in Akita prefecture, in the Tohoku region, earns the nickname "Little Kyoto". Kakunodate, with its charming streets lined with weeping cherry trees, will captivate you at every turn.

History

Lord Yoshikatsu Ashina founded Kakunodate in 1620. He transformed it into an important fortress town, complete with a castle and numerous samurai residences throughout the Edo period (1603–1868). In 1656, the Satake family took control of the fortified city. This shift in power proved hugely beneficial to Kakunodate, which subsequently flourished as a regional economic and cultural hub. However, the castle was eventually dismantled due to a shogunal decree.

Kakunodate Today: An Essential Destination in Akita Prefecture

Kakunodate's feudal character has changed remarkably little over more than 400 years. Local buildings escaped the transformations brought by Western influences during the Meiji era (1868–1912). This traditional charm makes the town the most coveted destination in Akita prefecture. Its residential quarter preserves its picturesque appeal, dotted with peaceful alleyways. You'll find numerous samurai residences that faithfully illustrate the ambiance of a castle town in Japan. While many are private homes, several warrior dwellings are open to the public, including Aoyagi, Nishinomiya, and Ishiguro. Don't miss the temples and shops south of the city center. Each building reveals fragments of Kakunodate's past—a noble history that seems to endure to the present day.

Samurai Welcome You into Their Homes

About a fifteen-minute walk northwest of Kakunodate Station, discover the Uchimachi samurai quarter, where some historic estates now serve as small museums, craft shops, and cafés. Thatched-roof mansions line broad avenues, concealed behind tall black fences. Access—free or ticketed, depending on the property—is through imposing gates. The Ishiguro Samurai House is a must-see in Kakunodate. This 19th-century residence once housed the Ishiguro warrior family under the rule of the Satake clan. Guided tours take you through the main rooms, garden, and storehouses. Discover vintage maps of Kakunodate, numerous swords, books, and other treasures carefully preserved within. If you're fortunate, you may meet a descendant of the Ishiguro family on-site.

Nearby, explore the Aoyagi Samurai House, which carefully preserves the Aoyagi family's belongings. Folk art and antique gramophones complement the site's displays. A short walk south, several attractions line Bukeyashiki Street: the Omura Art Museum, renowned for its fine glass collection; the Iwahashi Samurai House, dating from the Edo period; the Samurai House Museum; the Kawarada and Odano Samurai Residences; and more. Don't overlook the Nishinomiya House, celebrated for its tansu chests, lacquerware, and sake bottles. Some of these buildings may be undergoing renovation. The Hiyoke plaza separates the samurai quarter from the commercial zone.

A Visit Adorned with Weeping Cherry Blossoms

Most of Kakunodate's streets are bordered by sakura (cherry) trees, particularly the long avenue that runs along the Hinokinai River. In spring, the blossoms create a magical panorama for visitors. Originally brought from Kyoto, Kakunodate's weeping cherry trees now number nearly 400 or more.

Discovering Kakunodate's Renowned Tea Boxes

The Edo period was marked by stability and peace. Many lower-ranking samurai had to pursue secondary occupations to make ends meet. It was during this era that kabazaiku was born—a local specialty involving the creation of tea boxes and other objects from the bark of weeping cherry trees. You can view an extensive collection of these traditional creations at the Denshokan Red Brick Museum. Looking for an original souvenir? Tea box shops are scattered throughout the town.

The Small Town Comes Alive in Autumn

Kakunodate celebrates several festivals each year. However, the autumn festival, known as Kakunodate Matsuri no Yama Gyoji and over 350 years old, is the most captivating. It takes place in early September. During this event, massive festival floats command the streets of the town, accompanied by dancers and traditional music. The parade concludes at the oldest local Buddhist temple: Yakushido. Visit Kakunodate's tourism information center near the station for details about this festival.

A Quick Detour to Dakigaeri Gorge

About 15 minutes by car or taxi from Kakunodate lies Dakigaeri Gorge. These rock formations mesmerize visitors with their pristine blue-green mountain stream and numerous waterfalls. Their beauty is heightened by the ancient 10-kilometer forest that covers them. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Climate in This Region of Japan

Kakunodate experiences hot, humid summers. Winters, by contrast, are characterized by severe cold and strong winds. Clouds frequently blanket the city's skies year-round. Temperatures typically range between –3°C and 28°C.

There are several transportation options to reach Kakunodate.

By Air:

The nearest airport is in Akita and offers connections to Tokyo, Sapporo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Seoul.

By Rail:

From Tokyo, the Akita Komachi Shinkansen passes through Kakunodate.

By Road:

From Shinjuku in Tokyo, buses depart for Akita. The journey takes approximately 8 hours. The bus ride from Akita city to Kakunodate's bus terminal takes another 1.5 hours.

By Sea:

Ferries connect Akita to Tomakomai in Hokkaido, Niigata, and Tsuruga.

Kakunodate can be explored on foot. However, buses are available to reach attractions further afield. These services are limited, particularly in winter. Schedules vary by season. Check with Kakunodate's tourism information center to plan your itinerary effectively.

What to Do in Kakunodate

• Explore the lives of samurai in the town's historic residences
• Purchase a traditional tea box
• Stroll beneath the weeping cherry trees
• Visit Dakigaeri Gorge
• Learn about kabazaiku at the Denshokan Red Brick Museum
• Attend the Kakunodate Matsuri no Yama Gyoji festival, and more