[2025 Semboku Attraction] Travel Guide for Kakunodatemachi (Updated Jul)

#GINKGO #100 Ways to Travel In addition to red leaves in autumn in Northeast Japan, yellow leaves are also indispensable #gingko. During this free trip to Northeast Japan, I visited several scenic spots where ginkgos are in full bloom. I share them as follows: #Kakunodate is known as Oku's Little Kyoto, especially the street in the samurai house. The maple leaves and ginkgo trees bloom at the same time, dyeing the entire thatched house of the samurai house in a golden red. It is really beautiful! #Morioka Castle Ruins Morioka Castle, located close to the river and located high up, is full of cherry blossoms, maples, and ginkgo trees. With the remains of the city wall as the background, the golden ginkgo trees stand tall and straight, giving it a unique sense of history. # aomori Ginkgo is a street tree in Aomori. Ginkgo trees are planted on both sides of the main road extending to the harbor next to A-Factory, but the intervals are a bit wide. Each blooming ginkgo has a lonely beauty. #中野山 Although it is a well-known maple viewing spot, there are still huge ginkgo trees along the maple viewing platform. Especially at the maple viewing platform, there are whole yellow leaves, overwhelmingly dyeing the entire mountain forest yellow, which is quite healing. #OiraseStream The most popular natural attraction in Northeast Japan, the gurgling stream, the red and yellow colors of autumn, and the sunlight shining through the gaps between the maple leaves and ginkgo trees, are as beautiful as a painting. There are many kinds of trees in Oirase Stream, including red leaves, ginkgo, cedar and other color-changing deciduous trees. Once the seasons change, it is even more beautiful and it is extremely pleasant to walk along it. #日本 Northeast Free Travel #gingko #红叶 #100 ways to travel

Many people who travel to Akita will come to the Samurai Residence. Usually, many people will arrange a half-day tour. I highly recommend that you come here early in the morning and have lunch here. I highly recommend that you eat at Sakura-no-Sato. Here you can eat Akita's super delicious Hinai-no-chicken, udon, and rice sticks. The service is also super good and has a Japanese style. It is definitely recommended for lunch in Kakunodate, Akita. You must come and try it.

[Access] About a 20-minute walk from Kakunodate Station Along the Samurai Residence Street [Points] ~Feel the atmosphere~ It is said that the Kawarada family residence is an architectural style that has been inherited from the Edo period. The front room retains the Shoin-zukuri style that is unique to this region. Large trees such as weeping cherry, fir, katsura, pine, and ginkgo are planted within the residence. It's a good idea to take your time and look around. *Information current as of May 2023. #Tourist Spot

[Access] About a 20-minute walk from Kakunodate Station Along the Buke Yashiki Street [Points] Odanoie is a samurai residence that is also a designated historic site of Senboku City. It is said that the family was subordinate to the Imamiya clan and then became a vassal of the Satake Kita clan. It is said to be the residence of a mid-ranking samurai. Originally, they served through martial arts, so it is said that there used to be a dojo on the right side of the gate. It is the first residence along the Buke Yashiki Street, so be sure to go in. *Information as of May 2023. #Tourist Spot

[Access] About a 20-minute walk from Kakunodate Station Along the Samurai Residence Street [Points] ~Sightseeing, dining, and souvenirs are all available here~ The Aoyagi family home has six museums, including the main house, armory, and Kaitai Shinsho Memorial Museum, on a 10,000m2 site. Swords of the same weight as those used by people at the time are on display and can be held. There are also restaurants and souvenir shops, so you can relax and enjoy your stay. If you are sightseeing in Kakunodate, please stop by. *Information as of May 2023. #Tourist Spot

This trip to Northeast Japan went to Kakukan It was to take the Akita inland mini train to Arenhe and go up to Mount Moriji to see the ice trees The Akita inland minitrain departs from Kakakukan There is only one car train All the trains had pictures of Akitas on board Even the seats have Akita Inu motifs Very cute The scenery at every stop after the drive is breathtaking It was dizzying to see Even if you are not going to Mount Moriji, it is well worth a seat #Japan #Kakukan #Moriyoshiyama #Akita Inland Line

#summervacay Let’s journey to **Kakunodate (角館)**, the "Little Kyoto of Tohoku" in Akita Prefecture, Japan! This beautifully preserved samurai town is famous for its cherry blossoms, historic residences, and traditional atmosphere. Here’s your complete guide: --- ### **🌸 Kakunodate Highlights** **📍 Location**: Akita Prefecture, Northern Japan (2.5hrs from Morioka) **🚆 Access**: - From Tokyo: Take the **Akita Shinkansen** (3.5hrs) to Kakunodate Station - From Akita City: 45min by train --- ### **🌟 Top Experiences** 1. **Samurai District** - Walk along **Bukeyashiki-dori** with 400-year-old samurai mansions - Visit **Aoyagi House** (entry ¥500), the best-preserved complex - See antique katana swords at **Ishiguro House** 2. **Cherry Blossoms** (Late April-Early May) - The 2km **Shidare-zakura (Weeping Cherry) Avenue** is legendary - Night illuminations create magical "sakura tunnels" 3. **Denshokan Museum** - Displays of traditional Kabuto helmets and lacquerware - Try on a samurai helmet replica (great photo op!) 4. **Hina Doll Workshops** - Kakunodate is famous for **kaba-zaiku** (cherry bark crafts) - Make your own at **Kakunodate Craft Museum** --- ### **🍱 Local Flavors** - **Inaniwa Udon**: Thin, delicate noodles at **Masuda-ya** (since 1860) - **Kiritanpo**: Pounded rice sticks grilled with miso - try at **Hinai Jidoriya** - **Sake Tasting**: At **Kakunodate Shuzo** brewery --- ### **📸 Best Photo Spots** 1. **Samurai houses** with cherry blossom foreground 2. **Hiyoshi Shrine** torii gate covered in snow (winter) 3. **Ashigawa River** with weeping willows --- ### **🎎 Seasonal Guide** - **Spring**: Cherry blossoms (late Apr) + samurai festival - **Summer**: Green maple trees and river cruises - **Autumn**: Vibrant koyo (foliage) in early Nov - **Winter**: Snow-covered thatched roofs (Jan-Feb) --- ### **🚶♂️ Sample Itinerary** 1. Morning: Samurai district walk 2. Lunch: Inaniwa udon + sake tasting 3. Afternoon: Cherry bark craft workshop 4. Sunset: Stroll along Ashigawa River --- ### **💡 Pro Tips** - Rent a **bicycle** (¥500/day) to explore efficiently - Buy the **Akita Nairiku Pass** for unlimited local trains - Stay overnight at a **ryokan** like Tamachi Bukeyashiki Hotel *Local Secret:* Visit **early morning** to have the samurai streets to yourself!

Review of Samurai Village Kakunodate A town as quiet as the sound of a heartbeat If there’s a place that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back to the Edo period without the need for artificial sets, Kakunodate is the answer. This samurai village is located in Akita Prefecture, in northern Japan. Each street still features old samurai houses that are elegant, simple, and perfectly reflect the lifestyle of the warrior class of the past. Dark wood, earthen walls, stone fences, pine bushes, and gravel paths—everything feels still yet solid. Some houses are open for visitors, such as the Aoyagi-ke and Ishiguro-ke residences. These homes display ancient artifacts, weapons, armor, and small Japanese gardens. Walking inside feels like stepping into the story of someone long gone, yet their breath still lingers in the house. 🌸 If you visit during spring, the streets are adorned with Shidare cherry blossoms (weeping cherry trees) that bow down as if whispering secrets to visitors. The sight of petals gently drifting in front of wooden houses is truly enchanting.

Among Japan's renowned cherry blossom spots, Kakunodate stands out as a popular destination. The town retains its old streets and samurai residences, with its famous weeping cherry trees adorning the area. The contrast between the black walls of the samurai houses and the pink blossoms of the weeping cherry trees is stunning, creating a tunnel-like effect of cherry blossoms. The cherry blossom season in the Tohoku region lasts from mid-April to early May. In summer, the lush green leaves are beautiful, in autumn the vibrant foliage, and in winter the snow-covered cherry trees offer a picturesque view. If you're lucky, you might even encounter an Akita dog. Must-try local dishes include Kiritanpo hot pot, Hinai chicken, Inaniwa udon, and coffee zenzai.

🌸🏯【Kakunodate, Akita】 Spring is surrounded by samurai residences and cherry blossoms in a town where time stands still. When spring comes, this town is breathtakingly beautiful. Kakunodate is known as the "Little Kyoto of Michinoku." The black-walled samurai residence street is covered with weeping cherry blossoms, and just walking around you can feel the breeze of Edo. In a townscape that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time, when you enter a teahouse where the aroma of warm miso soup and a hearth wafts through the air, time slows down a little. Here, "cherry blossoms" are not just flowers. It's a story-like landscape that has bloomed over hundreds of years of history and people's feelings. ⸻ 📍Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Kakunodate Station on the Akita Shinkansen 🌸 The best season is mid- to late April (weeping cherry blossoms and Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms are in full bloom) 🔖 #Kakunodate #weeping cherry blossoms #samurai residences #little Kyoto #spring trip #discovery on TRIP #domestic trip #couple trip #couple trip #solo trip #solo trip #absolutely free trip #Akita #Akita Prefecture #Akita trip

#cherryblossom25 Kakunodate in Akita, Japan, is a charming samurai town famous for its breathtaking cherry blossoms 🌸. Every late April to early May, hundreds of weeping sakura trees line the historic streets and riversides, creating a dreamy pink canopy against traditional wooden houses 🏯. It’s one of Japan’s most romantic and culturally rich hanami spots ✨.

#cherryblossom25 Kakunodate, a historic samurai town in Akita Prefecture, Japan, is famous for its breathtaking cherry blossom season in late April to early May. The town’s preserved samurai residences are beautifully framed by hundreds of weeping cherry trees, creating a romantic, nostalgic atmosphere. Along the Hinokinai River, a tunnel of cherry blossoms draws visitors from around the country, making Kakunodate one of Tohoku’s top hanami (flower viewing) destinations.

#cherryblossom25 In Akita's historic samurai district, over 400 weeping cherry trees (shidarezakura) cascade like pink waterfalls—creating Japan's most elegant fusion of feudal architecture and floral beauty. 🏯 Must-See Blossom Vistas 1. Samurai Residence Lane - 2km of weeping cherries framing black-walled samurai mansions 2. Hinokinai River Promenade - 162 Somei Yoshino trees forming a perfect pink tunnel 3. Aoyagi House Garden - 300-year-old shidarezakura over a traditional tea house

In Akita Prefecture, Japan, Kakunodate is like a small town frozen in time, quietly telling stories of the past and attracting many tourists eager to explore its historical heritage. Filled with anticipation, I embarked on a journey through time in Kakunodate.​ 🎒 Preparations​ Before departure, I carefully checked the weather in Akita. Kakunodate has cold, snowy winters and relatively cool summers. Therefore, in winter, it is necessary to prepare thick down jackets, warm scarves and gloves, and waterproof and non-slip snow boots. In summer, bring light and breathable clothing, and a light jacket to cope with the temperature difference between morning and evening. To record every beautiful moment in Kakunodate, I fully charged my camera in advance, brought spare batteries and memory cards, and a portable charger is also essential for convenient mobile phone navigation and photography. In addition, prepare some snacks and drinking water, but be careful to eat them in designated areas within the scenic area and keep the environment clean.​ 🚗 Transportation Guide​ It is quite convenient to travel from Akita Station to Kakunodate. You can take the JR Ou Main Line, and it takes about 30 minutes to arrive at Kakunodate Station. After exiting the station, it is about a 15-minute walk to the Kakunodate Bukeyashiki District (Samurai Residences). If you want to explore the surrounding area more freely, you can also rent a car at Akita Station and drive along the scenic highway, which takes about 40 minutes. During the self-drive trip, you can enjoy the rural scenery of Akita, adding more fun to the journey.​ 🌟 Attractions​ Kakunodate is known as "Little Kyoto of Michinoku" and preserves many buildings from the Edo period. Stepping into Kakunodate is like traveling back hundreds of years in an instant. On both sides of the street, the white-walled and black-tiled samurai residences are scattered in an orderly manner. The simple gates and exquisite lattice windows fully demonstrate the majesty and taste of the samurai families of the time. The stone walls and moats in front of the residences are well-preserved, and the weeping willows by the river sway gently in the wind, adding a touch of gentle beauty to this ancient neighborhood. Among them, the Aoyagi Family Residence is the most famous. The interior displays a wealth of cultural relics related to samurai culture, such as samurai swords and armor. You can also visit traditional Japanese-style rooms, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the daily life of samurai families.​ 🎯 Travel Guide​ After arriving in Kakunodate, first stroll along the main road, admire the appearance of the buildings along the way, and feel the weight of history. Many residences are open to the public, and you can buy tickets to enter and learn more about samurai culture. Walking along the moat is also a great pleasure. There are benches by the river. When you are tired, you can sit down and quietly admire the buildings and green trees reflected in the water. When spring comes, the cherry blossoms in Kakunodate are in full bloom. The pink petals complement the ancient buildings, creating a picturesque scene. It is very pleasant to stroll or have a picnic under the cherry trees at this time. If time permits, it is recommended to stay in Kakunodate for half a day to a full day to fully experience the tranquility and simplicity of the place.​ 🍱 Food and Shopping​ After the tour, don't miss the surrounding food. Kakunodate's specialty Kiritanpo (grilled rice skewers) is worth a try. Glutinous rice balls are skewered on bamboo sticks, grilled over charcoal until golden brown, and then dipped in special sweet soy sauce. It is sweet, soft, glutinous, and has a unique taste. There is also Akita's specialty ramen, with a rich pork bone broth paired with chewy noodles, plus toppings such as char siu and eggs, leaving a lasting impression. In terms of shopping, local souvenir shops sell a variety of goods related to Kakunodate's history and culture, such as handkerchiefs printed with samurai patterns, exquisite Japanese ceramic ornaments, and traditional Japanese paper crafts, all of which are excellent gifts for relatives and friends or as souvenirs.​ ⚠ Precautions​ When visiting Kakunodate, pay attention to protecting cultural relics and buildings, and do not touch or damage them at will. When visiting the interior of the residences, follow the rules of the museum and keep quiet. When traveling in winter, pay attention to snow and ice on the roads, walk carefully, and ensure safety. Respect local cultural customs and communicate with residents in a friendly manner.​ Kakunodate brought me an unforgettable travel experience with its unique historical charm. If you are also interested in history and culture, come and experience it. I believe you will also be fascinated by this land full of samurai legacy.

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Strolling through the old streets of Tohoku's Little Kyoto Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture is also known as the "Little Kyoto of the Northeast" and is famous for its samurai residences with traditional buildings. It was formed in the early 17th century as a samurai city, and its historical relics are still preserved after a hundred years of ups and downs. In spring, weeping cherry blossoms are in full bloom. In summer, the area is shaded by green trees and full of greenery, attracting many tourists. Best time to view cherry blossoms in previous years: late April to early May Cherry Blossom Types: Somei Yoshino Cherry (Hinokiuchi River Bank), Weeping Cherry (Bukeyayashiki-dori) Opening hours: Open all day Recommended transportation Departure from Zhufu B&B ► Airplane: Shin-Okubo Station (transfer at Shinagawa Station) → Tokyo Haneda Airport → Akita Airport (about 1 hour and 10 minutes) → Airport shuttle bus (reservation required, about 1 hour and 50 minutes, toward Lake Tazawa) ►Shinkansen: Higashi-Shinjuku Station → Tokyo Station → Tazawako Station (about 3 hours) → Ugo Bus (about 30 minutes) → Tazawako Ski Resort ►Night Bus: Higashi-Shinjuku Station → Daimon Station (3 minutes on foot) → Hamamatsucho, Tokyo → Tazawako Station (about 9 hours and 30 minutes) → Ugo Bus (about 30 minutes) → Tazawako Ski Resort #GlobalTravel

At Sato Yosuke in Kakunodate, the Binaiji Chicken Udon I tasted brought a wave of emotion to my heart. This bowl of udon is like an elegant piece of music, with each bite exuding a rich chicken broth aroma that warms my soul. The tender chicken, paired with the chewy udon, has the perfect balance of savory flavors, making it irresistible to take one bite after another. Sitting in this small shop, the picturesque scenery outside the window and the surrounding tranquility made me feel the slow and precious passage of time. This bowl of udon is not just food, but a continuation of a journey, allowing me to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of life while satisfying my taste buds. Here, I not only tasted a delicious bowl of udon but also experienced a way of life. Each chew is a moment of cherishing and gratitude for the present. Such an experience makes my memories of Kakunodate even more profound and beautiful.

📌 🇯🇵 Japan / Akita . ⁡ It's as if the town was frozen in time. ⁡ Kakunodate, known as the "Little Kyoto of Michinoku" ⁡ Within a compact radius of about 2km, there are many ancient buildings, including samurai residences with impressive black-painted walls🏘 ⁡ Cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, snowy scenery... each season has its own atmosphere, but it is especially famous as a cherry blossom spot, and it is said to be crowded with many people in late April...🌸🌿🍁❄️ ⁡ The snow-covered postbox was also cute📮☃️ ⁡ I'd like to come back in a different season🥳 ⁡ The last photo is the Hinai Jidori Oyakodon, said to be the ultimate oyakodon I ate in Kakunodate! 🍳 It was delicious🤤🤤 ⁡ . ⁡ #Akita #Kakunodate #Kakunodate Samurai Residences #akita #kakunodate #tripDomestic travel

#MaemJennie takes you to Kakunodate 🍁 A samurai town This town is located next to Lake Tazawako. You can make a trip on the same day. The town is peaceful but beautiful. From the station, you can take a leisurely walk and see the real samurai houses in Kakunodate. The riverside is also very refreshing. I want to come during the cherry blossom season. Getting there 🚄 Only ten minutes from Tazawako by Komachi Shinkansen or twenty minutes by JR Tazawako Line.

If you visit Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture just after Golden Week, it's a great time to enjoy the city with fewer people and in comfort. Even after the cherry blossom season is over, the fresh greenery of the trees is refreshing and you can stroll around in a pleasant atmosphere. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the charm of Kakunodate in peace, but some shops may not be open. Even so, Kakunodate, where you can fully enjoy the idyllic townscape and natural beauty, is a spot you'll want to visit again and again! #0yentravelNovember

Located in Kakunodate, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture, the popular restaurant Sakura no Sato serves local cuisine. You can enjoy Akita flavors such as Hinai Jidori chicken oyakodon and Inaniwa udon. I ordered the Kiritanpo Hotdog for takeout. The crispy grilled kiritanpo was chewy and delicious. The ingredients went perfectly together, making it a simple dish that really captured the flavor of Akita! It's great for lunch, or a casual stop between sightseeing! Be sure to stop by. #0YenTravelNovember

Domanjin, located in Kakunodate, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture, is a restaurant where you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients. We especially recommend Ando-san's Miso Grilled Pizza. This fragrant pizza uses local miso, and the richness of the miso goes perfectly with the cheese, making it so delicious you'll be impressed with every bite! Be sure to stop by on your stroll around Kakunodate and enjoy the unique local flavors. #0YenTripNovember

Kakunodate in Akita prefecture is famous for its samurai district which did not disappoint. People who already have an interest and some knowledge would surely appreciate all the preserved buildings and artifacts on display here. On the other side of the town is a quiet river and park which makes for a nice stroll back down off the busier streets. After visiting the town itself, I really can't recommend the nearby Lake Tazawako enough for the second part of your trip! 📍Address:

Samurai village (Sakura trip in April 2024) Samurai village is located at Kakunodate machi, Senboku distric, Akita perfecture, Japan. The village is kept in view of ancient samurai houses that is surrounded with blossoming cherry trees, Sakura. If you have a plan to visit Akita perfecture in spring, you must do visitting the Samurai village, and near other attractive places. From anywhere in Akita, you can take a train to Kakunodate station. Then, walk along the street signs. Finally, you will found the Samurai village. And the Pink icecream cone is made from some sakura flower. ^£^ #sakura 2024 #samurai village #Kakunodate station #100วิธีเที่ยว🌸japan

For our wedding photo album, we decided not to hire a professional photographer. Instead, we planned a Japan trip, and my travel mate became our beloved photographer, capturing our couple moments during the beautiful Japanese spring. Traveling in late April and early May in Japan is truly special. Here are our recommended spots for couple photos: ~> Cherry Blossoms: Head to the Tohoku region (northern Japan), visiting places like Kakunodate, Kitakami, Morioka, Hirosaki, and Aomori. ~> Nemophila: Hitachi Seaside Park ~> Wisteria: Definitely visit Ashikaga Wisteria Garden! In the south, Kawaji Fujien is also a stunning spot. ~> Azaleas: Ome (in Tokyo) is the perfect place to see vibrant azaleas. We bought the JR Pass, which made traveling around so convenient. Whether it's the nationwide JR Pass or a regional one, depending on your itinerary, it allows you to reach many beautiful places in a short time. #coupletravel

#AutumnTravel My trip to **Kakunodatemachi** in autumn was a wonderful cultural and aesthetic experience. This historic Japanese city features ancient streets that preserve traditional architectural heritage. During autumn, the trees turn warm colors 🍂, adding a charming touch to the atmosphere. I wandered through the narrow alleys surrounded by traditional wooden buildings and small shops selling local handicrafts. The cool breeze brought the scent of nature and gave me a sense of peace and tranquility 🍁. Visiting the surrounding temples and gardens was an opportunity to contemplate and enjoy the beauty of autumn. **Kakunodatemachi** is the ideal place to enjoy Japanese culture in a breathtaking landscape at this time of year 🍁.

I went to Akita and Aomori to see cherry blossoms in mid-April this year. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom. The main places to see cherry blossoms are: Akita-Chiaki Park, Kakunodate Aomori-Hirosaki Take the Japan Railway from Tokyo to Tohoku to see cherry blossoms It was really beautiful. Seeing the cherry blossoms bloom, bloom, and finally fall is unforgettable. You really have to see the cherry blossoms in Japan in your lifetime! #100 ways to travel #Flower viewing

When it comes to cherry blossoms in the Northeast, you can't miss Kakunodate in Akita. Kakunodate, known as the Little Kyoto, attracts tourists from all over the world every year during the cherry blossom season. The cherry blossoms in Kakunodate are mainly weeping cherry and Somei Yoshino cherry. The weeping cherry is said to be the source of gold from three seedlings in the dowry of a bride from Kyoto 350 years ago, while the Somei Yoshino cherry flows through the Hinoki River in the city. It was planted in 1934 to commemorate the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor. It has now formed a two-kilometer-long cherry blossom tunnel. #springplace2024 #cherryblossom

Visiting Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture, one might be struck by the illusion of stepping back in time. The streets, still perfectly preserving the samurai residences of the past, are adorned with the weeping cherry blossoms of Kakunodate, which bloom from the black walls and paint the town in a beautiful shade of pink. It is recommended to dress in a kimono, take a rickshaw ride to enjoy the cherry blossoms, and fully immerse oneself in the charming atmosphere of Kakunodate as the rickshaw gently sways. Moreover, the Hinokinaigawa embankment near the samurai residences is a famous spot for viewing Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms. The joy of flower viewing is to eat a Hanami bento under the fully bloomed cherry trees. Address: Kakunodate Town, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture Transportation: Take the Akita Shinkansen from Sendai Station and get off at 'JR Kakunodate Station', then it's a 20-minute walk.