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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Kakunodate sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled amidst the mountains and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Kakunodate is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
With its charming streets lined with traditional samurai houses and picturesque cherry blossom trees, it is a place where time seems to stand still.
There are plenty of things to do in Kakunodate that will capture your heart, each one as unique as the next.
From exploring ancient shrines and temples to indulging in local delicacies, the town offers a truly authentic experience that will leave you wanting more.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kakunodate:
1. Kakunodate Samurai Residences
A preserved neighborhood of samurai residences in Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the residential area and experience the preserved homes of former samurai. Visit the Bukeyashiki-dori (Samurai District), where the traditional samurai houses are located.
Inside, some of the homes have been turned into museums displaying the life of the samurai and their culture. You can also rent a traditional costume, and walk around as if you were a samurai or geisha.
Don’t miss: The Aoyagi House, which is known as one of the most beautiful homes in the district. Stroll along the Hinokinai River and take in the picturesque views of the cherry blossom trees.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the spring to see the cherry blossoms bloom, and in the fall to view the changing colors of the leaves.
The samurai district can be congested during peak tourist seasons, so consider visiting on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid crowds.
2. Aoyagi House
Traditional Japanese house in Kakunodate, built in the Taisho period.
What to see or do: Walk around the quaint neighborhood and admire the preserved architecture of the Aoyagi House. The house features a beautiful garden and traditional tatami rooms.
Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of the local samurai.
Don’t miss: The intricate woodwork and design of the Aoyagi House. Also, keep an eye out for the antique furniture and artwork displayed throughout the house.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestone and can be uneven. It is also recommended to visit during the cherry blossom season in April for a truly picturesque experience.
3. Ishiguro House
Ishiguro House is a historic samurai house in Kakunodate, Japan. Built in the 18th century, it is a well-preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture and design.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various rooms and gardens of the house, including the tea room, living quarters and samurai armoury. There are also displays of traditional household items and tools.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful Japanese garden surrounding the house. It is particularly gorgeous during the cherry blossom season in spring.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the history and cultural significance of the Ishiguro House, it is recommended to hire a local guide who can provide more detailed information and context.
Additionally, try to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
4. Odano House
Odano House is a well-preserved samurai mansion located in the charming town of Kakunodate in Akita prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the house and its beautiful gardens, which feature a small pond, perfectly manicured shrubs, and traditional stone lanterns.
Inside the house, you can see the lifestyle of a samurai family from the Edo period, complete with intricate carvings and beautiful artwork.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the house is the observation room on the top floor, which offers stunning views of the surrounding town and countryside.
Make sure to spend some time taking in the scenery from this unique perspective.
Insider travel tips: – Odano House can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so try to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
5. Kakunodate Cherry Blossoms
Kakunodate Cherry Blossoms is a row of about 200 weeping cherry trees along the Hinokinai River in Kakunodate, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the riverbank while admiring the stunning cherry blossoms. During the peak season in late April, the entire area transforms into a picturesque pink tunnel.
Don’t miss: The Yama no Yu public hot spring located on the opposite side of the riverbank provides an excellent view of the cherry blossoms while soaking in warm water.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, join the Sakura Rickshaw tour where a guide dressed as a samurai will take you on a scenic ride through the cherry blossom-lined streets of Kakunodate.
Avoid weekends as it can be crowded, and plan to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.
6. Kakunodate Bukeyashiki-dori
Kakunodate Bukeyashiki-dori is a beautifully preserved samurai district located in Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture.
What to see or do: Stroll down the cobblestone streets of this historic district and marvel at the well-preserved, traditional samurai houses that line the way.
Admire the old-world craftsmanship of the wooden buildings and gates, and take in the serene atmosphere of this peaceful neighborhood.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Aoyagi House, one of the largest and most impressive homes on Bukeyashiki-dori. Other must-see attractions include the buke yashiki houses of Ishiguro, Aoki, and Matsumoto.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the many local food vendors and shops in the area, offering everything from handmade souvenirs to traditional Japanese sweets.
And if you visit during cherry blossom season, be sure to enjoy a leisurely picnic under the blooming sakura trees in nearby Hinokinai Park.
7. Ishiguro House Kabazaiku Crafts
Ishiguro House Kabazaiku Crafts is a museum and workshop dedicated to the traditional Japanese craft of kabazaiku, which involves making beautiful handcrafted items out of cherry bark.
What to see or do: At Ishiguro House Kabazaiku Crafts, you can watch skilled artisans at work as they make a variety of kabazaiku items using traditional techniques.
You can also take a tour of the museum to see a collection of antique kabazaiku pieces and learn about the history of the craft.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try your hand at making a kabazaiku item yourself!
The workshop offers hands-on classes for visitors, where you can make your own cherry bark creations under the guidance of a skilled teacher.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in Kakunodate, a picturesque town known for its well-preserved samurai district and beautiful cherry blossom trees.
8. Kakunodate Traditional Archery (kyudo) Experience
Kakunodate Traditional Archery (kyudo) Experience is a unique opportunity to learn and practice the Japanese art of archery in a historic castle town.
What to see or do: Experience traditional Japanese archery at a dojo or outdoor range, learn proper techniques from a certified instructor and try hitting the target with your arrows.
The experience can be customized to beginner or advanced levels.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Kakunodate as you learn and practice this traditional art form surrounded by the town’s stunning natural scenery.
Insider travel tips: Remember to wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement. Reservations are required and can be made through local tourist offices or via online booking.
After the lesson, explore the charming streets of Kakunodate and indulge in some local cuisine or visit the samurai houses museums.
9. Kakunodate Rekisai Museum
Kakunodate Rekisai Museum is a history museum located in the city of Kakunodate, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the rich history of Kakunodate and its samurai culture through various exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can also learn about the local folklore and traditions of the area.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the impressive collection of samurai armor and weapons on display in the museum. The intricate details are stunning and offer a glimpse into the life of a samurai warrior.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the museum during the annual Donto-sai festival in February to see an impressive display of snow lanterns.
10. Ando Brewery Sake Tasting
Ando Brewery is a historic sake brewery located in Kakunodate, Japan. It offers sake tastings, tours, and a selection of souvenirs related to sake brewing.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the brewery and learn about the history and process of sake production.
The highlight of the visit is the sake tasting, where guests can sample a variety of sake flavors, including some exclusive to Ando Brewery.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try the brewery’s signature sake, which is made using pure, fresh water from the nearby Dakigaeri Valley.
Also, make sure to check out the brewery’s shop for unique souvenirs, such as sake cups, sake bottles, and other traditional Japanese crafts.
Insider travel tips: – The sake tastings are offered daily, and reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
11. Kakunodate Aoimori Railway D51 Train Ride
A nostalgic train ride on the Kakunodate Aoimori Railway D51 steam locomotive.
What to see or do: Enjoy a scenic ride through the beautiful countryside of Akita prefecture.
Take in the stunning scenery as you travel over bridges and through tunnels, and experience the golden age of rail travel.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to ride on a beautifully restored steam locomotive. Take plenty of photos and savour the experience of a slower, more relaxed mode of transport.
Insider travel tips: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Bring a jacket or sweater as it can get chilly on the train.
Don’t forget to try some of the local specialities, such as Akita kiritanpo, during your visit to the area.
12. Takahashi Memorial Museum of Art
Takahashi Memorial Museum of Art is a small art museum located in the samurai district of Kakunodate in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can view the works of prominent Japanese artists including Taikan Yokoyama, Shunsuke Matsumoto, and Kiyokata Kaburaki. The museum also features traditional Japanese pottery and ceramics.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to view the beautiful and intricate Japanese woodblock prints or ukiyo-e art, which the museum has on display.
Insider travel tips: Try visiting the museum in the afternoon when the lighting is best for viewing the art. It’s a small museum, so budget only 30-45 minutes for your visit.
Consider combining the museum visit with a walk through the historic samurai district of Kakunodate.
13. Hinokinai River
Scenic river running through the town of Kakunodate in Japan.
What to see or do: Walk along the river and enjoy the picturesque view of the cherry blossom trees in full bloom. The river also offers a serene setting for a picnic or a leisurely boat ride.
Don’t miss: The annual Hinokinai River Cherry Blossom Festival held in late April when the cherry trees are in full bloom, and the riverbanks are lit up at night.
Insider travel tips: For the best view of the cherry blossoms, take a stroll along the Hinokinai River Promenade, which runs parallel to the river for about 1.
2 kilometers. If you’re planning to visit during the festival, be prepared for crowds.
Consider renting a bicycle to explore the town and surrounding areas.
14. Kakunodate Nishinomiya Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in the Kakunodate samurai district of Akita Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit this beautiful shrine, surrounded by towering cedar trees, and admire the traditional Japanese architecture, the intricate carvings on the shrine’s building, and the serene atmosphere.
Explore the surrounding area and discover the history of the samurai district.
Don’t miss: The annual festival held in September, during which a traditional dance called “Jinku” is performed.
The dance dates back to the Edo period and is said to have been performed by samurai warriors to boost their morale before battle.
Insider travel tips: Visit the shrine early in the morning or in the evening to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding area is hilly and can be challenging to walk in.
Take your time exploring the area and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
15. Magari-yamashina Station
Magari-yamashina Station is a quaint and historic train station located in Akita Prefecture, Japan. The station is part of the Kakunodate Line, which runs from Kakunodate Station to Tazawako Station.
What to see or do: Magari-yamashina Station is a popular spot for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The station building has been preserved in its original form since it was built in 1925, with its wooden architecture and traditional Japanese design.
Visitors can also see the old-fashioned ticket booth and waiting room, which have been maintained to reflect the station’s history.
Don’t miss: One of the unique features of Magari-yamashina Station is its location – the station is situated inside a tunnel, which adds to its charm and intrigue.
Visitors can see the train tracks disappear into the tunnel as they approach the station, and then reappear on the other side as they depart.
Insider travel tips: While there isn’t much else to see or do in the immediate vicinity of Magari-yamashina Station, it’s worth taking a stroll through the nearby town of Kakunodate.
This historic town is famous for its well-preserved samurai district, where visitors can explore traditional samurai houses and learn about the history of the region.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the Kakunodate Line is only in operation from April to November, so plan your visit accordingly.
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