Kakunodate is a castle town in Akita Prefecture in the Tohoku region. The town is filled with an emotional and beautiful townscape and is also known as Little Kyoto of Michinoku (Tohoku). Although it is a castle town, Kakunodate Castle has been destroyed and no longer exists. However, you can appreciate many historical buildings such as samurai residences and merchant houses throughout the town. In addition, there are many events such as traditional festivals and cherry blossom views.
About Kakunodate
Kakunodate is a town in the eastern part of Akita Prefecture. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the Tamagawa River flows to the south, and the Hinokinai River flows to the west. In the vicinity of the town, you can see the unique scenery of the mountainous areas such as the valley and hot springs.
Weather and Tourist Season of Kakunodate
Kakunodate is a cool area with a yearly average temperature of about 11°C. However, the maximum temperature is about 30°C in the summer and the average temperature is below 0°C in the winter. Therefore, from a climate perspective, the best time to visit Kakunodate is from spring to autumn.
However, in the winter, snow scenes spread throughout the town, and spectacular traditional events are also held. Therefore, winter is recommended for a limited experiences.
Highlights and Things to do at Kakunodate
In Kakunodate, there are various scenic spots such as natural scenic spots, shrines and temples, and various facilities such as dressing and traditional craft experiences. Here are some recommended spots.
Kakunodate Samurai Residences in Uchimachi and Tomachi
As Kakunodate has a history as a castle town, there are many samurai residences that still remain. The castle town is divided into the north and south, each with different characteristics.
On the north side is a samurai residence street called Uchimachi. Eight samurai houses are open to the public, and each house displays not only internal structures and gardens but also exhibits such as weapons and literature.
On the other hand, there is another samurai residence street called Tamachi Samurai Residence Street in Tomachi on the south side. In this area, not only are there samurai residences, but there also other cultural facilities open to the public, making it a hidden attraction.
Festivals and Events such as Cherry Blossom Festival and The Hifuri Kamakura
In Kakunodate, various events are held throughout the year. Of particular note is the Cherry Blossom Festival. The Cherry Blossom Festival is held in April every year along the Hinokinai River. The cherry blossom tunnel of the Yoshino cherry tree that stretches about 2 km along the river is spectacular.
We also recommend the The Hiburi Kamakura which is held every 14th February. It is an event where a stringed firewood is burned, drawing a circle around you, and you pray for health. The flame drawn in the snow is fantastic.
In addition, the yama float event of Kakunodate Festival in September is a valuable event registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Foods and Restaurants of Kakunodate
When coming to Kakunodate, be sure to eat a special gourmet dish called Okaribayaki. It is a samurai dish that is eaten with meat and vegetables and seasoned with Sansho Miso. There are many shops that offer Okaribayaki located between JR Kakunodate Station and Samurai Residence Street.
Hotels and Japanese Inns or Ryokan
Kakunodate accommodations gather around JR Kakunodate Station. Although the overall number is small, the price ranges from a guesthouse of about 3,000 yen per night to hotels of about 13,000 yen. The highest price range is about 6,000 to 7,000 yen per night. (As of October 2019)
In addition, reasonably-priced inns are scattered throughout the town. Therefore, if you want to stay for cheap, a guest house is recommended.
How to Get to Kakunodate
If you head to Kakunodate, aim for JR Kakunodate Station. JR Kakunodate Station is about 45 minutes from JR Akita Station on the Akita Shinkansen.
In addition, basically each spot of Kakunodate is accessible on foot.
Spot information
- Spot name: Kakunodate (JR Kakunodate Station)
- Street address: 14 Nakasugasawa, Kakunodatemachi, Senboku-city 014-0373
- Access: JR Akita Station → [JR Akita Shinkansen] approx. 45 minutes → JR Kakunodate Station
- Wi-Fi: Available (Senboku City Wi-Fi)
- Language: English, Chinese, Korean
- Credit cards: VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMERICAN EXPRESS, Diners Club International, UnionPay (depending on facility)
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