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Kakunodatemachi

Kakunodatemachi, Semboku, Akita, Japan

Kakunodatemachi

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Kakunodatemachi

Welcome to Kakunodatemachi, a charming town in Semboku, Akita, Japan! Get ready to step into a fairytale as you stroll through its historic samurai district, complete with magnificent wooden houses and ancient temples. Don't leave without trying the local delicacy, "kakuni" pork belly, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance with delight. Akita-licious!

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5
3 h

Half Day Kakunodate Tour of Crafts Culture and Cuisine

Kakunodate is a former castle town which flourished during the Edo period. Known as the “Little Kyoto of Tohoku”, the town is home to a district 800-meters in radius consisting of samurai residences and traditional architecture popular with both domestic and international tourists. The samurai residences lining the town’s most famous street are nationally protected Traditional Buildings. But no one really cared about the merchant district that also has history and culture that is also passed down for generations. In this tour, with an experienced local guide, we will take you to both the merchant district and the samurai district. It will show you the contrast between the 2 distinct lifestyles of people and how the tradition has been passed down to current days. We picked up the best of the best in town, so we are confident that you will acknowledge the beauty of traditional style of living which people admired from the samurai era.

$202.26
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5/5

Full Day Tour to Akita, Samurai Town and Lake Tazawa with Guide

Premiere Tour of Akita. In this tour, you can see how samurai lived in samurai residences. At one Samurai house, the head of the family will tell us about the residence, where it is still used for living. You can witness samurai swords, armor, kimonos, etc. You can take a nice photo wearing a samurai helmet. There are cute shops in the street of Samurai residences, such as a miso and soy sauce shop, a local craft shop, a Japanese sake shop, and a traditional snack shop. Lake Tazawa is a mysterious Lake and the deepest one in Japan. The golden statue of Tatsuko is a must-see spot in Akita. Please take memorial photos at the shore of Lake Tazawa. We enjoy lunch at Kakunodate town or near Lake Tazawa.

$385.25
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5/5
3 h

3 Hour Cycling Tour in Kakunodate

Enjoy the original scenery of Japan from the train window on a one-car one-man train. Once you get off the train at an unmanned station, you can start cycling from there! You will pedal toward an area lined with samurai residences, stopping at temples, shrines, farmhouses, cafes, and other places to enjoy the countryside.

$123.92
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5/5
2 h 30 mins

Sword Martial Art Experience in Kakunodate

In Kakunodate, where samurai culture is deeply rooted, dojos still face the samurai residence street, and the area is home to many martial artists. Many people make martial arts a part of their lives, learning and living in the spirit of the samurai. Iaido is one of the most popular of these and uses the sword, which is said to be the spirit of the samurai. In this two-hour experience, participants will put on a dogi (a special outfit for martial art), master one of the kata of iaido, and learn about etiquette and manners. At the end of the experience, there is a test cutting with a cardboard doll, which is the most exciting part for the participants.

$288.94
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5/5
6 h

Akita Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

Get off the beaten path and immerse yourself in Akita’s unique culture and landscapes. Visit the well-preserved samurai district of Kakunodate, a town known as “Little Kyoto of Tohoku.” Stroll around Lake Tazawa, Japan’s deepest lake, and admire the striking red torii of Gozanoishi Shrine. Learn about Akita’s spiritual side at Senshu Park and the Kubota Castle ruins. Your guide will offer insights into local folklore, traditional crafts, and Akita's famed hospitality. This tour is perfect for those looking to experience Japan’s lesser-known but deeply rewarding regions.

$192.62
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4.9/5

Kanazawa Private Tour with a Local – Highlights & Hidden Gems

Explore Kanazawa your way on a private, fully customizable half-day tour designed around your interests. This isn’t a rigid itinerary—it’s a flexible, immersive experience led by a passionate local who brings the city to life through personal insight and expert knowledge. Visit iconic sites and uncover hidden gems, from samurai districts and traditional markets to peaceful gardens and geisha quarters. Your host will share meaningful stories, cultural context, and insider tips you won’t find in any guidebook. With a start time that suits your schedule, this experience is ideal for travelers looking to engage deeply with Kanazawa in just a few hours—whether it’s your first visit or a return trip seeking a more local perspective. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests. We’ll then match you with a like-minded local host who will reach out directly to help plan your perfect half-day in Kanazawa.

$66.04
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4.9/5
2 h 30 mins

Samurai Food Walk in Kakunodate

This is a guided culinary tour through the unique cultural and undiscovered sights of Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture. The tour will take you to places such as Japanese sweets stores, sake shops with different sake tastings, miso and soy sauce brewery, the one and only Samurai Street, and much more!

$98.88
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3 h

Towards silent unexplored pond, Naganuma Guided Walk

This tour goes through varied sceneries such as untouched forest mixed with broadleaf and coniferous trees and quiet marshland. As you explore the forest,the hidden pond of Naganuma suddenly appears.It is superb relaxation spot surrounded by primeval flora. With no wind, the pond’s surface reflect the woods like a mirror. At the entry point of this tour, you will be able to see steam spouting through the rocks in the Fuke-no-yu Onsen. We also have a coffee break. After walking, take a day bathing of Fuke-no-yu Onsen recommended. * From Apil to May, we will take a stroll wearing snowshoes as snow still remains. Not only the mountain trails but discover the deep primeval forests that are normally inaccessible.

$38.52
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Rental Bicycle with Electric Assist / Satoyama Cycling Tour

This is a rental cycle provided by Kakunodate Guest House Choux. It is a tour where you can enjoy the charm of Akita while enjoying the culture and nature. You can see the historical sights and beautiful scenery of Kakunodate. You can experience the history and culture of Kakunodate while walking around the old townscape and traditional buildings starting from the inn. You can if you add a paid bicycle delivery option, you can start from Tazawako Station. Enjoy the beautiful nature of Akita. You can feel the fresh air while cycling through the seasonal scenery such as mountains, rivers, and lakes. A long ride from Lake Tazawa will be a luxurious experience where you can feel the breath of nature. You will be able to fully enjoy the charm of Akita and experience a memorable trip.

$12.84
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2 h 30 mins

Fluffy New Snow and the Earth beating, Goshougake Oyunuma Snowshoeing Tour

“Goshougake Nature Research Route” is a walking trail by Goshougake Onsen, where you can observe geothermal activities associated with volcanoes. The snowshoes route leads you through fluffy new snow at an altitude of 1000m. The sight can make you want to dive into the snow right away! At the destination Oyunuma, you can see close up the whizzing steam rising up. It is a rare spot where you can feel with allbody and soul the planet Earth itself. We also have a coffee break. After walking, take a day-time bathing of Goshougake Onsen recommended.　＊The short course is suitable for beginners and those that are not confident in their physical ability. ＊The long course is the scenic route with more up-down trails. Recommended for the more adventurous and those that want to fully immerse in the snow experience.

$44.95
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5 h

Half Day Tour to Akita, Samurai Town with Lisenced Guide

Premiere Half-Day Tour of Akita. In this tour, you can see how samurais(warriors) lived in samurai residences. At one Samurai house, the head of the family or a staff member will tell us about the residence, where it is still used for living. You can witness samurai swords, armor, kimonos, etc. You can take a nice photo wearing a samurai helmet. There are cute shops in the street of Samurai residences, such as a miso and soy sauce shop, a local craft shop, a Japanese sake shop, and a traditional snack shop. At Japanese Sake shop, you can try tasting of a couple of Japanese sake for free. If you have time, you can visit Kabazaiku museum where a craft man is demonstrating to make local handy craft beautiful "Kabazaiku." In addition, you can choose cute kabazaiku products from lots of varieties in the shop. On the way back to the Akita city, we can drop in a roadside station for a restroom break and shopping. I promise you can enjoy this half day tour totally.

$353.15
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2 h

2 Hours Private Zen Meditation Experience in Kakunodate

You may be thinking, "Samurai and Zen?" However, many warlords took refuge in Buddhism, including Zen Buddhists, and countless Zen priests who worked with warlords as military strategists and educators. It is no exaggeration to say that the spirit of samurai bushido aims to reach the state of Zen. The Soto denomination of Buddhism, the temple where this experience is held, places particular emphasis on Zen meditation among the various denominations of Buddhism. It has been the spiritual center of the community for 350 years. It is an extremely valuable experience to learn some of the spirit of Zen that has been passed down from generation to generation and in which Samurai also used to incline

$182.99
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48 h

Experience the Magic of Akita's Omagari Fireworks Festival

Omagari in Akita is one of the sacred places for Japanese pyrotechnicians. The fireworks artists gather there and compete their skill. The competition will be held in 29th August in Omagari, Akita. Be moved by fireworks drawn in the Summer night sky by pyrotechnicians. In this night, hotel accommodations surrounded the venue are fully booked and difficult to reserve every year. We offer not only tickets but also Hotel/lodge stay for participants. make sure to select one of options for your accommodation at the night of the festival. -Food and Drink- Please prepare your own dinner on the day. There will be food stalls at the venue, but drinks may sell out early, so we recommend that you bring your own drinks. -Weather and Temperature- At night the temperature drops to 20°C (68°F). We recommend bringing a raincoat in case of rain.

$449.46
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8 h 40 mins

Kakunodate Samurai Iaido Experience Private Tour from Morioka

Step back in time to Edo-period Japan with a private tour in Kakunodate, the "Little Kyoto of Tohoku." Stroll through historic streets lined with authentic samurai residences, like over the 400-year-old Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum, feeling the profound connection to samurai culture. This exclusive 2.5-hour Iaido experience offers a deep dive into Japanese martial arts. Don a training uniform and learn the spirit, manners, and basic sword handling from a skilled instructor. Master drawing and sheathing techniques, enhancing concentration and body control. Immerse yourself in the traditional aesthetic and discipline of the samurai in a truly unique setting.

$565.03
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48 h

Snowshoe Experience in Akita Yuzawa Winter Park with an Akita Dog

Enjoy snowshoeing in a park near the city covered white world with your guide. You may even find the footprints of rabbits and other animals. After a 15-minute snowshoeing, you can take photos and interact with an Akita dog. Known as the loyal dog Hachiko, the Akita dog is designated as a natural monument of Japan. Although it is a large dog, it is said to be loyal, obedient, obedient to commands, and close to its owner. You can have a special experience interacting with an Akita dog in Akita, the birthplace of the Akita dog. Be fascinated by the snow country and the cuteness of the Akita dog. After interacting with the Akita dog and snowshoeing, you can return to the hotel and see the hotel's snowplow. You can also play in the snow. This is a two-day tour that includes accommodation at a hotel and allows you to experience Japan's snow country.

$160.52
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8 h

Akita: Private Guided Tour with Optional Kakunodate Visit

Your guide will meet you at Akita Port, Akita Station, or a hotel in Akita City, and you'll travel comfortably by private vehicle throughout the day. Choose the 6-hour tour to explore the highlights of Akita City, including Senshu Park and the historic ruins of Kubota Castle, along with other local attractions based on your interests. For a more in-depth experience, the 8-hour tour first takes you to Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake, renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters, breathtaking scenery, and the iconic golden Statue of Tatsuko. After enjoying the lake's tranquil beauty, continue to the beautifully preserved samurai town of Kakunodate, where historic samurai residences and traditional streets offer a fascinating glimpse into Japan's feudal past. At the end of your tour, you'll be returned to Akita Port, Akita Station, or your hotel in Akita City. As this is a private tour, the itinerary can be customized to suit your interests and schedule.

$912.80
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Akita: Kakunodate Samurai District & Residence Tour

Explore the fascinating samurai district of Kakunodate, one of northern Japan’s best-preserved historical sites. This walking tour delves into the rich tapestry of the Edo period, revealing how social hierarchies shaped everyday life for the samurai class. With insights from your expert guide, learn about key historical figures and the transformation from conflict to stable governance. Experience guided visits to multiple samurai residences, where the architecture and lifestyle reflect the intricate social order of the time. - In-depth exploration of Kakunodate’s samurai history - Guided visits inside various samurai residences - Two participation options: direct join or from Kakunodate Station - Tours available on days when residences are open, excluding Tuesdays

$195.51
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2 h 30 mins

Izakaya and Bar Hopping Tour in Kakunodate

Eat and drink like a local in Kakunodate! Your guided tours provide in-person guides through two local izakayas and a snack bar at the end. All food and drinks will be included with the guides selecting the best of each izakayas to cater your cravings. Finish off at a snack bar and enjoy singing karaoke with the local mama-san who runs these bars! The best way to spend the night while learning more about Kakunodate with an English speaking guide! We will contact you for your choice of izakaya and snack bar. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies. It is best to book at least a week in advance if you are planning to take the tour during high peak seasons, as many izakaya and snack bars can be fully booked. Please do understand there may be a limited number of izakaya options due to regular holidays or short reserving times. Due to the nature of the event, all participants must be 20 years or older. This is the legal drinking age under Japanese law.

$182.99
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48 h

Omagari Fireworks Festival 2-Day Tour from Tokyo with Hotel Stay

Witness the breathtaking Omagari National Fireworks Competition on this immersive 2-day tour from Tokyo. Enjoy reserved seating as you marvel at approximately 18,000 fireworks launched by Japan’s finest artisans. Settle into a comfortable hotel in Sendai City, and take advantage of free time to explore before your return journey. Ideal for solo travelers, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Japan's most spectacular events with ease. Operated by Club Tourism, a leading Japanese travel company with over 70 years of experience, this high-quality tour offers a safe and reliable travel experience in Japan. Accompanied by a tour leader known for excellent hospitality, it has received high praise from travelers of many nationalities.

$575.41
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