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Samurai Residences in Kakunodate

Take in the Beautiful Cityscape Featuring Black Fencing and Samurai Residences.

4.58 9

Last update :
Head Editor : Semboku City

In Kakunodate, part of the city of Semboku in Akita Prefecture, exists rows of old houses first attributed to the Ashina family in the early Edo period (around year 1620), that later flourished under the castle town of the Satake-Kita family. This district has been designated as protected in an effort to conserve traditional buildings.

In this area, there are six "samurai residences" that date back to the Edo period. Known as "Samurai Residence Street," this road is distinguished by its black-painted wooden fences and is adorned with weeping cherry trees and other greenery. The streetscape highlights the unique beauty of each season, allowing visitors to experience the exquisite charm nurtured by history.

There are many samurai residences in this area, but the most famous among them is the Kakunodate Historical Village Aoyagi House, which is designated as an important cultural asset of Akita Prefecture.
The Aoyagi family once served as samurai retainers for the Ashina Clan. The grounds are expansive, and visitors can tour areas like the main house, armory, and samurai equipment storage. Inside the building are over 30,000 pieces of art and armor that have been protected and cherished for generations.
The entryway, known as Yakuimon Gate, is a prestigious landmark.

Highlights

  • An area that retains the old atmosphere of a former samurai town.
  • Several samurai residences are open for visits.
  • Chosen as a national protected district for the conservation of traditional buildings
  • During the spring, the contrast between the black fencing and weeping cherry trees is stunning.
  • Rickshaw rides are a recommended experience when visiting.

Photos

  • Spring features beautiful weeping cherries and black board fences.

    Spring features beautiful weeping cherries and black board fences.

  • The town exudes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of days gone by.

    The town exudes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of days gone by.

  • "Kakunodate Historical Village Aoyagi House" is designated as a cultural property of Akita Prefecture.

    "Kakunodate Historical Village Aoyagi House" is designated as a cultural property of Akita Prefecture.

  • Visiting in autumn, when the leaves are in full color, is highly recommended.

    Visiting in autumn, when the leaves are in full color, is highly recommended.

  • The atmosphere feels like stepping back into the Edo period.

    The atmosphere feels like stepping back into the Edo period.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

A

Foreign language pamphlets are available (English, Traditional Chinese)

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

Yes. (Samurai Residence Street)

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Yes, available at JR Kakunodate Station.

Q

Are there restrooms nearby?

A

Yes, available at Sakuranamiki Pocket Park Public Toilet, Samurai Residence Pocket Park Public Toilet, Seiseikan, and others.

Q

Are there smoking areas?

A

No.

Q

Can I ride a rickshaw?

A

Rickshaws are available near The Kakunodate Kaba-Zaiku Densho-Kan (reservation required during winter).

Q

Is there a kimono dressing experience available?

A

Yes, available.
For inquiries: Semboku City Tourist Information Center "Kakunodate Station Mae Kura" Phone: 0187-54-2700

Reviews

9
  • 簡玲

    武家屋敷通的枝垂櫻是4月的重頭戲,整個櫻花綻放,與武家屋敷通的黑色木板圍牆形成強烈對比讓整個武家屋敷通充滿浪漫氣氛。

  • May Li

    青柳家庭院整地很大,裡面擺放的各種武士盔甲,門票只要$400日圓。

  • 耿桂

    有小京都稱號的角館,保留了不少武士宅邸,非常具有歷史文化特色。

  • Wendy Wong

    古代武士建築遺留下來,形成獨特日本建築文化,漫遊在古色古香的街道,感受昔日的輝煌。

  • 陳瑋建

    走在角館街道上,彷彿回到江戶時代的樣子。

Details

Name in Japanese
角館の武家屋敷
Postal Code
014-0334/014-0325
Address
Omotemachikami-cho through Higashikatsuraku-cho, Kakunodate-machi, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture
Tel
0187-43-3352 (Semboku City Office, Tourism, Culture, and Sports Department, Tourism Division)
Closed
Walk anytime
Hours
Open any time to walk around
Admission
Free to walk around
*Admission fees vary by facility.
Access
A 20-minute walk from the JR Kakunodate Station, or 5 minutes by car.
Official Website
Official Website (English)