What other travelers are saying about Kakunodate's Bukeyashiki-dori Street
A great place to learn about samurai culture and life in the Edo period. The street features well-preserved residences with artifacts and historical displays that may require tickets, which you can buy at the entrance. I visited in summer, so it lacked the cherry blossoms or autumn colors seen in photos, but it was still a fascinating and peaceful walk through history. Worth a visit if you’re coming to Akita.
Frequently Asked Questions
Operating hours vary by residence. Generally, they are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during peak seasons (April to November) and may have reduced hours or closures in the off-season. It's advisable to check specific residences for exact times.
Yes, some residences charge an admission fee. For example, the Aoyagi Samurai House charges ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for students aged 12-17. Other homes may have different fees or offer free entry.
Some residences offer English-language pamphlets and may have staff who can provide information in English. For details, it is recommended that you inquire at the Semboku City Tourist Information Center "Kakunodate Ekimae Kura."
Yes, parking is available. The municipal Sakuranamiki Parking Lot offers about 160 spaces for visitors.
Visitors can enhance their experience by renting kimonos or taking rickshaw rides. These services are available near the Kakunodate Kaba-Zaiku Densho-Kan (reservation may be required during winter).
One of the most memorable places we visited on our holiday.
With snow on the trees, visiting the Samurai houses made this magical. It thankfully was not over crowded with tourists.
Driving through the mountains above Morioka in the thick snow made this even more special to get to this wonderful town. We would love to return in spring to see the river lined with trees in full splendor.
Highly recommend and may this incredible place never be over run by tourists.
It took about 15 minutes walk from station and the directions were very clear. There were many signs along the way. There were many flyers about this place at the station.
It took another 15 minutes walk from the entrance to the end of old samurai residences also depending on the pace of your preference. Some buildings were free but some others did require fee to get in. There’s a public restrooms about halfway located in the small park on the left side.
Also a few restaurants along the way but not a lot so it would get crowded during meal time.
Absolutely tipping it down and the blossoms weren't quite out. Win some-lose some. Still worth the trip and full marks to the rickshaw pullers as they braved the wind and rain.