Kakunodate Wonders
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Port
Akita, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$550
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Feel the centuries slip away as you stroll through the wide streets and large courtyards of the Kakunodate Samurai District -- once the home of 80 samurai and their families.
Established in 1620, Kakunodate is acclaimed as one of the best examples of Samurai architecture and housing in the country. Here, you’ll find a number of centuries-old gardens and houses. Step into an Aoyagi Samurai House-- one of the best-preserved Samurai manor houses of its kind in Japan. Today, this open-air museum features a main house, armory, antique museum, café, gift shop and a beautiful garden. Another impressive building is Ishiguro House, the current home of Samurai descendants. You’ll be welcomed inside to view a collection of Samurai clothing and armor, as well as some drawings and artwork.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Renowned across Japan, Akita’s sake is crafted with great care. At a local brewery, you’ll learn about the meticulous production process. Artisans carefully handle warm rice by hand to preserve its optimal state for fermentation, preventing any damage or cracking. At every stage of production, including the pressing process, the highest quality is maintained. By pressing the sake multiple times, a smoother, clearer, and higher-quality sake is produced. From October to April, sake is brewed on-site, and you’ll have a chance to sample it.
Please note:
Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Terrain includes gravel paths at Kakunodate Samurai houses. You must remove your shoes when entering Samurai houses. Video photography is not allowed at the Ishiguro House. The Samurai houses are small; the group may be split up at times. There is no restroom at the brewery. Individuals who have eaten natto on the day of the brewery visit are not allowed to participate, as the bacteria in natto can affect the brewing process. The sake brewery is a working area; capacity is limited. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency for purchases, as few stores accept credit cards. Traffic can be unpredictable; your patience is greatly appreciated if a delay extends the tour duration.