ABOUT
About this spot
The Kakunodate Samurai Residences in Senboku City, Akita Prefecture, are a leading historic spot in Tohoku, conveying to this day the look of a castle town formed in the early Edo period. In this place called the "Little Kyoto of Michinoku," black-painted board fences continue along wide streets lined with dignified samurai residences. It is also designated a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and the moment you step in, you feel as if you have wandered into a period drama. Along the street are historically valuable residences, such as the "Ishiguro Family," whose descendants still live there while the interior is open to the public, and the "Aoyagi Family," which displays valuable materials on a vast site. A great appeal is the entirely different beauty shown in each season: "weeping cherry trees" standing out against the black walls of the residences in spring, deep greenery in summer, vivid autumn leaves, and serene snowy scenery in winter. Why not take a mature weekend trip strolling while reflecting on history? Nearby are restaurants where you can taste the local specialty "Inaniwa udon" and facilities where you can experience the traditional craft "kabazaiku" (cherry bark work), making it an ideal place to spend a relaxed time with family and friends.
Last updated March 28, 2026