Akita 1 Day Itinerary (Kakunodate & Lake Tazawa)

Kakunodate which consists of a samurai district from the Edo Era is a popular spot with an atmosphere adorned by beautiful trees and shrubs all throughout the year. Also make your way to the blue Lake Tazawa to experience the rich nature and culture of Akita Prefecture.

Day 1

Hirafuku Memorial Art Museum
10:00 AM
Hirafuku Memorial Art Museum
An art museum featuring Japanese-style paintings located at the northern end of the samurai district. The works of Kakunodate-born painters Hyakusui Hirafuku and Suian Hirafuku are on display here. The modern design of the building and the garden landscape are also highlights.
read more
Kaba Zaiku (Cherry Bark) Craft Museum
10:30 AM
Kaba Zaiku (Cherry Bark) Craft Museum
At the Kakunodate Denshokan Museum located in one corner of the samurai district, you can observe demonstrations of kaba zaiku (working with cherry bark), a traditional handicraft in Kakunodate. The tea caddies and dishes masterfully created are truly gems of art that are ideal as souvenirs.
read more
Kakunodate Bukeyashiki (samurai residences)
11:00 AM
Kakunodate Bukeyashiki (samurai residences)
Explore the samurai district which has been called the Little Kyoto of Tohoku. Along the 600m road, there are Edo Era residences and gardens which can be toured. Many restaurants can also be found in the area so it’s recommended as a place to have lunch. Return to JR Kakunodate Station and take the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to JR Tazawako Station. Please check the time schedule in advance since the number of trains is few.
read more
Lake Tazawa Sightseeing Boats
15:00 PM
Lake Tazawa Sightseeing Boats
Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Tazawa which has the deepest water in Japan with a mysterious deep blue color. Get off at Katajiri.
read more
Lake Tazawa
15:25 PM
Lake Tazawa
Get off the ship at Katajiri and enjoy the statue of Tatsuko, the symbol of Lake Tazawa, and a nature walk around the area before boarding the local bus to head over to Goza-no-Ishi Shrine. You can see the impressive bright red torii gate in the lake. *Please check the time schedule in advance since the number of buses is few.
read more

Plan your trip to akita

Chat with a local tour guide who can help organize your trip.

Request a Tour