Akita Shore Excursions

Kakunodate is one of Japan’s best-preserved samurai towns: narrow lanes, black wooden fences, and restored samurai residences transport you back to Edo-period Japan. It’s ideal for travelers who want a compact, photogenic cultural stop while your ship is in port.

Pick-up at Akita cruise terminal → Transfer to Kakunodate (approx. 45–70 min)

1. Samurai District (Bukeyashiki) — 60–90 min
Walk the samurai quarter, visit a few historic samurai homes (e.g., Aoyagi, Ishiguro), and enjoy garden views and architecture. Some houses are small museums with family artifacts.

2. Merchant Street & Riverside (optional) — 30–45 min
Stroll the nearby merchant district and, in season, the cherry-lined riverbank (famous for weeping cherry trees in April).

Return to port with time to spare for embarkation.
Total time ashore depends on traffic and your chosen package. 

We offer two main package styles that mirror the options on the source page:

• Private car and English-speaking tour guide. 
• Entrance fees to selected samurai houses included. 
• Detailed commentary and guided walk inside attractions. 
• Flexible pickup/return to your ship.
   

What’s not covered: Lunch (can be added on request).

• Private car and English-speaking driver (no guided entry commentary). 
• More privacy and flexibility, lower price. 
• Driver can assist with directions, pick-ups, and light local guidance.
   

What’s not covered: Guided walking inside attractions, professional commentary, entrance fees, lunch.

• Meet at the designated pick-up point at Akita cruise terminal; the vehicle will depart promptly to allow time for visits and return to your ship. Exact pick-up times are confirmed at booking.
   
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended; some samurai homes have uneven floors and gravel paths.
   
• Seasonal note: cherry blossom season (late April–early May) and autumn color are peak photo times — plan accordingly.
   

This itinerary is adapted from a trusted shore-excursion specialist and follows the same private and small-group package structure offered by Japan cruise excursion operators, so you’ll get punctual transfers, local English support, and choices to match your travel style. 

Q: How long is the transfer from Akita port to Kakunodate?
A: About 45–70 minutes depending on traffic and the vessel’s berth. 

Q: Are entrance fees included?
A: Entrance fees are included with the Platinum package; not included with the Gold (driver-only) option. 

Q: Is this tour suitable for limited-mobility travelers?
A: The walking routes include historic streets and some houses with steps. We can adapt the visit and limit walking where possible — please tell us at booking.

Q: Can I add lunch or extend the tour?
A: Yes — tours are fully customizable. We can add a local meal, museum visits, or extend to a full-day option if your cruise schedule allows. 

Timeframe: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Your private driver/guide will be waiting at Akita cruise terminal.
   
• Board a comfortable vehicle for the scenic transfer to Kakunodate.
   

• Relax on the journey through Akita’s countryside.
   
• En route, your guide shares insights about samurai culture and local history.
   

• Stroll along Bukeyashiki Street, lined with black wooden fences and historic homes.
   
• Visit Aoyagi Samurai House (museum-style with artifacts, samurai armor, weapons).
   
• Step into Ishiguro House (still owned by descendants of a samurai family).
   

• Enjoy a traditional lunch in Kakunodate:
   
  • Options include local soba noodles, seasonal kiritanpo hotpot, or bento.
     
• Vegetarian or special dietary requests can be arranged in advance.
   

• Explore the merchant quarter with preserved storehouses and small shops.
   
• Seasonal highlights:
   
  • Spring: Famous weeping cherry blossoms (late April–early May).
     
  • Autumn: Vibrant foliage along the Hinokinai River (October).
     
• Time for souvenir shopping (lacquerware, cherry bark crafts).
   

• Cultural experience: Tea ceremony or calligraphy workshop.
   
• Museum visit: Kakunodate Denshokan Museum (local crafts & history).
   
• Nature option: Riverside stroll or small local temple visit.
   

• Relax in your private car/minivan on the return journey.
   

• Drop-off at Akita cruise terminal in time for embarkation.
   

✅ Total time ashore: 8 hours (including transfers).
✅ Fully customizable — activities, lunch, and pacing can be adjusted to fit your interests and your ship’s schedule.