Samurai Residences

The Samurai Residence District (Bukeyashiki-gun) is a historic samurai town in the Kakunodate area of Semboku City, where former samurai homes still line the streets today. The main avenue, also called "Uchimachi," is home to six notable samurai residences: the Ishiguro House (city-designated historic site), Aoyagi House (prefecture-designated historic site), Matsumoto House (prefecture-designated tangible cultural property), Iwahashi House (prefecture-designated historic site), Kawarada House (city-designated historic site), and Odano House (city-designated historic site). Each residence features its own exhibits and hands-on experience corners, making the area an engaging cultural sightseeing spot. One highly recommended way to explore is a rickshaw tour, where the driver explains the district and residences with a charming Akita dialect. In spring, rows of cherry blossoms—especially weeping cherries—create a spectacular scene, and the sight of rickshaws passing beneath the blossoms is truly picture-perfect. The district also offers many dining options, from Hinai-jidori oyakodon and Inaniwa udon to café treats such as sakura soft-serve, sesame soft-serve, and zunda kaki. Many visitors enjoy strolling the samurai street with sweets in hand. For access, using the "Akita Airport Liner" from Akita Airport is recommended, taking about 60 minutes.