Kakunadate is definitely one of my favorite cherry blossom places in Northeast (Tohoku) region of Japan. It is known as little Koyoto in Rikuō province, covering Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures in the old days.   but the historic samurai houses and merchant houses remained remain  unchanged since 1620.  There are about 400 weeping cherry trees in Kakunodate’s samurai district, making the area a picturesque town in spring. I was there during full bloom. So lucky!

Most of the samurai houses are open for visits but be mindful of some private properties. Many of the  old merchant houses are still in business, but selling modern goods, souvenirs, and confectionary. 

The Hinokinai Riverside is along lined with hundreds of cherry trees. It is a great place to take in the amazing view of cherry blossom and picnic. However, bears have been the threat to Japan travel since last year. Please be careful and avoid going to riverside or forest early in the morning or after sunset when bears are active. Because this is the first place I saw the “Watch out for Bears” sign this trip. I later found that a bear was spotted this year.

Access: Kakundate is between Akita city and Morioka city. Take JR train to Kakundate station then walk 15~20 minutes to the Samuri district.