Kakunodate Samurai District

Kakunodate was founded as a castle town in 1620 and its samurai district survives in remarkable condition, with broad avenues lined by black-walled residences shaded by weeping cherry trees over 300 years old. The Aoyagi House opens multiple buildings displaying samurai armor, weapons, and folk art collections. The Ishiguro House is the oldest surviving residence, still owned by descendants of the original samurai family. The cherry trees bloom in late April to early May, arching over the lanes in pink. The town is also home to kabazaiku, a traditional craft of decorating objects with wild cherry bark, sold at several workshops and shops along the main streets.