JAPAN GLOBAL GUIDE
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The Kakunodate Samurai District, often lovingly referred to as "Little Kyoto of Tohoku," is a remarkably preserved Edo period (1603-1868) samurai village in Akita Prefecture, renowned for offering one of Japan's most authentic glimpses into samurai life. Founded in 1620, its wide streets are lined with the original black-fenced residences of samurai families, many of which are open to the public, including the impressive Aoyagi House and the still-inhabited Ishiguro House, showcasing ancestral artifacts and the distinctive architecture of the era. Beyond its historical significance, Kakunodate is famously adorned with hundreds of weeping cherry trees, particularly spectacular in spring, which contrast beautifully with the dark samurai dwellings, creating an iconic and picturesque landscape that draws visitors from around the world.