Kakunodatemachi is a charming town on Japan’s Honshu island that offers a rich mix of historic sights, culinary delights, and authentic local experiences. Unlike many tourist destinations, Kakunodatemachi retains a sense of everyday life that makes every tour feel genuine. We especially love the Eat and Drink Like a Local in Kakunodate: Bar & Izakaya Tour for its insiders’ look into Akita’s vibrant food scene, and the Kakunodate: Samurai Food Walk Tour for its tasty exploration of samurai-era streets and breweries. Both tours are perfect for those seeking immersive cultural experiences with a local guide leading the way. If you’re planning a full-day trip, the Akita: 1-day Lake Tazawa and Kakunodate Samurai house Tour offers a comprehensive look at the area’s highlights, blending history, scenery, and regional flavors.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights three top tours in Kakunodatemachi — from a small-group bar and izakaya tour (Eat and Drink Like a Local in Kakunodate) to a culinary stroll through samurai streets (Samurai Food Walk), and an all-day exploration that covers Lake Tazawa, samurai residences, and regional tastings (1-day Lake Tazawa and Kakunodate Tour). Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Eat and Drink Like a Local in Kakunodate: Bar & Izakaya Tour
This 2.5-hour guided tour takes you through Kakunodate’s best-kept secrets—local bars and izakaya that few travelers ever find. Led by a native guide, this experience takes away any language barriers and ensures your culinary choices are spot-on. You’ll visit a handful of venues where locals go after work, not the usual tourist spots. The guide will select the best dishes in each izakaya—think fresh sashimi, regional snacks, and house-special drinks—making it a perfect introduction to Akita’s food scene.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized small-group setting, which means plenty of interaction and tailored recommendations. Photos are provided afterward to help you remember your adventures. The itinerary includes visits to local restaurants and bars where you can sample beer, spirits, and regional foods. The starting point is at Tatemachi Pocket Park, a cozy spot perfect for meeting your guide. The tour’s relaxed pace makes it suitable for most visitors, and the full attention of your guide guarantees a memorable, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: If you want insider tips on Kakunodate’s nightlife and regional dishes, this tour offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with expert guidance. It’s ideal for foodies and those eager to experience local culture without the hassle of language barriers.
2. Kakunodate: Samurai Food Walk Tour
For around $108 per person, this guided culinary walk combines history with tasting. You’ll explore the streets of Samurai residences while sampling regional specialties, making it a great fit for travelers wanting a mix of culture and cuisine. The tour includes visits to Japanese sweets shops with 140-year histories, a sake tasting at a local brewery, and samurai-era streets lined with traditional homes. You’ll also get to taste miso and soy sauce from a brewery that’s been in operation for over 170 years, providing a tangible connection to local craftsmanship.
This tour is particularly notable for its focus on regional flavors, such as kiritanpo, a traditional Akita dish made of pounded rice sticks, and sake that pairs perfectly with local delicacies. The guide’s knowledge shines as you walk through the historic streets, learning about the samurai lifestyle and local food traditions. The visit to a 140-year-old sweets shop adds a nostalgic touch, and the soy sauce and miso tastings are highlights for food lovers.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced blend of cultural sights and tasting sessions that showcase Kakunodate’s culinary heritage, making it ideal for those interested in both history and regional flavors.
3. Akita: 1-day Lake Tazawa and Kakunodate Samurai house Tour
Spanning a full 8 hours, this guided experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip. Starting early, you’ll visit Lake Tazawa, famous for its stunning blue waters and the iconic Tatsuko statue—a must-see photo opportunity. The tour also takes you into Kakunodate’s Samurai Street, where you can explore historic samurai houses like Ishiguro and Aoyagi. Along the way, you’ll enjoy miso and soy sauce tastings, immersing you further into the local culture.
One of the tour’s highlights is sampling soy sauce ice cream at a local shop—a surprisingly delicious treat. The scenery at Lake Tazawa is breathtaking, and the guide provides plenty of tips for capturing great photos. The visit to historic samurai residences allows for a deeper understanding of the area’s feudal past, with stops at notable homes. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy walking and want a full, immersive experience.
Important details: Wear comfortable shoes and carry a camera—this tour involves quite a bit of walking and sightseeing. It’s ideal for those wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one day trip with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a well-rounded day exploring natural beauty, historic architecture, and regional flavors, this tour delivers a memorable experience in just one day.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love food and nightlife, the Eat and Drink Like a Local in Kakunodate is perfect for a relaxed evening with insider access. For those eager to combine history and tasting on a shorter walk, the Samurai Food Walk offers a flavorful, cultural insight. Lastly, the full-day Lake Tazawa and Samurai House Tour suits travelers with a full day available who want a comprehensive experience, including scenic views and historic sites.
Consider your interest in regional history and scenery versus culinary adventures, along with your fitness level and pace preference. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
In summary, Kakunodatemachi offers a range of engaging tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re after authentic local dishes, historic streets, or scenic vistas. Two or three days spent sampling Kakunodate’s flavors and sights will leave you with lasting memories. Pick the experience that best matches your travel style, and enjoy every moment in this authentic Japanese town.