Kakunodate

About

Japan’s feudal past is brought back to life, at least aesthetically, in Kakunodate. Edo-period architecture typically associated with Japan is alive and well in Kakunodate’s historical Samurai district. These buildings are from as far back as the 1600s and feature latticework, exposed wood, interior gardens, and sliding panel doors. Many are open for tours and teach visitors about the lives of their past residents. The weeping cherry trees in the historic Samurai district are also hundreds of years old and were brought by Samurai families from Kyoto to be planted in Kakunodate. It is a famous spot for hanami, the Japanese springtime tradition of enjoying the cherry blossoms in full bloom. This tradition brings in about one million admirers from Japan and abroad every year, making it one of the most visited cities during spring.