Excursion Kakunodate old town - land of samurai tour at Akita

Kakunodate Old Town

Join this full day tour starts with a 90 minute drive to explore one of Japan's most well preserved historical areas, the Kakunodate Samurai District. Here around 80 Samurai families once lived. There are 6 houses that are open to the public. Get a glimpse of their lives through the architecture of the buildings and items scattered around the homes. Stroll along the winding historic streets with dozens of weeping cherry trees that line the road exploring the magnificent samurai houses, barely touched by time. The elegant cherry trees in the merchant district were planted in the 17^th Century, brought back from Kyoto by local samurai families. With their melancholy beauty, these cherry blossom trees granted the families even greater status amongst the locals. Stroll under the blooms in the streets of the samurai quarter for an authentic cherry blossom viewing experience.

View the Aoyagi Manor, a 400 year old local Samurai home which once belonged to the prominent Aoyagi Family. The house was restored in 1860 The Aoyagi Samurai manor provides an opportunity to understand Japan's feudal period through its dynamic displays.. Items on display include the precious hanging scrolls, paintings and ancient documents. In addition to the displays, there are various experiences you can try including using Samurai swords, spears, Kabuto helmet & Kago lifting (ancient Edo-period carriage); which allows you to also 'feel' part of the history.

Local Japanese Restaurant

Re-board the coach for a 15 min drive to a local restaurant where you will enjoy a typical Japanese lunch of tempura tofo, savory egg custard, rice cake, Udon noodles and pickled vegetables.

Miso Brewery Tour with Tasting

After lunch re-embark the coach for a 15 min drive to the Miso Brewery. Experience and learn about the traditional techniques still being used today, the brewing process, health benefits and a chance to sample this local dish.

Sake Brewery Tour with Tasting

Re-embark the coach for a short 15 min drive to a Sake Brewery. Sake is Japan's national drink. Learn about the history as well as the manufacturing process of this age old drink. Here you can enjoy sampling various types of Sake. After the tasting, relax and enjoy the 180 minute journey back to the port.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Kakunodate Old Town & Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum, Sake Brewery & Miso Brewery Tours with Tasting

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (approximately 1.7km or 1.1miles) and climbing steps (40 in total), at times over cobblestones and unpaved walkways. This tour is recommended for active guests in good physical condition. It is not recommended for guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are to remove shoes before entering the local restaurant and inside the Aoyagi Samurai Manor. For dietary restrictions please contact the on board Shore Concierge Team upon embarkation. Please be advised that special dietary requests or menu substitutions may be not be possible to accommodate in this program. Guests are advised to wear comfortable/ sturdy walking shoes. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The tour sequence may vary.