At the end of a long winter, the folk in Kakunodate welcome the first cherry blossoms of spring with a joy in their heart. People come out of hibernation and the streets are filled with rickshaws taking visitors to the best hanami spots along the Hinokinai River. The level laneways between the station and the old town are relatively car free and makes for a great day trip from Akita or Sendai.
- 1 min read
Spring in Kakunodate
Song of a thousand hues of cherry blossoms

By Bonson Lam
Community writer

The chocolate brown and grey colors of the walled residences frame the beauty of the cherry blossoms

Take a rickshaw ride around the samurai gardens

The old 1950s streets between the station and the riverfront are like a movie set.

The relatively car free streets of Old Kakunodate are perfect for a spring walk

Charming tea houses and grand century old trees make a picturesque scene.

A thousand hues of pink fill the skies during Springtime.
Join the discussion

Anonymous
10 years ago
Lovely photos, I particularly like the first one !
Amoolya Rajappa
10 years ago
Cherry blossoms are such a delight indeed! Nicely captured, beautiful contrast.
2 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
2
One Full Day in Kamogawa From Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa
Chiba - Sponsored -
3
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
4
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored -
5
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
6
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
7
Tokyo Named As World's Top Breakup Vacation Spot
Tokyo -
8
Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2025 Guide)
Culture -
9
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
10
Explore Kujukuri, Chiba and Beyond
Chiba - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
3
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
4
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
7
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka -
8
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Nara Tokae Lantern Festival
Nara