The easiest way around Kakunodate is on foot, since the major sights and attractions are within walking distance from each other. Though, some sights are located a bit further ahead, where a car or bus might be necessary. If you decide to rent a car, it is advised to do so from the nearest airport in the vicinity. You can use our car rental widget in the FAQ menu below. 

Public transportation:

To get from Tokyo to Kakunodate by public transportation, travelers need to take a train. Detailed instructions are as follows:

• Bullet Train: Take the JR Akita Shinkansen "Komachi" from Tokyo Station to Kakunodate Station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.

• Regular Train: This option is not recommended due to the lengthy journey time and multiple transfers required.

Nearest airport: 

The nearest and most convenient airport is Akita Airport. 

• by car: approximately 50 minutes

• by public transport: approximately 1 hour

Valid rail and bus passes:

• Japan Rail Pass

• JR East South Hokkaido Rail Pass

• JR East Tohoku Area Pass

• Japan Bus Pass

Car rentals:

We recommend staying here for about half a day.
 

The nearest and most convenient airport is Akita Airport. 

• by car: approximately 50 minutes

• by public transport: approximately 1 hour

Cherry blossoms:

The best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan is usually between late March and early April. Although the blooming period can vary slightly from year to year. 
 

There are several festivals here throughout the year. Please be advised that the following list is based upon previous entries of those festivals and that the dates might have changed slightly in the following year. It is also possible that the entire festival is cancelled in the case of heavy rainfall or a natural disaster. Please check with the official organisers' website for the most up-to-date information. 
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For the exact location of any of the festivals listed here, you can consult our map above by clicking on the icon in the upper most corner of the map to open the map legend. Festivals are hidden by default but can be made visible by clicking on the "Festivals" checkbox in the map legend.

• Kakunodate Sakura Festival

  • Date: April 20th until May 5th

• Don Pan Festival

  • Date: August 16th

  • Time: 20:00 - ???
     

• Kakunodate Station Festival

  • Date: October 26th

  • Time: 10:00 - 15:00

We recommend the following options for staying connected in Japan:

• Sakura Mobile Travel Sim (data only)
• Sakura Mobile Travel Sim (data + voice)
• Sakura Mobile Unlimited Wifi / Pocket Wifi