Complete Guide to Kakunodate Castle (Akita Prefecture) | History from the Tozawa Clan to the Satake Kita Family and Current Highlights
Kakunodate Castle, located in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, is a mountain castle built on Kojōyama Mountain overlooking the town of Kakunodate, known as “Little Kyoto of Michinoku.” From the Sengoku period to the early Edo period, the castle’s lords changed hands from the Tozawa clan to Ashina Yoshihiro, and then to the Satake Kita family, laying the foundation for the present-day Kakunodate castle town. This article thoroughly explains the charm of Kakunodate Castle, from its historical background to its current remains and the surrounding samurai residences.
Basic Information on Kakunodate Castle
Kakunodate Castle, also known as “Komatsuyama Castle,” is a flatland castle built on Kojōyama Mountain, which is 168 meters (some sources say 166 meters) above sea level. It is now maintained as Kojōyama Park and is popular with local residents and tourists alike.
Location and Access
Location: Komezawa, Nishinagano, Kakunodate-machi, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture
Access Method:
- Approximately 25 minutes on foot from JR Akita Shinkansen “Kakunodate Station”
- Head north from Kakunodate Station via the Samurai Residence Street
- Parking is available at Kojoyama Park if traveling by car
With the opening of the Akita Shinkansen, access from Tokyo has improved dramatically, and many tourists from all over Japan now visit. There is a tourist information center called “Kakunodate Ekimae Kura” in front of Kakunodate Station, where you can obtain maps and brochures.
History of Kakunodate Castle | The Sengoku Period under the rule of the Tozawa and Ashina Clans
Construction and Rule by the Tozawa Clan
There are various theories regarding the construction period of Kakunodate Castle, but the most plausible theory is that the Tozawa clan moved from Kadoya Castle in Kitaura District to Kakunodate Castle in 1424 (Oei 31). The Tozawa clan ruled this area for approximately 180 years as a Sengoku daimyo (feudal lord) of Dewa Province.
The Tozawa clan expanded their power centered around Kakunodate and survived the turbulent Sengoku period. However, after the Battle of Sekigahara in 1602, the Tozawa clan sided with the Eastern Army and were transferred to Hitachi Province (present-day Ibaraki Prefecture). This transfer brought a new ruler to Kakunodate Castle.
Development of the Castle Town by Ashina Yoshihiro (Morishige)
After the Tozawa clan’s transfer, Kakunodate came under the control of the Satake clan. Satake Yoshinobu was transferred to Akita Province, and his younger brother, Ashina Yoshihiro (later Morishige, Yoshikatsu), was appointed lord of Kakunodate Castle.
The Ashina clan was once a powerful Sengoku daimyo in the Aizu region, but lost power after Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s pacification of Oshu and came under the protection of the Satake family. When Ashina Yoshihiro became the lord of Kakunodate Castle, he laid the foundation for present-day Kakunodate and dedicated himself to developing the castle town. The town layout established during this period forms the basis of the samurai residences that still exist today.
The Abolition of the Castle Due to the “One Castle Per Province” Decree and the Era of the Satake Kita Family
In 1615, the Tokugawa shogunate issued the “One Castle Per Province” decree, and Kakunodate Castle was abolished in 1620. As a result, Ashina Yoshikatsu (Yoshihiro) moved his residence to the southern foot of Kojōyama Mountain, and Kakunodate Castle ceased to function as a mountain castle.
Subsequently, the Ashina family died out due to a lack of heirs, and the Satake Kita family took over the rule of Kakunodate. The Satake Kita family, a branch of the Satake clan, governed Kakunodate throughout the Edo period, fostering a unique and elegant culture.
Weeping Cherry Trees Transplanted from Kyoto by the Satake Kita Family and Samurai Culture
During the rule of the Satake Kita family, Kyoto culture was actively introduced to Kakunodate. Particularly famous is the weeping cherry tree transplanted from Kyoto. Said to have been brought by a princess of the Satake Kita family when she married into the family from Kyoto, this weeping cherry tree has now become a symbol of Kakunodate, creating a beautiful landscape that adorns the samurai residence street in spring.
This unique atmosphere, a fusion of Kyoto-style culture and the nature of Tohoku, is why Kakunodate is called “Little Kyoto of Michinoku.” The Satake Kita family ruled Kakunodate throughout the Edo period, and many of the samurai residences that remain today were built during this time.
A Castle Town Developed on a Delta Shaped by Two Rivers
Kakunodate’s topography is located on a delta-shaped plain formed by two rivers, the Tamagawa and the Hinokinai River. Taking advantage of the natural terrain, Kakunodate Castle was built on Mount Kojōyama to the north, with the castle town developing at its southern foot.
The combination of a natural defensive line provided by the river and a mountain castle made it an ideal location for a castle during the Sengoku period. Furthermore, its strategic location as a river transportation hub contributed to the distribution of goods and economic development. Even today, this topographical feature remains strongly evident in the townscape of Kakunodate, with a clear distinction between the inner town (inner district) lined with samurai residences and the outer town (merchant district).
Remains and Highlights of Kakunodate Castle
Castle Ruins Developed as Kojōyama Park
The current Kakunodate Castle ruins have been developed as Kojōyama Park. While no original buildings remain, remnants of the mountain castle can be seen throughout. In contrast to the samurai residences, there are few tourists, making it a quiet place to experience history.
Remaining Enclosures and Moats
Several leveled areas (enclosures) remain on Kojōyama Mountain, giving a glimpse into the scale of the former castle. Traces of dry moats can also be seen, allowing us to understand how the defensive functions of the mountain castle were arranged.
Walking through the castle ruins, one can see that multiple enclosures were arranged in a stepped pattern around the main enclosure. These remains are thought to have been developed during the period from the Tozawa clan to the Ashina clan.
A Viewpoint with a Panoramic View of Kakunodate
The greatest attraction of Kojōyama Park is the panoramic view of Kakunodate town. From near the summit at an altitude of 168 meters, you can see the inner town with its samurai residences, the outer town with its merchants, and even the Omono River and distant mountains.
Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, you can admire the colorful townscape of Kakunodate from above, making it an excellent photo spot.
The Beauty of Nature Through the Seasons
Kojoyama Park is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, and in spring, the entire mountain is adorned with cherry blossoms. The sight of mountain cherry blossoms and Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms in full bloom, different from the weeping cherry trees of the samurai residences, is magnificent.
In autumn, the autumn leaves are beautiful, and in winter, a snowy landscape unfolds. Kojoyama, which shows different faces throughout the four seasons, is a place where you can discover something new no matter how many times you visit.
Must-See Spots in Kakunodate Castle Town
When visiting Kakunodate Castle, the samurai residences remaining in the castle town are a must-see. It is a valuable place where you can experience the atmosphere of the Edo period.
Samurai Residences Open to the Public
Many samurai residences still remain in Kakunodate, and some of them are open to the public.
Ishiguro Residence: One of the most prestigious samurai residences in Kakunodate, it is still inhabited by descendants and is open to the public. The furnishings inside the building and the garden are a must-see.
Kakunodate Historical Village – Aoyagi Residence: A samurai residence with a vast estate, boasting a rich collection of weapons and art objects. Visitors can tour multiple storehouses and the main house, experiencing the lifestyle of a samurai family during that period.
Iwahashi Residence: A relatively compact residence of a middle-ranking samurai, preserving the typical structure of a samurai residence.
Matsumoto Residence: A samurai residence still inhabited by descendants, known for its beautiful garden.
Kawarada Residence: A samurai residence characterized by its Yakui-mon gate, with excellent preservation of its architectural style.
Odano Residence: The residence of the Odano family, who served as painters for the Kakunodate domain, offering insights into their cultural aspects.
Weeping Cherry Trees on Samurai Residence Street
The weeping cherry trees along Samurai Residence Street are a representative landscape of Kakunodate. The street lined with approximately 400 weeping cherry trees is designated a national scenic spot, and the best time to see them is from late April to early May each year.
The contrast between the black walls and the weeping cherry trees is truly befitting of the name “Little Kyoto of Michinoku.” Many of these weeping cherry trees are descendants of those transplanted from Kyoto during the time of the Satake Kita family, and some are ancient trees over 300 years old.
Town Planning of Inner and Outer Districts
The castle town of Kakunodate was clearly divided into the “Inner District,” where samurai lived, and the “Outer District,” where merchants and artisans lived. This town planning was established during the time of Ashina Yoshihiro, and the division is still maintained today.
The contrasting landscapes of the Inner District, with its orderly rows of samurai residences, and the Outer District, with its rows of merchant houses and storehouses, speak to the depth and richness of Kakunodate’s town.
Photo Spots at Kakunodate Castle
There are many photo spots at the Kakunodate Castle ruins and the surrounding area. ### Overlooking Kakunodate from Kojōyama
From the observation point on Kojōyama, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire town of Kakunodate. Especially during cherry blossom season, it’s an excellent spot to photograph the townscape bathed in pink. The early morning hours when the morning mist rolls in, and the beautiful twilight hours are recommended.
Samurai Residences and Weeping Cherry Blossoms
The combination of black walls and weeping cherry blossoms along the samurai residence street is a classic photo spot. The areas around the Ishiguro and Aoyagi residences are particularly picturesque, and the sight of rickshaws passing by adds to the charm.
Castle Ruins
The dry moats and remains of the baileys on Kojōyama are fascinating subjects for history buffs. The way the light filters through the trees illuminating the ruins creates a fantastical atmosphere.
Best Season to Visit Kakunodate Castle
The best season to visit Kakunodate Castle and its surrounding town varies depending on your purpose.
Spring (Late April to Early May)
This is the peak season for tourists, as the weeping cherry blossoms are in full bloom. You can enjoy the cherry blossoms along the samurai residence street and on Kojōyama Mountain simultaneously. However, be prepared for crowds.
Autumn (Mid-October to Early November)
The autumn foliage season is also beautiful, and it’s less crowded than spring, allowing for a more leisurely stroll. The autumn leaves on Kojōyama Mountain are particularly spectacular, offering a stunning contrast between the red and yellow hues of the mountain and the samurai residences.
Summer (July to August)
This is a lush green season, with relatively fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit. It’s the perfect season for hiking on Kojōyama Mountain.
Winter (December to March)
Kakunodate in the snow also has its own charm. The sight of snow-covered samurai residences is particularly beautiful, reminiscent of an ink painting. However, heavy snowfall may make climbing Kojōyama Mountain difficult.
Tourist Facilities Around Kakunodate Castle
Kakunodate Cherry Bark Craft Museum
This facility allows you to learn about the history and techniques of cherry bark craftsmanship, a traditional craft of Kakunodate. The beautiful crafts made from cherry bark are popular souvenirs from Kakunodate.
Kakunodate Town Hirafuku Memorial Art Museum
This museum exhibits the works of Hirafuku Hoan and Hyakusui, father and son, Japanese painters from the local area. You can learn about the cultural aspects of Kakunodate.
Senboku City Kakunodate Town Cherry Bark Craft Museum
You can observe demonstrations of cherry bark craft production, and workshops are also held.
Access to Kakunodate Castle and Estimated Visiting Time
Recommended Sightseeing Route
Half-Day Course (3-4 hours):
- Start from Kakunodate Station
- Stroll through the Samurai Residence Street (1.5 hours)
- Hike to Kojōyama Park (Kakunodate Castle Ruins) (1.5 hours)
- Lunch and souvenir shopping around the station (1 hour)
Full-Day Course (6-7 hours):
- Morning: Detailed tour of the samurai residences (3 hours)
- Lunch: Enjoy local Kakunodate cuisine
- Afternoon: Visit Kojōyama Park and surrounding art museums and historical sites (3 hours)
Parking Information
There are several paid parking lots around the samurai residences. During cherry blossom season, it becomes extremely crowded, so using public transportation is recommended. There is also parking space at Kojōyama Park, but the number of spaces is limited.
The Historical Value and Modern Significance of Kakunodate Castle
Although no buildings remain, Kakunodate Castle is a valuable historical site for understanding the evolution of castles from the Sengoku period to the early Edo period. Its historical value is highly regarded as a place that tells the story of how the castle and its surrounding town developed under different rulers: the Tozawa clan, the Ashina clan, and the Satake Kita family.
Furthermore, the fact that the castle town has been well-preserved even after the castle’s abandonment, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the Edo period, is rare nationwide. The landscape, a blend of samurai residences and weeping cherry trees, is an important cultural heritage that conveys traditional Japanese aesthetics to the present day.
Summary: The Charm of Kakunodate Castle and its Castle Town
Kakunodate Castle is a representative historical heritage of Akita Prefecture, conveying the history of rule from the Tozawa clan to Ashina Yoshihiro and then to the Satake Kita family. The ruins remaining on Mount Kojōyama evoke the appearance of a mountain castle from the Sengoku period, while the samurai residences in the castle town offer a glimpse into Edo-period samurai culture.
Kakunodate, known as “Little Kyoto of Michinoku,” is a town with a unique atmosphere where Kyoto-style culture and the nature of Tohoku are beautifully harmonized. The weeping cherry blossoms in spring, the autumn foliage, and the historical landscape preserved throughout the year deeply impress visitors.
The view of the castle town from the Kakunodate Castle ruins is the same landscape that the former lords of the castle must have gazed upon, allowing us to feel the romance of history, transcending more than 400 years. Now easily accessible by the Akita Shinkansen, many people from all over Japan visit Kakunodate and rediscover its charm.
For history buffs, and indeed for anyone seeking traditional Japanese culture and beautiful scenery, Kakunodate Castle and its castle town are must-see tourist destinations.
