Kakunodante is a samurai area. Sword martial art is an inherited spirit of Samurai. It is highly recommended for people visiting not only the houses, but also experience the practice and spirit of Samurai. The tour was well organized with clear instructions and demonstration of basic sword martial art, so we could appreciate the strength, the attitude and connection with place (dojo). It was an excellent experience.

I highly recommend this tour as it offers the opportunity to see the real Japanese countryside. My guide Mikiya Sugawara was a gentleman and highly knowledgeable about the Kakunodate area. The tours starts off with a small vintage train journey and soon we departed on some electric bikes (which makes the journey even more of a pleasure). The rice paddy fields, chestnut/mushroom growing areas, etc. were interesting to see and understand the techniques. About half way along the way we took a break at Kimoto Garden cafe and Delicatessen. The family run cafe was very friendly. For the second half I managed to catch a view of a Japanese stork in a paddy field. We passed through the Samuria historical district of Kakunodate near the end of the tour. Overall it was a refreshing change to the hustle and bustle of large cities such a Tokyo.

Did a full day tour of Kakunadate on a pouring rain day still with many very positive and lasting impressions. Next to the “mandatory “ but very pleasant Samurai- and cherry wood crafting-experiences impressive visits to a Soy Sauce- and a Sake factory completed the day.

Spent a full day with Mickey in Kanunadate, Japan. A competent and knowledgeable guide with lovely English. We arrived for the Japanese cherry blossom season but learned so much more about the area. We stopped for a very pleasant lunch together and continued the afternoon with yet more activities. A highlight was a trip to the Sake Factory. Mickey went above and beyond several times during the day and finally dropped us off at our accommodation instead of the pick up point. Sincere thank you from David and Linda.

Had an amazing Snow Shoes Trekking experience in Tazawako, Akita, booked through their website. Guides Mak-san, Miki-san, and Shika-san provided excellent support. The well-equipped trek started from Tazawako Ski Area, offering convenient gear like snowshoes and snow-resistant boots. The downhill route made the trek enjoyable, with engaging guides sharing insights into nature, including 宿木 (mistletoe), 氷柱 (icicles), and 雪花 (snowflakes). Activities included coffee breaks, snow-throwing on icicles, lying on the snow, and sledging with a Snow Sled. In about 2 hours, the trek showcased beautiful, powdery snow and the serene Tazawako surroundings. Notable finds included animal footprints, streams, and the highlight – the picturesque Yujō Waterfall (友情の滝). Highly recommended for winter novices with limited time and those wanting to leisurely enjoy the snow. Looking forward to repeating this experience in future winter seasons.

We had a lovely time with Miki on the food tour - it felt very personal and very local. We got to meet small shop owners, learn about the local fruit and vegetable, try some traditional Japanese sweets and see one of the old samurai houses from the inside (including meeting one of the descendants!)