Akita Private Custom Tour with Local Guide
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation up to 24h before
- Guided in English
- Instant confirmation
Highlights
Get off the beaten path and immerse yourself in Akita's unique culture and landscapes on this guided tour from the Akita port cruise terminal. With a private vehicle, the day reaches deep into the Semboku area (roughly 45-70km from the port) to take in the full range of highlights: the well-preserved samurai district of Kakunodate, known as the 'Little Kyoto of Tohoku'; Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake, famed for its sapphire-blue water and the golden Tatsuko statue; and the red torii gate of Gozanoishi Shrine on the lake's northern shore. Without a private vehicle, the tour stays close to the port and Akita City itself, visiting Senshu Park, built on the site of the former Kubota Castle, and the adjoining Kubota Castle ruins, including the reconstructed Front Gate and Osumiyagura Turret — a same-day round trip to the Semboku sights is not realistic by public transport within this tour's time frame.
Inclusions
What's included
- Private tour
- English-speaking guide
What's not
- Private transportation(Optional)
- Personal expenses
- Entrance fees (for yourself & guide)
- Lunch (for yourself & guide)
Itinerary
Begin your journey at the Kakunodate Samurai Residence Street, famously known as the Little Kyoto of Tohoku. Stroll through this beautifully preserved district featuring historic black wooden walls and majestic weeping cherry trees. You can step inside authentic samurai houses to see original armor and artifacts from the Edo period.
Continue your adventure to Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan. Admire the stunning sapphire-blue water and take a photo with the iconic golden statue of Tatsuko. The legendary beauty of the lake changes with the seasons, offering a serene and mystical atmosphere.
A short drive along the shore leads you to Gozanoishi Shrine, located on the northern edge of the lake. The striking red Torii gate standing right by the crystal-clear water is one of the most spiritual and photogenic spots in Akita, offering a perfect moment for reflection.
Transition back to the city to explore Senshu Park, a lush Japanese-style park developed on the site of the former Kubota Castle. Walk through tranquil gardens and along scenic ponds. It is a designated Place of Scenic Beauty, offering a peaceful oasis in the heart of Akita City.
Step deeper into history at the Kubota Castle Ruins to learn about the Satake clan who ruled this region for over 260 years. Walk through the reconstructed Front Gate and climb the Osumiyagura Turret for a panoramic view of the city and the distant mountains.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
Reviews
5.0
- 511
- 40
- 30
- 20
- 10
Ratings come from 11 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.
Know before you go
- Pickup
- Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
- Ticket type
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operated by
- Travel Japan Together Tokyo
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How it compares in Japan, outside the cities
- Its from-price is 15% below the median of the 155 day trips we list in Japan, outside the cities.
- Its length is typical for the group.
- By number of reviews it ranks 7 of 155.
- The operator lists free cancellation on it.
Special offers in Japan, outside the cities
Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.
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