basic information

How to travel between Kakunodate and Tokyo

By train:

Direct komachi trains on the JR Akita Shinkansen require roughly three hours for the journey from Tokyo to Kakunodate. The one way fare is about 15,500 yen. Seat reservations are mandatory for the Akita Shinkansen. There is about one train per hour.

The "Akita Odate Free Kippu" is a discount ticket that consists of a shinkansen round trip from Tokyo to the Akita region and up to seven consecutive days of unlimited JR train use in the northwestern Tohoku region (Akita and western Aomori Prefectures) for only 28,100 yen.

An even better value for foreign tourists is the JR East Pass, which costs 20,000 yen for either five consecutive days or four flexible days within a month. However, the JR East Pass is not available to residents of Japan.

By air:

JAL and ANA operate multiple flights per day between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Akita Airport. Flight duration is one hour. The regular one way fare is about 26,000 yen, however, discount tickets are typically available for between 12,000 and 16,000 yen. With a Japan Air Pass, you can fly for even less. Access to Akita Airport is explained in below under Orientation.

By highway bus:

Sotetsu Highway Bus operates a night bus between Yokohama and Lake Towada, which also stops in Tokyo and Kakunodate. The one way fare from Tokyo is 8,860 yen, while a round trip costs 15,890 yen. In Tokyo, the bus stops at Hamamatsucho Bus Terminal near Hamamatsucho Station on the Yamanote Line.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. For the current Yen exchange rate, click here.

 
Orientation

Kakunodate is best explored on foot. JR Kakunodate Station is located to the southwest of the samurai district. It is about a 15 minute walk from the station to the beginning of the samurai district, and a further 10 minute walk to the district's other end. Walking from the station will take tourists through part of the merchant district as well. Taxis and rickshaws are also available.

Transportation between Akita Airport and Kakunodate is somewhat limited, and as such, rental car outlets at the airport offer a convenient option. Direct public transportation between the airport and Kakunodate is provided by the Akita Airport Liner. This "taxi" service must be reserved by the day before travel and costs 2200 yen per person. Note that it will not operate for just one passenger. Alternatively, a regular bus takes passengers as far as Akita Station for 890 yen, where they can then board a train for Kakunodate.

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