Walking Tour of Wealthy Merchant's Storehouses in Akita

Akita Prefecture , Japan

Walking Tour of Wealthy Merchant's Storehouses in Akita

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a tour with your guide through the quaint street lined with Japanese old houses!
Masuda Town has prospered as a merchant town since the Edo period.
Because this town has been the transportation hub, a variety of agricultural products gathered here. Merchants amassed wealth in their fields and created mansion towns.
Inside these mansions, "Kura'' or a storehouse was built by wealthy merchants to store documents and household furniture.
This storehouse is still inhabited and rare even in Japan.
Feel the elegance in the detailed decorations such as white plaster, polished black plaster and lacquered interior.
The townscape is home to many historic buildings of this area.
Masuda town was designated as a National Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 2013.

Find the storehouses of each mansion with its unique structure and decoration.
In this guided tour, you will be able to visit two to three mansions with storehouse while receiving an explanation.

Available options

Inc. PickUp/DropOff AKITA port

This option includes transportation from/to AKITA port for round-trip. Masuda town is about 90-min from AKITA cruise port.

Walking Tour of Wealthy Merchant's Storehouses in Akita

What's included

Entrance fee up to 3 mansions

Detailed itinerary

Please come to Masuda-kuranoeki(増田蔵の駅) bus stop through transferring JR Jumonji station by yourself. You will get on a bus or taxi from JR Jumonji station(JR十文字駅) to Masuda-kuranoeki bus stop depending on your arrival time so please bring some cash for fare. (round trip fare for bus : ￥500/person, for taxi : about ￥3,000/car) There are a limited number of trains departing from JR Jumonji Station, so please check your arrival/departure itinerary in advance. Please see the uploaded photo of Viator for the timetable. If you let us know in advance, we will meet and help you transfer at JR Jumonji Station. Parking is available next to "Hotaru - Masuda Tourist Information Center" if you visit by car.
This is group tour, but if there are no other group at your chosen time, we can start the tour earlier if you let us know in advance.
The small/medium size 100-yen-coin lockers are available in "Hotaru" or "Community Lounge". But if you bring large size luggage, please contact us after booking.

Explore Masuda town in Akita on a 2-hour walking tour of visiting several mansions that have storehouse built by wealthy merchants as a symbol of financial power more than 100 years ago.

・See the townscape of wealthy merchant's town in countryside.
・Explore "Uchigura or storehouse in mansion" with walls plastered black.
・Learn the lifestyle of residents of merchants more than 100 years before.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Masuda kuranoeki-mae (or Masuda Kuranoeki "増田蔵の駅前") bus stop.
If you let us know in advance, you will meet your guide at JR Jumonji Station who helps you transfer.
If there are no other group at your chosen time, we can start earlier if you let us know your arrival in advance.

About Akita Prefecture

Akita Prefecture, located in the northern part of Japan's main island Honshu, is known for its rich natural beauty, hot springs, and traditional festivals. The region offers a blend of rural charm and modern attractions, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Kakunodate

Kakunodate is a well-preserved samurai district known for its traditional houses and beautiful cherry blossoms. It offers a glimpse into the Edo period.

Historical Half day Free to explore, some houses may charge an entry fee

Tazawako

Lake Tazawa is the deepest lake in Japan and offers stunning views, especially during autumn. It's a popular spot for hiking and water activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, some activities may have fees

Akita Museum of Art

This museum showcases the works of local artist Toshi Koshiba and other contemporary artists. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥500 - ¥1,000

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kiritanpo

Pounded rice skewers grilled over an open flame, often served with hot pot or miso soup.

Dinner Contains gluten

Inakayaki

Small, round dumplings filled with minced meat and vegetables, grilled over an open flame.

Snack Contains gluten and meat

Akita Sake

High-quality sake produced in Akita, known for its smooth and refined taste.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Onsen (hot spring) visits Temple stays Samurai district tours Traditional craft workshops Boat tours on Lake Tazawa Fishing

Best Time to Visit

September to November

Autumn is the best time to visit Akita for its pleasant weather and stunning fall foliage. It's also a great time for outdoor activities and cultural festivals.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Akita is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a peaceful atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Akita Airport • 14 km from Akita City

By train

Akita Station

By bus

Akita Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Akita. They are reliable and cover most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Akita City Kakunodate Tazawako

Day trips

Nyuto Onsen

60 km from Akita City • Full day

A collection of traditional hot spring inns nestled in the mountains, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Oga Peninsula

70 km from Akita City • Full day

A scenic peninsula known for its rugged coastline, lighthouses, and traditional fishing villages.

Festivals

Namahage Festival • February 2nd Akita Kanto Festival • August 3rd to 6th

Pro tips

Visit during the autumn for stunning fall foliage and pleasant weather
Try local specialties like kiritanpo and inakayaki for an authentic culinary experience
Stay in a traditional ryokan for a unique cultural experience
Explore the rural areas for a glimpse of traditional Japanese life
Be prepared for winter conditions if traveling during the snowy season