Admire and Try Your Hand at Masterful Woodcrafting

The beauty of Japanese craftsmanship is on full display in Kakunodate, Akita

Even if you miss the full bloom of cherry blossoms in spring, you can still appreciate the beauty of the cherry blossom tree year-round at the Cherry Bark Work Museum in Kakunodate, Akita. 

Kabazaiku, or the art of working with cherry blossom tree bark, has been a traditional practice in Kakunodate since 1780. Here, you will find a wonderful collection of cherry blossom bark craft, from handmade tea canisters to medicine boxes and signature stamp cases. On certain days, it’s also possible to catch master craftsmen at work. Watch how easily they transform simple wood into a work of art, and let them teach you all about their time-honored techniques. You can make your own kabazaiku wall hanging or coaster using bark, or make a stop in the gift shop to peruse the selection of exquisite objects.

The museum is also known for its collection of samurai armor that once belonged to the Satake clan, who ruled the region in the Edo period (1603 to 1867). After enjoying the museum, take a stroll around the historical townscape, which contains well-maintained samurai residences, some of which are open to the public.
     
Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Akita Shinkansen to Kakunodate Station (about three hours four minutes), then take the Ugo Kotsu bus to the Yokomachi stop and walk about eight minutes to the museum.

Kakunodate Cherry Bark Work Museum