How to get to Kakunodate from Akita?

We recommend taking the Komachi Shinkansen, which is part of the Akita Shinkansen line. It is the most direct and efficient way. Komachi trains depart regularly from Akita Station and arrive at Kakunodate Station, which is the only Shinkansen station in the town. The Shinkansen is renowned for its comfort, spacious seating, and punctuality.

What is the Shinkansen journey time?

The Komachi Shinkansen journey between Akita Station and Kakunodate Station takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes. This duration may vary slightly depending on the specific schedule and the number of stops.

Ticket - Train - Kakunodate - Akita

Q: Is it better to take the Shinkansen or a local train?

For the Akita-Kakunodate journey, we strongly recommend the Komachi Shinkansen. Although local trains operate on the Tazawako Line, the Shinkansen offers a significant advantage in terms of travel time and comfort. The Shinkansen is faster (approximately 45-50 minutes compared to 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours for a local train), more frequent, and generally more comfortable with its reserved seating. Local trains are an option only if budget is a major concern or if you desire a slower travel experience with more stops, but this is not ideal for most travelers looking to optimize their time.

Q: What is the ticket price for Akita to Kakunodate?

The cost of a standard Komachi Shinkansen ticket between Akita and Kakunodate typically ranges from 3,000 to 3,500 yen for a reserved seat. It is also possible to use the Japan Rail Pass if you own one, which covers this journey. We advise checking the exact fares at the time of booking, as they may vary slightly. For oversized luggage, designated spaces are available at the front or rear of some cars, but we recommend reserving a seat with luggage space if you have large suitcases.

Adults (+12yo)

Children* (< 12yo)

*the price displayed is for dedicated seats; children under 6 and babies can be seated on adults'lap free of charge.

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The train journey between Akita and Kakunodate, taken by the Komachi Shinkansen, offers a glimpse into the transition between modernity and the historical heritage of the Akita region. Leaving the dynamic city of Akita, travelers will see the landscape gradually transform into rural scenes, typical of the Japanese countryside, before arriving in Kakunodate, a town nicknamed 'the Little Kyoto of Tohoku' for its magnificent samurai residences and cherry blossom trees. This line is one of the few where a Shinkansen operates on conventional tracks after Morioka, thus merging high-speed efficiency with the charm of local lines.

Frequently asked questions

For the Akita-Kakunodate journey, we strongly recommend the Komachi Shinkansen. Although local trains operate on the Tazawako Line, the Shinkansen offers a significant advantage in terms of travel time and comfort. The Shinkansen is faster (approximately 45-50 minutes compared to 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours for a local train), more frequent, and generally more comfortable with its reserved seating. Local trains are an option only if budget is a major concern or if you desire a slower travel experience with more stops, but this is not ideal for most travelers looking to optimize their time.

The cost of a standard Komachi Shinkansen ticket between Akita and Kakunodate typically ranges from 3,000 to 3,500 yen for a reserved seat. It is also possible to use the Japan Rail Pass if you own one, which covers this journey. We advise checking the exact fares at the time of booking, as they may vary slightly. For oversized luggage, designated spaces are available at the front or rear of some cars, but we recommend reserving a seat with luggage space if you have large suitcases.