Local specialties

The technique of birch crafting was introduced to Kakunodate during the Tenmei era (1781-1788). It was originally a side job for lower-ranking samurai, but with the generous patronage of the feudal lord, the technique became established. Birch crafts are crafts made from mountain cherry bark that has been polished to a glossy finish. Today, it is used in a wide variety of applications to meet various needs, such as inro (seal cases), bookcases, and tea canisters, and in 1976 it was certified as Akita Prefecture’s first “traditional craft.” Mountain cherry bark absorbs air moderately, and the oil on the bark blocks out air, providing moisture-proof and dry-resistant properties that protect the contents from drying. This is why bark is used in wooden inro (seal cases) and medicine cabinets, making them luxurious and exquisite items.

Saimyouji chestnuts are the largest chestnuts in Japan and are produced in Senboku City. They can be purchased at several confectionery shops in Senboku City. Among them, Kurayoshi is famous for its Western and Japanese sweets made with Saimyouji chestnuts. You can also enjoy a Mont Blanc and coffee set at the cake shop and cafe Petit Fraise.

Senboku City has many soba restaurants that use locally grown soba noodles. At these soba restaurants, you can enjoy handmade soba noodles. We especially recommend eating soba noodles with tempura made with seasonal ingredients.

The Satake Kita family’s traditional Onkariba-yaki is a dish made with meat, seasonal vegetables, and other ingredients cooked with Japanese pepper miso. 🥢 This local dish, full of historical romance, has been revived in modern times based on records of outdoor activities by the Satake Kita family, who were lords of Kakunodate Castle over 300 years ago.

Approved by the 21st head of the Satake Kita clan