Feel the centuries unfold as you stroll through the wide streets and large courtyards of the Kakunodate Samurai District, once the home of 80 samurai and their families. Established in 1620, Kakunodate is acclaimed as one of the best examples of samurai architecture and housing in the country. Here, you'll find a number of centuries-old gardens and houses including the Aoyagi Samurai House, one of the best-preserved samurai manor houses of its kind in Japan. Today, this open-air museum features a main house, armory, an antique museum and tea room, gift shops and a beautiful garden. Another impressive building is Ishiguro House, the current home of samurai descendants. You'll be welcomed inside where you can view a collection of samurai clothing and armor, as well as some drawings and artwork. Once you've experienced the home life of the samurai, you'll depart for lunch and return to the pier.