久保田城（秋田城）
Kubota Castle (Akita Castle)
Overview
Kubota Castle was built in 1604 by Satake Yoshinobu after the Satake clan was transferred from Hitachi (modern Ibaraki) to Dewa Province as punishment for their neutral stance at Sekigahara. Unusually, the castle was never given a main tower — a deliberate signal of deference to the Tokugawa shogunate. The Satake clan ruled Akita for nearly 270 years and cultivated a sophisticated culture blending warrior and courtly traditions. The Gomotogashira Goyōbasho guardhouse (1669) survives as the oldest structure on the site. The castle grounds are now Senshu Park, known for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.
Connection to Swords
The Satake clan, originally from Hitachi Province in the heart of Sōshū-influenced eastern Japan, brought a rich sword heritage to Akita. Domain smiths such as Dewa-no-kami Yasuyuki supplied practical, powerful blades to Akita samurai. Akita's iron sand resources supported local swordsmiths producing blades known as 'Akita-mono.' The Satake clan's courtly connections gave them access to Kyoto master smiths as well. The Akita City Satake Historical Museum displays Satake-clan swords, armor, and fittings.
Highlights
- Gomotogashira Goyōbasho guardhouse (Important Cultural Property, built 1669)
- Reconstructed corner turret with Satake clan exhibits
- Senshu Park cherry blossoms and castle moat
- Akita City Satake Historical Museum (swords, armor, and fine arts)
- Akita City Senshu Art Museum (featuring Akita Ranga Western-style painting)
- Namahage Museum on Oga Peninsula (about 1 hr by car)
* Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.
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