Tohoku Region Travel Guide

Japanese traditional beauty in Tohoku

Tohoku is packed with places full of history: Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, traditional wooden houses, and feudal castles. These will let you discover the Japan of the past, the time of the samurais, and the clan wars. 

In Iwate prefecture, the temples, gardens, and archeological sites of the city of Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are full of stories. Formerly the capital of the northern part of Honshu Island, it is now a testimony to the past of the Tohoku region.

The old town of Kakunodate has remained almost unchanged since its creation in the 17th century. Its samurai district, one of the best preserved in Japan, is the witness of an important page of the traditional aspect of Japan. An opportunity to go back to the past!

Founded in 860, the Yamadera temple is nestled on the mountainside of Yamagata Prefecture and offers a breathtaking view of the green valley below and the surrounding mountains. Not to be missed during your visit to the area.

Finally, Ôuchi-juku village in Fukushima Prefecture has been very popular since the Edo period. Its ancient thatched houses have been protected until today, giving the village a time capsule appearance.

We recommend visiting these places to witness the rich history of the region

The nature of Tohoku

Composed of six of the most rural prefectures in Japan, the Tohoku region is blessed with great nature, ideal for walking and hiking. Get away from the big cities for a while and take a breath of fresh air north of the many mountains by discovering the national parks and other natural beauties offered by the region.

Located about 40 minutes by train from Sendai in Miyagi Prefecture, Matsushima Bay is home to more than 200 small rocky and wooded islands. It is considered one of the three most beautiful scenic spots in Japan on par with Amanohashidate, the "bridge of heaven" of Chugoku, and the very famous Miyajima.

Tohoku region has many mountains, valleys, and rivers. It is there that you can admire the most beautiful gorges of Japan: Oyasu Gorge, Dakigaeri Gorge, or Genbikei and Geibikei Gorge. 

The most impressive one is located in Aomori prefecture, where a river taking its source in Towada lake has formed Oirase Gorge. Surrounded by lush woods and dotted with waterfalls, this place has inspired painters and poets for centuries. It is a particularly recommended place for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

Where to see the cherry blossoms in Tohoku?

Cherry blossoms are one of the most distinctive symbols of Japan and their arrival at the end of winter brings a festive wind to the country every year! Their blossoming kicks off Hanami, a Japanese tradition of picnicking with family, friends, or colleagues under the branches of cherry blossoms.

When spring arrives, you will find exceptional places to go and admire the pink petals of the cherry blossoms:

One of the most emblematic locations of Tohoku is Aomori Prefecture’s Hirosaki Park and the eponymous castle located within it. The castle was originally built in the 1600s but rebuilt in 1810. During the Hirosaki cherry blossom festival, the scene of the castle, within the backdrop of a bright crimson bridge with the cherry blossoms surrounding the scene is like no other. Also within the castle grounds is a botanical garden with exotic animals such as peacocks and the Hirosaki City Museum. 

The Kitakami Cherry Blossom Festival  At the Kitakami River in Iwate Prefecture, two of the most prominent events of spring are combined; Hanami and Children’s Day. With the calming pink of the sakura lining the riverbank, koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks used to commemorate Children’s Day) are strung up above creating a cheerful scene and environment. 

Where to see autumn leaves in Japan?

The abundance of nature in Tohoku makes it an amazing spot for seeing the autumn leaves (called koyo 紅葉 in Japanese). In Japan especially, the autumn season scenery is breathtaking, with blankets of vibrant gold and burgundy flowing throughout the forests and valleys.

One of the best places to see the koyo is Lake Towada in Aomori. During fall, the pristine waters reflect the golden foliage of the trees, creating a beautiful reverse-mirror effect that incredible to see both in person and in pictures.

Summer Festivals in Tohoku

During summer in Japan, a medley of unique festivals occur throughout the country, and Tohoku is home to some of the most distinct and vibrant of these matsuri. From the end of June to mid-July, travelers can go from prefecture to prefecture and tour around the different festivals.

In Akita Prefecture, the Kanto Festival involves a precession of festival participants carrying large floats that consist of numerous lanterns hanging from a pole. These floats are unlike any other as they are actually carried by hand and handled in extravagant ways with carriers balancing the floats on their hands, through the belt loops of their traditional clothing, and sometimes even on their foreheads! It's really a site that must be seen in person to believe. 

In Sendai, one of the largest Tanabata Festivals occurs on July 7th. Major parts of the city are adorned with bright and colorful streamers, filling the entire city with festival spirit. Of course, food stalls and activities for children can be found all over as well. While Tanabata is celebrated all over the country and world wherever there is a prominent Japanese diaspora, the festivites in Sendai are some of the most memorable to experience in person. 

Likely the most well-known festival in all of Tohoku, and arguably Japan, is that of the Nebuta Festival all the way up in Aomori Prefecture. Spanning 5 days from August 2nd to August 7th, much of downtown Aomori City is closed off at night to make way for the enormous Nebuta floats that define the festival. These floats are like any other seen during the summer festivals. Aside from being notably large, they are incredibly ornate and colorful, designed in great detail after historic shogun . The floats are illuminated with internal lamps that cause them to glow brightly during the night time precessions. If there is one festival that cannot be missed in Tohoku, it is Nebuta!

Zao in Yamagata is a famous destination for winter sports. Every year, ski and snowboard enthusiasts flock from around Japan and the world to ride down the snowy slopes of this area. At the same, visitors to this area can warm back up at the many onsen hot springs in this area that juxtapose the cold and snowy slopes of the mountain. Enjoy the snow during the day and then relax at a ryokan at night!

Another famous onsen in this area is Ginzan Onsen, also in Yamagata! This is one of the most picturesque onsen towns in all of Japan with especially beautiful scenery during winter when white, powdery snow blankets the towns traditional architecture. 

One of the most unique things to do in Japan during Winter is in Ichinoseki City in Iwate Prefecture. On the Satetsu River in the prefecture's countryside, people can take a ride on the river through the Geibikei Gorge in a traditional boat that is outfitted with kotatsu, specialized Japanese heated tables used during winter. Gently stroll down the river and relax with unbelievable winter scenery surrounding you as you stay warm from within the boat.

One of the most famous destinations within Fukushima is Aizu-Wakamatsu, often referred to as “the Samurai City.” A location that was at the crossroads between the Meiji Restoration and Edo Period, visitors can learn about the rich history of samurai culture, with different experiential centers and workshops found throughout. The restored Tsurago-jo Castle is at Aizu-Wakamatsu center, a formidable sight that pays homage to the area’s rich history. 

Fukushima is often referred to as “the fruit kingdom” of Japan, offering a generous bounty of some of the most high-quality fruits in the country. Signature varieties of grapes, apples, melons, and more are said to be the best from Fukushima, and a lovely fruit parfait on a summer day in this prefecture is a treat for both the taste buds and soul. 

The capital of Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai, is the largest city in Tohoku, home to over 1 million people. The city, its surrounding area, and Miyagi Prefecture as a whole are host to some of the most distinct attractions in all of Tohoku. 

Within Sendai, the Zuihoden stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history. Dedicated to Date Masamune, the daimyo of the legendary Sendai Clan, this elegant mausoleum is also home to a museum that houses artifacts from the area’s past. A bit farther out from central Sendai, the world-renowned Nikka Whiskey Company has one of their distilleries in Miyagikyo. Tours are available as well as exclusive offerings that will appeal to liquor enthusiasts. 

Be sure to take in the gorgeous scenery of Miyagi Prefecture as well, with gorgeous sea coasts, deep gorges, and rolling mountains in abundance. The onsens in Miyagi are particularly famous, with Naruko and Zao being popular destinations for both overseas travelers and Japanese visitors from all over. 

Iwate’s capital, Morioka, has a near-constant view of Mount Iwate, with its snow-capped, angled peak being an iconic view during the colder months. A visit to this charming city demands a hike up the mountain using the Yanagisawa Trail. From the peak, the view of Iwate’s demanding landscape is unparalleled. 

Hiraizumi, located in Nishiiwai, is filled with historic sites dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries associated with Fujiwara no Kiyohira, a samurai who ruled northern Japan up to the end of the Heian Period. It is because of this that the greater Hiraizumi area and its historic attractions are dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Iwate’s rich coastline makes it a notable source for delicious seafood, with delicious shellfish and uni sourced by ama (traditional woman sea divers) out at sea. The capital of Morioka is known for its “3 great noodles,” consisting of reimen, a chilled noodle dish derived from Korean cuisine; janjanmen, a meat-miso-based noodle dish derived from Chinese cuisine; and then wanko soba, a dining experience that entails eating multiple servings of soba noodles served in a small bowl. It is as much a challenge of appetite and might as it is a delicious meal. 

At Nebuta Matsuri, large paper floats with intricate detailing are illuminated and then pushed through the city’s streets at night. The fanfare goes on over the course of almost a week, taking over the capital of the prefecture. The festival takes place annually from August 2nd to August 7th. 

Located on the southwest end of the prefecture, Hirosaki Castle is one of the most famous castles in all of Japan. Originally built in 1611, it was the main seat for the Tsugaru Clan that ruled over the area at that time. During springtime the castle and its surrounding park are accented with gorgeous cherry blossoms, and in winter, stark white snow layers onto the castle pagodas, providing one of the most distinct views to see in Tohoku. 

When it comes to cuisine, Aomori is heavily associated with tuna, known as maguro in Japanese. Located far north, the city of Oma is right by some of the richest waters of the Tsugaru Strait, where some of the most luxurious tuna is fished from its depths. Also notable in Aomori are fruits, especially apples, grown in many varieties and shipped all over the country to be enjoyed. 

Akita Prefecture is home to the Shirakami Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its rich natural beauty. It is host to prolific wildlife like Japanese macaque monkeys, serows, and more! Hiking in the area to take in the gorgeous landscape and rather untouched environment is a must for nature lovers. 

Akita has historically been known for its rice crop as well as its sake production. Outside of being a staple carbohydrate of the Japanese diet, Akita uses its signature rice for kiritanpo, a type of rice skewer that is grilled. Takashima Brewery is one of the most venerable sake producers in the country, and their facility, which hosts tours, is only around 20 minutes from JR Akita Station.  

After a day going up and down the mountain, the warm baths of the natural hot springs of the area are the ultimate way to relax and soothe the body. Aside from Zao Onsen, another famous spot is Ginzan Onsen, known for its standout wooden architecture built along charming roads that go along a central stream. In winter, the scene of these buildings with snow piled on and glowing windows is almost like something out of a movie. 

One of the most distinct specialties of Yamagata is imoni, a stew made with meat and taro, a sweet Asian yam with a distinct purple coloration. Rich and filling, this is a great dish to eat during the colder months. Yamagata is also known for its wagyu beef sourced from Yonezawa. This wagyu is said to be one of the three great wagyu beef varieties of Japan, the other two being Kobe Beef and Miyazaki Beef. The silky fat and generous mouthfeel make it one of the most luxurious ingredients available in Japan.  

One of the best locations to visit in all of Niigata is actually right off of the prefecture's coast, Sado Island! This is the second-largest island off of Japan's mainland (the first being Okinawa) and is home to beautiful nature as well as a unique culture all its own. On the island, a historic gold mine can be found that has been repurposed as a museum that provides insight into Japan's industrial history. Also, a great option is to check out some of the sake breweries that call the island home!

Indeed, Niigata Prefecture as a whole is actually one of the largest producer of sake in all of Japan, laying claim to some of the most revered producers, such as Obata Shuzo Brewery on Sado Island and the Taiyo Sake Brewery in Murakami. Much of this quality sake is derived from the famous rice crop that comes out of Niigata, which is some of the most sought-after rice in all of Japan that benefits greatly from the nutritious waters from the snowfall.