Tohoku Region

To the northernmost reaches of Japan’s Honshu island lies the Tohoku region, a vast expanse that’s both a haven of natural splendors and a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people. Comprising six prefectures—Aomori, Akita, Fukushima, Iwate, Miyagi, and Yamagata—Tohoku presents a Japan less explored, where traditions run deep, landscapes are untamed, and the seasons paint vivid scenes of breathtaking beauty.

Start your journey in Aomori, the region’s northern gateway, where the Nebuta Matsuri dazzles visitors with its vibrant float parades. It’s here that the sacred trails of the Shimokita Peninsula lead to Osorezan, a temple site often referred to as the entrance to the afterlife, with its eerie landscapes reminiscent of a different world. Don’t miss the famous Aomori apples, some of the best you’ll ever taste.

In Akita, the Kakunodate samurai district stands as a relic of a bygone era, with well-preserved samurai houses lining its streets. The prefecture’s serene landscapes also play host to the Kanto Festival, where performers showcase incredible feats of balance with tall bamboo poles adorned with lanterns. As winter blankets the region, the Tazawa Lake, Japan’s deepest, takes on a serene, mystical aura.

Iwate, marked by its rugged coastline and the magnificent Sanriku Fukko National Park, is a blend of scenic vistas. The town of Hiraizumi, once a cultural capital rivaling Kyoto, boasts sites like Chuson-ji Temple, a testament to the region’s rich history. But perhaps Iwate’s most iconic site is the Hashino Iron Mining and Smelting Site, signaling the dawn of Japan’s industrial age.

Miyagi is home to Sendai, the region’s most vibrant city. Often dubbed the “City of Trees,” Sendai combines urban sophistication with a touch of nature. A short distance away lies Matsushima Bay, dotted with pine-clad islets, often ranked as one of Japan’s three most scenic views. The region’s resilience is evident in its recovery after the 2011 tsunami, a testament to Tohoku’s enduring spirit.

Yamagata offers a world of contrasts. While the Zao Onsen ski resort becomes a winter wonderland with snow monsters—trees heavily laden with snow—the prefecture is also known for its cherries, best enjoyed in the summer. The atmospheric Yamadera Temple, perched on a mountain, is a pilgrimage of both body and soul.

Finally, Fukushima, with its verdant landscapes, hot springs, and the historical town of Aizuwakamatsu, presents a tapestry of experiences. The Tsuruga Castle, a symbol of the region’s storied past, stands proud against the backdrop of the Azuma Mountains.

Tohoku is a journey into Japan’s soul, a place where traditions are the living rhythms of daily life, and nature’s spectacles unfold with each changing season. Whether seeking solace in its serene temples, exploring its rich history, or immersing oneself in its festivals, Tohoku beckons with its untamed beauty and heartwarming tales of resilience and revival.