When people visit Japan, they usually think of Kyoto’s streets or climbing Mount Fuji. But if you want fewer crowds and more unique experiences, head north to Tōhoku—just under two hours from Tokyo.
Tōhoku is made up of six prefectures at the northern tip of Honshu. It has mountains, lakes, forests, hot springs, coastlines, and plenty of space. Despite its natural beauty, it also has rich culture—samurai history, old temples, traditional sake breweries, and small Edo-era villages. Locals are welcoming, and the area gets only a small number of foreign tourists.
The region was hit hard by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, but it has rebuilt and is ready for visitors.
Best Places to Stay
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Matsushima Sakan Shoan – Luxury ryokan with sea views and onsen baths.
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Park Hotel Jodogahama – Overlooks stunning beaches with Mediterranean-like scenery.
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Fujiya (Ginzan) – Modern ryokan with hot springs and kaiseki dining.
Top Things to Do
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Hike the Michinoku Coastal Trail – See dramatic cliffs, coastal villages, and tsunami memorials.
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Visit Matsushima Bay – Famous for 200+ pine-covered islands. Also, see Cat Island nearby.
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Explore Nature – Skiing, hiking, sacred mountains, and onsen baths.
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Discover Samurai History – Visit Aizu-Wakamatsu, old castles, and samurai towns.
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Join Local Festivals – Lantern processions, colorful floats, and summer celebrations.
Food to Try
Tōhoku is famous for seafood, wagyu beef, sake, and unique dishes like “sea pineapple.”
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L’aureole Tanohata – French-Japanese fine dining.
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Kesennuma Fish Market – Fresh seafood bowls.
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Miroku Yokocho – Tiny izakayas with ramen, sashimi, and sake.
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Azumaya Soba – Endless bowls of wanko soba.
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Shiogama-ko Sushi – Conveyor belt sushi with top quality.
Best Time to Visit
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Spring & Fall – Great for hiking, cherry blossoms (April), and colorful autumn leaves.
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Winter – Skiing, snowy landscapes, and “snow monsters.”
Getting There
Take the bullet train from Tokyo to Sendai in about 1.5 hours. You can also fly to Sendai or other small airports. Once there, use trains, buses, or rent a car for remote spots.
Cities Worth Visiting
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Ginzan – Fairy-tale hot spring town.
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Sendai – The largest city in Tōhoku with samurai history and festivals.
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Yamagata – Famous for ramen, hiking, and autumn scenery.
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Kesennuma – Port city with food, museums, and coastal views.
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