Tohoku Travel Guide

Tohoku is located in the northern part of Japan’s main island of Honshu. The region is mostly mountainous, and offers vasts areas of unspoiled natural scenery. There are some great hikes along the spectacular rocky coastline, and scores of natural hot springs.

Suggested Itinerary

It is recommended that you spend at least a week in Tohoku to discover all it has to offer. Summer is great for the spectacular coastal walks and hiking, while winter is the perfect time for skiing and hot spring hopping.

The Main Attractions of Tohoku

Sendai – The largest city in the Tohoku region, and a great starting point to explore the region

Matsushima – Scenic bay dotted by pine clad inlets, and considered to be one of the 3 most beautiful spots in Japan

Naruko – Located in Miyagi Prefecture, this is Tohoku’s most popular onsen famous for its medicinal waters

Hiraizumi – Historic town which once rivalled Kyoto for its cultural splendours, it is home to some of Tohoku’s finest temples

Aomori – Northern city of the island of Honshu famous for its Nebuta matsuri, where elaborate floats are carried through the centre of the city

Kakunodate – A former castle town, famous for its scenic tree lined streets of the historic samurai district, which dates from 1620

Yamadera – Tohoku’s most sacred temple complex built in the 9th century in the mountains north east of Yamagata city

Zao Onsen – Famous hot spring town with magnificent thermal waters, in winter it is one of the largest ski resorts in Tohoku