The Tohoku region is large, and points of interest are situated loosely. While traveling by train is perfectly fine, you can get a different viewpoint by driving. This scenic route, for example, is called the Sakura-Nanohana Road. It's situated in Ogata Village, Akita Prefecture, and is one of the places you'd enjoy better by driving yourself.

Another view of the lovely Sakura-Nanohana Road.

Another scenic road along Sagae River, Yamagata Prefecture

If you've already seen Mount Fuji and you're ready to take on your next photography challenge, try Tohoku. This large, snowy, mountainous region has lots and lots of good-looking mountains.

Mount Chokai, bordering both Akita and Yamagata Prefecture

Mount Iwaki, Aomori Prefecture—the "Fuji of Tsugaru"

With the wonder of Japanese public transport at your disposal, everything is quick and simple. The Tohoku region has an extensive network of shinkansen, Japan's famous super express train. Most major cities, such as Sendai, Akita, Yamagata, Morioka and Aomori, have a direct connection to Tokyo via shinkansen. If you employ the use of the Japan Rail Pass, you can have unlimited rides on these beasts.

Leaving from Tokyo or Ueno Station is likely the simplest way to visit Tohoku. Even the northernmost prefecture in Tohoku, Aomori, is only 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Tokyo via shinkansen.