How to Fully Enjoy Your First Visit to Tohoku
While Tokyo and Osaka are the most popular places to visit in Japan, there are many things to do and see in Tohoku, the northeastern corridor of Japan's largest island, Honshu. We have the ultimate list of reasons why you should skip the crowded cities and consider heading out to Tohoku.
By Ratchawut CherdchuvanitScenic Driving
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
Beautiful Mountains
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"
Are You Convinced Yet?
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.
