16 day itinerary
Tohoku Japan
Itinerary
Tohoku is a beautiful region in Japan, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. With 16 days to explore, you can enjoy a relaxed pace while soaking in the natural beauty and family-friendly activities. Here’s a delightful itinerary for your adventure in Tohoku!
Day 1: Arrival in
- Morning: Arrive in , the largest city in Tohoku. Check into your family-friendly hotel.
- Afternoon: Stroll through , lined with zelkova trees. It’s a lovely place for a leisurely walk.
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try ’s famous gyutan (grilled beef tongue).
Day 2: -
- Morning: Take a short train ride to , known for its beautiful bay and islands.
- Afternoon: Explore on a boat cruise. The views are breathtaking!
- Evening: Visit and stroll through its beautiful gardens. Return to for the night.
Day 3: - Yamadera
- Morning: Head to Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple). It’s a bit of a climb, but the views are worth it!
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the surrounding area. The scenery is perfect for family photos!
- Evening: Return to and relax at your hotel.
Day 4: -
- Morning: Travel to , a famous hot spring area.
- Afternoon: Enjoy the , where you can see and interact with adorable foxes!
- Evening: Soak in the onsen (hot springs) and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.
Day 5: - Yamagata
- Morning: Head to . Visit , where you can explore the ruins of Yamagata Castle.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely walk in the park and let the kids play in the open spaces.
- Evening: Try Yamagata’s famous cherries (in season) or Yamagata beef for dinner.
Day 6: Yamagata -
- Morning: Travel to , a picturesque hot spring town.
- Afternoon: Stroll along the charming streets lined with traditional ryokans and shops.
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxing onsen experience and dinner at your ryokan.
Day 7: -
- Morning: Depart for . Visit and its surrounding park.
- Afternoon: Explore the , a historic post town with thatched-roof houses.
- Evening: Enjoy a local meal, perhaps some Aizu sake!
Day 8: -
- Morning: Head to , one of Japan’s largest lakes.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a family-friendly day at the lake. You can rent pedal boats or have a picnic by the shore.
- Evening: Stay overnight at a lakeside hotel.
Day 9: -
- Morning: Explore . There are plenty of hiking trails suitable for families.
- Afternoon: Have a picnic in the park and enjoy the stunning views of Mount Bandai.
- Evening: Return to your hotel near the lake.
Day 10: - Fukushima
- Morning: Travel to . Visit , famous for its seasonal flowers.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the beautiful scenery.
- Evening: Try some local specialties for dinner.
Day 11: Fukushima -
- Morning: Head to , known for its ramen.
- Afternoon: Explore the town and enjoy a bowl of ramen for lunch.
- Evening: Visit for a relaxing evening stroll.
Day 12: -
- Morning: Travel to . Visit (family-friendly and fun!).
- Afternoon: Enjoy and its interactive exhibits.
- Evening: Stroll along the and have dinner at a local izakaya.
Day 13: -
- Morning: Take a ferry to .
- Afternoon: Explore the island’s natural beauty, including and the scenic coastline.
- Evening: Stay overnight on and enjoy local seafood.
Day 14: -
- Morning: Return to and travel to .
- Afternoon: Visit and enjoy the beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
- Evening: Try ’s famous kiritanpo (grilled rice on a stick) for dinner.
Day 15: -
- Morning: Head to , a well-preserved samurai town.
- Afternoon: Stroll through the samurai district and enjoy the cherry blossoms if in season.
- Evening: Return to for the night.
Day 16: Departure from
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping in .
- Afternoon: Depart from , taking with you wonderful memories of Tohoku!
This itinerary balances relaxation with exploration, ensuring that your family enjoys the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tohoku. Each day is designed to be family-friendly, with plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy. Have a fantastic trip! 🌸✈️
