8 day itinerary for Tohoku
Share and earn 3 free tokens
They get 5 tokens for signing up with your link
Itinerary
Tohoku is a beautiful region in Japan, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and engaging 8-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of Tohoku!
## Day 1: Arrival in Sendai
Morning: Arrive in Sendai, the largest city in Tohoku. After checking into your hotel, grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some Sendai-style gyutan (grilled beef tongue) for a true local experience!
Afternoon: Explore the city by visiting the iconic Zuihoden, the mausoleum of Date Masamune, the founder of Sendai. The intricate architecture and serene surroundings are a treat!
Evening: Stroll through the bustling streets of Sendai and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya. Don’t forget to try some sake from the region!
## Day 2: Matsushima Bay
Morning: Take a short train ride to Matsushima, famous for its picturesque bay dotted with pine-covered islands. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the waterfront.
Afternoon: Visit Zuiganji Temple, a beautiful Zen temple with stunning gardens. Afterward, enjoy a boat cruise around the bay for breathtaking views.
Evening: Head back to Sendai and indulge in a delicious seafood dinner. Matsushima is known for its fresh oysters, so be sure to try some!
## Day 3: Yamadera and Yamagata
Morning: Travel to Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple), a stunning temple complex perched on a mountain. The hike up the 1,000 steps is invigorating, and the views are absolutely worth it!
Afternoon: After exploring Yamadera, head to Yamagata city. Visit the Yamagata Museum of Art, which features a lovely collection of modern art.
Evening: Treat yourself to Yamagata’s famous cold noodles, “Yamagata Soba,” for dinner. It’s a local favorite!
## Day 4: Zao Onsen and Zao Fox Village
Morning: Make your way to Zao Onsen, a charming hot spring town. Enjoy a relaxing soak in one of the many onsens (hot springs) to rejuvenate your body.
Afternoon: Visit Zao Fox Village, where you can interact with adorable foxes in a beautiful natural setting. It’s a unique experience that you won’t forget!
Evening: Return to Zao Onsen for a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan (Japanese inn). Enjoy the seasonal dishes and local ingredients.
## Day 5: Akita and Kakunodate
Morning: Travel to Akita and start your day with a visit to the Akita Museum of Art, which showcases both traditional and contemporary works.
Afternoon: Head to Kakunodate, a well-preserved samurai town. Stroll through the historic streets lined with beautiful samurai houses and cherry blossom trees (if you’re visiting in spring).
Evening: Try Akita’s famous kiritanpo (grilled rice sticks) for dinner. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect after a day of exploring!
## Day 6: Hirosaki and Aomori
Morning: Travel to Hirosaki, known for its stunning castle and beautiful park. Visit Hirosaki Castle and take a leisurely walk through the park, especially lovely during cherry blossom season.
Afternoon: Explore the Hirosaki Apple Park, where you can learn about apple cultivation and even sample some delicious apple products!
Evening: Head to Aomori city and enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood, particularly the famous Aomori scallops. They’re a must-try!
## Day 7: Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada
Morning: Take a day trip to Oirase Gorge, a stunning natural area with beautiful walking trails along the river. The scenery is breathtaking, especially in autumn!
Afternoon: Continue to Lake Towada, where you can take a boat cruise to enjoy the stunning views of the caldera lake. Don’t forget your camera!
Evening: Return to Aomori and enjoy a relaxing evening. Try some local sake to unwind after a day of adventure.
## Day 8: Departure from Aomori
Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a quick visit to the Aomori Museum of Art, which features unique contemporary art.
Afternoon: Enjoy a final meal of Aomori’s famous seafood or a comforting bowl of ramen before heading to the airport.
Evening: Depart from Aomori, taking with you wonderful memories of Tohoku!
And there you have it! An exciting 8-day itinerary filled with culture, nature, and delicious food. Tohoku is a region that truly captures the heart of Japan, and I hope you have an amazing time exploring it! If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌸✈️
Places of interest
Sendai
Description:** Sendai Tohoku is a vibrant city located in the Tohoku region of Japan, known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and delicious local cuisine. It serves as a cultural hub with attractions such as the Sendai Castle ruins, the famous Tanabata Matsuri festival, and the scenic Matsushima Bay nearby.
Zuihoden
Description:** Zuihoden is the mausoleum of Date Masamune, a prominent feudal lord of the Edo period in Japan. Located in Sendai, it is renowned for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, featuring intricate carvings and vibrant colors that reflect the artistic style of the time. The site is surrounded by lush forests, making it a peaceful place to explore and learn about the history of the region.
Matsushima Bay
Description:** Matsushima Bay, located in the Tohoku region of Japan, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring over 260 small islands covered with pine trees. It is considered one of Japan's three most scenic views and offers picturesque landscapes, boat tours, and cultural sites such as temples and shrines.
Zuiganji Temple
Description:** Zuiganji Temple is a historic Zen Buddhist temple located in Matsushima, Tohoku, Japan. Founded in the 8th century, it is renowned for its beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding bay. The temple features intricate wooden carvings and is a designated National Treasure of Japan.
Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple)
Description:** Yamadera, also known as Risshaku-ji Temple, is a historic Buddhist temple located in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan. Founded in 860 AD, it is renowned for its stunning views, beautiful hiking trails, and impressive wooden structures that blend harmoniously with the natural landscape. Visitors can explore numerous halls and pagodas along a steep path that ascends over 1,000 steps, culminating at the main hall, which offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Yamagata Museum of Art
Description:** The Yamagata Museum of Art, located in Tohoku, Japan, is renowned for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by both Japanese and international artists. The museum also features rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and a beautiful architectural design that enhances the visitor experience.
Zao Onsen
Description:** Zao Onsen is a renowned hot spring resort located in the Tohoku region of Japan, famous for its stunning natural scenery, therapeutic mineral waters, and winter sports. Nestled in the Zao mountain range, it offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking, along with traditional Japanese ryokan accommodations.
Zao Fox Village
Description:** Zao Fox Village is a unique wildlife park located in the Tohoku region of Japan, where visitors can interact with and observe over 100 free-roaming foxes in a natural setting. The village offers a chance to learn about these fascinating animals while enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
Akita Museum of Art
Description:** The Akita Museum of Art, located in Akita Prefecture, Japan, showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on works by local artists. The museum features both permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as a beautiful architectural design that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
Kakunodate
Description:** Kakunodate is a historic town in the Akita Prefecture of Japan, known for its well-preserved samurai district and beautiful cherry blossom trees. The town features traditional wooden buildings, charming streets, and cultural sites that reflect its rich history from the Edo period.
Hirosaki Castle
Description:** Hirosaki Castle, located in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, is a historic Japanese castle known for its stunning architecture and beautiful cherry blossom trees. Originally built in the early 17th century, it features a unique five-story main keep and is surrounded by a picturesque park that attracts visitors, especially during the sakura season.
Hirosaki Apple Park
Description:** Hirosaki Apple Park is a scenic park located in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, known for its beautiful apple orchards and stunning views of Mount Iwaki. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal events celebrating the region's apple harvest, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Oirase Gorge
Description:** Oirase Gorge is a stunning natural area located in the Tohoku region of Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests. The gorge stretches approximately 14 kilometers along the Oirase River, offering scenic walking trails that showcase beautiful waterfalls, vibrant foliage, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Lake Towada
Description:** Lake Towada is a stunning caldera lake located in the Tohoku region of Japan, known for its deep blue waters and picturesque surroundings. It is part of Towada-Hachimantai National Park and offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for boating and sightseeing. The area is particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season.
Aomori Museum of Art
Description:** The Aomori Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in Aomori, Japan. It features a diverse collection of artworks, including pieces by local and international artists, with a focus on the cultural heritage of the Tohoku region. The museum's striking architecture and beautiful surrounding landscape enhance the experience of exploring its exhibitions.