24 Best Travel Destinations in Japan's Tohoku Region

Get to know Japan's Tohoku Region

Japan's Tohoku Region refers to the six prefectures of Aomori, Akita, Iwate, Miyagi, Yamagata, and Fukushima, which are located in the northeastern part of the country. Together, they occupy approximately 30 percent of the island of Honshu. With the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Sea of Japan to the west, the region is rich in natural resources and packed with scenic destinations.

Budget-friendly transport ticket for traveling around Tohoku

The easiest way to get from Tokyo to the different prefectures in the Tohoku Region is by traveling on the shinkansen bullet train.

Non-Japanese passport holders can opt for the JR East Pass (Tohoku area,) which offers unlimited rides on shinkansen and Japan Railways trains for five consecutive days, making it perfect for exploring both Tokyo and all the attractions Tohoku has to offer. Plus, once you're in Tohoku, you can use this pass for local trains and route buses, as well.

Save this Tohoku travel map before you go

4 best destinations in Aomori

Located at the northernmost tip of Honshu Island, Aomori Prefecture is a treasure trove of natural beauty. From the Oirase Gorge to Lake Towada and the Shirakami Mountain Range, there's no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to explore. Take a stroll through Hirosaki Park and the Tsugaru-han Neputa Village for a truly memorable experience.

Famous delicacies in Aomori include senbei-jiru (rice cracker soup,) Aomori's specialty apples, ramen noodles made with miso paste, curry, and milk, as well as barayaki (beef brisket stew.)

Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge

Situated at the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures, Lake Towada is Japan's only double caldera lake. Come fall, the lake's surface turns a vibrant red, reflecting the surrounding maple foliage, offering great photo ops with its picturesque scene.

Along the 14-kilometer stretch from the lakeshore to the Nenokuchi area, marvel at the cascading waterfalls at Oirase Gorge, including Choshi Otaki and Ashura-no-Nagare.

Lake Towada
Address: 486 Towada-kohan Yasumiya, Okuse, Towada-shi, Aomori Prefecture
Access: 90-min drive from JR Shin-Aomori Station
Official website: https://towadako.or.jp/en/

Tsugaru-han Neputa Village

Adjacent to Hirosaki Park, the Tsugaru-han Neputa Village offers an immersive encounter with the Hirosaki Neputa Festival. This vibrant locale showcases a range of attractions, from exhibitions featuring Neputa Festival floats and colossal lanterns to live shamisen (three-stringed Japanese lute) performances. 

Engage in hands-on experiences of Tsugaru's traditional crafts, like painting goldfish-shaped neputa lanterns or creating your own pottery pieces.

Tsugaru-han Neputa Village
Address: 61 Kamenoko-machi, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori Prefecture
Access: 8-min bus ride from JR Hirosaki Station to Bunka Center-mae bus stop; from there, it's a 6-min walk
Official website: http://neputamura.com/en/

Hirosaki Park

Hirosaki Park stands as a beloved destination for cherry blossom viewing in Aomori, drawing crowds of visitors annually during the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival from April to May. The park is famous for its cherry blossom tunnel along the western moat, as well as its rental rowing boats, allowing you to admire the pink blooms from the water’s surface along the outer moat.

Nestled within the park is Hirosaki Castle, recognized as a National Historic Site of Japan, with its main keep ranking among the twelve remaining castle keeps in the country.

Hirosaki Park
Address: 1 Shimoshirogane-cho, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori Prefecture
Access: 15-min bus ride from JR Hirosaki Station to Shiyakusho-mae bus stop; from there, it's a 4-min walk
Official website: https://www.hirosakipark.com/en/

Shirakami Sanchi Mountain Range

Stretching across Aomori and Akita prefectures, the Shirakami Sanchi Mountain Range is home to the world's largest beech forest. This pristine area was designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1993 and offers stunning locations like the cobalt blue Aoike Pond, the lush green Juniko Pond, and the World Heritage Beech Forest Walking Path.

Shirakami Mountain Range
Address: Southwestern Aomori Prefecture to Northwestern Akita Prefecture
Access: 55-min bus ride from JR Hirosaki Station toTashiro bus stop; from there it’s a 6-min walk to Nishimeya/Shirakami Sanchi Visitor Center
Official website: https://www.experience-shirakami.com/

4 best destinations in Akita

Nestled in the northwestern corner of the Tohoku Region, Akita Prefecture overlooks the majestic Sea of Japan. Its scenic beauty includes the Nyuto Onsenkyo hot spring town, Lake Tazawa, and the samurai townscapes of Kakunodate. Keep reading for more on these captivating destinations.

Famous delicacies in Akita include its local specialty rice, Inaniwa udon noodles, kiritanpo (rice dumpling) hot pot, Hinai chicken, and Yokote yakisoba noodles.

Kakunodate Samurai Residences

Kakunodate, dubbed the "Little Kyoto of Tohoku," boasts a well-preserved castle town from the Edo period (1603-1868.) Its main attraction is the bukeyashiki (samurai residences) district, designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.

Explore the former homes of prominent samurai families and immerse yourself in the era's ambiance by strolling the streets in traditional kimono.

Kakunodate Samurai Residences
Address: Kakunodate-machi, Semboku-shi, Akita Prefecture
Access: 20-min walk from JR Kakunodate Station
Official website: https://www.city.semboku.akita.jp/en/sightseeing/spot/07.html

Lake Tazawa

Part of the Tazawako Dakigaeri Prefectural Natural Park, Lake Tazawa is the deepest lake in Japan and has been selected as one of the 100 most scenic spots in the country.

With scenic landmarks like the golden statue of Tatsuko and the vermillion torii gate of Gozanoishi Shrine standing at the shore, the lake is the perfect place to take some Instagram-worthy shots.

Lake Tazawa
Address: Tazawako, Tazawa, Semboku-shi, Akita Prefecture
Access: 12-min bus ride from JR Tazawako Station to Tazawa-kohan bus stop
Official website: https://www.city.semboku.akita.jp/en/sightseeing/spot/04.html

Nyuto Onsenkyo

Nyuto Onsenkyo, nestled within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, is a charming hot spring resort consisting of seven inns. These include the renowned Ipponmatsu Onsen, an open-air bath located along the trail of Mount Nyuto. Each facility boasts its own hot spring source, providing visitors with a diverse range of rejuvenating experiences.

Nyuto Onsenkyo
Address: Tazawako Tazawa, Semboku-shi, Akita Prefecture
Access: 50-min bus ride from JR Tazawako Station to Nyuto Onsen bus stop
Official website: https://ryokan.glocal-promotion.com/

Akita Nairiku Line

The Akita Nairiku Line is a railway line connecting Takanosu in the city of Kita-Akita and Kakunodate in the city of Senboku. Stretching 94.2 kilometers, passengers can enjoy scenic views of the countryside through the train windows, offering a relaxing journey throughout the seasons—think cherry blossoms in spring, lush rice paddies in summer, maple leaves in fall, and a snowy landscape in winter.

Akita Nairiku Line
Official website: https://www.akita-nairiku.com/en/

4 best destinations in Iwate

Iwate Prefecture, situated in northeastern Tohoku, offers expansive natural landscapes such as the Koiwai Farm and the Geibikei Gorge, listed among Japan's Top 100 Landscapes. Don't miss the Unesco World Heritage Sites of Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji temples.

After exploring these landmarks, relax in the soothing hot springs of Hanamaki Onsen, surrounded by picturesque scenery.

Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji temples

Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji temples are both must-visit Unesco World Heritage sites. Chuson-ji Temple is home to over a thousand significant cultural assets, including the golden gilded Konjikido Hall.

Motsu-ji Temple, on the other hand, is renowned for its expansive Pure Land garden, complete with a large central pond. In early summer, the site hosts an Iris Festival with 30,000 blooming flowers, as well as the Hotoe lantern-floating ceremony in mid-August.

Chuson-ji Temple
Address: 202 Hiraizumi Koromonoseki, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture
Access: 10-min ride on the Runrun loop bus from JR Hiraizumi Station to Chuson-ji bus stop
Official website: https://www.chusonji.or.jp/language_en/index.html

Motsu-ji Temple
Address: 58 Hiraizumi Osawa, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture
Access: 7-min walk from JR Hiraizumi Station
Official website: https://www.motsuji.or.jp/en/index.html

Geibikei Gorge

Carved by the Satetsu River millions of years ago, Geibikei Gorge is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, providing picturesque vistas for visitors.

Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the river, guided by skilled boatmen who navigate through the narrow waterways while entertaining passengers with traditional songs and stories. Explore nearby walking trails and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this tranquil natural wonder.

Geibikei Gorge
Address: 467 Nagasaka, Higashiyama-cho, Ichinoseki-shi, Iwate Prefecture 
Access: 5-min walk from JR Geibikei Station
Official website: http://www.geibikei.co.jp/en/index.html

Enjoy a relaxing boat tour around Geibikei Gorge by getting your early-bird tickets through WAmazing Play.

Hanamaki Onsenkyo

Hanamaki Onsenkyo is renowned for its 12 mineral-rich hot springs, believed to have skin-smoothing properties. Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodations, ranging from traditional ryokan inns to chic hotels.

Visit nearby attractions like Chuson-ji Temple, the Hanamaki Onsen Rose Garden, and the Miyazawa Kenji Fairytale Village.

Hanamaki Onsenkyo
Address: 1-125 Yumoto, Hanamaki-shi, Iwate Prefecture
Access: 20-min free shuttle bus ride from JR Shin-Hanamaki Station
Official website: https://www.kanko-hanamaki.ne.jp/en/spa/

Koiwai Farm

Koiwai Farm, situated at the foot of Mount Iwate, is a renowned agricultural attraction offering a wide range of activities and experiences. Spanning vast green pastures and forests, the farm provides opportunities for dairy farming, fruit picking, and horseback riding.

Visitors can also enjoy delicious dairy products, fresh produce, and local cuisine at on-site restaurants and cafes. With its scenic beauty and diverse activities, Koiwai Farm offers a delightful retreat for families and nature lovers.

Koiwai Farm
Address: 36-1 Maruyachi, Shizukuishi-cho, Iwate-gun, Iwate Prefecture
Access: 35-min bus ride from JR Morioka Station to Koiwai Nojo Makiba-en bus stop
Official website: https://www.koiwai.co.jp/makiba/en/

4 best destinations in Yamagata

Yamagata Prefecture, situated in southwestern Tohoku, offers a range of unique attractions like the famous juhyo snow monsters, Ginzan Onsen, the Yamadera mountain temple, and the Kamo Aquarium. Each attraction adds to the diverse appeal of Yamagata, making it a must-visit destination in the Tohoku Region.

Ginzan Onsen

In Ginzan Onsen, the wooden hot spring inns that line the banks of the Ginzan River offer relaxing soaks in various indoor and outdoor baths. Dotted with cafes, souvenir shops, and restaurants, the streets exude a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of those seen in the animated Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away (2001,) especially when the streetlights are lit at night.

Before and after soaking in the hot springs, explore the picturesque streets in yukata (light cotton kimono,) and immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere of this quaint onsen town.

Ginzan Onsen
Address: 429 Ginzanshinhata, Obanazawa-shi, Yamagata Prefecture
Access: 40-min bus ride from JR Oishida Station
Official website: http://www.ginzanonsen.jp/ (in Japanese only)

Zao Onsen

Situated on the western side of the Zao mountain range, Zao Onsen boasts a rich history spanning over 1,900 years. Alongside its traditional hot spring inns and cozy hotels, the little town offers three public bathhouses, foot baths, and five day-use hot spring facilities.

In winter, you can also enjoy the pristine powder snow at nearby ski resorts and marvel at juhyo snow monsters—a breathtaking natural phenomenon of frozen trees covering the mountains.

Zao Onsen
Address: Zao Onsen, Yamagata-shi, Yamagata Prefecture
Access: 40-min bus ride from JR Yamagata Station
Official website: https://www.zao-spa.or.jp/

Yamadera Temple

Yamadera Temple, also known as Risshaku-ji, is a renowned Buddhist temple clinging to a steep, forested hillside, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Climb the 1,000 stone steps leading to the main hall, where you can explore various temple buildings and enjoy the maple foliage in autumn.

Yamadera Temple (Risshaku-ji Temple)
Address: 4456-1 Yama-dera, Yamagata-shi, Yamagata Prefecture
Access: 10-min walk from JR Yamadera Station (Senzan Line) to the foot of the staircase leading to Yamadera Temple
Official website: https://www.rissyakuji.jp/ (in Japanese only)

Kamo Aquarium

Kamo Aquarium, situated in Tsuruoka City and overlooking the Sea of Japan, is renowned for its captivating jellyfish exhibits. Housing over 60 species, witness the mesmerizing sight of over ten thousand jellyfish elegantly drifting in the Jellyfish Dream Hall, a massive tank measuring 5 meters in diameter.

Alongside captivating seal and sea lion performances, enjoy dining and souvenir shopping for a fun day of excitement and entertainment.

Kamo Aquarium
Address: 657-1 Okubo, Imaizumi, Tsuruoka-shi, Yamagata Prefecture
Access: 40-min Shonai Kotsu bus ride from JR Tsuruoka Station to Kamo Suizokukan bus stop
Official Website: https://kamo-kurage.jp/english/

4 best destinations in Miyagi

Miyagi Prefecture is located in the southern Tohoku Region, with the city of Sendai as its central hub. In addition to the beautiful Matsushima Island, the beautiful area is also home to the Zao Fox Village and the Shiogama Shrine. After exploring these must-visit landmarks, unwind in the hot springs of Naruko Onsenkyo.

Shiogama Shrine

The historic Shiogama Shrine is dedicated to the deity of the sea, attracting visitors seeking blessings for safe voyages, abundant catches, and prosperous maritime endeavors. The Shinto shrine's picturesque setting with views of Matsushima Bay makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Shiogama Shrine
Address: 1-1 Ichi-moriyama, Shiogama-shi, Miyagi Prefecture
Access: 15-min walk from JR Hon-Shiogama Station
Official website: http://www.shiogamajinja.jp/ (in Japanese only)

Naruko Onsenkyo

The Naruko Onsenkyo area is renowned for its abundant hot spring sources, home to the five hot spring villages of Naruko, Higashi-Naruko, Kawatabi, Nakayamadaira, and Onikobe.

Naruko Onsen is not only famous for its therapeutic waters but also for its traditional wooden kokeshi dolls. Visitors can explore Kokeshi Street, where numerous shops, directly operated by artisans, offer a wide selection of these iconic dolls that serve as delightful souvenirs.

Naruko Onsenkyo
Address: 2-1 Yumoto, Naruko Onsen, Osaki-shi, Miyagi Prefecture
Access: Directly accessible from JR Naruko Onsen Station
Official website: https://www.welcome-naruko.jp/ (in Japanese only)

Zao Fox Village

Miyagi Zao Fox Village is a sanctuary for over 100 foxes, featuring various species including Hokkaido red foxes, rare silver foxes, Arctic foxes, platinum foxes, and cross foxes. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with the foxes and even hold baby foxes.

However, for safety reasons, each adult is permitted to accompany only one child into the village, and children must not be left unattended with the foxes to prevent accidents.

Zao Fox Village 
Address: 11-3 Kawarago, Fukuoka Yatsumiya, Shiroishi-shi, Miyagi Prefecture
Access: 30-min bus ride on the Kitsunemura-go from JR Shiroishi Zao Station
Official website: http://zao-fox-village.com/ (in Japanese only)

Matsushima Island

Matsushima Island in Miyagi Prefecture is famous for its stunning natural scenery, featuring pine-covered islets scattered across Matsushima Bay. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises to explore the islands or take in panoramic views from viewpoints like Fukuura Island.

The area is also rich in cultural heritage, with historic temples and shrines such as Zuiganji Temple, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.

Matsushima Island
Address: Matsushima-machi, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture
Access: 20-min walk from JR Matsushima Station
Official website: https://www.matsushima-kanko.com/en/

4 best destinations in Fukushima

Fukushima Prefecture, located south of Miyagi Prefecture, is the third largest prefecture in Japan. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes such as the Goshikinuma (Five Colored Ponds) and Inawashiro Lake, as well as historical and cultural attractions like Tsuruga Castle and Ouchijuku. Keep reading to find the must-visit spots in the area.

Goshikinuma Ponds

The Goshikinuma Ponds are a picturesque natural wonder consisting of five stunningly colored ponds. The ponds derive their vibrant hues from minerals dissolved in the water, creating mesmerizing shades of blue, green, and even red. Enjoy leisurely walks around them, and take in the serene beauty of the surrounding forests and mountains.

Goshikinuma Ponds
Address: Kengamine Hibara, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture
Access: 30-min bus ride from JR Inawashiro Station to Urabandai/Goshikinuma Iriguchi bus stop; from there it's a 3-min walk
Official website: https://www.urabandai-inf.com/en/ 

Tsuruga Castle

Tsuruga Castle, located in Aizuwakamatsu, is a historic landmark that dates back to the 14th century. Originally constructed in 1384, the castle has undergone several reconstructions due to fires and battles over the centuries. Its most recent renovation was completed in 1965 and faithfully restored its Edo-era (1603-1868) appearance.

The castle is also renowned for its picturesque setting amidst cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in fall.

Tsuruga Castle
Address: 1-1 Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu-shi, Fukushima Prefecture
Access: 12-min loop bus ride from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station to Tsurugajo Nishiguchi bus stop; from there it's a 5-min walk
Official website: https://www.tsurugajo.com/tsurugajo/ (in Japanese only)

Lake Inawashiro

Lake Inawashiro is the fourth-largest lake in Japan and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. The lake offers various recreational activities such as boating and fishing, but you can also enjoy a picnic on the shores.

Surrounding the lake are scenic spots like Mount Bandai, which offers panoramic views of the picturesque town of Inawashiro.

Lake Inawashiro
Address: Inawashiro-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture
Access: 30-min walk from JR Inawashiro Station
Official website: https://www.bandaisan.or.jp/sight/lake-inawashiro/ (in Japanese only)

Ouchijuku

Ouchijuku stands out as one of the rare villages in Japan that maintains its ancient townscape. It earned designation as an Important Cultural Property of Japan for its traditional thatched houses.

Indulge in local delicacies such as negi soba, buckwheat noodles served with an uncut leek to use as chopsticks, and tochimochi (mochi with sweet bean paste) at local eateries and shops.

Ouchijuku
Address: Ouchi, Shimogo-machi, Minamiaizu-gun, Fukushima Prefecture
Access: 40-min train ride from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station to Yunokami Onsen Station, head to Ouchijuku Iriguchi bus stop; from there, it’s a 15-min ride to Ouchi-kami bus stop
Official website: https://ouchi-juku.com/ (in Japanese only)

Discover the Tohoku Region

From its captivating views to its abundance of Unesco World Heritage sites, the Tohoku Region is a great place to discover Japan's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Get the best transport deals with the JR East Pass (Tohoku Region), and use this article as your guide to make the most of your trip.

Explore more of Japan by using one of the many different transportation passes.

*The information in this article, such as prices and business hours, was accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change. Please refer to the official website(s) for the latest information.