We visited Hokkaido in the last edition, covering its attractions, cuisine, and fun activities. We have carefully selected an itinerary featuring the best vacation places peculiar to Japan, including views of beautiful lakes and special tours of historic whisky museums. This edition of the itinerary is no different. We’re taking you south of Hokkaido to the fascinating and enigmatic Tohoku Region in this article for the Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint series. This place will enthrall you and may even inspire you to prolong your five-day visit.
In keeping with the topic of lesser-known destinations, the Tohoku Region is a great spot to start thinking about where to go on vacation. This area offers a variety of activities for all kinds of adventurers. This region needs to be on your list of locations to visit in Japan because it offers stunning scenery, temples, and monuments in addition to forests.
Day 1: Sendai (Arrival)
Sendai is the Gateway to the North of Japan. It’s only an hour and a half from Tokyo Station via Shinkansen.
Morning: Arrive at Sendai via Shinkansen from Tokyo Station.
Afternoon: Check in at the relaxing Hoshino Resorts KAI Akiu and rest your body at the hot spring within resort premises, where you can learn about hot springs and its qualities. You may also take this to visit the nearby picturesque sights like the Rairaikyo Gorge and Akiu Otaki Falls.
Evening: Enjoy a special kaiseki dinner in the resort with premium seasonal ingredients, served on a lacquer standing tray, similar to how daimyo’s received their meals.
Day 2: Matsushima Bay
Morning: If you’re looking to experience other premium accommodations, check out of Hoshino Resorts KAI Akiu and check-in at Mitsui Garden Hotel!
Take the train to Matsushima, and experience one of Japan’s many incredible seascapes. Matsushima Bay is one of the most beautiful in the world and it’s best appreciated by boat. Book one of the many tours from the city and see what makes this region special.
Afternoon: For lunch, you must try the salt-water eels. These anago are a popular dish in the summertime and are particular to this region. After sampling the local cuisine, learn a little more about the history of the place. Ruler and warlord, Date Masamune, left behind historical sites such as Zuiganji Temple, Entsuin Temple, and the Kanrantei Tea House. Spend the afternoon exploring these fascinating treasures.
Evening: Head back to Sendai for some bar hopping. Some good options are among the back alleys and izakaya houses of Bunka-yokocho (back alley cafes) and Iroha-yokocho (a historic arcade). After drinking and eating like a local, spend a night recharging at the Mitsui Garden Hotel in Sendai.
Day 3: Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iwate Prefecture
Morning: Book a car and drive the hour to Hiraizumi. Explore the Chūson-ji Temple and visit the Konjikidō or Golden Hall. After that, check out Mōtsū-ji Temple, known for its beautiful garden.
Afternoon: After lunch of wanko soba, which is like a small plates tapas experience but with refills of your soba bowl, head over to the Geibikei Gorge and book a boat trip. You don’t want to miss the pristine natural landscapes in this area.
Evening: Spend the evening in the quaint mountain town of Ginzan Onsen. It’s one of the most picturesque onsens in Japan so you won’t want to miss it.
Day 4: Yamagata
Morning: Drive to Yamagata. Give yourself some time to take in the trip. Have a leisurely lunch of Yamagata beef at a place like Yamagata Sugi Beef.
Afternoon: Hike to the incredible Yamadera Temple and experience scenic views from a structure perched on the side of the mountain.
Evening: Check-in at another luxury hotel like the Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata with its spotless rooms and nice view of the surrounding area. If you manage to get up after all those steps from Yamadera Temple, walk around Yamagata’s many vibrant neighborhoods!
Day 5: Sendai (departure)
Morning: Head back to Sendai and get your bearings after such a whirlwind trip!
Afternoon: Go on a tour of the city to say goodbye! There are some wonderful temples and castles in Sendai as well. Be sure to try Zunda-mochi, a unique Sendai delicacy of a sweet soybean rice cake.
If you are more into shopping, there are some great options for retail therapy. There are the Sendai Izumi Premium Outlets. The shopping center is a half hour away from your hotel by car. Another option is Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port which is thirty minutes by car from Sendai Station. It’s the largest outlet mall in Tohoku. If you are looking for something closer to home, there is also Sendai PARCO which is just in front of Sendai Station.
Evening: Head back to Tokyo Station on the Shinkansen.
This itinerary represents a small portion of what the Tohoku region has to offer. Although a five-day journey is a lot, you’ll find that Tohoku’s stunning natural surroundings and engrossing history will entice you to return time and time again.
Next time, extend your stay to discover the hidden locations that are only known to the locals. In case you forget that this region is also a winter wonderland, there are winter activities to engage in, trekking on Mt. Zao, and day trips to Fukushima! Summertime is a busy time of year, so it’s easy to forget. See the places and keep an eye out for the schedule for next month to assist you in organizing your subsequent trip to Japan.