Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima
Discover the magic of Hirosaki City (弘前市), the cultural heart of Aomori Prefecture and Japan’s undisputed cherry blossom capital. Famous for the iconic Hirosaki Castle, this historic castle town offers a perfect blend of feudal history, stunning botanical gardens, and unique Western-style architecture. Whether you are visiting in spring to witness the “Sakura Carpet” on […]
Hirosaki Travel Guide: Explore Japan’s Sakura Capital Read More »
Experience the ultimate spring adventure with this 14-day Tohoku cherry blossom itinerary. While the crowds flock to Tokyo, the northeastern region of Japan offers a more serene and spectacular floral show. From the samurai streets of Kakunodate to the iconic pink moats of Hirosaki Castle, this two-week guide covers the absolute best of Aomori, Morioka,
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Journey into the “Great North” of Japan on the Akita Nairiku Line (秋田内陸線), a scenic railway that unlocks access to some of the country’s most pristine wilderness. This historic line serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Yasu-no-Taki, Japan’s second-highest waterfall, and the elegant, secluded curves of Todo Falls. Beyond the rails, travelers can discover
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Rising majestically in the heart of Akita Prefecture, Mt. Moriyoshi (森吉山) is among the top three locations in Japan for finding the “Snow Monsters” (Juhyo) that form as a result of the unique weather phenomenon. While Zao (蔵王山) is well-known, Mt. Moriyoshi offers a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience for viewing these frozen volcanic trees. Accessible
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If you want to enjoy onsen near Sendai, Akiu Onsen (秋保温泉) has to be the top choice. Not only is this one of the top three hot spring towns in northeastern Japan, but two past Japanese emperors also loved it. This was how it earned the title of Nihon San Miyu (日本三御湯), a name bestowed
Sendai Day Trip: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Akiu Onsen Read More »
Akiu Ōtaki Falls (秋保大滝), also known as the Akiu Great Falls (or simply Akiu Falls), is the must-see spot in Akiu Onsen. The 55-meter-tall waterfall is just spectacular, no matter which season you visit. It was thus chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls and designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
The Best Guide to Akiu Otaki Falls and Futakuchi Gorge Read More »
Nestled in the lush mountains of Sendai, Saikōji Temple (西光寺), sometimes referred to as Akiu Ōtaki Fudōson (秋保大滝不動尊), serves as the serene spiritual gateway to the magnificent Akiu Great Falls. This historic Buddhist temple is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Akiu Onsen. The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere where ancient architecture meets the raw
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Near the town center of the Akiu Onsen, Akiusha (アキウ舎) is a café housed in a beautifully renovated 160-year-old farmhouse that blends Edo-period charm with modern culinary innovation. This popular café is celebrated for its “field-to-table” concept, showcasing fresh, locally grown Miyagi produce in a rustic-chic setting. Notably, Akiusha is the only place in Akiu
Akiusha: The Vegan-Friendly Café in Akiu Onsen in Sendai Read More »
Sendai, the Tōhoku region’s biggest city, attracting more than 20 million tourists each year, is an amazing destination that blends town and countryside, even in its city center. This is why the locals proudly advertise their hometown as the City of Trees (Morio no Miyako, 杜の都). The city, with a good balance of urban and
The Best Sendai Sightseeing Guide: The Top Spots to Go Read More »
Embark on a mesmerizing journey into a world of shifting colors and intricate patterns at the Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum (仙台万華鏡美術館). Located in Akiu Onsen Town in Sendai, Japan, this unique destination is one of the few museums in the world dedicated exclusively to the art of the kaleidoscope. Visitors of all ages can explore
Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum: A Must-Go Spot in Akiu Onsen Read More »
