The Tohoku Region, a part of the largest island of Japan- Honshu, is well known for its countryside, lakes, hot springs, mountains, harsh winters and for the quality of rice that it produces. This post covers your Tohoku road trip must visits for three of its prefectures, namely- Aomori, Akita and Iwate.
Aomori Prefecture
Nebuta Warasse-
Is a museum dedicated to Nebuta Masturi a festival that takes place in the early weeks of August. The museum captures the unique spirit of the festival, by showcasing lanterns in the shape of goldfishes hanging in the corridors and photos of Nebuta Matsuri and its 300 years of existence. This museum gives you a taste of the culture and tradition of Japan along with some music.
Lake Towada-
For you nature lovers, Lake Towada will bring joy. Located at the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures, the area around the lake is well known for its autumn colours. Being the largest caldera lake in the mainland of Japan, It proves to be the best spot for outdoor activities. While in the area, you could also tour Towada Hachimantai National Park, to spot wild life.
Akita Prefecture-
Kakunodate-
This former castle town and samurai throttlehold, is now famous for its samurai traditions and hundreds of Shidarezakura (weeping cherry blossom trees). The town was built with two areas, Samurai district and the merchant district aside from a castle, that is now lost, makes for an excellent example of samurai architecture. Aside from being a castle town, Kakunodate attracts a large number of tourists from late April to May for the yearly, “Hanami” (Flower Viewing).
Akita City-
The capital of Akita Prefecture is best known for its Kanto Matsuri- where revellers balance on long bamboo poles with dozens of Lanterns attached to them. One of the most exciting attractions of this city is The Akita Museum of Art or Akita Kenritsu Bijutsukan, designed by Ando Tado features a large collection of works by Fujita Tsuguharu, who is considered to be Japan’s most famous painter in the western style. Aside form his works, the museum also exhibits pieces from Hirano Masakichi. They conduct temporary exhibits that showcase the works of local artists. The Bijutsukan also offers a view of Senshu Park making it a must visit location while in Akita.
Iwate Prefecture-
The Sanriku Coast-
On the Last Leg of your Tohoku road trip, drive along the rocky shorelines for a stretch of about 300 kilometres along the Pacific Ocean. Due to its naturally beautiful coastline, it is now a popular tourist attraction. Most part of the coastline is now a designated National Park. Tashiro island is one place to visit while on the coast. Its charming rural areas and a large cat population will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Nyuto Onsen
Finally head over to the mountainous region for a session of relaxing at some of the most rustic hot springs at Nyuto Onesen, a collection of onsen ryokan that have a history of over 300 years. The rooms date back to the Edo Period, with both mixed and single gender indoor baths.
To take this Tohoku road trip visit XcelTrip.com to book your tickets to one of the several airports in the region, with a cryptocurrency of your choice.