Japan Tohoku Discovery: 8-Day Cultural & Natural Journey

Castles, Mausoleums & Lively Streets Morning:

• Dive into Sendai Asaichi (Morning Market)159 – known as "Sendai's Kitchen" – to see vibrant stalls selling fresh seafood, fruits, and local snacks. Try a seafood donburi (rice bowl) for breakfast.

• Visit Aoba Castle (Sendai Castle Ruins)2610, perched on Aoba Hill. See the statue of Date Masamune and enjoy panoramic views of Sendai.

Afternoon:

• Explore Zuihoden Mausoleum7, the ornate resting place of Date Masamune, adorned with intricate woodwork and set in a peaceful forest.

• Discover Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, a National Treasure with a striking black lacquer exterior and rich history.

Evening:

• Self-guided exploration of Kokubuncho Street, known for its dining and entertainment options.

Local Secret:

For a unique dinner, try Sendai's famous beef tongue (gyutan) at one of the many specialist restaurants near the station.

Temples, Tea Houses & Coastal Cruises Morning:

• Travel to Matsushima (approx. 40 min from Sendai).

• Visit Entsuin Temple and Garden, known for its beautiful rose garden and historic mausoleum.

• Prayer-bead Bracelet Making Experience: At Entsuin Temple, enjoy a tranquil workshop creating your own prayer-bead bracelet6. No reservation needed; various beads available.

• Explore Zuiganji Temple, one of Tohoku's most important Zen temples, with its impressive main hall and museum.

Afternoon:

• See Godaido Temple, a small, picturesque hall on an islet connected by a bridge – a symbol of Matsushima.

• Enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets at Kanrantei Tea House, overlooking the bay.

• Embark on the Matsushima Sightseeing Cruise (50 minutes) to get stunning views of the pine-clad islands.

Photo Tip:

The cruise offers the best perspective of the islands. For a quieter experience, aim for the first or last cruise of the day.

Temples & Spiritual Sites Morning:

• Travel to Hiraizumi (approx. 1.5-2 hours from Sendai).

• Visit Takkoku no Iwaya, a unique temple built into a cliff face, dedicated to the deity Bishamonten.

Afternoon:

• Explore Motsuji Temple, renowned for its pure land garden (Jodo Teien) and large pond.

• Discover Chusonji Temple, a World Heritage site famous for its Konjikido (Golden Hall), a stunning golden structure adorned with mother-of-pearl inlay and gold leaf.

• Cultural Insight: Hiraizumi represents the Buddhist Pure Land philosophy on earth, aiming to create a paradise through its temple architecture and gardens.

Travel Day & Local Discoveries Full Day:

• Travel via Shinkansen from Sendai to Aomori (approx. 2.5-3 hours). Enjoy the changing landscapes from the train window.

• Free time in Aomori upon arrival. Suggestions:

  • Visit the Aomori Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE to learn about the famous Nebuta Festival.

  • Sample local cuisine, such as Aomori's fresh seafood (especially scallops) or apple-based products (the region is Japan's top apple producer).

Travel Tip:

Utilize Japan's efficient luggage forwarding service (takkyubin) from your Sendai hotel to your Aomori hotel for a hassle-free journey.

Waterfalls & Pleasure Boats Morning:

• Journey to Oirase Stream, a beautiful mountain stream flowing from Lake Towada, dotted with numerous waterfalls and lush greenery. Enjoy a walk along the well-maintained path.

Afternoon:

• Experience the Lake Towada Pleasure Boat cruise on the caldera lake, surrounded by forested mountains.

• Seasonal Note: Autumn (mid-October to early November) offers spectacular fall foliage here, while spring and summer provide vibrant greenery.

Historic Parks & Folk Culture Morning:

• Travel to Hirosaki (approx. 1.5 hours from Aomori).

• Visit Hirosaki Castle, one of Japan's few remaining original castles. Stroll through Hirosaki Park, famous for its cherry blossoms in spring (over 2,500 trees) and beautiful grounds.

Afternoon:

• Explore Hirosaki Neputa Village, a museum and cultural center dedicated to the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, featuring large, fan-shaped floats. Try your hand at traditional crafts like tsugaru-nuri lacquerware painting.

• Local Flavor: Try Hirosaki's local apple cider or ringo-ame (apple candy).