Tohoku Travel Guide: Hidden Japan in Aomori, Akita, and Sendai
How I explore Tohoku when I want space from crowds: onsen towns, coastal shrines, and apples.
Where to Go
- Sendai: Base city; day trip to Matsushima Bay
- Aomori: Nebuta Museum, apples, easy ferry to Hakodate if continuing north
- Akita: Kakunodate samurai district, Nyuto Onsen
- Iwate: Morioka wanko soba, Jodogahama coast
Tips
- JR East/Tohoku passes can save if you’re rail-hopping
- Winter snow is real—pad extra time
- Onsen etiquette matters; bring small towel, rinse well