Tohoku: Japan's Hidden Gem

Tohoku is the name of the northeastern part of Honshu (mainland) Japan. Tohoku is one of the most overlooked places for travel destinations, especially by foreigners.

Before receiving my placement in Miyagi, I hadn't really heard of any of the prefectures in Tohoku, except of course; Fukushima. I immediately started doing research on where I was going to be living and what prefectures where nearby. I was happy with my placement, because I had wanted to be placed in northern Japan. I'm from Miami, and we really only get two seasons: Summer and mild summer. I was excited for the prospect of actually experiencing seasons.

Tohoku is considered a more traditional and rural area of Japan. They do receive tourism, however, most of the tourism comes from Japanese people and foreign tourists already living in Japan and the Tohoku reason. It is understandable, as many foreigners who visit Japan come with a very small time constraint, and there is a lot to see in Japan. Furthermore Traveling to and within the Tohoku area is expensive as well. You can't reach many of the great areas without driving or taking a ferry.

Despite the difficulties, I do believe that Tohoku has some of the most unique and beautiful attractions and festivals. It is a shame that they don't get as much publicity as they deserve. I want to talk about a few places in Tohoku that I liked a lot.

Miyagi

Fox Village; Shiroishi, Miyagi

Of course I have to start the list with Miyagi. This prefecture is home to the largest city in Tohoku, is rich in history, and has a booming fishing industry. Out of all of the prefectures, I have not explored any as in depth as I have explored Miyagi. I live in Shiroishi city which happens to be the location of the famous fox village! Many foreigners take a break from busy Tokyo and city night life to come out to the country side for a once in a lifetime chance to see foxes up close and personal.

Mastushima and Ishinomaki are located on the coast of Miyagi and both are famous for their ferry rides, seafood, and island tours. Both of these places are popular with Japanese tourists, but I think many foreigners miss the opportunity to see these beautiful places. Ishinomaki is home to one of the famous Japanese "cat islands" and they also have another "gold island" as well. These islands are beautiful and only a quick ferry ride away. The cat island is full of so many cats that are cared for and fed by the locals. Gold island is where you can find plenty of deer and there is a legend that says if you visit the island three years in a row you will be granted with great fortune.

Tashirojima (aka: neko-jima or "cat island"); Ishinomaki, Miyagi

Fukushima

Obon Festival Fukushima, Japan

Fukushima is known around the world for the nuclear disaster that occurred during the large earthquake and tsunami in 2011. However, this prefecture has so much more to offer and should be known for more than that. Fukushima is a thriving prefecture, rich in history, and nature.

Oyakuen Garden; Aizu, Fukushima

Fukushima is truly a prefecture that is great to visit year-round. In the spring you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms that surround the castle in Aizu and visit the Oyakuen garden for the seasonal flowers.

In fall, you can see the colorful reddish hues on the trees throughout the prefecture. In summer you can enjoy hiking to visit the five color lake located in the prefecture. Lastly in winter you can enjoy any of the multitude of onsens and ryokans located throughout the prefecture.

In Fukushima, I have explored Aizu, Kitakata, and Fukushima city the most. I went to Fukushima city the most often, as I really enjoyed going to round one. However, if you have a car I recommend visiting the other two cities as well.

Kitakata is famous (even outside of Japan) for its ramen. You can't visit Fukushima without giving it a taste. It's best to have in winter because you can enjoy hot onsen baths and warm ramen during the cold weather.

Aizu is a very historic part of Fukushima. I would say the ryokans there are top class, and they even offer private baths for foreigners who are maybe a bit too shy to use the public option. During your stay you can walk through samurai villages and visit the castle.

Iwate

Iwate is one of the prefectures that was harshly affected by the tsunami in 2011. The affects were so harmful because many of the communities in Iwate are coastal. Iwate is famous for its beaches and beautiful nature.

When I explored Iwate, I took a road trip from the southernmost point, to the northernmost point. If you are to explore this prefecture, I would recommend renting a car! Most of the beautiful sights to be seen are more easily accessible by car. I would recommend visiting this prefecture in the summer, as most places are best enjoyed during the warm season.

Iwate's famous beach: Jodogahama beach is truly a sight to behold. Many don't think of beaches when they visualize a trip to Japan but the ocean is a beautiful sea-green color and the water is crystal clear. This particular beach is one of the highest rated beaches in Japan.

In the northern point of Japan you can visit the bat caves. The caves are a labyrinth below the ground and you can see beautiful underground lakes and rivers illuminated by blue lights. Its an experience you won't forget.

Close by you can also visit the fairy village. I recommend visiting this place at night for the illuminations. During the day the fairy village is a pay for entry museum, but at night, it becomes a free illumination with countless food vendors outside. It feels like a magical festival.

Yamagata

Yamagata is one of the prefectures I visited the most apart from Fukushima (and obviously Miyagi). Yamagata was the prefecture with the closest Costco! I went pretty often to get supplies for daily life, and since I went so often I ended up exploring a lot of the prefecture.

Yamagata is known for its snowy mountain tops, wineries, cherries, and onsens! If in the area, I recommend visiting Takahata winery. They have daily wine tastings, and they have many options to choose from. Its a place you can enjoy visiting time and time again.

Yamagata is good to visit year-round, but I think the best time would be during the cold winter months.

Ginza Onsen is an onsen town famous throughout Japan. It is known for its beautiful onsens with breathtaking views. If traveling with friends, this is a great place to relax and take a part of Japanese culture. It is a beautiful place to take pictures in traditional Japanese Yukata!

While visiting the onsen you can visit the waterfall and goldmine nearby. If visiting in winter make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes and non-slip shoes. The floor can become slick with ice especially in areas where there is more water, so be careful!

Overall, Tohoku is an often overlooked area with so much to offer. My hope is that more people include this place in their travels when they come to Japan. Tokyo and the Kansai area are beautiful, but there is so much to learn about and enjoy in Tohoku! If you have the time, please check out one of these prefectures.