Tohoku – Explore the Northern Heart of Japan
Tohoku remains a hidden gem for many international travelers—an underexplored region where you can truly feel Japan’s authentic spirit. Here, nature, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality come together. Step away from the bustle of big cities and experience the Japan that locals cherish.
Overview of the Tohoku Region
Tohoku occupies the northern part of Japan’s main island, Honshu, and is made up of six prefectures: Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, and Fukushima.
The region is known for its rich natural landscapes, distinct four seasons, historic hot spring towns, and the warmth and sincerity of its people.
Whether it’s cherry blossoms in spring, lively festivals in summer, fiery foliage in autumn, or serene snow-covered scenery in winter, Tohoku offers a different kind of beauty in every season.
Recommended Destinations by Prefecture
Aomori
Character: The northernmost part of Honshu, where nature and culture blend harmoniously.
Top destinations:
- Hirosaki Castle: Famous for its spectacular cherry blossoms in spring
- Oirase Gorge: Known for its lush greenery and seasonal scenery
- Nebuta Festival: Held every August, featuring massive illuminated floats parading through the streets
Iwate
Character: A land of majestic nature and historically significant temples.
Top destinations:
- Chūson-ji Konjikidō: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of the golden age of the Ōshū Fujiwara culture
- Koiwai Farm: Enjoy peaceful rural landscapes and farm experiences
- Jōdogahama Beach: Stunning contrast of white rocks and deep-blue water
Miyagi
Character: Home to Sendai, Tohoku’s largest city, offering both urban comfort and natural beauty.
Top destinations:
- Matsushima: One of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, featuring island-dotted bays and sightseeing cruises
- Sendai Castle Ruins: Associated with Date Masamune, the legendary samurai warlord
- Akiu Onsen: A historic hot spring resort surrounded by nature
Akita
Character: Known for its snowy landscapes, cultural traditions, and relaxing hot springs.
Top destinations:
- Kakunodate: Famous for cherry blossoms and preserved samurai residences
- Oga Peninsula / Namahage Museum: Learn about the traditional “Namahage” ritual
- Lake Tazawa: Japan’s deepest lake, admired for its mystical blue waters
Yamagata
Character: A region rich in nature, history, cuisine, and renowned hot springs.
Top destinations:
- Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple): Known for its dramatic stone stairway and panoramic views
- Ginzan Onsen: A nostalgic hot spring town with Taishō-era charm
- Zao Snow Monsters: Fantastical winter formations created by snow and ice
Fukushima
Character: A region where samurai heritage, natural beauty, and a spirit of resilience coexist.
Top destinations:
- Tsuruga Castle (Aizu-Wakamatsu): A striking white-walled castle rich in samurai history
- Ouchi-juku: A beautifully preserved post town with traditional thatched-roof houses
- Goshikinuma: A series of lakes whose colors change with minerals and light
How Your Trip Comes Together
When you begin discussing a private trip with your family or friends, feel free to contact MaximTravelers at any time. We are happy to assist you.
Tell us about your preferred destination, dates, trip length, number of travelers, budget, and any other requests by filling out the travel preference questionnaire on our inquiry page.
We will make a follow-up consultations as needed via email or online meeting such as Zoom.
We will prepare an initial trip proposal for you. Using this as a starting point, we will gather
additional requests and make revisions as needed until the final version is completed.
Once you agree to the proposal, please fill out the travel application form (we will send you
the link) and return it together with the required deposit.
| Trip Price per Person | Deposit Required (per person) |
|---|---|
| Under ¥150,000- | ¥20,000- |
| ¥150,000–¥299,999 | ¥30,000- |
| ¥300,000 or more | ¥50,000- |
If your application is made within 1 month of departure, the full trip price is due at the time
of booking.
Your contract is considered confirmed once we receive your deposit.
We will then send you a written contract detailing your trip.
Please pay the remaining balance by bank transfer by the due date stated in the contract.
(For security reasons, we do not accept cash payments or credit cards. Thank you for your understanding.)
If you must cancel your trip, the following cancellation fees will apply:
| Cancellation Timing | Fee |
|---|---|
| 30 days to 1 day before departure | 20% of the trip price |
| 2 days before departure | 50% of the trip price |
| After departure or no-show | 100% of the trip price |
Please note: If flights, hotels, tickets, or other arrangements have already been booked at the time of cancellation, any fees required to cancel those reservations will be charged separately.
We will send your final travel itinerary (“Travel Guidebook”) approximately one week before departure. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime.
On the day before departure, we will send an e-mail to the group representative for final confirmation.
On your departure day, please arrive at the meeting point on time.
We wish you a wonderful and safe journey!
Explore Other Regions of Japan
Hokkaido
Tohoku
Kanto
Chubu
Kansai
Chugoku
Shikoku
Kyushu & Okinawa