Hokkaido & Tohoku Area
The Hokkaido and Tohoku regions of northern Japan offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. From snowy landscapes and hot springs to sacred forests and coastal towns, this area is perfect for travelers seeking both tranquility and adventure.
Recommended Destinations
Shiretoko (Hokkaido)
Located on the easternmost tip of Hokkaido, this UNESCO Natural Heritage Site offers dramatic coastlines, abundant wildlife, and some of Japan’s most untouched nature. The name “Shiretoko” means “end of the earth” in Ainu language.
Sapporo (Hokkaido)
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido and a vibrant hub of culture and nature. Famous for the Sapporo Snow Festival with grand snow sculptures, the city also features Odori Park, the historic Clock Tower, and the Susukino entertainment district. Visitors can enjoy Sapporo ramen, fresh seafood, and grilled lamb known as Genghis Khan. It’s a year-round destination offering winter sports in snowy months and lush greenery in summer.
Hakodate (Hokkaido)
A historic port city in southern Hokkaido, Hakodate offers one of Japan’s top night views from Mt. Hakodate. The city reflects a unique blend of Japanese and Western heritage, featuring charming streets, historic churches, and renowned fresh seafood—especially locally caught squid.
Shirakami Sanchi (Aomori & Akita)
Shirakami Sanchi is a vast, unspoiled mountain range straddling Aomori and Akita Prefectures. Known for its ancient beech forests—the last of their kind in East Asia—it was designated as a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site in 1993. The area shelters rich wildlife such as black bears and Japanese macaques, and offers hiking trails to scenic spots like the Twelve Lakes (Juniko) and the mystical blue pond, Aoike.
Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata)
Ginzan Onsen is a picturesque hot spring town located in Obanazawa City, Yamagata Prefecture. Surrounded by mountains and famous for its nostalgic atmosphere, it is often described as one of the most beautiful onsen towns in Japan. The town features charming, historical ryokan lined along the Ginzan River, with gas lamps illuminating the streets in the evening, creating a romantic and timeless setting.
Morioka City (Iwate)
Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture, blends nature, history, and tradition. Surrounded by mountains including Mt. Iwate (“Nanbu Fuji”), the city is known for Morioka Castle Ruins Park, the Konyacho Brick Warehouse District, Nambu ironware, and local dishes like Morioka Reimen (cold noodles).
Takayama Inari Shrine (Aomori)
Located in Tsugaru City, Aomori, Takayama Inari Shrine is known for its hundreds of red torii gates winding through the forest, creating a mystical atmosphere. Dedicated to the deity Inari, the shrine features fox statues, tranquil grounds, and beautiful autumn foliage. It offers a serene, hidden-gem experience distinct from Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari.
Matsushima (Miyagi)
Matsushima, a coastal town in Miyagi Prefecture, is renowned for its stunning bay dotted with over 260 pine-covered islands. Celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, it offers sightseeing cruises, historic temples like Zuiganji and Godaido, and fresh oysters. A perfect spot for nature, history, and cuisine.
Recommended Foods and Souvenir
Jingisukan (Grilled Lamb BBQ)
A regional grilled lamb dish from Hokkaido. Two types of meat are used: tender lamb with a mild flavor, and mutton with a richer, mature taste. The meat is either marinated in sauce before grilling or grilled plain and dipped in sauce afterward. Flavors and slicing styles vary across restaurants.
Zunda Mochi
A traditional sweet from Tohoku, especially loved in Miyagi. Soft rice cakes are topped with a vibrant green paste made from mashed edamame, sugar, and salt. The refreshing and mildly sweet flavor makes it a favorite local treat.
Kokeshi Dolls
Traditional wooden dolls from the Tohoku region, characterized by a cylindrical body and rounded head. Hand-painted with vibrant designs, Kokeshi are both nostalgic souvenirs and prized folk art pieces. Each region has its own unique style passed down through generations.