An Immersive Adventure That Awakens the Senses
πΊοΈ Tohoku in a Snapshot
The Tohoku region of Japan is home to unspoiled rural landscapes and historical treasures, offering outdoor summer adventures and endless powder snow in the winter. Japan's northeastern wilderness encompasses six rural prefectures, bound together by custom, heritage, and recent tragedy. The devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck in 2011 brought out the resilient nature of Tohoku's people, and local passion and pride are helping the region rise again. There's much to be proud of—dramatic landscapes, history-rich sites, craft sake, and a host of outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, and skiing. More rural than Tokyo yet more developed than Hokkaido, the Tohoku region makes for exciting excursions from the capital and memorable side trips on the journey to the northernmost reaches of Japan's main islands
πΏ The Traditions Live On
Though nature and climate can be harsh, they bring great blessings. These conditions have nurtured Tohoku’s food culture, traditional arts, and spiritual heritage through a deep coexistence with the land. Even in the toughest winters, the warmth of the Tohoku people shines through, shaping the region’s traditions and way of life. After suffering severe damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake, one of the largest natural disasters in Japan, the people have shown remarkable resilience and capacity for regeneration.
Tohoku’s diverse nature, original landscapes, and indigenous cultures have endured for centuries. Walk in white robes in the holy places of Shugendo, centered around Dewa Sanzan, one of Japan’s three major Shugendo locations. The ancient traditions of hunting and the Matagi culture of subsistence and food are still vibrant in this modern world. Traditional dances and performing arts in places like Tanohata Village and Omiya Kagura have been passed down and preserved for generations.
π A Culinary Journey
Tohoku’s food culture is shaped by its cold climate and coastal location. People traditionally preserve food through drying and fermenting, and the cuisine makes extensive use of seafood. There's a strong emphasis on using local ingredients from mountains, rivers, and sea. Seasonal variation is key, and the food culture values harmony with nature and community-centered dining. Hospitality plays a big role, emphasizing warmth and generosity.
π Languages
Japanese is the main language, and English is not widely spoken outside of the tourism industry. Most large hotels and tourist facilities have English-speaking staff or can assist in English using multilingual information or communication tools.
π Four Seasons of Tohoku
Tohoku's climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters and relatively short, cool summers. The region experiences a range of weather patterns, including heavy snowfall on the Sea of Japan side and sunny conditions on the Pacific side. In September, Tohoku typically experiences pleasant autumn weather with decreasing temperatures and humidity, making it a good time to visit for outdoor activities. However, it's important to note that September is also within the typhoon season, so make sure to pack your rain gear.
π‘ Before You Leave
You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page. Make sure to check your country's entry requirements for Japan and obtain the appropriate visa documentation (if applicable).
π¦ Banking Hours, Currency and Credit
The currency used is the Japanese yen (¥). Credit cards and contactless payment methods are generally widely accepted in urban areas, but many small shops and businesses in rural areas and on small islands will only accept cash. If you haven't prepared cash in advance, it's easy to exchange foreign currency into Japanese yen upon arrival. Most major airports have exchange counters in their arrival halls.
Japan remains a largely cash-based society, so carry cash with you. Note that ATMs often charge fees for withdrawals, which may vary by time of day. Not all ATMs are open 24 hours, and some in central areas may occasionally run out of cash. Be prepared by having enough cash on hand.
π Electricity
Japan uses a uniform voltage of 100 volts A.C. Power outlets are typically Type A or Type B, similar to those used in North America. Dual-voltage appliances such as hair dryers, travel irons, and electric shavers should work wherever you are in Japan.
π Emergencies
Call 110 for the police, 119 for an ambulance or in the event of a fire, and 118 for the Coast Guard.
π€ Local customs and culture
Tipping is not common in Japan for services such as those provided in bars, cafes, restaurants, taxis, and hotels. However, a gratuity called kokorozuke, a token of appreciation “from the heart”, may be offered in certain situations. For instance, if you've engaged a private guide or interpreter who is familiar with overseas customs, they may accept a tip as a gesture of gratitude. Tipping is never expected and should always be done discreetly. If you do offer a gratuity, it is customary to put it in an envelope.
Saying thank you, or “arigato” in Japanese, along with a olite bow, is enough to convey your gratitude and will be well-received by your server.
Tattoos are not allowed in OnsensοΌhot springs). If you have tattoos, it is recommended that you bring stickers to cover a tattoo.