WAttention Tohoku 7th Issue 2020 Spring

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Tohoku

7TH Issue MCI (P) 123/04/2019

Explore Japan’s Rich Heritage in Tohoku’s Six Prefectures and Niigata

Samurai Spirit - Alive and Well in Tohoku

Japanese Sake Tours

around Northern region The other world of

Japanese Buddhism Springtime Snow of

Sakura Petals

TO H O KU

Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/

WAttention Tohoku 7

- Contents 03-06 Samurai Spirit - Alive and Well in Tohoku

- More than Just a Warrior: Date Masamune 03 - The Samurai’s Legacy in Yonezawa: Uesugi Kenshin 04 - Katana is no longer just a tool to cut someone: Iaido Experience 05 - The “land of the last samurai”: Aizu 06 - The Hina dolls of SAMURAI 06

07-10 Japanese Sake Tours around Northern region: history of sake spirits

- Nanbu Sake Masters and Sake Brewery 07-08 - There are many types of Sake with Local Feature 09-10

11-15 The other world of Japanese Buddhism

- Unchanging Beliefs in the Northernmost religion 11-12 - Entertainment for God 13-14 - A road of pilgrimage since ancient times 15

16-18 Springtime Snow of Sakura Petals

- A Sea of Sakura. A River of Cherry Blossoms 16 - The brilliant Lone Sakura with the legacy 17 - Sakura in the historical town 18

19-22 Transportation for Tohoku

- Unlimited rides throughout Tohoku - Essential Information for your travel in Tohoku Cover Photo: Main: Hayashizaki Iai Shrine in Murakami-shi Sub: Learn how to use katana sword by Abe sensei from Abe Faction Saber Way

Samurai Spirit

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The other world of Japanese Buddhism

Japanese Sake Tours

Springtime Snow of Sakura Petals

Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata and Fukushima — these six ken (prefectures), along with the neighbouring Niigata, are panoramas of idyllic bucolic perfection and home to rich cultures passed down through generations. In each area, you will experience Japan in its most authentic, raw and breathtaking forms.

Located in northeastern Honshu, Tohoku borders the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean, and the Tsugaru Straits. While Japan has made phenomenal strides in development over the past centuries, of course, the Tohoku region retains its old-world charms, traditional lifestyles and distinctive cultures. With its astounding scenery, ancient shrines , and unique lifestyles maintained by friendly people making remarkable local dishes, each spot and every person in the region has a fascinating story waiting to be discovered.

Challenge yourself by embarking on an exciting journey in search of a Japan about which most visitors — unfortunately — know precious little: Tohoku.

In Japan, the regional divisions or prefectures are called "Ken" while cities are called “Shi”.

This magazine uses the term "-ken" to refer to prefectures and “-shi” to refer to cities.

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki / WAttention Co., Ltd Associate Editor Yuka Suzuki Editorial Team Ellen Hwang, Andrew Smith Michael Tan Huang Wen, Jaid Mathews Ayako Kageyama Language Consultant Joseph. M. Shiodah Graphic Designer Kenji Ishida, Katsuhiro Onodera Photographers Chris Mollison, Noboru Hanamura Kenji Sugasawa Supported by Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/ 当事業は令和元年度訪日外国人旅行者周遊 促進事業費補助金を受けて実施しております。

WAttention Co., Ltd Kurashima Shibuya Bld. 2-3-8-401 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan 150-0002 Phone: 03-6418-5701 (main) 03-6418-5828 (editorial) Fax: 03-6862-6760 E-mail: info-tokyo@wattention.com HP: wattention.com

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Samurai Spirit Tohoku is the northernmost region of Japan’s main island, Honshu. It has a long feudal history, with various samurai clans claiming its rugged, rich wilderness over the years. The powerful, beautiful nature found in

Miyagi

northern Honshu made it a suitable home for the proud samurai, and even to this day, the spirit of the renowned swordsmen still endures through the region.

伊 達政宗 More than Just a Warrior: Date Masamune

On the grounds of the Aoba Castle ruins, is an imposing statue of a samurai on horseback with an eye patch and a crescent-moon-bearing helmet overlooking the vibrant city of Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region. It is not just any samurai though. It is Date Masamune (1567-1636), the founder of Sendai and the most powerful daimyo (feudal lord) of the Tohoku region. Born in a time when Japan was plagued by civil wars during the Sengoku period (1467-1603), Masamune quickly rose to become a tactful, ruthless and ambitious warrior from a young age, earning the name One-Eyed Dragon (lost an eye to smallpox at a young age). In 1603, Tokugawa Ieyasu, the daimyo who completed the unification of Japan under one rule, awarded Masamune lordship of the Sendai Domain for his loyalty, making Date the most powerful daimyo.

Aoba Castle

Zuihoden Mausoleum

Despite his fearsome reputation, Masamune was also an educated man and a patron of the arts, which gave birth to his interest in the region's rich culture and history that could be traced back to the ancient times. Wanting Sendai to be a spot to rival the Kyoto-Osaka region, he worked to expand trade and beautify the region. Tohoku, once a remote part of Japan, soon became a popular destination for tourism, trade and prosperity. While Masamune embraced tradition, he also saw the need to embrace foreigners and their technology and knowledge. He encouraged them to visit his region and also dispatched an embassy on the San Juan Bautista, a ship built with European shipbuilding techniques, to meet the Pope. This would be Japan's first voyage around the world and the only diplomatic mission of the period.

Such political and civilizing projects spread throughout the castle town and eventually into communities across the entire Tohoku region. What Masamune created and left behind through these was a fertile culture- a culture that respects the richness of tradition while embracing the new, that appreciates the highest beauty and perfection while being modest, and that continues to live on in the lives of the people in Sendai today through their traditional artwork, cuisine and view of life.

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Statue of Masamune at the ruins of Sendai Castle

A metal fittings of Sendai tansu

Masamune’s armor

Shokeikaku: A Feast Fit for a Warrior Once the residence of the Date clan, who had to relocate here after having to relinquish their domain following the Meiji Restoration (1868), this two-storey wooden bungalow is now a popular restaurant and venue for special occasions. Guests can enjoy local cuisine presented in an adorable miniature Sendai tansu ( Japanese chest of drawers) while casting their gaze down upon a splendid Japanese garden. Another highlight is the artefacts and heirlooms they have on display, including Date's iconic black suit of armour and helmet with the golden crescent moon.

DISCOVER SENDAI-Sendai Official Tourism Website https://sendai-travel.jp/

Shokeikaku

Alive and Well in Tohoku Yamagata

上杉 謙 信

The Samurai’s Legacy in Yonezawa: Uesugi Kenshin The city of Yonezawa, located in the Tohoku region’s Yamagata -ken, has a legacy built by Japan’s most fearless warriors. The fortified castle town was home to many samurai – most notably Uesugi Kenshin, whose clan ruled Yonezawa about 400 years ago.

Uesugi Shrine and the statue of Kenshin

Despite being sent away to a Buddhist monetary, Uesugi later became a chief general at the age of eighteen, and after his death he became known as “The God of War” for his incredible prowess on the battlefield. Though the castle was demolished during the Meiji Restoration, the Uesugi Shrine was founded in his honor to remember the city’s powerful history and Uesugi Kenshin’s inspiring story. The legendary samurai never actually visited Yonezawa, but after his death, his body was moved there. Exhibits around the shrine and gardens display artifacts and statues of the great samurai of Yonezawa.

Uesugi Clan Mausoleum

The Uesugi Hakushakutei (Uesugi Earl's House) provides the local dishes

While the city is respectful of the past, Yonezawa still pushes forward into the future, with its modern Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum located just next to the shrine. Side by side, the two create a striking scene that both contrast and complement each other. The museum’s grand entrance, resembling giant glass Japanese shoji, or sliding doors, welcomes guests to learn about the Okitama region and the samurai who wielded their power over it.

“Rakuchu Rakugaizu Byobu” folding screen

Inside the Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum

The exhibits feature priceless artifacts like hand-written documents scribed by real samurai and folding screens illustrating ancient Kyoto. Children and adults can have fun learning with all of the interactive videos and exhibits. Along with the fascinating history on display throughout the museum, the facility also offers a number of free Japanese traditional games and various creative art experience and more for visitors interested in the art and culture of Yonezawa. The lasting legacy of the Yonezawa samurai can be felt through the Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum’s detailed presentation of the region’s incredible history.

Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum

Yonezawa Sightseeing Navigation site https://www.yira-yonezawa.org/sightseeing/en/

04

Katana is no longer just a tool to cut someone: Iaido Experience Yamagata

Hayashizaki Iai Shrine is regarded as a sacred place for samurais around Japan

This sacred samurai shrine is the birthplace of Iaido, a form of martial arts that was founded by Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu in Murayama-shi. When he was a young child, his father was murdered on his way home, inspired him to meditate and create the battojutsu, a technique of quickly pulling out the sword from it’s sheath which later spread among samurai all over Japan. Despite Shigenobu’s dramatic history, Iaido focuses on self-improvement. The samurai sword was once only used for killing, but now it’s a tool for finding inner peace and bring balance to the body and spirit through discipline – the tool that was once meant for cutting thing down is now used for building thing up. After offering prayers, the masters at Hayashizaki Iai Shrine offer you the opportunity to become a legendary samurai.

Shaden (main building) of Hayashizaki Iai Shrine

The unforgettable Iaido Original Experience The opportunity for self-improvement through Iaido is open to anyone, as there is no age or gender restrictions. laido masters have spent decades of their lives perfecting the art of Iaido, and their experience shows as they patiently guide the lessons. From their calm and kind demeanor, it is easy to forget that they are carrying deadly weapons on their hand. However, they always not forget to emphasize the respect that should be shown to the Japanese katana (sword) throughout the experience and during the kata demonstration.

Kata in martial arts is a series of precisely choreographed movements that test the strength of both the mind and body.

The Iaido kata taught at the Hayashizaki Iai Shrine was inherited over 450 years ago, and the masters here are the only instructors in the area to lead this unique samurai experience. The smooth, deliberate movements of the instructors seem easy to imitate, but in reality, each kata is incredibly detailed and difficult to perform – especially the action of safely sliding the razor-sharp sword back into it’s sheath.

At Hayashizaki Iaido Shrine, you can also take part in tameshi-giri (Tatami cutting) experience, where participants will have the chance to wield a real Japanese katana. Knowing the history and power behind the katana, the thought of swinging the mighty Japanese sword is exciting yet intimidating.

As I held katana during my experience session, I felt a thrilling surge of power. The weight of the katana in my hands carried a sense of strength and severity that can’t be experienced in any other way. Using the fundamentals taught during the kata lessons, I took a deep breath, aimed the sword, and slashed through my tatami target. The cut was so clean and quick that the lobbed-off piece of the tatami fell to the floor for the tension and focus built up for the swing hand a chance to release, resulting in a hilariously delayed reaction. The lack of resistance as the blade slid through the target was a stunning display of how sharp the ancient Japanese weapon really is.

Unexpectedly, I also gained a new-found respect for the samurai for their discipline and the power they wielded. No longer were the fearsome samurai something of legend, they felt real and relatable – like anyone could obtain their strength with enough training. Just like the world-famous swordsmen, the Iaido Original Experience has a life long lasting impact.

Iaido demonstration performed by masters

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Iaido Original Experience Website https://www.iaidoexperience-en.com/

Fukushima

The “land of the last samurai” : Aizu

Aizuwakamatsu is a historic castle town in Fukushima-ken known as the “land of the last samurai”. It was the last bastion of the samurai during the Boshin Civil War of 1868 that pitted the Tokugawa Shogunate against the new Meiji government, whose aim was to make a new Japan focused on western principals - essentially a power struggle between feudal and modern Japan that became the major turning point in the history of the nation. The Aizu clan fought bravely including their defense of Tsuruga-jo Castle. But in the end, they were no match for the army of the Meiji government.

Aizu Matsuri Aizu Hanko Gyoretsu (Aizu Domain Lord's Procession)

The Aizu Bukeyashiki - Samurai Residence

Tsuruga-jo Castle

The Boshin Civil War marked one of the most tragic events in Aizu history known as the Byakkotai or the White Tiger Corps incident.

A group of 20 teenage samurai of the reserve units of the Aizu clan committed seppuku, an honourable samurai suicide, when they mistakenly thought that their masters had been defeated by the Meiji army upon seeing their castle up in smoke. Regarded as the role models of bushido, the way of the samurai warrior, the graves of these samurai on Mt. Iimori continue to be visited by many till this day. To the samurai, Aizu was their final battlefield. Many lives had been lost, and through the reforms implemented by the Meiji government, all traces of these warriors gradually disappeared. Burnt down but reconstructed in 1965, Tsuruga-jo Castle is now a museum that aims to recover the history of the Boshin War and this lost samurai culture.

SAMURAI CITY AIZUWAKAMATSU http://samurai-city.jp/en/

Aizu Clan School Nisshinkan

Statue of the Byakkotai at Mt. Iimori

Yamagata

The Hina dolls of SAMURAI

Every year on 3rd March, Japan celebrates Hina-matsuri, also referred to as “Doll’s Day’ or “Girl’s Day”. Northwest of Japan lies Tsuruoka-shi, an important region during the Edo period due to the powerful Sakai family’s presence in the Shonai Domain back then.

The former Sakai residence, now known as the Chido Museum, has been displaying Hina dolls owned by the Sakai family for more than a decade. It is the 18th head of the Sakai Clan’s hope that visitors would be able to appreciate their traditions and love towards their daughters contained in these beautiful dolls.

Tsuruoka City Official Website https://tsuruokacity.com/

Kazama family’s Heishindo Residence

Sakai family’s collection of Hina dolls

The 18th head of the Sakai clan

Hina Matsuri Confectionery by Sumiyoshiya

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Japanese Sake Tours around Northern region: history of sake spirits Vital elements to making great sake include fresh water, clean rice, appropriate fermentation starter and proper temperature. The Tohoku region, characterized by harsh winters, unpolluted water and dry air, is known across Japan for having the ideal sake-making conditions.

Iwate

Thanks to the dedication of toji (experienced brew masters), Tohoku sake has a time-honored place deep in the heart of sake enthusiasts.

Several breweries offer tours from November to March ― the best season for sake brewing.

Nanbu Sake Masters and Sake Brewery

－Asabiraki Sake Brewery leading Japanese sake into a new age A Refreshing walk through Nataya-cho As a leading producer of the nation’s rice, Tohoku has many well-renowned breweries and sake brands. It is not only the region’s grain that makes a great brew though. Other ingredients like clear, mineral-rich spring water also play an important role in making a refreshing swig of sake. Two natural springs, Daiji-Shimizu and Seiryu-sui in Morioka’s Nataya-cho, is particularly favored among locals. It is common to see people in the area drinking and collecting crystal-clear water from the public spring. Like the water gently flowing through the area, Nataya-cho is best when explored at a slow, relaxing pace. Along the old merchant streets, you will find old traditional buildings, cozy cafes, impressive temples, and Asabiraki Brewery.

The history and culture of Japanese sake The method of brewing sake started back before even being recorded in history. Over the years, the Japanese liquor has been used in formal ceremonies, special events, and casual drinking parties, and it is considered the national beverage of Japan.

Much like other ancient Japanese practices, the gods were heavily involved. The god of sake is logically the same as the god of rice growing and harvesting. The drink became a major part of religious festivities, appearing in traditional dances and art in Japan and solidifying the importance of such activities. These days, sake is inseparable from the Japanese identity, much like shrine, samurai and sushi.

The Brewing Process Brewing sake is astoundingly complicated, especially considering how old the culture around the rice wine is. Of course, modern techniques are now used to enhance and mass produce the liquor with consistent quality, but the steps are largely the same as those established in ancient times. The major brewing method used in this area is the Nanbu style. This technique of brewing delicious sake was developed over 300 years ago and distributed by a group of experts called the Nanbu Toji.

Surprisingly, Japanese sake naturally has the highest alcohol content compared to other liquors. This is taking into account the multiple distillations that whisky and other go through to concentrate the alcohol content. The strength mostly comes from the kouji-kin, or spores, that is mixed with steamed rice. It is a distinctive feature of sake. There are of course many steps involved, but fermentation takes the longest time. The process is completed in three to four weeks, as the mixture is constantly monitored and stored at the optimal temperature.

Nataya-cho

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Morioka Machiya Monogatari Museum in Nataya-cho

Asabiraki Sake Brewery

Asabiraki Sake Brewery

Asabiraki Sake Brewery leading Japanese sake into a new age You can learn more details about the sake production process by touring the pristine and modern Asabiraki Sake Brewery. Guided tours are available and easy to understand. It is amazing to see how much effort is involved in brewing the sake. With the amount of polished containers and shiny metallic equipment, the facility seems just as suitable for building rockets as it is for rice wine.

Asabiraki literally means “opening sun”, but they prefer to translate it as “new age”. From the spectacular view inside the brewery – especially the blinking buttons and switches in the control room – I would say that Asabiraki has successfully entered the new age of sake.

The technology used is far from what the samurai who founded and led the brewery back in 1871. However, the crimson torii gates leading up to the building show that Asabiraki hasn’t forgotten its roots.

We had a chance to speak with the CEO of the brewery. It was clear how much passion he has for sake, as we walked over tea made from the same delicious spring water that goes into the brew. Asabiraki aims to spread the flavors and culture of sake around the world and welcomes foreign people to visit the brewery and learn about sake. Asabiraki produces many flavors, so it is hard to recommend any over the other, as it depends on the taste, unique to each individual.

In fact, the brewery won gold at the National Sake Competition 12 times in a row.

Asabiraki Sake Brewery 10-34 Daijiji-Cho Morioka-shi, Iwate Asabiraki Sake Brewery

－Hirota Shuzoten and the Flavor of Tradition Hirota Shuzoten is a small brewery in Iwate-ken that has been producing clean-tasting, and, umami-infused sakes since 1903. Using local rice and clear water springing from their home town, Hirota stays true to its roots and family-oriented quality. While it does use modern methods, Hirota Sake Brewery contrasts greatly with those that are mass-produced in a industrial scale. Instead, at the brewery, an exceptional female brewer leads a select group of male brewers to blend such unique sake; the craftsmen and craftswomen at the humble brewery use the natural aspects of its region. As such, it uses natural elements such as the Tohoku region’s freezing cold temperature during winter to cool and produce its sake’s honest flavor. Somehow their hard work – lifting and stirring some hundred kilograms of rice every day – is also bottled up with the product and can be felt with each sip of their delicious sake. As a result, each brew is unique, like a work art that can only be experienced once, and that quality spreads all of Hirota’s products.

To learn more about traditional sake brewing processes founded by the Nanbu Toji, the expansive Nanbu-Toji Brewer Museum is nearby – a reminder of the passion the area has for sake. Replicating old Japanese rice wine brewery, wooden tubs and traditional architecture tell us the story of how sake was created and how it influenced Japanese culture. Complete with charming educational videos and priceless artifacts, there is a lot to explore. The museum is located at a michi no eki, or rest stop along the road, so there are many local sake brands and other items to purchase as a gift.

Hirota Shuzoten 2-4 Izumiyashiki, Miyade, Shiwa-cho, Shiwa-gun, Iwate

Hanamaki Onsen: Soaking in the essence of Japan with Sake Hanamaki Onsen, surrounded by Tohoku’s magnificent nature, is one of the best places in this region to soak after Sake brewery tour. Easily the largest spa resort in Tohoku, Hanamaki Onsen features about 500 rooms across all four of its charming hotels – Hotel Senshukaku, Hotel Koyokan, Hotel Hanamaki and Kashoen. Luxurious halls, traditional accommodations and elegant design bestows guests with a sense of grandness, even as they wander through the hotels in comfortable, loose-fitting Japanese yukata.

Hanamaki Onsen offers variety baths including outside hot springs opening up to spectacular views of the surrounding nature in all its seasonal glory. Made from cypress and stone, the outdoor baths, or rotenburo, perfectly represent the Japanese aesthetic.

Hanamaki Onsen also ensures guests won’t be going on your next journey on an empty stomach. The resort’s buffet is truly astounding, using fresh seafood and vegetables to serve up the best of Tohoku’s local dishes. They also have a wide selection of local sake.

Let’s enjoy the sake along with the delicious cuisines!

Access: 20-min ride from JR Tohoku Shinkansen Shin Hanamaki station Address: 1-125 Yumoto, Hanamaki-shi, Iwate https://www.hanamakionsen.co.jp/en/

Hirota Shuzoten

DEWAZAKURA ART MUSEUM

There are many types of Sake with Local Feature

－Dewazakura Sake Brewery and DEWAZAKURA ART MUSEUM

Yamagata

Dewazakura Sake Brewery is a fantastic place to be if you’re a sake lover. The brewery, based in Tendo-shi in Yamagata-ken, proved itself worthy of global praise by winning the numerous top prize in its category at the International Wine Challenge, one of the world’s largest wine competitions. In 1988, the brewery opened the doors to the DEWAZAKURA ART MUSEUM, a collection of traditional ceramics, crafts and calligraphy. The museum building is a traditional Japanese house built in the Meiji period (1868–1912) and the former residence of the last president of Dewazakura Sake Brewery.

DEWAZAKURA SAKE BREWERY & DEWAZAKURA ART MUSEUM 1-4, Hitoichimachi, Tendo-shi, Yamagata

DEWAZAKURA ART MUSEUM

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Miyagi

－Urakasumi Sake Brewery

Founded in 1724, this brewery has been tickling the taste buds of sake connoisseurs for nearly 300 years in Siogama-shi. Since then it has been providing the sacred sake for the thousand-year-old Shiogama Shrine, one of the most important shinto shrines in northern Japan. The establishment offers a wide range of products, including classic sakes, seasonal specialties, Japanese Plum sake and tasting accessories. Visitors can also enjoy a tour of the brewery, which is followed by a fascinating tutored tasting session.

Urakasumi Sake Brewery 2-19-Motomachi, Shiogama-shi, Miyagi Sugidama (cedar ball), which signals that new sake has been made

Niigata

Shiogama Shrine

－Asahi Shuzo Sake Brewery

The third largest sake producing region in Japan, Niigata is practically overflowing with the characteristically Niigatan dry and pristine sake from its about 90 breweries. One of its most notable sake breweries is the massive Asahi facility in Nagaoka-shi. Quality is no afterthought at Asahi with its labels, bottles and containers tastefully designed to celebrate their amazing contents. Asahi’s modern facility is a work of art, but the real magic comes from their careful brewing methods and understanding of Niigata’s many kinds of rice.

Asahi Shuzo Sake Brewery 880-1 Asahi, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata

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The other world of

Japanese Buddhism

With all its gods, shrines and temples, religion in Japan seems incredibly complicated.

However, Japanese spirituality’s main concern of living in harmony with nature and all creatures that share our world isn’t a concept all too unrelatable. Tohoku is home to many cultural, religious practices and sacred areas like Osorezan, where it is even possible to reconnect with the dead.

Unchanging Beliefs in the Northernmost region

Aomori

Osorezan: The land of the departed Aomori sits on the northernmost part of the main Honshu Island.

Its location and size make it a perfect home for Japan’s dramatic seasons and a variety of landscapes. One example is Osorezan, or Dread Mountain.

Osorezan’s hellish landscape is covered in ashy grays from volcanic activity. The sulfur permitting through the area gives Lake Usori a vivid blue tint, nicely providing contrast to the harsh, dreary surroundings. Rocky trails lead visitors around Osorezan’s otherworldly geography as cracks spew steam and bubbling water out onto the jagged, lifeless earth. Despite all of the rough edges, Dread Mountain is still strangely beautiful.

Osorezan, one of Japan’s three most sacred mountains, was discovered by a Buddhist priest over 1,000 years ago in a search for sacred areas around Japan. It was chosen as a special place as the bridge between the living and the dead because the mountain has features that resemble both the Buddhist hell and paradise.

Osorezan Bodaiji Temple was founded in 862 and is now occupied

by priests of the Soto-sect of Buddhism, but people of all religions can come here to pray and witness the striking scenery.

Occasionally, the pale backdrop is lifted by vibrantly colored pinwheels and other gifts presented to Osorezan’s many red-capped Jizo statues that are peppered throughout the area.

These chubby-cheeked characters are believed to be the guardian of children. From July 20 to 24, the annual Bodaiji festival takes place at Osorezan. It is a large festival where a memorial service is held for those who have passed away. In this place, souls of those who have passed can be contacted by Itako, women who have spent years studying and training in spirituality. Three months before the Bodaiji festival, the Itako perform kuchiyose (mouth spiritualism for communication with the spirit) for reconnecting people with the dead.

Osorezan monk Minami Jikisai explained that the unreal landscape makes the mountain uniquely suitable for such spirituality, as Gokurakuhama, which means “sacred beach” on the shores of Lake Usori.

hallowed grounds should always feel separate from the world inhabited by our daily lives. Away from the usual trouble and surroundings, connection with your spirituality and emotions comes naturally. It is not uncommon to hear people calling out the names of their lost loved ones around Osorezan. To be clear, visitors to Osorezan are not calling out to “ghost”, but the “departed”. The departed still exists, just in a different way from the living. They are very much alive because the living still care for them.

Life and death are two sides of the same coin. To be “living” also means to be “dying”. Living is an expression of death because death is a part of everything that is alive. This is likely something people sense when they take in the scenery at Osorezan.

Osorezan Bodaiji Temple: 3-2 Usoriyama, Tanabu, Mutsu-shi, Aomori

The Showa Daibutsu in Seiryuji Temple: Learning spirituality at Tohoku’s largest Buddha statue Aomori is blessed by the presence of Japan’s largest seated bronze Buddha statue. At 21.35 meters, it is even taller than Nara’s famous Great Buddha. As I approached the giant statue resting in its eternal pose, the Showa Daibutsu emerged gently from the snowy haze as if it had been waiting there patiently for hundreds of years, but actually the monument wasn’t built until 1984 in Showa period. Inside the statue, there are many paintings and Buddhist proverbs to lift your spirit and teach you about one of Japan’s two major religions.

Seiryuji Temple was founded by the priest Oda Ryuko in 1982 and also has a five-story pagoda made totally from Aomori Hiba (white cedar). It is the fourth tallest pagoda in japan. The priest’s belief is “A temple itself preaches to us in a silent manner”. In fact, the grounds are pristinely maintained to reflect the beauty of Japanese Buddhism.

At the temple you can try sutra copying and Zen meditation in the morning, for a real, unforgettable Japanese experience.

Seiryuji Temple: 45 Aza-yamazaki, Oaza-kuwabara, Aomori-shi

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Entertainment for God

Iwate

The Spirituality of Mt. Hayachine Hanamaki-shi, in the center of Iwate-ken, is characterized by its stunning nature, including jaw-dropping mountain ranges, rivers and lakes. In the winter, it is common for snow to gently fall in the sunshine, creating a dreamlike environment as the sky glitters with delicate, sparkling snowflakes. Particularly beautiful is Kitakami Range’s highest peak, Mt. Hayachine. Surrounded by majestic mountain landscapes, it’s innate spirituality has a powerful presence throughout the region.

Mt. Hayachine towers over the region, reaching a height of 1,917 meters.

In ancient times, Iwate’s beloved mountain was known as Azumane-dake had a major influence on the culture of the region. Legends say that the mountain was discovered by a man in the year 807 named Tanaka Hyoubu, who reached the mountaintop while following a fable white deer with a golden star-shaped mark on its head. The rugged mountain landscape is home to many alpine flowers which inspired many old poems and literature, and is considered a holy place. Looking out over the breathtaking scenery, it is easy to understand how the mountains became a source of such culture and spirituality, as the view emits waves of awe-inducing beauty. In fact, in Japanese religion, mountains are considered gods, as the mist and cloud formations makes them seem like they are living and breathing.

Hayachine Shrine gives tribute to the god that is believed to reside within Mt.Hayachine. Long ago the people gave thanks to the water that flowed from the mountain allowing them to farm. They believed that when you die, your spirit would go to the mountain. This mountain worship helped create the mysterious folklore cultural.

Hayachine Shrine: 1-1 Uchikawame, Ohasama-machi, Hanamaki-shi, Iwate

Dancing with the Gods: Hayachine Kagura Hayachine Kagura is traditional folk performance that features a series of 40 masked performances with live music that originated from Mt. Hayachine that has been handed down through generations in the Uchikawame area of Hanamaki Ohasama. It is now a designated UNESCO intangible cultural heritage and has a history of over 500 years. Actually, the Hayachine Kagura refers to two kinds of Kagura, or schools – the Take Kagura, dedicated to the Hayachine Shrine, and the Otsugunai Kagura, dedicated to the Otsugunai Shrine.

In traditional Hayachine Kagura, men perform all roles. The dancers wear costumes or Isho. The male god characters are dressed in Japanese hakama (pants) and chihaya, an upper garment with large, flowing sleaves. Female gods wear chihaya and kimono.

For wilder dances that require a lot of aggressive movements dancers wear a sash with leggings. Obviously, the colorful costumes of Hayachine are an important part of the dance.

Mt. Hayachine

The observatory shaped like “Gongen Sama” god on the top of the hill in Ohasama-machi

Masks or omen are worn during many of Hayachine Kagura dances. The ones that include omen are special because the artifacts are said to channel the gods, and the performers enter a state called “neri”. The Kagura are said to be choreographed adaptations of prayers of the ancient priests who worshiped at Mt. Hayachine, so the performances are meant as an offering to the gods rather than entertainment.

Surprisingly, the performers are local people who have a passion for culture and history. Their presence has a real impact and adds character to the important cultural dance in the Tohoku region.

Though Hayachine Kagura is only performed during certain parts of the year, it can still be appreciated at the beautiful and informative Hanamaki Cultural Heritage Center, which displays many masks and replicas like the legendary lion head that is featured in many of the dances.

Hanamaki Cultural Heritage Center: 3-39-1 Ohasama, Ohasama-machi, Hanamaki-shi, Iwate

Hayachine kagura at the annual summer festival

Masks at Hanamaki Cultural Heritage Center

Niigata

Sado island and the people’s Noh Hayachine Kagura had a powerful influence on Japanese Noh, a classic form of Japanese dance. Noh theatre rose to popularity during the Edo period (1603-1867). In its prime, Sado Island had up to 200 functioning Noh theatres where many people could perform or be entertained. Zeami is given credit for perfecting the art, and Sado, where he spent many years in exile, still carries on his legacy. The performances in Sado became known as “the people’s Noh”, and many locals and influential residents participated in the festivities. To show appreciation for Zeami, firelight Noh is held in his honour.

Shiizaki Suwa Shrine Noh Stage: 24 Harakuro, Sado-shi, Niigata Noh stage of Daizen shrine

Firelight Noh

Rocky shores in Sado island

Akita

Meet the Folk Ritual “Namahage”, Demon -like Deity The Oga peninsula in Akita-ken, projecting west into the Sea of Japan, is home to the Namahage ogres (demon-like characters) in traditional Japanese folklore. Every year on December 31st, locals wrapped in knitted straw known as kede put on fearsome masks unique to their district and walk lifting their legs high (similar to wrestlers before a match) around neighbourhoods and visit homes, warning delinquent teenagers and young children to work hard, to study and to listen to their parents.

With information quickly spreading in recent years, the unique culture of Namahage has gained attention within the traditional folk rituals. By combining the Namahage event and the Saitou-sai (Festvial) which boasts a history of about 900 years at Shinzan Shrine, the locals have created Oga’s Winter Festival, also known as Namahage Sedo Festival. Every year, the event is held on the second Friday, Saturday and Sunday of February, satisfying the tourist’s curiosity about the Namahage culture.

Namahage Museum: Kitaura Shinzan, Aza-Mizukuisawa, Oga-shi, Akita

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A road of pilgrimage since ancient times

Yamagata, Fukushima

A journey of rebirth: Dewa Sanzan Yamagata-ken has one of Japan’s most well-known sacred places for mountain worship, the Dewa Sanzan or the “Three Mountains of Dewa”. The landscape is defined by its stunning natural beauty of mystical mountains, volcanic lakes, hot springs and farmlands. This is where the soul of Japan lies in its traditional and religious culture and where ancient mountain worship is still very much practised. The followers, known as Shugenjas or Yamabushi (mountain monks) have been following the rites of worship for the last 1400 years. Followers embark on long pilgrimages and practice austere feats of physical endurance of natural elements as an ascetic rite in passage to gain spiritual power.

The Mount Haguro Pilgrimage route beginning from the Zuishinmon gate and leading up to the mountain summit, dates back to the Edo period. This climbing course is 1.7km (1 mile). On the way up, you will come across the famous Mt. Haguro Go-ju-to (five-story pagoda).

The Michelin Green Guide Japan gave this scenic path its top honour of three stars. As you climb the 2,446 steps to spiritual discovery, and take in the beauty of rows of magnificent cedar trees that are 350-500 years old, it’s easy to see why this area is regarded so highly.

Those who take this path for spiritual training often claim it to be “a life changing pilgrimage.” While you travel along this sacred path maybe you’ll find yourself born again as well.

Mt. Haguro: Touge, Haguro-machi, Tsuruoka-shi, Yamagata

Mt. Yudono

Yamabushi

Yamabushi parade during the Autumn Peak Ritual (Akinomineiri) on Mt. Haguro

The Five-story Pagoda (Mt. Haguro)

Pilgrimage Of The Aizu 33 Kannon Buddha Temples Aizuwakamatsu is a historic castle town known as the “land of the last samurai”.

The people of Aizu were people of good faith and it was their custom to pay respects to all thirty-three Kannon Buddha temples in the form of a pilgrimage that was more for entertainment than a tough, ascetic ritual. During the Edo period, people would journey to the temples for sightseeing, and even now, there are many people who make the pilgrimage with friends and family. The image of Kannon makes its appearance everywhere from wonderful temples in the city to stone Buddhas in the mountains.

Visiting 33 Kannon in Aizu SITE http://aizu33.jp/en/

Sakudari Kannon Temple

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Eryu-ji Temple

Sakudari Kannon Temple

Aizu Sazaedo

The shrines on Mt. Gassan

Springtime Snow of Sakura Petals

桜

A Sea of Sakura.

A River of Cherry Blossoms.

Cities in the Tohoku area usually welcome their first blossom from early April to early May according to sakura zensen, a forecast of when and where the blossoms arrive each year.

Tohoku’s ever-changing seasonal beauty is no secret. However, this is especially true for the cold northern region of Japan known as Tohoku. Sakura trees hold a very special meaning to the people there. Arriving late and leaving just as swift, this beautiful moment in time is Tohoku’s spring.

Saigyo Modoshi no Matsu Park sakura and Matsushima Miyagi – Matsushima

260 islets, large and small, are scattered throughout Matsushima Bay, one of three great views of Japan, and a site worth visiting.

Inspired by his love for cherry blossoms, the renowned 12th century Japanese poet, Saigyo Hoshi, penned the poem, “Let Me Die Under the Blossoms in Spring”. From this garden named after a leg of Saigyo’s journey, the bursting blossoms of the Somei Yoshino cherry trees mingle with the green pine trees and the blue waters of Matsushima bay.

Address: 10-174 Inuta, Matsushima, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi

Kitakami Tenshochi Iwate

Matsushima is famous for fresh seafood

The Kitakami River is home to quite a few hundredyear-old somei yoshino cherry blossoms. Nearby, the hill known as Jingaoka is the perfect vantage point for the famous two-kilometer-long tunnel of ten thousand-odd sakura trees of Tenshochi Park.

Established in the 1920s, the park was meant as a sanctuary for the locals to rest and relax. A total of 150 species of sakura trees, including somei yoshino and Edohiganzakura (the oldest type of sakura), have been planted there.

During the annual Kitakami Tenshochi Cherry Blossom Festival (mid April to early May), colourful carp-shaped streamers that embody the hopes for the health and futures of young boys flutter in the wind above the river, performing a duet with the sakura in full bloom to decorate the riverside.

Address: 10 Chiwari, Tachibana, Kitakami-shi, Iwate

Cherry Blossoms along the banks of Hinokinaigawa River Akita A two-kilometer-long stretch of around 400 sakura trees lines the bank of the Hinokinai River which runs through Kakunodate. Every year, this samurai town plays host to a cherry blossom festival.

Address: Kakunodate-machi, Semboku-shi, Akita

koinobori (carp streamers) flying over Kitakami River

The brilliant Lone Sakura with the legacy Miharu Takizakura Fukushima Blossoms cascade like a waterfall from the top of a large Beni-shidare tree (red weeping cherry blossom), leaving a stream of petals on the ground. Illuminated by the evening light-up, the sight of this gorgeous sakura leaves no heart unmoved.

Address: 91 Sakurakubo, Taki, Miharumachi, Tamura-gun, Fukushima

Magnificent Rock-breaking Sakura Iwate Once small and wiry, the edohiganzakura tree stands today in its full glory through the cracks of a gigantic rock. The 360-year-old spectacle of nature known as the “rock breaking sakura” is located at the site of Morioka District Court. The place was formerly the garden of the Kita family, one of the three families that ruled the Nanbu han in the Edo period (around 1700s). How people of the time moved the rock without the kind of heavy machinery today remains a mystery.

Address: 9-1 Uchimaru, Morioka-shi, Iwate

Lone Sakura Tree at Koiwai Farm Iwate Tohoku’s highlight; Edohiganzakura with Mt. Iwate as backdrop. This sakura is a symbol of spring in Iwate.

Address: 36-1 Maruyachi, Shizukuishi-cho, Iwate-gun, Iwate

Koiwai Farm’s homemade dairy products

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Sakura in the historical town Hirosaki Castle Aomori One of Japan’s three major sakura spots, the area offers the chance to savor the quintessential Japanese sights of sakura trees, castles, and stonewalls. Not to miss during full bloom are the flower petals that carpet the castle’s outer moat. The ishigaki, or stonewalls, is currently undergoing renovation, but the splendor of the view remains untouched.

Built more than 400 years ago within today’s Hirosaki Park, Hirosaki Castle is a popular place for sakura viewing, and is one of Japan’s three major sakura spots. Every spring, the grandeur of the castle tower is accentuated by flurries of sakura petals

blowing in the wind. From late April to early May, around 2,600 sakura trees of 50 different species, including somei yoshino and shidarezakura, come into full bloom, bathing the path from the moat to the castle tower in a medley of pink.

To the locals, eating crabs comes hand in hand with hanami (viewing sakura) Togekuri crab, its nickname because of the overlap of the cherry “hanami crab” blossom and crabbing seasons. Don’t be surprised if you see locals eating a crab under sakura—this is the best way to enjoy life after all!

Address: 1 Shimoshirogane-cho, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori Lunch box for hanami

Kakunodate Akita Known as the Little Kyoto of Michinoku, Kakunodate used to be a prosperous city ruled by the Satake-kita clan. The town, featuring well-preserved samurai houses and merchant mansions, always attracts a crowd in spring when the sakura trees come into full bloom. Blossoming against black traditional houses, the sight of the pink flowers of these weeping sakura trees kindles a yearning for the past. Some of the sakura are said to have come to Kakunodate as the dowry of a princess.

Address: Kakunodate-machi, Semboku-shi, Akita

In the Kakunodate Samurai Residences area

Kiritanpo Nabe is a local hot pot dish

The black walls of samurai residences

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2 Days Pass 6,000

Available Bus Route

JPY

TOHOKU

HIGH WAY BUS TIC KET These tickets can only be used by travelers with foreign passports.

3 Days Pass 8,000

TOHOKU HIGHWAY BUS TICKET( 2-Day Pass or 3-Day Pass)

3 Days Pass 8,000

provides unlimited travel on selected highway bus and local bus services across 6 prefectures including, Aomori, Akita, Iwate, Yamagata, Miyagi, and Fukushima in the Tohoku region. This pass is a perfect fit for your visit to Tohoku: Travel easy and save you money!

astle, Oirase & Lake Towada, Kakunodate, ma, SendaiHirosaki Castle, Oirase & Lake Towada, Kakunodate,

Sendai 3N

2 Days Pass 6,000

JPY

Matsushima, Sendai

Cherry Blossom Season

● Aomori 2N ● Sendai 3N

Aomori

AOMORI

Hirosaki

Cherry Blossom Season

Odate

Morioka

Akita ¥11,480

IWATE

AKITA

Tono

■ day 1

G626) 23:50 Dpt → Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi・TG626) 23:50 Dpt →

■ day 2

Yuzawa

(Immigration & Customs)…"Michinoku Tour 9:00∼"(Exchange voucher for "Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket (THBT)") → Sendai (TG626) 7:30 ArrInformation …(Immigration & Customs)…"Michinoku Tour Information 9:00∼"(Exchange voucher for "Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket (THBT)") ● Sendai Airport (Bus stopArr ②)(Airport 9:45 DptBus → Matsushima-Kaigan ②) 9:45 Dpt → Matsushima-Kaigan Sta. 10:43 "THBT" ¥1,000)● Sta. 10:43 Arr (Airport Bus "THBT" ¥1,000)● …(Storage baggage Matsushima-Kaigan Sta. the coinyour locker) … at Matsushima-Kaigan Sta. the coin locker) … sightseeing (Preasure Temple,…

Entsuin Temple, Oysters Sta. lunch 11:00∼16:00) … Matsushima-Kaigan Sta. (Pick-up baggage) easure cruise, GodaidoMatsushima Temple, Entsuin Temple, Oysterscruise, lunchGodaido 11:00∼16:00) Matsushima-Kaigan (Pick-up baggage) Matsushima-Kaigan 16:13 Dpt → Sendai 16:51 Arr (JR Senseki Line ¥410) pt → Sendai 16:51 Arr (JR Senseki Line ¥410)

Kamaishi

Sakata Tsuruoka

Stay at a hotel in Sendai

■ day 3

Kesennuma

YAMAGATA

● Sendai Sta.(Bus stop 40) 7:30 Dpt → Hirosaki Bus terminal 11:50 Arr (Express bus / Reservation required "THBT" ¥5,700) ●

30 Dpt → Hirosaki Bus terminal 11:50 Arr (Express bus / Reservation required "THBT" ¥5,700) ● Hirosaki Bus terminal 12:00 Dpt → Hirosaki Sta. 12:03 Arr (City circulation bus every 10 minutes ¥100) … (Storage your luggage at Hirosaki Sta. the coin locker) …

Dpt → Hirosaki Sta. 12:03 Arr (City circulation bus every 10 minutes ¥100) … (Storage your luggage at Hirosaki Sta. the coin locker) …

Hirosaki Sta. 12:15 Dpt → Hirosaki City Hall 12:25 Arr (City circulation bus ¥100) … (4 min by Walk) … Hirosaki Castle Park sightseeing (12:30∼15:00) rosaki City Hall 12:25…

Arr(4(City circulation bus ¥100) … (4 min by Walk) … Hirosaki Castle Park sightseeing (12:30∼15:00) min by Walk) … Hirosaki City Hall 15:20 Dpt → Hirosaki Sta.15:45 Arr (City circulation bus ¥100) … (Pick-up baggage) … i City Hall 15:20 Dpt → Hirosaki Sta.15:45 Arr (City circulation bushonsen ¥100) Line … (Pick-up Hirosaki 16:16 Dpt → Aomori 17:04 Arr (JR Ou ¥670) baggage) … i 17:04 Arr (JR Ou honsen Line ¥670) Stay at a hotel in Aomori

MIYAGI

Sendai

Yamagata

■ day 4

● Aomori Sta. (Bus stop 11) 8:15 Dpt → Hakkoda Ropeway 9:09 Arr (Local bus "THBT") ● … Hakkoda Ropeway sightseeing (9:20∼11:00 "Snow Monster")

:15 Dpt → Hakkoda Ropeway 9:09 Arr (Local bus "THBT") ● … Hakkoda Ropeway sightseeing (9:20∼11:00 "Snow Monster") ● Hakkoda Ropeway 11:12 Dpt → Makado-Iwa 12:30 Arr (Local bus "THBT") ● …

Oirase Stream sightseeing (18min∼72min ／ Freely select the next bus) ● Makado-Iwa Dpt → Lake Arrsightseeing (Local bus "THBT") ● Lake Towada sightseeing ＆next lunch Dpt → Makado-Iwa 12:30 Arr (Local12:52 bus "THBT") ● …Towada Oirase 13:03 Stream (18min∼72min ／ Freely select the bus) ● Lake Towada 15:00 Dpt → Aomori Sta.sightseeing 17:59 Arr (Local bus "THBT" Round trip ¥6,180) ● Lake Towada 13:03 Arr (Local bus "THBT") ● Lake Towada ＆ lunch Stay at a hotel in Aomori → Aomori Sta. 17:59 Arr (Local bus "THBT" Round trip ¥6,180) ●

■ day 5

Fukushima

● Aomori Sta. (Bus stop 8) 7:20 Dpt → Morioka Sta.10:04 Arr (Express bus "THBT" ¥3,400) ● …

Morioka 10:57 Dpt → bus Kakunodate 11:41 Arr 20 Dpt → Morioka Sta.10:04 Arr (Express "THBT" ¥3,400) ●(Akita … Shinkansen ¥2,320) … (Storage your luggage at Kakunodate Sta. the coin locker) … Kakunodate Sta. 12:16 Dpt → Denshokan-iriguchi 12:27 Arr odate 11:41 Arr (Akita Shinkansen ¥2,320) Kakunodate Cherry blossom & "Samurai House" sightseeing (12:30∼14:00) … (Walk or Taxi) … Kakunodate Sta. (Pick-up baggage) akunodate Sta. the coin locker) … Kakunodate Sta. 12:16 Dpt → Denshokan-iriguchi 12:27 Arr Kakunodate 14:26 Dpt → Omagari 14:36 Arr (Akita Shinkansen ¥1,070) … (4 min by Walk) … Omagari Bus terminal & "Samurai House" sightseeing (12:30∼14:00) … (Walk or Taxi) … Kakunodate Sta. (Pick-up baggage) ● Omagari Bus terminal 15:40 Dpt → Sendai Sta. 19:15 Arr (Express bus / Reservation required "THBT" ¥4,200)● magari 14:36 Arr (Akita Shinkansen … (4 min by Walk) … Omagari Bus terminal Stay at a hotel ¥1,070) in Sendai 40 Dpt → Sendai Sta. 19:15 Arr (Express bus / Reservation required "THBT" ¥4,200)●

■ day 6

Minamisouma Aizu-wakamatsu

Sendai city sightseeing (Site of Sendai Castle, Ichibancho / One-day Loople Sendai Pass ¥620) Stay at a hotel in Sendai

FUKUSHIMA

of Sendai Castle, Ichibancho / One-day Loople Sendai Pass ¥620) ■ day 7

Sendai Sta. 8:45 Dpt → Sendai Airport 9:09 Arr (Sendai Airport Acces Line ¥650) Sendai (TG627) 11:15 Dpt → Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) 16:05 Arr

ai Airport 9:09 Arr (Sendai Airport Acces Line ¥650) Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) 16:05 Arr

―Covers highway and local bus services on 101 bus routes in 6 prefectures in Tohoku.

(Reservation required: 16 routes, Reservation Not Required: 85 routes) ―All the bus travel you need for 2 or 3 consecutive days at one price.

19

JPY

Itinerary Example

Noshiro

Check the Advantages

JPY

Koriyama

Iwaki

https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/bus/course4.html

How to Use it

Seat Reservations for Coaches

1. Purchase a voucher for TOHOKU HIGHWAY BUS TICKET

https://japanbusonline.com/

2. Exchange your voucher for TOHOKU HIGHWAY BUS TICKET 3. Reserve your bus routes you wish to board 4. Buses are marked with a sticker 5. Get on board

Hakkoda, Oirase, Lake Towada, Aomori, Matsushima, Sendai Hakkoda, Oirase, Lake Towada, Aomori,

Autumn Leaves & Win

● Aizu-Wakamatsu 1N ● Sendai 3N Hakkoda, Oirase, Lake Towada, Aomori, https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/bus/course1.html Matsushima, Sendai Autumn Leaves & Winter Season ● Aizu-Wakamatsu 1N ● Sendai 3N Matsushima, Sendai ● Aizu-Wakamatsu 1N ● Sendai 3N

Autumn Leaves & Winter Season

Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket ●●……● Targetbus bus route ●= = Target route

3Days 3DaysPass(8,000yen) Pass(8,000yen)

Discount Discount

(from Nornal fare) (from Nornal fare)

¥10,580 ¥10,580 ¥10,580

Ouchi-juku, Tsurugajo Castle, Tadami River Line View Pi Zao Tsurugajo Snow Monster , Matsushima, Sendai Ouchi-juku, Castle, Tadami River Line View Pint,

● Aizu-Wakamatsu Sendai 3N Sendai ZaoRiver Snow Monster , 1N ● Matsushima, Ouchi-juku, Tsurugajo Castle, Tadami Line View Pint, https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/bus/course2.html Winter Season ● Aizu-Wakamatsu 1N ● Sendai 3N Zao Snow Monster , Matsushima, Sendai ● Aizu-Wakamatsu 1N ● Sendai 3N

Wi

Winter Season

Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket

Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket ●● …=● = Target bus route ●…

Target bus route

3Days Pass(8,000yen) 3Days Pass(8,000yen)

Discount Discount

(from Nornal fare)

(from Nornal fare)

¥1,950 ¥1,730 ¥1,730

Hachimantai Dragon Eye , Jodogahama, Ryusendo, Matsushima, Sendai Hachimantai Dragon Eye , Jodogahama, Ryusendo,

Mid-M

● Morioka 3N ● Sendai 1N

Matsushima, Sendai Hachimantai Dragon Eye , Jodogahama, Ryusendo, ● Morioka 3N ● Sendai 1N Matsushima, Sendai ● Morioka 3N ● Sendai 1N

https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/bus/course3.html Mid-May to early June

Mid-May to early June

Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket

Tohoku● Highway Ticket … ● =Bus Target bus route ● … ● = Target bus route

3Days Pass(8,000yen)

3Days Pass(8,000yen)

Discount Discount

(fromfare) Nornal fare) (from Nornal

¥3,390

¥3,390 ¥3,390

Matsushima, Jodogahama, Ryusendo, Morioka, Geibikei, Matsushima, Jodogahama, Ryusendo, Morioka, Geibik Hiraizumi, Sendai https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/bus/course5.html Matsushima, Jodogahama, Ryusendo, Morioka, Geibikei, Hiraizumi, Sendai

● Morioka 1N ● Jodogahama 1N ● Sendai 3N

Hiraizumi, Sendai

● Morioka 1N ● Jodogahama 1N ● Sendai 3N

● Morioka 1N ● Jodogahama 1N ● Sendai 3N

Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket ● … ● = Target bus route

3Days Pass(8,000yen) Tohoku Highway Bus Ticket

● … ● = Target bus route Discount

(from Nornal fare)

3Days Pass(8,000yen)

¥3,890

Discount

(from Nornal fare)

¥3,980 ¥3,890

For more information → https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/bus/

20

Essential Information for you travel in Tohoku to help people easily plan trips and save money

Aomori

Iwate

DAIKOKUSAMA TICKET

Rias Line Unlimited Rides Ticket

One day unlimited ride for Konan Tetsudo Konan Line and Owani Line.

Adult 1,000 JPY Child 500 JPY *Only on the day of use.

You can take unlimited rides for all sections of Rias Line for Sakari~Kamaishi~Miyako~Kuji (2day duration) Adults 6,100JPY Child 3,050JPY Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays

AOIMORI ONE DAY PASS

Iwate Area Pass

Unlimited rides on all Aoimori Railway lines for one day during the weekends and holidays.

“Iwate Area Pass” is a passport which allows you to travel around Iwate-ken by bus, train and rental car. Just show your Iwate Area Pass and ride!

Also, a coupon which allows you to enjoy discounts and services in various premises within Iwate Prefecture is included as a set.

Adult 2,100 JPY Junior High, High School Student 1,530 JPY Infant 1,050 JPY

3 days - Adults 8,000 yen (Children 4,000 yen) 5 days - Adults 9,000 yen (Children 4,500 yen) 7 days - Adults 10,000 yen (Children 5,000 yen)

Akita

Yamagata

FAMILY LEISURE TICKET for AKITA NAIRIKU JUKAN TETSUDO

Yamagata 1-day Pass

A 3-day unlimited ride ticket including free ride for one child per ticket. This is the perfect special ticket for passengers traveling along the route.

Adult 4,000 JPY (Free of charge for 1 child traveling along) * Please note that this ticket may not be purchased on the train.

RAKURAKU-YUYU PASS for unlimited rides between Ugo-honjo~Yashima.

Rakuraku-yuyu Pass is a 1 day pass for unlimited rides between Ugo-honjo Station and Yashima Station.

Also, when you show your pass, besides getting various discounts and complimentary services at many establishments within Yurihonjo, you can also enjoy deals when you dine or go shopping.

Adults 1,100JPY Children 500JPY * Limited to Saturdays, Sundays and holidays ※This pass can also be used on 4/28~5/6, 8/12~8/18, and 12/29~1/3. * Pay in cash

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Unlimited rides throughout designated area with Yamako Bus. Show the pass to get special offers at designated stores along the bus line.

Weekday Adult 1,200 JPY Child 600 JPY Sat/Sun/Holiday Adult 800 JPY Child 400 JPY

MOCHII PARENT AND CHILD / GRANDCHILDREN UNLIMITED RIDE PASS Unlimited rides on all Flower Nagai lines. 1 adults can bring along 2 children below elementary school ages. Pass is only valid on the date of use.

1 ticket 1,000 JPY (1 adult + 2 children below elementary school ages) *This pass cannot be used by only 1 adult. **Period of validity is 6 months after issuing date.

Miyagi + Sendai

Fukushima

SENDAI AIRPORT - MATSUSHIMA - HIRAIZUMI GUIDED LINER

MACHINAKA Sightseeing pass One Day Unlimited Ride Ticket in Aizuwakamatsu

Northern Iwate Transportation Inc. operates the buses to Sendai Airport, Matsushima and Hiraizumi.

It is very easy to use for both sightseeing and business.

Sendai Airport-Matsushima: 1,000 JPY Child 500 JPY Sendai Airport-Hiraizumi: 2,500 JPY Child 1,250 JPY Sendai Airport-Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port/Uminomori Aquarium: 500 JPY Child 250 JPY Matsushima-Hiraizumi: 2,000 JPY Child 1,000 JPY Matsushima-Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port/Uminomori Aquarium: 500 JPY Child 250 JPY 5-Day Pass: 4,500 JPY Child 2,250 JPY 3-Day Pass: 3,800 JPY Child 1,900 JPY *Tickets can be purchase on the bus.

Available for “Haikara-san” and “Akabe” town bus. An unlimited ride pass valid for one day.

Haikara-san/Akabe One Day Unlimited Ride Ticket Adult, Junior High School 600 JPY Children 300 JPY

ABUKUMA EXPRESS UNLIMITED RIDES TICKET You can take unlimited rides for all sections of Abukuma Express Line.

Adult 600 JPY Child 300 JPY *Sales Period: First Sunday of every month, New Year, Railway Day (October 14)

ONE DAY SENDAI AREA PASS (Steering Committee for Sendai Marugoto Pass) An economical free pass for foreign travelers visiting Sendai area.

Adults (12 years old and over): 1,320JPY Children (6-11 years old): 660JPY *Please show your passport for identity verification when you make your purchase

SENDAI MARUGOTO PASS(2days) 2 days unlimited ride for JR, subway, bus, Sendai Airport Access Line, Abukuma Express Free Areas.

Useful WEBSITE for your travel planning.

Discover how to get anywhere by this useful website!

You can check train, plane, bus and ferry routes, fares and times required (transfer to an external site).

https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/transport/list.html

Adults 2,720JPY Child (6-11 years old): 1,350 JPY

22

GOT A MINUTE ?

GET A GIFT!

Hokkaido Shin-Hakodate Hokuto Stn. Aomori P12

by answering our survey

Osorezan P11-12

Aomori Airport

Kakunodate P18

Shin-Aomori Stn. Hachinohe Stn.

HOTEL METROPOLITAN YAMAGATA Morioka P07-08

These items were provided by Akita Dog Tourism, Hanamakionsen Co., Ltd. Hokusen-shi, Hirosaki-shi, Sado-shi and Murayama-shi

Oga Peninsula p14 Peninsulap14

Akita Stn. Kakunodate Morioka Stn. Stn. Shin-Hanamaki Stn.

Hotel JAL City Aomori

Hanamaki P08, p08, P13

Experience a rural life Tour for 1 night [Odate in Akita]

Tsuruoka P06

Ichinoseki Stn.

Furukawa Stn. Yamagata Stn.

Dewa Sanzan Sanzan P15 P15 Dewa

Sendai P03

Sendai Sendai Stn. Airport Fukushima Stn.

Niigata Stn.

Matsushima P16

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Koriyama Stn. Aomori

Murayama P05

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Fukushima

Sado Island P14

Niigata Tokyo

Tokyo Stn. Aizuwakamatsu P06

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Yonezawa P04

Shinkansen

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