WAttention Tohoku 2016 Autumn & Winter by WAttention

Singapore Edition - Tokyo - Taiwan - Los Angels - Malaysia - Thailand - Paris - Hong Kong- Indonesia - Mexico

FREE

2016 Autumn & Winter

Tohoku

SPECIAL EDITION

Explore Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rich Heritage in Tohokuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Six Prefectures and Niigata

Tohoku Cuisine

A Feast of Culture and Tradition

Mysterious Tohoku: Land of Deities

Winter Activities

Yukimi Onsen, Ski Resort, Vintage Winter Rides, World's Best Sake!

Tohoku Recommended Tours www.wattention.com/tohoku-special

Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization http://en.tohokukanko.jp

MCI (P) 112/12/2015

Nature History Culture Cuisine

Explore Japan’s Rich Heritage in Tohoku’s Six Prefectures and Niigata The Tohoku region, blessed with abundant nature and traditional beauty, is a destination you won’t want to miss. Escape the swarming big-city crowds, get off the beaten path and embark upon an exciting journey deep into Japan’s past and present. Located in the northeastern part of Japan’s Honshu island, Tohoku is surrounded by the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean and the Tsugaru Strait. Consisting of six prefectures — Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata and Fukushima — the region is famous for its jaw-dropping scenery, magnificent temples, unique culture and friendly people. Covered with pink cherry blossom petals in spring, gorgeous summer greenery, fantastic autumn foliage and sparkling layers of winter snow, Tohoku offers something for everyone throughout the entire year. Despite progressive changes over the past centuries in Japan, Tohoku has retained a uniquely authentic feel by well preserving its traditional way of life and culture. With a history that can be traced back to the 7th century, Tohoku is truly a hidden gem for those who appreciate a relaxed holiday in a pure and bucolic environment. Each attraction has a story to tell and every dish features a history to please the palate and the soul. Join us as we take you on a journey through this fascinating, undiscovered corner of Japan!

Why“WAttention”? WAttention is named so with the hope that people in the world would pay more “Attention” to “WA （和） ”; an important term in Japanese culture meaning harmony with nature, peace and even Japanese culture itself!

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki / WATTENTION CO., LTD. Associate Editor Yuka Suzuki Editorial Advisor Miki Onishi, Ayako Sogo Editors Megumi Feyen, Nancy Liu, Amber Chen, Shinobu Yamamoto, Tabea Greuner, Melissa Wullur(WEB) Language Consultant Joseph M. Shiodah Graphic Designer Kenji Ishida Photographers Kenji Sugasawa, Tomoyo Nozawa Supported by Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization http://en.tohokukanko.jp 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: http://www.wattention.com All colour separation and printing by NPE PRINT COMMUNICATIONS PTE LTD Licence No. L002/12/2015 39 & 41 KALLANG PLACE, Singapore 339169 MCI (P) 112/12/2015 Distributor: DJ Express Services

Cover Photo: Juhyo in Zao (Yamagata) Natural works of art, juhyo also known as "snow monsters" only form under specific weather conditions. It is only here in part of Tohoku where magnificent views of the snow monsters can be appreciated. The juhyo forest in the Zao area is easily accessible by ropeway. Don't miss this rare opportunities and enjoy their different appearances between day and night. *A related article on P12. Access: 45minutes from Yamagata Shinkansen Yamagata Station by bus.

Manuscript of “Hyakki Yagyo Emaki (Night Parade of One Hundred Demons) ” by Mitsunobu Tosa. Painted during 16th century (Muromachi Period)

Contents

WAttention Tohoku

2016 Autumn/Winter

3 +4

Tohoku Photo Gallery

5 +6

Picturesque Tohoku

7 +8

Tohoku Cuisine

9 + 10

Mysterious Tohoku: Land of Deities

11 - 13

Winter Activities in Tohoku

Japan’s Traditional Landscape at Its Best

A Feast of Culture and Tradition Namahage is a demon in traditional folklore in the Oga region of Akita Prefecture On New Year’s Eve, Namahage goes door-to-door in a ritual to ward off misfortune and bring good luck.

Winter Wonderland Welcome!

(Yukimi Onsen, Ski Resort, Vintage Winter Rides, World's Best Sake!)

Tohoku Recommended Tours

Start your journey from these 16 locations to experience unspoiled nature, time-honored culture and century old traditon of Japan. 1. Hirosaki: 30 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Shin-Aomori

Hokkaido

Station by Tsugaru Limited Express

2. Hakkoda / Lake Towada / Oirase: 2hours 15 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Shin-Aomori Station by JR bus or 2 hours 15minutes from Hachinohe Station by JR bus

3. Shirakami Sanchi: 2 hours 40 minutes from JR Hirosaki Station by JR Gono Line.

Tohoku Shinkansen Akita Shinkansen Joetsu Shinkansen Yamagata Shinkansen Local Line Tohoku Main Line Tsugaru Limited Express Bus

Hirosaki Stn.

Shin-Aomori Stn.

Hachinohe Stn.

4. Hachimantai: 60 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Morioka

Station to Appi Kogen Station, 1 hour 10 minutes from Tohoku Shinnkansen Morioka Station to the top of Hachimantai by bus

5. Oga: 60 minutes from Akita Shinkansen Akita Station to Hadachi Station by Local Line

Akita Stn.

6. Kakunodate / Lake Tazawa: 50 minutes from Tohoku Morioka Stn.

Kakunodate Stn.

Shin-hanamaki Stn.

8 9

11 Tsuruoka Stn.

Furukawa Stn. Sendai Stn. Yamagata Stn.

Station to Hiraizumi Station by Tohoku Main Line

9. Kesennuma: 80 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Ichinoseki Station to Kesennuma Station by Local Line

10. Chokai: 45 minutes from Akita Shinkansen Akita Station to Ugo-Honjo Station by Local Line

from Joetsu Shinkasen Niigata Station to Tsuruoka Station by Local Line. /35minutes fromTsuruoka Station to Sakata Station by Local Line. /50minutes from Tsuruoka Station to Dewasanzan (Hagurosan) by bus.

Koriyama Stn.

Aomori-ken Akita-ken Iwate-ken Yamagata-ken Miyagi-ken Fukushima-ken Niigata-ken Tokyo Tokyo Stn.

Hanamaki Station to Kamaishi Station by Local Line / 60 minutes from Shin-hanamaki Stastion to Tono Station by Local Line.

11. Sakata / Tsuruoka / Dewasanzan: 1 hours 50 minutes

Fukushima Stn.

Niigata Stn.

7. Kamaishi / Tono: 90 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Shin-

8. Hiraizumi: 8 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Ichinoseki Ichinoseki Stn.

Shinnkansen Morrioka Station or Akita Shinkansen Akita Station by Akita Shinnkansen

12. Naruko: 50 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Furukawa Station to Naruko Onsen Station by Local Line

13. Sendai / Matsushima: 90 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Sendai Station to Matushima Station by Local Line

14. Zao / Yamadera: 40 minutes from Yamagata Shinkansen Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen by bus

15. Aizu / Kitakata / Bandai / Ouchi-juku: 65 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Koriyama Station to Aizuwakamatsu Station by Local Line

16. Murakami: 60 minutes from Joetsu Shinkansen Niigata Station to Murakami Station by Local Line

Amazing Autumn Naruko-kyo (Miyagi)

Mt. Chokai (Akita)

Tono (Iwate)

3 Nairiku Line (Akita)

Mt. Hakkoda (Aomori)

Tsuruga Castle (Fukushima)

"Yokote Kamakura Festival" (Akita)

Dewasanzan (Yamagata)

"Inukko Matsuri" (Akita)

Winter Wonder

4 Hachimantai (Akita)

Picturesque Tohoku Japan’s Traditional Landscape at Its Best Japan’s traditional landscape is all about the perfect balance between man and nature. When visiting Tohoku, travelers are offered stretching views of satoyama farmlands and countless examples of traditional architecture embodying local wisdom, artistic beauty and impressive vitality.

An Agricultural Wonder: Satoyama Revisiting Traditional Architectural Wisdom: Thatching

Tono Furusato Village photo provided by Iwate Tourist Association

Thatching is the traditional Japanese craft of building a roof with dry vegetation like straw to achieve warmth and sustainability while also saving energy . In Tohoku, there remain many thatched roof houses that resemble a poetic retreat from the modern day. With stunning mountains as backdrops and beautiful creeks gently flowing, this is the ultimate destination for meditation and relaxation.

Tono Furusato Village Often used as a shooting location for movies, the nostalgic looking village also doubles as a tourist attraction where visitors can experience traditional Japanese craftwork like bamboo art and pottery making. The outgoing and friendly staff is dedicated to helping everyone get the most out of their visit. Cultural Experience Activities at Tono Furusato Village Hours: 9am-5pm (Mar. to Oct.), 9am-4pm (Nov. to Feb) Access: 25 minutes from JR Tono Station by bus Admission: 540 yen (Adults), 320 yen (Children)

You can sample home-made sake known as Doburoku at a traditional winter festival, Dobekko Festival.

Instructors at Furusato Village are known as “Maburitto members,” or “protectors” in the Iwate dialect. © Tono Tourism Association Tono Furusato Village

Denshoen Park Traditional farming, authentic culture and local wisdom are carefully preserved at these charming thatched roof houses. Here, you can listen to Japanese folklore, try your hand at making Japanese crafts and savor local specialties. Hours: 9am-5pm (Last entry at 4:30pm) Access: 25 minutes from JR Tono Station by bus Admission: 320 yen (Adults), 220 yen (Children)

Oshira-sama: A household deity unique to the Tohoku region. Made with 30 cm long mulberry sticks, Oshira-sama statues usually come in pairs, with the male figure representing a horse and the female a human.

Unrivaled Beauty: Apple Fields When Japanese think of Aomori, sweet, juicy apples spring immediately to mind. Aomori has such a long history of growing apples that apple fields have become an integral part of its local landscape. Hirosaki Apple Park is home to over 1,500 apple trees of 80 varieties and visitors are welcomed to assist with all stages of apple production, including apple picking. The park staff also arrange a series of activities throughout the year to show off their deeply rooted "apple pride."

Apple Picking Experience at Hirosaki Apple Park Hours: 9am-4:20pm (Aug. to mid-Nov.) Access: 20 minutes from JR Hirosaki Station by bus, 7 minutes walk from bus stop to park Admission: Free (The apples you pick will be charged at 320 yen per kilo)

Step Back in Time: Kakunodate’s Samurai Residences, Akita Prefecture Take a relaxing stroll around Kakunodate to immerse yourself in history. While many traditional Japanese buildings have been lost due to fire, weather and deterioration from age, the houses along Samurai Street have stood undamaged for over 300 years. Known as the “Little Kyoto of Tohoku,” the town maintains the refined, elegant atmosphere of old Japan. © Kakunodate Tourist Association

Hiburi-Kamakura is a one-of-a-kind traditional event held in February. People swing a bale of burning straw to wish for safety in the coming year.

Visit the Glorious Past: Merchant Houses in Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture Sakata, with its ideal geographic location, flourished as a trade center and major port from which goods were shipped from Tohoku to Kyoto and Tokyo in the Edo Period (1603-1867). Traces of the port’s glorious past are still clear in the present: in Sankyo Soko, a storehouse for rice built in 1893; a villa of the wealthy Honma family; and Soumaro, one of the most prominent Japanese restaurants in Sakata during the Edo Period. Beside its well preserved architecture, you can also enjoy a dance performance by Maiko (Geisha apprentices).

See Nostalgic Edo: Ouchi-juku Post Station in Shimogo, Fukushima Prefecture Ouchi-juku prospered in the Edo Period as an important post station connecting Aizu (parts of Fukushima and Niigata P r e f e c t u r e s ) a n d N i k k o i n To c h i g i Prefecture. Traditionally, the streets were lined with inns and houses providing lodging and meals to transient guests. The town was designated as a Group of Traditional Buildings by the government in the 1980s and has since remained a popular attraction.

Tohoku Cuisine A Cultural and Traditional Feast

What better way to warm the body and soul on freezing cold days than with delicious “comfort food”? The long, harsh winters in Tohoku have given rise to some nourishing, hearty recipes that are a direct reflection of the culture’s traditional local sensibility. Consistent food supply insecurity in the area resulted in a long history of food preservation by drying, curing and other forms of practical preparation. Here is a selection of Tohoku specialties that will tickle your taste buds while also filling your belly.

Scrumptious Winter: Iburigakko & Kiritanpo Hot Pot, Akita Prefecture Kiritanpo, mashed, steamed rice in the shape of a cylinder, is a specialty that is welded strongly on the identity of Akita Prefecture. In the past, kiritanpo was an easy-to-carry preserved food used primarily by hunters. Today, however, the delicacy is cut into bitesized pieces and served in a hot pot with chicken and a variety of vegetables.

Iburigakko, smoked radish, is one of the most famous pickled vegetables in Tohoku. Smoked with cherry blossom wood then preserved with salt and malted rice, the appetizer gives off a fabulous aroma and goes perfectly with any variety of sake.

Grilling kiritanpo over an open hearth.

Maitake Mushroom Hinai free range chicken

Shaved Burdock

Heart Warming, Soul Lifting: Imoni and Konnyaku, Yamagata Prefecture Imo, traditionally a staple food in Tohoku, is dense in nutrients and an ideal source of carbohydrates. The root vegetable is often cooked with meat and served in a thick soup for visitors, family and friends. In autumn, locals often gather near a river and enjoy imoni together, a tradition called imonikai. Konnyaku has been known as a “miracle food” in Japan since about 1,200 years ago. The jelly-like substance is said to have many significant benefits, such as detoxification and beauty enhancement, and is loved by all generations. In Yamagata, people like to have their konnyaku in a round shape and skewered on a bamboo stick. The savory snack is an essential part of festive activities in Yamagata.

Photos provided by Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Division

Salmon Harvest: Delicacies Abound, Niigata Prefecture Murakami, dubbed “the Salmon City,” has a long history of catching and processing salmon. Over the centuries, the area has accumulated hundreds of homemade recipes that range from fermented, salted and sake-marinated salmon to salmon simmered in miso broth. When preparing fish, the locals make sure nothing is wasted: heads, bones and entrails are used either as main ingredients for stock or grilled to the perfect texture. During New Year’s season, many households hang rows of salmon upside down from the ceiling to dry; it’s a truly unique spectacle well worth seeing! Scallion

Mitsuseki Seri (Japanese parsley)

“Hizu Namasu” pickled salmon head with radish and salmon roe “Shake no Sakebitashi” sake-marinated salmon Kiritanpo

Konnyaku Noodles

Looks Great, Tastes Even Better: Kozuyu Soup, Fukushima Prefecture Originally developed for the samurai class, kozuyu later spread among the common people and has become a must for festivals, celebrations and momentous occasions in Aizu. In the past, fresh seafood was hard to come by in the landlocked region, so dried scallops and bonito were used to add flavor to the soup, which contains taro potatoes, carrots, shiitake mushrooms and tiny balls of wheat gluten called mamefu.

Freshest of the Fresh: Seafood from the Sanriku Coast

Ippachizushi Address: 1-10-11 Shinmachi Aomori-shi Aomori Hours: 11:30am – 10pm (Mon. to Sat.), 11:30am to 9pm (Sun. & Holidays)

Sanriku refers to the three northeastern prefectures facing the Pacific Ocean: Aomori, Miyagi and Iwate. The Sanriku Coast is a bountiful fishing ground, supplying huge amounts of fresh, quality fish throughout the country for hundreds of years. In autumn and winter, fish and other sea creatures gorge themselves in preparation for the long cold season, enriching their flavor. As an example, Iwate’s donko hot pot

Make your own “Nokke-don (a rice bowl with toppings)” by adding the freshest seafood at Furukawa Fish Market

features locally caught white-spotted greenling that release an intense, robust flavor of the sea. Miyagi and Aomori also are known for juicy seafood dishes bursting with remarkable flavor and served with exceptional creativity. Every city located along the coast has a fish market or two, so take a chance to taste the freshest of the local specialties on the spot - or bring home some fantastic seafood as souvenirs!

Aomori: Tuna butchering demonstration at Oma Town Tuna Festival

Mysterious Tohoku: Land of Deities Most Japanese people adopt a pantheistic view of God and believe that everything—from the smallest flower to the tallest mountain—possesses a spirit. The phenomenon is especially prominent in Tohoku, an area home to many “natural power” spots. These sacred places are often visited by both locals and tourists to absorb positive energy and receive blessings of good fortune, love, fulfillment and more. Lake Tazawa (Akita)

God’s Creation Wonders

Here are four amazing places that will captivate not only the eyes but most importantly the heart and soul. For the locals, the grandeur of these majestic, centuries-old attractions continues to serve as a reminder of God’s omnipresence.

Hayachine Kagura Hayachine Kagura is a traditional folk performance that features a series of 40 masked dances with live music that originated from Mount Hayachine, the highest mountain in the Kitakami Range. Originally a ritual to worship gods 500 years ago, the dance is now performed by locals who take pride in showing their rich cultural heritage.

Hanamaki City Ohasama Exchange Vitalization Center Hours: 11am-3pm, second Sunday of every month (except Aug, Dec and Jan) Access: 30 minutes from Shin-Hanamaki Station by car Admission: 800 yen presale, 1,000 yen at the door

Tonohetsuri Cliff A popular scenic spot in Fukushima, the gigantic multilayered rock was shaped by wind erosion over millions of years. Tonoheturi, meaning tower cliff in Japanese, got its name because of its tower-like appearance. Take in the amazing suspension bridge, be mesmerized by nature’s breathtaking palette of autumn colors and enjoy a moment of peace at one of the temples nearby. Access: 3-min walk from Tonohetsuri Station on Aizu Railway

Shirakami Sanchi A vast wilderness area stretching from Aomori to Akita Prefecture, Shirakami Sanchi has the largest remaining virgin beech forest in East Asia. The main attractions of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are the various hiking trails that lead to extraordinary panoramic views of waterfalls and peaceful solitude. Besides hiking, visitors are encouraged to spend the day fishing, boating and camping around Juniko, an area to the northwest of Shirakami Sanchi.

Access: 55 minutes from JR Hirosaki Station by bus

Dragon Legends: Lake Tazawa and Lake Towada

Legends always add a touch of mystical, romantic appeal to travel destinations. Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, and Lake Towada, the largest crater lake in Honshu, are two excellent examples. According to locals, Lady Tatsuko became a dragon after wishing for eternal beauty at Lake Tazawa. Meanwhile, a boy named Hachirotaro was magically transfor med into a huge dragon after drinking water from mountain streams in Towada. The popularity of these legends sheds valuable light on the historic importance of water to the entire Tohoku region. Lake Tazawa Access: 15 minutes from JR Tazawako Station by bus Lake Towada Access: 2hr 15 minutes from JR Hachinohe Station by bus

Japan: Land of Gold

A Glorious Golden Age: Hirazumi Hiraizumi consists of temples, gardens and more than 3,000 national treasures and important cultural properties that date back to the 11th and 12th centuries. The entire expanse, impressive and dazzling in appearance, was originally built by the Ohsu Fujiwara warrior clan to commemorate all who lost their lives in warfare, friend and foe alike. When the site was developed, the area was rich in gold production and a large amount of gold was used to decorate temples and statues. Nowadays, they provide visitors with a spiritual hideaway and are ideal locations for a quiet stroll.

Ravishingly Beautiful: Chuson-ji Temple Konjikido

▪︎ A picture may be worth a thousand words, but a journey is worth more than a thousand pictures, especially when it comes to the spiritual eminence and artistic achievement of Chuson-ji. The temple’s main hall, Konjikido, is gorgeously decorated with gold, silver and jewels from floor to ceiling. ▪ Konjikido, a gold-covered hall rivaling Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion, received its name long ago because it was garnished with golden leaf inside and out. ▪ The interior of Konjikido is decorated with luxury goods from the Silk Road, such as green turban snail shells, ivory pieces, precious stones and exotic jewels. Marco Polo was so inspired by Konjikido’s radiance that he introduced Japan as “The Land of Gold” in his book The Travels of Marco Polo.

Access: 25-min walk from JR Hiraizumi Station Hours: 8:30am – 5pm (Mar. 1 to Nov. 3), 8:30am – 4:30pm (Nov. 4 to End of Feb.) Admission: 800 yen (Adults), 500 yen (High school students), 300 yen (Middle school students) and 200 yen (Elementary school students)

Feudal Lord’s Treasure: Zuigan-ji Temple

Zuigan-ji Temple, designated as a Japanese National Treasure, was originally established in the year 828 by the noted Buddhist monk, Jikaku Daishi. Later, the famed feudal lord Date Masamune rebuilt it as his family temple in 1609. In order to replicate the robust, opulent Momoyama architectural style of the late 16th century, Masamune gathered 130 master craftsmen nationwide for the reconstruction. Today, Zuigan-ji stands as an idyllic reflection of Matsushima’s majestic natural beauty. With the main hall reopened to the public in 2016 - surrounded by dense, picturesque cedar trees on all sides - it houses a vast array of past treasures that nobody should miss!

Access: 5-min walk from JR Matsushima-Kaigan Station Hours: 8am – 3:30pm (Jan. Dec.), 8am – 4pm (Feb. Nov.), 8am – 4:30pm (Mar. Oct.), 8am – 5pm (Apr. to Sep.) Admission: 700 yen (Adult and high school students), 400 yen (Middle and elementary school students)

Winter Activities Winter Wonderland Welcome!

Renowned for its seemingly endless snowy winters, Tohoku offers an expansive variety of cold-weather activities ranging from exciting snow sports to relaxing hot springs and fine sake tasting tours, along with other expeditions that cater to a broad range of interests. Follow us as we take you through a list of must-dos in the winter wonderland that is Tohoku!

Yukimi Onsen

For many, taking a dip in an onsen (hot spring) surrounded by snow-capped mountains while watching snow fall gently is a tranquil experience bordering on the heavenly. This is called yukimi onsen, meaning enjoying snow views while soaking in an open-air hot spring. In Japan, it is common for people to do this in order to relax their bodies and minds, and to socialize with family and friends. Although stripping down naked in front of total strangers might sound daunting for some first-time visitors, the tradition (hadaka-notsukiai) goes back centuries; it is thought to break down boundaries between individuals, thus allowing relaxed, peaceful conversation. Matsukawa Onsen Matsukawa is a charming, secluded hot spring town tucked neatly inside Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Established in the Edo Period, the water has a light, milky appearance because of its high sulfur content and is said to boost blood circulation, thus helping to heal many ailments. There are a couple of ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) where guests can enjoy oldstyle open-air baths with scenic views for free. Visiting is a soothing and unforgettable way to experience the traditional appeal of rural Japanese culture. Access: 90 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Morioka Station by bus

Sukayu Onsen

Nyuto Onsen Akita Prefecture’s Nyuto Onsen is one of the most unvisited in Japan due to its remote location. Surrounded by lovely beech forests and an abundance of seasonal scenery, it is blessed with a mineral-rich spring that has been helping to heal the ailments of locals for more than 350 years. There are seven traditional inns that offer outdoor baths with views of unparalleled beauty, especially in the winter when piles of snow blanket the mountains surrounding the isolated area. If you are in the market to experience the true peace and quiet of rural Japan, this is a blue-chip choice!

Sukayu Onsen, famous for its giant mixed-gender bath, is located on a 925-meter high plateau on Aomori Prefecture’s Mt. Hakkoda. Every winter, visitors from Japan and abroad come seeking moments of supremely blissful relaxation and reflection at this picturesque hot spring hideaway. The main bath, sen-nin-buro, received its name from its massive size and features an old, large cypress cabin with a timeless atmosphere. If you are looking for a genuine, traditional Japanese public bathing experience, this is the perfect spot! Access: 70 minutes from JR Aomori Station by bus

Access: 45 minutes from JR Tazawako Station by bus

Recommended Yukimi Onsen

▪︎ Tsuta Onsen: Towada-shi, Aomori One of the most popular hidden onsens in Japan. Feel the spring water well up from the bottom of the bathtub. ▪︎ Zao Onsen: Yamagata-shi, Yamagata Discovered more than 1,900 years ago, the onsen is located in one of the most famous mountain resorts. ▪︎ Naruko Onsen: Osaki-shi, Miyagi Naruko Onsen consists of five areas: Naruko, Higashi Naruko, Kawatabi, Nakayamadaira and Onikobe. With more than 370 hot spring sources available, visitors can fully enjoy the experience of traditional Japanese bathing.

in Tohoku Snow Activities

Gliding over or schussing through high-quality powder is the ultimate delight for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Tohoku, just a few hours away from Tokyo by shinkansen (bullet train), is the perfect destination for those who ache to spend some serene or invigorating time hitting the slopes. Aside from skiing and snowboarding, there are myriad other tantalizing activities on offer to meet every particular fancy. Zao Onsen Ski Resort (Yamagata) At Zao Onsen Ski Resort, you can enjoy magnificent views of windblown juhyo (fir trees) heavily coated with thick, sparkling snow. These legendary “snow monsters” are often grotesquely shaped due to the extreme velocity of the northwest winter Siberian monsoon cutting through. January and February are the best times to see for yourself the weirdest and wildest—even scariest!—of snowscapes in all of Japan. Acces: 40 minutes from Yamagata Shinkansen Yamagata Station by bus

Appi Kogen Ski Resort (Iwate) Iwate Prefecture is proud home to several popular winter destinations, including the ever-so-famous Appi Kogen Ski Resort, one of the largest in Japan with 20-odd trails and a total length of 45.1 km. A vacation here, however, is not as exclusive to skiers and snowboarders as one might assume: Appi Family Park, for example, offers gentle slopes for sledding and tubing—as well as a snowman-making area open to “Frosty builders” of all ages! Acces: 50 minutes from Tohoku Shinkansen Morioka Station by JR Hanawa line or bus

Snowmobile Night Cruise (Zao Onsen Resort, Yamagata)

Ura-Bandai (Fukushima) Skiers, snowboarders and sightseers never get enough of the silky, microfine snow at Ura-Bandai Kogen. Aside from thrilling, well-groomed trails designed to satisfy anyone from “bunny trail” novice to “black diamond” expert, there are also scenic backcountry fields for fans of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The views from the slopes are absolutely breathtaking—like scenes lifted straight off the canvas of a classic landscape painting!

See ghostly trees illuminated in magnificent colors every night during the peak winter season. The stark contrast of brilliant white, mystical black and rainbow hues creates a fantasy world you will not want to miss. Hop on the resort’s snowmobile, which is equipped with heating, and experience this amazing spectacle—at minus-10 degrees Celsius sometimes!

Acces: Urabandai Kogen: 30 minutes from JR Banetsusai Line Inawashiro Station by bus

Recommended Ski Resorts

▪ Onikobe Ski Resort : 40 minutes from Naruko Onsen (Miyagi) by city bus Located in Naruko onsen village, the ski resort has eight slopes for different levels and a snow park for kids. ▪︎ Nekoma Ski Resort: 2 hours from Tohoku Shinkansen Koriyama Station by free shuttle (available during ski season,reservation required). The ski resort attracts a great number of skiers with its fine powder snow and a beautiful view of Mount Bandai’s lakes and marshes.

Vintage Winter Rides

Make the most of your winter holiday by getting away with friends and family on transportation methods exclusive to Tohoku. Every winter, local operators run old-fashioned rides that bring Tohoku’s rich cultural heritage to life. Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere on a stove train, kotatsu train or kotatsu boat as they tour along some of the most scenic routes in Japan. Stove Train (Tsugaru Railway)

Geibikei Boat

Equipped with two fully-fired potbelly stoves, each train car boasts a warm, cozy atmosphere where travelers can mingle freely while winding through the vast snowfields of the Tsugaru plain. Dried squid, a traditional snack from centuries ago, is cooked on top of the stoves and served comfortably warm. Be prepared in advance, though: The train operates only three roundtrip rides from December to March, so be sure to check the schedule.

Geibikei, a 2-kilometer gorge surrounded by towering cliffs, is famous year-round for its 90-minute sightseeing boat ride. December through February is an especially popular time to visit because traditional foods, such as hot pot and rice cooked in iron pots, is served on kotatsu, a Japanese wooden table that comes with a blanket and a heater underneath. Huddle around the kotatsu, listen to the guide hum folk songs and immerse yourself in scenic splendor—life doesn’t get any better!

Kotatsu Train (Sanriku Railway) The Sanriku kotatsu train was forced to shut down temporarily after the railway was severely damaged in the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. Reopened in 2014, it not only allows you to relax while enjoying mouthwatering bento lunches—made with fresh sea urchin, abalone and scallops caught from nearby coasts—but also offers panoramic coastal views of Iwate Prefecture.

World’s Best Sake!

Vital elements to making great sake include fresh water, clean rice, 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. 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.

Urakasumi Brewery

Urakasumi Sake Brewery

Urakasumi Sake Brewery Founded in 1724, this brewery has been tickling the taste buds of sake connoisseurs for nearly 300 years. The establishment offers a wide range of products, including classic sakes, seasonal specialties, plum wine and tasting accessories. Visitors can also enjoy a tour of the brewery, which is followed by a fascinating tutored tasting session. Address: 2-19 Motomachi Shiogama-shi, Miyagi

Dewazakura Sake Brewery

Dewazakura Sake Brewery Recommended Sake Brewery Tours ▪︎ Ryozeki Sake Brewery: 4-3-18 Maemori, Yuzawa-shi, Akita ▪︎ Suehiro Sake Brewery: 12−38 Nisshin-machi, Aizuwakamatsu-shi, Fukushima ▪︎ Tohoku Meijo Sake Brewery: 125 Higashiyama, Jurizukaji-mura, Sakata-shi, Yamagata

Dewazakura Brewery is a fantastic place to be if you’re a sake lover. The brewery, based in Tendo in Yamagata Prefecture, 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. Dewazakura sake is refreshingly light, slightly sweet and deliciously drinkable—even for sake nonaficionados! Address: 1-4-6 Hitoichimachi Tendo-shi, Yamagata

WAttention Tohoku Recommended Sightseeing Route We have worked out the best spots to enjoy the autumn foliage and winter fun in northeastern Japan. Join us as we take you on an unforgettable journey into Tohoku.

Hokkaido

Route

Hidden hot springs and autumn leaf viewing or snow activities Day1 Tohoku Shinkansen → Morioka (Wanko Soba) → Nyuto Onsen Resort (Hot spring tour) Day2 Autumn leaf viewing

Shinkansen

in Hachimanatai or Snow activities at Appi Ski Resort Day3

Lake Towada → Tsuta Onsen Day4 Mt. Hakkoda (Autumn leaf viewing or ice monster viewing from a ropeway) Aomori → Hokkaido by Shinkansen (optional)

Shin-Aomori Stn.

Aomori Airport

→

Route

Hirosaki Stn.

Hachinohe Stn. Tohoku Shinkansen

Akita Shinkansen Nyuto Onsen

Oga

Akita Stn. Hakkoda

Morioka

Morioka Stn. Kakunodate Stn. Shin-hanamaki Stn.

Route

Sea of Japan in autumn palette

Route

Day1 Shin-Aomori Station or Aomori Airport → Lake Towada

& Oirase (Autumn leaf viewing) → Hirosaki (Apple picking)

Kesennuma

Ichinoseki Stn.

Tsuruoka Stn.

Onikobe Ski Resort

Day2 Juniko, Twelve Lakes & Shirakami Sanchi (Autumn leaf

Furukawa Stn.

viewing) → Oga Onsen Resort (Seafood from the Sea of

Yamagata Stn.

Japan) Day3 Mt. Chokai (Autumn leaf viewing at Hottai Fall)

Murakami

→ Sakata (Stroll around a castle town) → Tsuruoka Day4

Sendai Airport Sendai Stn.

Yamagata Shinkansen

Dewasanzan → Sasakawa Nagare Coastline → Murakami

Niigata Stn.

Route

Fukushima Stn.

Tonohetsuri Cliff

Koriyama Stn.

Joetsu Shinkansen

Sasagawa Nagare

Tokyo ▼

Dewasanzan

Day1 Tohoku Shinkansen Furukawa Station → Onikobe Ski

Resort (Playing in the snow) → Naruko Onsen Resort (SnowTemple) → Geibi Gorge (Boat with a Kotastu, a low table with a heater) → Kesennuma (Seafood from Sanriku Coast) Day3 Kamaishi → Tono (Furusato Village & Mt. Hayachine) →

Hanamaki Onsen Day4 Lake Tazawa (The Legend of Princess Tatsuko) → Kakunodate (Stroll around Samurai residence)

viewing hot spring) Day2 World Heritage Hiraizumi (Chusonji

Route

Experience the legend and winter life of Tohoku

Stroll around seasonal beauty and local sake brewery Day1 Sendai Station or Sendai Airport → Matsushima (Zuiganji Temple) → Shiogama (Sake brewery tour) → Sendai Day2 Yamadera → Tendo (Sake brewery tour) → Zao Onsen (Leaf viewing in autumn, snow and

ice monster viewing in winter) Day3 Ura-bandai (Autumn leaf viewing at Goshiki-numa, five colored ponds, snow activities in winter) → Aizuwakamatsu (Sake brewery tour at a castle town) Day4 Ouchi-juku → Tonohetsuri Cliff (Ever-changing scenic beauty)

Aizuwakamatsu Onikobe

Naruko

Kakunodate

Goshiki-numa

Yamadera

For more detail check out: www.wattention.com/tohoku-special

â&#x2013;ź For more amazing photos and articles check out â&#x2013;ź

www.wattention.com/tohoku-special

Juhyo in Zao (Yamagata)

Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization http://en.tohokukanko.jp