Tohoku Adventure - 5 Days Itinerary

Travel to Matsushima (approx. 40 mins from Sendai), one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Spots. Start your morning with a boat cruise around Matsushima Bay to see its iconic pine-covered islands up close. Visit Godaido Temple which is located on an islet connected by red bridges and offers stunning views of the bay. Enjoy breakfast at Matsushima Fish Market, where you can sample fresh seafood.

In the afternoon, explore Zuiganji Temple, one of Tohoku's most important Zen temples with beautiful gardens and caves carved into cliffs. Don't miss the nearby Entsuin Temple with its lovely moss garden and seasonal flowers. Have lunch at Kanrantei Tea House, where you can enjoy traditional tea and sweets while overlooking Matsushima Bay.

Spend your evening visiting the historical Matsushima Castle Ruins. Although only ruins remain today, it offers insight into Japan’s feudal past along with breathtaking sunset views over the bay. Dine at Shokado which specializes in kaiseki cuisine (traditional multi-course Japanese dinner).

Head to Hiraizumi (approx 1 hour from Sendai), known for its historical significance and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Begin your day at Chusonji Temple, famous for its Konjikido Hall covered entirely in gold leaf. Enjoy breakfast at Hiraizumi Rest House, offering local delicacies like mochi rice cakes.

Continue exploring Hiraizumi by visiting Motsuji Temple with its serene Pure Land Garden designed to represent Buddhist paradise on earth. Take a leisurely walk around Oizumi ga Ike Pond within the temple grounds for some peaceful reflection time. Have lunch at Tsukinoi Soba, known for their handmade soba noodles.

End your day by visiting Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamon-do (approx 15 mins from central Hiraizumi), an ancient temple built into rock cliffs dedicated to Bishamon-ten (a Buddhist deity). It’s especially beautiful during sunset when it’s illuminated against natural rock formations behind it . Dinner awaits you at{ R-Kura Restaurant} which serves exquisite local cuisine including seasonal fish dishes.

Start your day in Aomori, a city known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Begin with a visit to Hakkoda Mountains, where you can take a scenic ropeway ride to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The mountains are especially beautiful during autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange. For breakfast, head to A Factory, a popular spot offering fresh apple products and delicious pastries.

In the afternoon, explore Sannai-Maruyama Site, one of Japan's largest and most well-preserved Jomon period archaeological sites. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Japanese life with reconstructed pit dwellings and artifacts on display. Afterward, visit the Aomori Museum of Art nearby, which features contemporary art exhibitions and unique architecture inspired by local culture. Enjoy lunch at Nokke-don, located in Aomori Gyosai Center, where you can create your own seafood bowl from an array of fresh ingredients.

Conclude your day with a visit to Nebuta Warasse, an interactive museum dedicated to Aomori's famous Nebuta Festival. The museum showcases large illuminated floats used in the festival along with hands-on exhibits about its history and traditions. For dinner, dine at Oshokujidokoro Osanai, known for its traditional Japanese cuisine including fresh seafood dishes.

Travel to Akita (approx 1 hour from Aomori), a city rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Start your morning with a visit to Kakunodate Samurai District, often referred to as 'Little Kyoto' due to its well-preserved samurai houses and cherry blossom trees lining the streets. Explore the historic residences that offer insights into samurai life during the Edo period. For breakfast, stop by Satake Teahouse, which serves traditional Japanese tea and sweets.

Lake Tazawa is next on your itinerary – Japan’s deepest lake surrounded by stunning mountainous scenery. Take a leisurely boat ride or rent bicycles to explore the picturesque lakeside paths at your own pace while enjoying panoramic views all around you . Have lunch at{ R-Tazawako Rose Park Rest House} which offers both Western-style meals as well as local Akita specialties such as kiritanpo (rice sticks).

Senshu Park awaits you in central Akita – home not only lush greenery but also historical sites like Kubota Castle ruins within it . Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring seasonal flowers before heading over towards Senshu Museum Of Art showcasing works by regional artists along with rotating exhibitions throughout year . End day savoring dinner at{ R-Kiritampo Yokocho} renowned for their hotpot dishes made using freshly harvested ingredients from nearby farms.