What are some of the must-visit places in Tohoku, Japan?

Some of the must-visit places in Tohoku, Japan's Northeast region, include the region’s two most popular destinations: the beautiful and historic city of Sendai and the serene and beautiful Matsushima Bay. Additionally, the Tohoku region is home to some of the most popular destinations in Japan, including the Oirase gorge in southern Aomori prefecture, which is famed for its many waterfalls and hiking trails, and Akita city, which is best known for preserving its unique arts, architecture and cultural heritage from an earlier age. In terms of summer celebrations, the Kanto festival in Akita together with Aomori's Nebuta Festival and Sendai's Tanabata festival make up the three great festivals of the Tohoku Region. Tohoku is also home to some of the best onsen (natural hot spring) destinations in all of Japan such as Ginzan onsen in Yamagata prefecture, Akiu onsen in Miyagi, and Nyuto onsen in Akita.