英語

AomoriPrefecture

Iwate
Prefecture

MiyagiPrefecture

Akita
Prefecture

Yamagata
Prefecture

Fukushima
Prefecture

Tohoku in Winter Sales Sheet

Stove-Heated Train ( Aomori Prefecture )Namahage（AkitaPrefecture）

Nihonsyu（Image）

Visit the winter destination of Tohoku, Japan
Winter festivals, snow festivals, ski resorts, snow parks, snow monsters, winter landscapes, snowviewing boats, winter fireworks, stove-heated trains, and an abundance of hot springs and foods…There
are a myriad of attractive tourism sites and activities that can be enjoyed in Tohoku, Japan precisely
because it is winter.
In Tohoku, Japan, there are many traditional winter rituals and festivals that the local people havevalued and preserved over many long years. These are held as winter festivals and snow festivals wherevisitors can experience lifestyles and culture unique to the snow country. In addition, the ski resorts ineach area not only delight skiers with powder snow, but there is also a wealth of activities available forenjoying snow, including snowshoeing and playing in the snow. There are too many enchantments in
Tohoku, Japan that can be enjoyed only in winter to mention them all, but they include snow-viewing
boats and stove-heated trains for viewing the beautiful natural landscapes in winter while being warmed
by a heater, winter fireworks that light up the clear night sky, hot pot dishes of fresh ingredients eatenwith friends, and local dishes particular to Tohoku.
Tohoku, Japan in winter brings surprises and thrills to many travelers seeking new destinations in Japan.

Ouchi-Juku（Fukushima

Prefecture）①

FESTIVAL① Lake Towada Winter Story( Aomori Prefecture)
This is a large-scale winter festival held in Aomori
prefecture at the ice-covered Lake Towada. The
lake’s symbol,
the Statue of Maidens, isilluminated, and visitors can enjoy a magical stroll
around corridors and tunnels of snow and light.
There are stage performances of folk entertainment,such as Tsugaru shamisen, as well as the Yukiakari
Yokocho serving local dishes and the Amakura
BAR where sake can be drunk inside snow huts.
The winter fireworks set off amid the snowy
landscape every night at 8 p.m. during the festival
are also popular.

❶❷

When: Early–late February
http://towadako.or.jp/（Japanese）②Iwate Snow Festival( Iwate Prefecture )

Dec.

Jan.

Feb.

Mar.

As one of the snow festivals representative of Tohoku,
visitors can have fun looking, handling, andfrolicking in the snow. Enjoy large snow sculptures,stage shows, snow activities, and snow trekking. The
festival is a highlight of winter in Iwate where foods
can also be enjoyed, including local dishes andJapanese sake. The fun lasts all day, with fireworks
launched and snow sculptures illuminated at night.

Lake Towada
Winter Story
Iwate Snow
Festival

When: Mid February
http://www.iwateyukimatsuri.com/（Japanese）②

FESTIVAL①SENDAI Pageant of Starlight( Miyagi Prefecture)
This is a winter tradition in Sendai held every
December. The 160 zelkova trees that line Jozenji St. isilluminated by approximately 600,000 lights. Starlight
Wink is a must-see event held 3 times a day where thestreetlamps are turned off and then on again all at once.
In addition, visitors can fully enjoy the tunnel of lightwhile riding the loop bus, the Loople Sendai/Pageant ofStarlight Bus, which runs during the event period.

❷

When: Early–late December
http://www.sendaihikape.jp/（Japanese）

❶

Dec.

SENDAI Pageantof Starlight
Namahage Sedo
Festival②Namahage Sedo Festival( Akita Prefecture )

Jan.

Feb.

Mar.

One of the snow festivals representative of Tohoku is
the Namahage Sedo Festival held at Shinzan Shrine in
Oga. Namahage is a traditional event passed down in
Oga since long ago. Once a year, the ogre-like
Namahage make the rounds among houses to deliveradmonitions against misdeeds, purge calamities, andgive blessings. The Namahage has been designated an
important cultural property by the Japanese government.
The Namahage Sedo Festival entrances spectators withthe sacred mood of the wild dance of the Namahage,
performed by firelight on shrine grounds.
When: 2nd Fri.–Sun. in February
https://oganavi.com/sedo/（Japanese/English/Traditional
Chinese）③

FESTIVAL①Inukko Festival (Akita Prefecture)
400 years ago, the feudal lord of Yuzawa quashed aband of thieves called Hakuto who were brazenly
attacking homes in broad daylight. The Inukko
Festival is said to have originated when local residents
began making small statuettes of dogs, cranes, andturtles out of rice flour and placing them in theentrances and windows of their homes on the eveningof the Lunar New Year to pray that the bandits would
not appear again.
When: 2nd Sat. and Sun. in February
http://akitayuzawa.jp/event-w-04.html（Japanese）②Zao Snow Monster Festival (Yamagata Prefecture)

Visitors can easily view the snow monsters (frost
covered trees) even without skis by taking the ropeway
to and from the base to the top of the mountain. The
silvery white shapes are impressive in the daylight, buttake on a different appearance at night when illuminatedby colored lights. The magical nighttime world of snow
monsters can be viewed from a heated snow tractor
capable of driving on snow.

❶❷

When: Late December–early March
Fee: 2,600 yen (adults; round-trip ropeway fee)
http://www.kankou.yamagata.yamagata.jp/zao/winter/ （Japanese）❸③Ouchi-Juku Snow Festival (Fukushima Prefecture)

Dec.

Inukko Festival
Zao Snow Monster
Festival
Ouchi-Juku Snow
Festival

Jan.

Feb.

Mar.

In Ouchi-Juku in Minamiaizu, where many important
traditional buildings are preserved, every February a
festival takes place that illuminates the entire post townwith snow lanterns. The biggest highlight is the sacred
fire lit on the evening of the first day of the festival.
Men who have been purified before the gods light thesnow lanterns placed throughout the post town. Whenthe lanterns are lit and the community is bathed in lightfrom these lanterns for the gods, fireworks are set off in
the night sky.
When: 2nd Sat. and Sun. in February
http://ouchi-juku.com/（Japanese）④

FESTIVAL❶① Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival (Aomori Prefecture)
This is one of the “Michinoku Godai Snow
Festivals.” There are snow sculptures placed in thepark, including snow lanterns featuring pictures ofwarriors and garden lanterns of different sizes. As
many as 300 small, candle-lit snow huts line theedges of the lotus pond. The snow-covered Hirosaki
Castle tower and ancient pine trees are also
illuminated, creating a magical sight. In addition,
there is a snow slide and events are held.
When: Early February
http://www.hirosakipark.jp/84.html（Japanese）❷❸❹③ Morioka Snow Lights Festival (Iwate Prefecture)❺❻ ❼❽Daito Ohara
Water Festival
Miyagi Zao
Snow Monster
Viewing

Donto Festival(Osaki Hachimangu
Shrine)Matsushima
OysterFestival

Mar.

Tono Dobekko
Festival

Feb.

Morioka Snow
Lights Festival

Jan.

Hachinohe
Enburi
Festival

Dec.

Nov.
Hirosaki Castle
Snow Lantern
Festival

Numerous small snow huts are made andlit by candles from within. This festival was started
to communicate through the lights the warmth of thecity and people that are felt so keenly amid thefrigid night air of winter nights in Morioka, thecoldest city on Honshu. Visitors can enjoy
fascinating snow sculptures and ice carvings.
When: 2nd Thur.–Sat. in February
http://www.odette.or.jp/moriokayukiakari/（Japanese）⑤ Daito Ohara Water Festival (Iwate Prefecture)
Men considered of a critical age bravely run nearly
naked down streets lined with people waiting tomercilessly douse then with icy water to pray for Fireprevention, health, and the safety of family.
This traditional festival has continued since the Edo
period and is also called a strange festival because itis held in the coldest month of February. Recently,
many people from all over Japan have participated in this winter festivalthat is representative of Ichinoseki and Iwate prefecture.
When: February 11th
http://www.ichitabi.jp/event/data.php?no=61&m=2（Japanese）⑦Donto Festival (Osaki Hachimangu Shrine; Miyagi Prefecture)
The Matsutaki Festival at Osaki Hachimangu Shrine
is one of the largest rituals in Japan observed to burn
New Year’s decorations. It is performed on the eve ofJanuary 14th on a part of the shrine grounds. Thissacred fire sends off the gods that visited people’s
homes during New Year’s, and it is said that if
touched by it the body is purified and you are blessedwith protection from illness and disaster in the home
for the coming year.
When: January 14th
http://www.oosaki-hachiman.or.jp/festival/matsutaki/（Japanese）② Hachinohe Enburi Festival (Aomori Prefecture)
This folk entertainment performed to pray for anabundant harvest in the Hachinohe region has
been designated a national important intangible
folk cultural property. The ritual shakes awake
the gods of the fields asleep in the winter andimbues the earth with the spirits of the people.
Not to be missed are the tayu dancers wearing
colorful hats who shake their heads inexaggerated movements in a unique dance.
When: February 17th–20thhttps://hachinohe-kanko.com/（Japanese）④Tono Dobekko Festival (Iwate Prefecture)
At Tono Furusato Village, visitors can experience
life in the mountain village of Tono, which is
known for folktales. A festival is held here forvisitors to enjoy "doburoku" sake and “dobekko,”
unrefined sake from local sake brewers. Those who
don’t drink sake can eat their fill of local dishes,
watch sacred music and dances passed down in
Tono District, and enjoy wintertime in Tono.
When: 1–2 times a month on Sat. and Sun. from November–December
Fee: 540 yen (adults; Village entrance fee)
http://www.tono-furusato.jp/densyou/dobekko.html（Japanese）⑥Miyagi Zao Snow Monster Viewing (Miyagi Prefecture)
Visitors ride the Wild Monster, a heated snow tractor
equipped with seats to view the globally rare natural
phenomenon called snow monsters. Upgrade to
the grand class vehicle and receive perks such as a
blanket on loan for use in the cabin, an original
product as a present, and free drinks.
Runs: Mid December–mid March Fee: From 5,300 yen (adults)
http://www.zao-sumikawa.jp/juhyo.html（Japanese）⑧Matsushima Oyster Festival (Miyagi Prefecture)
This event lets visitors eat their fill of thetaste of winter in Matsushima, oysters. Thereis an array of delicious items available,
including piping hot oyster soup, freshly
shucked oysters, oysters in the shell, andfoods from the sea and mountains in Miyagi.
Visitors should also tour Matsushima bytaking advantage of attractions such as asightseeing boat.
When: Early February
http://www.matsushima-kanko.com/event/detail.php?id=11（Japanese）⑤

FESTIVAL①Odate Amekko Fair (Akita Prefecture)

❶
❷
❸
❺
❻
❽❼

Tsuruoka WinterFestival
Yamagata Snow
Festival

In this spellbinding festival, rings of mesmerizing
light dance amid the snow. The ritual exorcises
evil from the fields and prays for safety for the
coming year, such as the well being and health offamily. A rope of about 1 m. in length is tied to acharcoal sack which is then lit. Holding the end of
the rope, the burning sacks are swung in an arc
around the performers’ bodies.

When: 2nd Sat. and Sun. in February
http://www.city.odate.akita.jp/dcity/sitemanager.nsf/doc/amekkoichi.html（Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese/Traditional Chinese/Hangul）

When: February 13th–14th
http://www.city.semboku.akita.jp/event/event.php?id=780（Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese/Hangul）

The Kamakura Festival is a Lunar New Year ritualthat worships the god of water. The tradition has
been practiced for around 450 years. Children callout to people to enter the snow huts (kamakura) andpray to the god of water. Sweet, mild sake and ricecakes are served. During the festival, about 100
snow huts are built throughout the city of Yokote.
When: Feb. 15th–16TH
http://www.michinokugodai.com/yokote02.html （Japanese）

When: 5 times from late December–late February
http://www.mokkedano.net/event/183?season=winter（Japanese）⑤Yamagata Snow Festival (Yamagata Prefecture)⑥Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival (Yamagata Prefecture)

This event kicks off the snow festival season in
Yamagata prefecture. A display of snow sculptures
symbolic of the event, a snow sculpture/snowman
contest, and fireworks entice visitors into a world ofsnow. After fully enjoying sledding and treasurehunting in the snow, visitors can taste the flavors of
winter in Yamagata at the food stall village that serves
items such as hot pot dishes and Japanese sake, giving
visitors a fully satisfying winter experience inYamagata.

On the 2nd Saturday and Sunday of every February, theentire area of Matsugasaki Park becomes a festival
venue and is decorated with approximately 300 snow
lanterns and 1000 paper lanterns that light up the park.
There is warmth and beauty in the soft light and scene
as it sways in the light. Visitors are ushered into afairytale world of magical poetic sentiment. Of course,
visitors can enjoy Yonezawa foods, including
Yonezawa ramen and grilled skewered dishes.

When Early February
http://www.yamagata-yukifes.jp/（Japanese）

When: 2nd Sat. and Sun. in February
http://yukidourou.yonezawa-matsuri.jp/（Japanese）⑦Aizu Candle Festival (Fukushima Prefecture)

Aizu Candle
Festival

Aizu painted candles are one of the traditional
crafts found in Aizu. At Oyakuen Garden,
bamboo pipes envelop Shinji Pond, creating amagical, mystical world, while at Tsuruga Castle
candles light up Aizu Hongo pottery lanterns andAizu lacquerware candlesticks.
Enjoy the beauty and warmth of the flickering
flames.

Tadami Snow
Festival

When: Early February
http://www.aizu.com/erousoku/（Japanese）

Uesugi Snow
Lantern Festival④Tsuruoka Winter Festival (Yamagata Prefecture)
This festival is named after the famous song, “Yuki no
Furu Machi wo (In the Snowy Town),” a melody
inspired by memories of snow in Tsuruoka. Several
events are held from late December to February,
starting with the Winter Cod Festival that serves the
local dish of codfish soup, and continuing with events
such as the Tsuruoka Music Festival, the Oyama
Newly Brewed Sake & Sake Brewery Festival where
newly brewed winter sake can be tasted, and theKinbozan Snow Lantern Festival.

Mar.

YokoteKamakura
Festival

Feb.

Hiburi KamakuraFestival

Jan.

Dec.

Odate Amekko
Fair

Tradition says that eating candy on this day at the
Amekko Fair will prevent you fromcatching colds. Events are held such as the Akita Dog
Parade and Shirahige Okami, aparade reenacting the story of a god coming to buy
candy. The venue is lined with food stalls selling foods
such as candy on branches and sculptured candy.

③ Yokote Kamakura Festival (Akita Prefecture)❹②Hiburi Kamakura Festival (Akita Prefecture)⑧Tadami Snow Festival (Fukushima Prefecture)
Tadami is a well-known area that experiences
heavy snowfall and has been registered as a
UNESCO Eco Park. The Snow Festival held here
welcomes visitors with a warm and wondrous
atmosphere created by snow sculptures andcandle-lit roads. Various performances take place,including traditional arts and impressive portableshrines carried in the snow. Yukinko Market
features rows of food stalls where visitors can fill
up on local flavors.
When: 2nd Sat. and Sun. in February
http://tadamisnowfes.com/（Japanese）⑥

SCENERY①Mt. Hakkoda Snow Monsters (Aomori Prefecture)
Hakkoda Ropeway is a popular tourist spot where visitors canenjoy not only skiing, but also the spectacle of snow monsters. It
is conveniently accessed from Aomori City by car (approx. 40
min.). The ski slopes offer several runs measuring as much as 7
km with something for everyone, from beginners to advanced
skiers. It boasts snow quality that is among the best in Japan, andskiers from around the world come to try the guided backcountry
skiing.

②Mt. Moriyoshi Snow Monsters, (Akita Prefecture)❶❷

The snow monsters (frost covered trees) on Mt. Moriyoshi can beeasily accessed via a short 5 min. walk from the gondola liftstation at the top of the mountain. A viewing path has beencreated that takes around 30 min. to complete. Visitors can relish a
globally rare experience, such as skiing among Aomori fir trees
covered in sparkling frost spread out on the mountain top at analtitude of 1,000 m.

③Snow Monsters in Yamagata Zao (Yamagata Prefecture)❺❸❹

The snow monsters of Zao are needle-leaved Aomori fir
trees, which grow in the subalpine zone, that are covered
in snow and ice. Cloud particles (supercooled water
droplets) in snow clouds collide with branches and leaves,and freeze to form a kind of curved tail shape. Manysnowflakes then become trapped within those spaces andharden. This phenomenon is repeated over and over tocreate the snow monsters.

④Snow Monsters in Miyagi Zao (Miyagi Prefecture)
Snow monsters are a fascinating sight. In addition to Zao, they can
only be seen in Japan at locations such as Hakkoda in Aomori and Mt.
Moriyoshi in Akita. Creating these snow monsters requires certain
conditions--the existence of trees, winter climate conditions, snowfall,and supercooled water droplets. Not only are these harsh conditions
just right in Miyagi Zao, but there is also an expanse of frost covered
trees that provides a vast panoramic view. When the weather is bad,visitors can experience the awesome blizzards at an altitude of 1,600m
in minus 10°C temperatures that are necessary to create the snow
monsters. People of all ages, from small children to seniors, caneffortlessly enjoy viewing the globally rare natural phenomenon amid
the stunningly beautiful frost-covered forest.

⑤Geibikei Gorge Boat Ride (Iwate Prefecture)
A boat featuring a heated table (kotatsu) runs only during winter so that
visitors can enjoy a boat ride even during the cold winter months. The
sound of water echoing in the gorge amid crisp air and quiet of winter isquite delightful. Visitors can feed the ducks and try throwing “luckstones” into a small hole on a cliff face, which is said to bring luck if
successful.

■Period: Year round■Fee: 1,600 yen (adults)
http://www.geibikei.co.jp/funakudari/ （Japanese）⑦

SCENERY❸❷❶①Matsushima ( Miyagi Prefecture )②Snow Walls of Zao Echo Line( Miyagi Prefecture )Matsushima, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, has abeautiful winter setting. The snowy spectacle of Godaido is a
picturesque view distinctive of winter. The best time to eat the
popular oysters in Matsushima is November to March, so visitors
can enjoy both the lovely landscape and hot dishes such as oyster
hot pot.

The mountain road, Zao Echo Line traverses the Zao mountain
range. The heavy snow that piles up during winter is plowed in
April, forming walls of snow reaching several meters high oneither side of the road. Cars can drive between the long, unending
snow walls and enjoy the impressive sight.

③Ginzan Hot Springs ( Yamagata Prefecture )④ Ice Sculptures ( Fukushima Prefecture )❹Western-style wooden inns standing several stories high line bothsides of Ginzan River. Visitors can experience the distinctive
scenery unchanged from long ago. The hot springs town lit up atnight by gas lamps is particularly enchanting. Although the setting
is enjoyable as it changes through the four seasons, from the new
greenery of spring to autumn colors, the hot spring landscapeblanketed in snow is especially exceptional.

Buffeted by the winds blowing from Mt. Bandai, water on the lake’s
surface is stirred up and blown onto the trees along the shoreline
where it freezes. These natural ice sculptures, called shibuki-gori (icesculptures), are an exceedingly rare phenomenon in Japan. They
create a beautiful natural landscape in winter at Lake Inawashiro.

⑧

CULTURE❶①Stove-Heated Train ( Aomori Prefecture )A train equipped with an old-fashioned potbelly stove runs on thislocal line during winter. Locals and tourists alike are drawn
together as they gather around the stove with its red-hot burning
coals, spurring communication. Why not enjoy chatting whilelooking out at the Aomori landscape from the window of a stoveheated train?
■ Period: December 1st–March 31st
■ Fee: Train fare + 400 yen
http://tsutetsu.com/stove.html（ Japanese ）②Sanriku Railway Heated Train ( Iwate Prefecture )The Sanriku Railway Kita Riasu Line operates a special train in winterwhere all seats become “kotatsu” (tables with heating elements
underneath). Passengers can enjoy a trip lasting approx. 100 min. thatruns through 16 stations while cozily sitting under the heated table.
Several features of the train ride include the appearance of a character
resembling the traditional Namahage of Tohoku and announcements
made as the train pauses at picturesque points along the journey.

❷❸■ Period: Sat., Sun., and holidays from mid December–late March; daily
12/30–1/8 ■ Fee: Train fare + 310 yen
http://www.sanrikutetsudou.com/wp-content/themes/responsive/event.html（ Japanese ）③Donto Festival ( Miyagi Prefecture )Donto Festival is a Japanese festival held around January 15th.
Decorations put up for New Year’s are burned to send off thegods that visited each home during New Year's. The Donto
Festival in Miyagi prefecture is famous for the “hadaka mairi”
where several adult worshippers wearing next to nothing
approach the burning sacred fire. The Donto Festival held at
Osaki Hachimangu Shrine in particular is the largest in theprefecture and known as a winter tradition in Sendai.
■ When: January 14th⑨

CULTURE① Snow Huts ( Akita Prefecture )Snow huts called “kamakura” are made by hollowing out
snow. Making these snow huts is a traditional, seasonal
event in snowy regions of Japan. The Yokote KamakuraFestival, held every February, is a snow festival
representative of Tohoku and a famous winter highlight.
Visitors can thoroughly enjoy the snow country event while
trying refreshments such as warm drinks, rice cakes, andsweets served inside the snow huts.

②Mogami River Boat Ride ( Yamagata Prefecture )❶❷❸Visitors ride the current of the Mogami River as they take a boat
downstream and view the scenery along the Mogami Ravine. In
winter, the trip is made on a Japanese-style boat equipped with a“kotatsu” (heated table). Passengers can fully appreciate the winterscenery, reminiscent of an ink painting, while feeling toasty warm andlistening to the boatman’s animated delivery of information and aboat song.
■ When: Year round■ Fee: From 2,200 yen (adults)
www.blf.co.jp（ Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese/Traditional Chinese/Hangul ）③Sake Brewery Tours ( Fukushima Prefecture )Tohoku is a region of rice and sake, and the Aizuwakamatsu
area in Fukushima prefecture is famous for producing
Japanese sake. Not only can visitors tour the brewing process
and sample the sake, but they can also enjoy coffee andsweets made with sake at the adjoining sake brewery café.

⑩

FOOD
❶
①Misokayaki ( Aomori Prefecture )❷②Miyako Hair Crab ( Iwate Prefecture )This local dish from the Tsugaru and Shimokita regions is said
to have its beginnings in the past when fishermen used scallop
shells in place of pots to cook miso and sliced fish. The flavorsof scallops, dried bonito, green onions, and other ingredients
merge with the miso and thoroughly warm the body.

Hair crab is a winter specialty in Miyako. The Hair Crab Festival
features several tasty events, including hair crab sold at discountprices, free servings of hair crab soup, and a demonstration of tuna
being carved.

③Oyster Hot Pot ( Miyagi Prefecture )④ Japanese Parsley Hot Pot (Miyagi Prefecture)❸❹

This hot pot dish called “kaki nabe” is made with an abundanceof oysters, which come into season in winter. The gently
simmered oysters are tender, and when eaten in one bite, fill thepalate with their fresh flavor. There are also cruise tours thatserve passengers oyster hot pot on the boat.

Japanese Parsley Hot Pot (seri nabe) is a local dish in Sendai,
Miyagi that is made from Japanese parsley grown in the cityof Natori. The vegetable from Natori can be eaten in its
entirety down to the roots and is characterized by thick stems
and thick roots. In addition, the leaves, stems, and roots eachhave a different flavor and texture that can be enjoyed.

⑪

FOOD

❶

❷
❸

① Kiritanpo Hot Pot ( Akita Prefecture )Kiritanpo hot pot is a local dish from northern Akita, aprefecture known for rice and snow. Cooked rice ismashed and toasted on a wooden stick to make“kiritanpo.” This is simmered in a soup of chicken stock
together with ingredients such as chicken, green onions,mushrooms, burdock, and Japanese parsley. The gourmet
dish from Akita is prepared with the famous brand of rice,
Akita Komachi, locally grown vegetables, and the brandname chicken, Hinai chicken.

②Codfish Soup ( Yamagata Prefecture)
Nothing says the taste of winter more than winter cod (kandara)from the Japan Sea! This codfish soup, or “dongara-jiru,” is ahearty dish flavored with miso that is appreciated more for theoffal and soft roe than themeat. The liver, which is important because it is key to the richflavor, is broken up and mixed into the miso,
or parboiled in bite-sized pieces and added to the soup. The
green onions and seaweed also give the soup
its great taste!

③Kitakata Ramen ( Fukushima
Prefecture
Kitakata ramen can be counted
among the) 3 best types of ramen
in Japan, after Sapporo and Hakata ramen. The pork broth-based
soup mixes with distinctive curly noodles in this ramen that isvery popular with men and women of all ages.

⑫

EXPERIENCE❶❷①Hakkoda Ski Resort(Aomori Prefecture)
Located in the northern part of Towada-Hachimantai
National Park, this is one of the largest mountain ski
resorts in Japan. Skiing can be enjoyed from lateNovember to mid May, and skiers can dynamically ski
through the snow monsters spread out on the mountaintop. Visitors can also take a guided tour toenjoy a full-fledged back country course that includes
Sukayu Hot Springs and Jogakura Hot Springs.
http://www.hakkoda-ropeway.jp/（Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese/
Traditional Chinese/Hangul）②Appi Kogen Ski Resort(Iwate Prefecture)
This is the largest ski resort in the Tohoku area. It has 8
lifts and 21 different ski runs in all for a huge variety tochoose from. The resort generally offers long ski runs
with the intermediate to advanced slopes higher up andgentle slopes lower on the mountain for
beginners. The longest ski run, the Yamabato Course(5.5 km), can even be skied by beginners. Enjoy skiing
on what is said to be the best powder snow in Tohoku.

http://www.appi.co.jp/ski（ Japanese/English/Traditional Chinese/
Simplified Chinese/Hangul/Thai ）⑬

EXPERIENCE①Zao Hot Springs Ski Area
(Yamagata Prefecture)
This is one of the leading ski areas in Japan.
There are a total of 26 ski runs spread over 14 areas
with 41 lifts, including the gondola ropeway.During
the Snow Monster Festival in February, visitors canview the snow monsters illuminated at night. The
Snow Monster Forest Course that can be skied while
viewing the frost-covered trees is very popular, andZao Hot Springs in the base area has long been known
for its high quality hot spring waters.

http://www.zao-ski.or.jp/ （ Japanese ）❶❷②Grandeco Snow Resort(Fukushima Prefecture)
The base elevation is over 1000 m at this resort wherevisitors can appreciate an abundance of snowfall andsuperb snow quality in the Urabandai area. Multiple
slopes for beginners and intermediate skiers put
beginners and families feel at ease. Of course, there arealso natural mogul courses and uncompressed snow runs
for expert skiers. Plus, the Grandeco Hotel, which is
directly linked to the slopes, has amenities including an
indoor pool and natural hot spring baths.

http://www.grandeco.com/（Japanese/English）⑭

EXPERIENCE①Aomori Spring Ski Resort (Aomori Prefecture)
This ski resort is located on the northern slope of
Mt. Iwaki and has an excellent reputation for steadysnowfall and good quality powder snow.
A panoramic view of the Japan Sea and the Tsugaru
Plain is visible from the mountaintop gondola station(921 m). There are a variety of slopes to be enjoyed,
including an exhilarating 3.4 km-long coursefeaturing a difference in elevation of 545 m. that gives
skiers the feeling they are jumping into the sea. They
can get an eyeful of nature on the course going through a beech tree forest.
https://aomorispringski.com/

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（Japanese/English）③Shizukuishi Ski Resort (Iwate Prefecture)
This large ski slope is a major resort in Northern
Tohoku. The World Cup and many othercompetitions have been held at this popular ski resortthat has challenging ski runs. It is distinctive for acourse layout offering long ski runs and a variety ofslope terrains featuring moguls and powdered snow.
Though this ski resort is generally regarded as foradvanced skiers, there are also many gentle slopesthat even beginners can enjoy.
http://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/shizukuishi/（Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese/Traditional Chinese/Hangul）⑤Miyagi Zao Sumikawa Snow Park (Miyagi Prefecture)
This snow park is divided into Sumikawa withprimarily gently slopes, and Atomi with primarily
medium to steep slopes. Both the amount of
Snowfall and snow quality are perfect. The park is
open from early December to early April. Skiers canfully enjoy good-quality powder snow daily during
the peak season. There is a well-maintained terrainpark with an array of features, so skiers can enjoy avariety of skiing.
http://www.zao-sumikawa.jp/ （ Japanese ）⑦Ani Ski Resort (Akita Prefecture)
From January to February, the especially large snow
monsters can be viewed in the vicinity of themountaintop. Use the Ani gondola to swiftly get to
the top and enjoy the sweeping view of the snowcovered Ou Mountains. After thoroughly
appreciating the breathtaking view, skiers can enjoy
an exciting run amid the snow monsters and natureon the Forest Course. After the snowfall in the peakseason, skiers can enjoy high-quality powder snow.
http://www.aniski.jp/ （ Japanese ）②Moya Hills Ski Resort (Aomori Prefecture)
Easily accessed via a 30 min. car ride from
Aomori City, this urban ski resort is open until 9
p.m. during ski season, letting visitors ski while
viewing the night skyline of Aomori City. It
offers slopes to accommodate a wide range of ski
levels, from a kids’ slope to a very steep slopewith a maximum grade of 31 degrees. There arealso hot spring facilities, so visitors can relax
away their fatigue after skiing.
http://www.moyahills.jp/（ Japanese ）④Geto Kogen Ski Resort (Iwate Prefecture)
The slopes in Geto, a place that experiences heavy
snowfall, offers a good balance of ski runs foreveryone from beginners to advanced skiers.
Visitors can efficiently enjoy all 14 courses using
the 2 gondolas and the high-speed quad. Forintermediate to advanced skiers, there is also an
uncompressed snow area and a mogul slope for asatisfying ski experience. The night course using the gondola is the largest
in Tohoku and lets visitors enjoy all the fun of snow throughout the day.
http://www.geto8.com/ （Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese）⑥Spring Valley Ski Resort (Miyagi Prefecture)
While this is a compact ski resort, it has amogul course and park with a wide variety ofcourse layouts to satisfy everyone from families
to freestylers. Many skiers from Sendai visit after
5 p.m. since it is just 40 min.
by car from the city and stays open until 10 p.m.

http://www.springvalley.co.jp/ （Japanese/English）⑧Tazawako Ski Area (Akita Prefecture)
At this popular ski area, a dynamic view of Lake
Tazawa spreads out below, giving skiers thesensation that they are skiing right into the lake. The
slopes fan out on Mt. Akita-Komagatake, and skiers
can enjoy an array of experiences, from wellmaintained compressed snow to deep snow on
uncompressed slopes, as well as mogul runs, and apark. Visitors can join back country tours andthoroughly experience the nature of of Tohoku.
http://www.tazawako-ski.com/（Japanese/English/Traditional Chinese/Hangul）⑮

EXPERIENCE
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①Gassan Ski Resort (Yamagata Prefecture)
This ski resort is located in such a very heavy
snowfall area that it is open from April to Julybecause there is too much snow in winter. The skizone encompasses the entire area of Mt. Gassan,
which means that generally speaking skiers arefree to ski anywhere, excluding areas noted as
dangerous. Skiing at the height of summer in shortsleeves is the ultimate exhilarating experience.
Plus, there are also hot springs in the area visitors are encouraged to enjoy.
http://www.gassankanko.jp/ （ Japanese ）③Listel Ski Fantasia (Fukushima Prefecture)
This ski resort has 6 courses offering a variety ofchallenges to suit beginners up to advanced skiers.
The summit affords a majestic view with Mt.
Bandai to the right and Lake Inawashiro to the left.
The advanced course was used in the World Cup
by top world-class mogul skiers. Visitors should
be sure to give it a try. The hotel is directly
connected to the slopes, so visitors can also fully
enjoy their time off the slopes.
http://www.listel-inawashiro.jp/ （Japanese/English）⑤Ground Blizzard Tour (Aomori Prefecture)
In this unusual offering unique to the snow country, visitors
experience a fierce ground blizzard in the biting cold of
Tsugaru in Aomori as they go on a tour to experience
firsthand an actual ground blizzard, for which Tsugaru isfamous. Strong winds pick up snow on the ground and blow
it around. Visitors wear 3 pieces of traditional clothing fromthe north country, a winter shawl, work pants, andsnowshoes, then brave the ground blizzard!
■Place: Goshogawara ■Period: Late January–late February■Fee: 2,500 yen (adults)
http://www.aptinet.jp/Detail_display_00004065.html （ Japanese ）⑦Evening Guided Tour of Hirosaki Back Streets (Aomori Prefecture)
In this slightly offbeat tour, visitors walk the back streets ofHirosaki at dusk. Participants see the local train line runningalong the Tsubuchi River and visit old-fashioned buildings,
such as the Historic Hirosaki Mujin Office Bldg. Visitors
should also check out HOME WORKS St. lined withmiscellaneous stylish stores, and the working-classatmosphere of the Golden Quarter, which has a concentrationof eateries. The tour gives visitors an in-depth look at Hirosaki!
■ Place: Hirosaki ■ Period: Year round ■ Fee: 1,500 yen
http://www.asoview.com/act/guidetour/aomori/are0020500/pln3000005220/（Japanese）②Alts Bandai Ski Resort (Fukushima Prefecture)
This ski resort is comprised of 29 courses intotal that are spread out over 3 ridges at thebase of Mt. Bandai. It boasts a wide variety ofcourses that accommodate beginners up toadvanced skiers. There is an uncompressedsnow area called the Natural Zone whereskiers can experience the best powder snow
after a snowfall. The snow park has different
features for everyone, from beginners toexperienced skiers. http://www.alts.co.jp/ （Japanese/English）④Aizu Kogen Takatsue Ski Resort (Fukushima Prefecture)
Takatsue has a total of 15 courses offeringa variety of challenges for all, from beginners
to experts. It is situated at the skirts of Mt.
Takakura, which stands at an elevation
exceeding 1600 m. The difficult courses arefound higher up, while the slopes forbeginners and families are concentrated lower
down, so visitors can ski with peace of mind.
The genuine half pipe has proved very popular.
http://takatsue.jp/ （Japanese/English）⑥Inakadate Rice Paddy Art (Aomori Prefecture)
This event was started in 2016 with the idea of
having fun in winter and playing in the snow.
Snow art created using light and shadows is
displayed in winter rice paddies. There are also
workshops and hands-on experiences available
for an event that offers fun for kids and adults
alike.
■ Place: Roadside Station Inakadate Yayoinosato, Inakadate■ Period: Early February ■ Observatory Entrance Fee: 300 yen (adults)
Dwarf (elementary school student) 100 yen
http://www.vill.inakadate.lg.jp/（Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese/Traditional Chinese/Hangul）⑧ Apple Bath (Aomori Prefecture)
The acidic elements of malic acid and caproic
acid penetrate the skin and encourage blood
flow. Vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols are
effective for recovery from fatigue, relaxing,
beautiful skin, improving sensitivity to cold,and speeding up metabolism.
■ Place: Hotel Apple Land, Tsugaru, Hirakawa■Period: Year round ■ Bath Fee: 350 yen
http://www.apple-land.co.jp/（ Japanese/English/Traditional Chinese/Simplified
Chinese/Hangul/Thai ）⑯

EXPERIENCE①1-Day Cross Country Skiing (Iwate Prefecture)
Participants can readily enjoy Hachimantai throughcross country skiing without bringing their own
equipment. Why not take a leisurely walk through asilvery white world? Participants may discover animal
paw prints along the snowy road in this popular
activity that stirs the adventurous spirit. All equipment
can be borrowed free of charge, and lunch ishomemade ham club sandwiches, hot soup, and a hot drink.
■ Place: Hachimantai ■Fee: 10,260 yen
http://www.asoview.com/act/ccski/iwate/are0030300/pln3000005774/（ Japanese ）③ Overnight Stay at a Farming Village (Iwate Prefecture)

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Stay at a private home and experience life on a farmand daily farm work. Guests can enjoy hands-on
experiences, including working in the farm fields,
making pizza, cooking local dishes, and in winter,making a decorated basket craft called ikkanbari.
Cook using vegetables you harvested, sleep on
futons laid out side by side, and enjoy travel
experiences you won't find at a hotel stay.
■ Place: Tono ■Period: Year round■ Fee: From 7,000 yen (adults)
https://sinoboo.wixsite.com/agriturismo-bigwoods（ Japanese ）⑤Snowshoeing on Mt. Izumigatake (Miyagi Prefecture)
Even beginners can easily put on snowshoes and explore asnowy mountain typical of Tohoku featuring beautiful
white birch and Mongolian oak towering over thelandscape. Participants take the lift from Izumigatake Ski
Resort and head toward Usagidaira where there is amarshland that can only be entered when snow has fallen.
Participants can get an eyeful of beautiful, must-see sightsthat can only be experienced in winter on a snowy
mountain.
■ Place: Sendai ■ Fee: 7,000 yen + 1,500 yen snowshoe rental
http://www.asoview.com/act/snowshoe/miyagi/are0040200/pln3000005987/（ Japanese）⑦ Strawberry Picking (Miyagi Prefecture)
Miyagi is the largest producer of strawberries
in the Tohoku region. In the town of
Yamamoto, the warm climate is utilized tocultivate strawberries that can be picked fromJanuary to late May. Visitors can have fun
picking and tasting the fresh, flavorfulstrawberries.
■Place: ICHIGO WORLD, Yamamoto■Period: Early Jan.–late May (Closed: Thur., Fri.)■ Fee: From 1,300 yen (adults)
http://ichigo-world.jp/ （ Japanese/English/Traditional Chinese/Hangul/Thai）②Morioka Handi-Works Square (Iwate Prefecture)
This facility brings together traditional local
industries in the Morioka region under one roof.
Based on the concept of “see, touch, and create,”
visitors directly interact with craftsmen who giveface-to-face guidance during handicraft lessons.
Visitors can try making their own souvenirs, such as
pottery, indigo dye, and woven fabric.

■ Place: Morioka ■ Closed: 12/29–1/3■ Entrance Fee: Free
http://tezukurimura.com/main/ （ Japanese ）④ Chuson-ji Temple (Iwate Prefecture)
In the early 12th century, the first Oshu
Fujiwara lord, Kiyohira, began constructing
many temple buildings, such as a 2-storey
pagoda and hall. Even today, it is a treasure
house of Heian art that communicates over
3,000 national treasures such as the Golden
Amida Hall and important cultural properties.
■ Place: Hiraizumi ■Period: Year round■ Visitor's Fee: 800 yen (adults)
Photo Provided By: Chuson-ji Temple
http://www.chusonji.or.jp/（Japanese/English/Simplified Chinese/Traditional Chinese/Hangul/Thai）⑥ Fox Village, Miyagi Zao (Miyagi Prefecture)
Over 100 foxes of 6 different species roam freely
within a park in a natural forest. Visitors canobserve them and hold them. There are also otheranimals such as rabbits that can be petted.
■Place: Shiroishi ■ Closed: Wed.
■ Entrance Fee: 1,000 yen (adults)
http://zao-fox-village.com/（ Japanese/English ）⑧Abukuma Line Boat Ride (Miyagi Prefecture)
Passengers ride a boat down the Abukuma River
Valley, a distance of 4 km one way and 8 km roundtrip. A boatman who loves the local area and nature
guides passengers to various scenic spots andstrangely shaped rocks. There are different views to
enjoy in each season, and from December to Marchboats run that are heated with a warm, comfy
kotatsu table. Enjoy the gentle flow of the river
while partaking of a hot pot dish.
■ Place: Marumori ■ Period: Year round (closed year‘s end/New Year’s)■ Fee: 1,500 yen (adults)
http://marumori.jp/spot/funakudari/（ Japanese ）⑰

EXPERIENCE① Akita Inu Museum (Akita Prefecture)
The Akita inu dog is one of 7 breeds chosen in
Japan as natural treasures. The museum details thehistory of the Akita inu and the ecological system
in displays that include the life of "Hachiko," thedog that made the Akita inu famous, as well as
photos and books about the dog breed.

■ Place: Odate■ Closed: Sat. afternoons mid November–late April;Sun., holidays, afternoon on
Aug. 13th, year end/New Year‘s■Fee: 200 yen (adults), 100yen (children)
http://www.akitainu-hozonkai.com/（ Japanese ）③ Akita Cross-Country Railway (Akita Prefecture)

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This local railway traverses north-south in theinland country of Akita Prefecture from Takanosu
Station in Kitaakita, Akita Prefecture to
Kakunodate Station in Semboku. Trains run
through rural areas and valleys that change in eachseason, and give a glimpse of scenery thatconveys a sense of the local people's lives.
■ Place: Takanosu Station–Kakunodate Station
http://www.akita-nairiku.com/（ Japanese/English/Traditional Chinese/Hangul/Thai ）⑤Lake Tazawa Snowshoeing (Akita Prefecture)
Snowshoeing is recommended for people who don’t ski
but want to try a winter sport. Anyone can put onsnowshoes and effortlessly walk on the snow toexperience an awesome tour, leaving behind only yourown footprints in pristine snow. When feeling a little
tired, create a makeshift table and chair out of snow
and have an instant tea party.
■ Place: Senpoku Tazawako Highlands/Nyuto Beech Tree Forest ■ Fee: 4,900 yen
http://www.asoview.com/act/snowshoe/akita/are0050300/pln3000020310/（ Japanese ）⑦Making Kakikoma (Yamagata Prefecture)②Making Mage-Wappa (Akita Prefecture)
At the Odate Mage-Wappa Workshop, visitors canpick the mage-wappa (bentwood) kit they prefer andenjoy making Odate mage-wappa. Why not try
making a one-of-a-kind bentwood piece whilelearning about the traditional techniques of Odate
mage-wappa?
■ Place: Odate Mage-Wappa Workshop, Odate ■ Closed: Irregular dates■ Fee: From 3,000 yen
http://odate-magewappa.com/ （ Japanese ）④Oga Lessons and Q&A Session (Namahage; Akita Prefecture)
Has your child been disobedient lately? If so, why notgive the Namahage Lessons and Q&A Session a try?
It is the Oga way of parenting. Children admonishedby the Namahage will keenly feel gratitude for theirparents and will be obedient, and parents will beprotective of their child. In addition, couples become
even closer when they communicate feelings andgratitude they normally don’t express.

■Place: Oga Hot Spring Village, Oga ■ Period: Early November–late March■ Fee: From 7,000 yen per family http://e-ogaonsen.com/kosodate/（ Japanese ）⑥Making Gotenmari (Yamagata Prefecture)
Gotenmari are classic folk toys said to have firstbeen made for amusement by the feudal lord’s wife
and women in waiting in the Shonai Clan during
the Edo period. The beautiful folk craft featuring
fine designs are embroidered stitch by stitch withcolorful threads. It takes around 3 hours to create agorgeous gotenmari. Visitors can try making theirown original gotenmari in the color they prefer.

■ Place:Ueno Gotenmari Classroom, Tsuruoka ■ Period: Excluding Sun.
■ Fee: From 1,500 yen https://www.tsuruokakanko.com/cate/p0359.html（ Japanese ）⑧Yonezawa Weaving: Making a Silk Coaster (Yamagata Prefecture)

The city of Tendo in Yamagata prefecture is famous for
producing pieces (koma) for the game of shogi. Why not
make your own unique koma? Draw a Japanese characterof preference using lacquer onto a decorative koma (9 cm
or 12 cm in size) to create a special piece. Skilled staff willkindly and patiently help you create your own kakikoma.

Yonezawa-ori weaves cloth from threads that have been dyed
beforehand. It is part of the traditional culture in the city ofYonezawa in Yamagata prefecture that has been practiced forover 200 years. Visitors can make a coaster using beautifully
dyed, colorful silk threads for a smooth, glossy finish. The
color and design is up to each individual. A single coaster iscrafted using a hand loom. Skilled staff provide help
throughout the process.

■Place: Shogi Mura Tendo Tower,Tendo ■Duration: whole year ■ Fee: 1,080 yen
http://www.asoview.com/act/traditionalcraft/yamagata/are0060200/ （ Japanese ）■ Place: Waku Waku-kan,Yonezawa ■ Closed: Wed. ■ Fee: 2,160 yen
http://www.asoview.com/act/weave/yamagata/are0061100/pln3000004425/ （ Japanese ）⑱

EXPERIENCE① Dondendaira Snow Park (Yamagata Prefecture)
Visitors can have the kind of fun not offered at
ski resorts, such as riding snowmobiles, banana
boards, and sliding down a giant slide. There arealso hands-on activities only available in winter,
including snowshoeing. Plus, visitors can try
experiences such as a snowmobile woodland fora separate fee.

■Place: Iitoyo ■Period: Early January–early March■Entrance Fee: 500 yen (adults)
http://http://www.iikanjini.com/asobu/snow.html（ Japanese ）③Urabandai Snowshoeing to Fudo Falls (Fukushima Prefecture)
This snowshoe trek takes participants to thelargest waterfall in Urabandai, Fudo Waterfall at
Ono River. The trek is full of exciting experiences.
Fudo Falls cascades from an impressive height of
25 m. Water droplets from the waterfall thatfreeze and sparkle a bluish hue are called blue ice.
That blue ice, which beautifully and mysteriously
colors Fudo Falls, is a gift from the winter season.
■Place: Kitashiobara ■Fee: 3,800 yen
http://www.asoview.com/act/snowshoe/fukushima/are0071500/pln3000016784/（ Japanese ）

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⑤Tadami Line (Fukushima Prefecture)
This line connects Aizuwakamatsu Station in
Fukushima Prefecture to Koide Station in Niigata
Prefecture. Because the road running parallel to the
Tadami Line is closed to traffic in the winter, this is
an important means of transportation in wintertime.
It is extremely popular as a secluded line affording
picturesque scenery and is loved by many travelers.
■Place: Aizuwakamatsu Station–Koide Station
http://www.pref.fukushima.lg.jp/sec/16005d/tadamisen.html（ Japanese ）②Onogawa Hot Spring Kamakura Village (Yamagata Prefecture)
Kamakura Village is a popular tradition in winter.
Tables, chairs, and a menu are placed inside akamakura (snow hut) that fits 6 adults. Food suchas ramen and drinks can be ordered by phone fordelivery from nearby restaurants to enjoy piping
hot ramen inside the kamakura.
■Place: Yonezawa ■Period: Mid January–early March
http://www.onogawa.jp/index.html/（ Japanese ）④Aizuwakamatsu Historic Tour (taxi tour; Fukushima Prefecture)
Take a short, 3 hr. trip in a London-style taxi. Tourists
can fully enjoy a nostalgic journey in Aizuwakamatsu.
Nanoka-machi can be viewed from the window of thetaxi as it makes its way through Nogushi Hideo Seishun
Rd. to Tsuruga Castle. The taxi continues on to Oyakuen
Garden, the grave of Kondo Isami, and Mt. Iimori.
Tourists are free to ask to change the tour sites.
■Place: Aizuwakamatsu ■ Period: Year round■ Fee: 20,000 yen per taxi/from 3 hr.
http://www.asoview.com/act/taxi/fukushima/are0071700/pln3000016762/（ Japanese ）⑥Roadside Station Aizuyanaizu Tourist Center Seiryuen(Fukushima Prefecture)

This roadside station displays and sells numerous
local products from Okuaizu in addition to local
products from the town of Yanaizu. Visitors can eat
handmade soba noodles made from locally
produced soba flour, Aizuyanaizu sauce pork cutlet
atop rice with sauce, and awa soft serve ice cream
topped with awa, a local product from Yanaizu.
Visitors can also try making soba noodles or paintan akabeko (red cow) toy.
■Place: Yanaizu ■Closed: Open year round
http://www.thr.mlit.go.jp/road/koutsu/Michi-no-Eki/fukusima/fu10.html（ Japanese ）⑦Roadside Station Ozekaido Mishimajuku (Fukushima Prefecture)⑧Sake Tasting/Sake Brewing (Fukushima Prefecture)

This roadside station is a rest stop for tourists andthe gateway to Okuaizu. The shop sells local
products from neighboring towns and villages, suchas goods made from paulownia wood and Aizu
Jidori chicken, a product from the town of Mishima.
In addition, nearby is a site that affords a sweeping,
picturesque view of the well-known railway bridgeon the JR Tadami Line.

Participants can brew their own sake at a brewery that has
been making sake since the Edo period. Original labels canalso be made, so participants feel just like a real brewer!
The sake participants make can be taken home with them.
Behind-the-scenes activities in the sake brewing process
not normally seen are introduced, so participants can learn
about the traditional Japanese brewing culture and the
intrigue of sake. Foreigners who want to learn about
Japanese culture are enthusiastically welcomed.
https://www.asoview.com/item/activity/pln3000011904/■Place: Mishima ■Closed: January 1st–3rd
http://www.thr.mlit.go.jp/road/koutsu/Michi-no-Eki/fukusima/fu13.html（ Japanese ）（ Japanese ）⑲

MODELCOURSE

Route ① Northern Tohoku Tour (4 days, 3 nights) (Iwate,Aomori, Akita prefectures)
09:35

12:15

14:45

Various locations✈✈ Sendai Airport========= Hiraizumi ･･････････････ Chuson-ji Temple
＜160＞

1

Kanagi Sta.

15:00

(after lunch, visit Chuson-ji Temple)

16:30

18:30

======= Geibikei Gorge: Boat ride downstream=================== Appi (overnight)＜15＞

Tsugaru
Goshogawara Sta.

(kotatsu-heated boat) ＜90＞

＜120＞

Appi

08:45

HirosakiWorld Heritage
Site“Hiraizumi”

Takanosu Sta.
Aniai Sta.

11:45

12:10

12:50

＜140＞ 【Stove-heated train】＜25＞【Lunch: Boxed lunch on train】

2

Chuson-ji
TempleMt. Moriyoshi

11:20

Appi==== Tsugaru Goshogawara Sta.+++++ Kanagi Sta. === Ground Blizzard Tour
16:40

15:00

16:10

16：20

=== Kanagi Sta. ++++++ Goshogawara Sta. ++++++ Hirosaki Sta. ===== Hirosaki (overnight)
＜20＞
＜10＞

Geibikei
Gorge

Ani gondola

10:30

12:00

12:30 Akita Cross-Country Railway 13:30

13:45

14:10

Ani gondola

Hirosaki = Takanosu Sta. +++++Aniai Sta.=== Mt. Moriyoshi〜〜Mt. Moriyoshi summit〜〜

Kakunodate

Sendai Airport

＜90＞

3
15:45

16:10

＜60＞ (Lunch: Boxed lunch)＜25＞
17:30 Akita Cross-Country Railway【Snow Monsters】

18:50======== Aniai Sta.+++++++++++ Kakunodate Sta. ======== Kakunodate (overnight)
＜25＞

＜80＞

Tokyo
WINTER FESTIVAL★Hirosaki Castle
Snow Lantern Festival (Hirosaki)（Early February）★Odate Amekko Fair (Odate)（2nd Sat. and Sun. in February）★Namahage Sedo Festival (Oga)（2nd Fri.–Sun. in February）★Yokote Kamakura Festival (Yokote)（February 13th）★Morioka Snow Lights Festival(Morioka)（2nd Thur.–Sat. in February）

4

Kakunodate ◧◧◧◧◧◧◧◧ Various locations【Legend】✈✈✈ Airplane====== Bus++++++ Train◧◧◧◧◧◧ Bullet train･･･････ On foot〜〜〜 Cable car

Route Info: Fly in from Sendai Airport and take a highway bus to Iwate Prefecture. From Iwate Prefecture take asightseeing course to Akita by way of Aomori. On Day 1, visit historic Hiraizumi and Chuson-ji Temple. Then, after
enjoying a heated boat ride down the river in Geibikei Gorge, stay overnight in Appi. On Day 2, ride the wintertradition, a stove-heated train (Tsugaru Railway) and enjoy a nostalgic mood while eating a boxed lunch on the train.
Participants can also experience nature's harsh phenomenon, a ground blizzard. On Day 3, take a local train from
Aomori to Akita. On Mt. Miyoshi, take a gondola from the summit to view ice monsters.

Fee (reference): From/to Tokyo 140,000 yen–180,000 yen (excluding airfare from overseas)
For other recommended routes, go here→ http://www.kingdom-of-winter-trip-tohoku.jp/⑳

MODELCOURSE

Route ② Southern Tohoku Tour (3 days, 2 nights) (Fukushima, Yamagata, Miyagi prefectures)
07:50

08:00

09:00

09:50

Various locations ++ Aizuwakamatsu St. ==== Roadside Station Ozekaido Mishimajuku=========＜60＞ 【Train that crosses the 1st bridge on JR Tadami Line; view snowy landscape】

10:10

1

11:10

11:30 12:30

13:00

＜20＞

JR Tadami Line 13:25=Roadside Station Aizuyanaizu Seiryuen =Lunch== Aizu-Miyashita Sta.+++ Aizuyanaizu Sta.
【Paint an akabeko (red cow) toy】

15:00

15:50

【Local free-range chicken dishes】＜30＞【Ride JR Tadami Line】
＜25＞

17:00

==Ouchi-Juku====Aizuwakamatsu St. =Within Aizuwakamatsu== Aizuwakamatsu (overnight）【Sightseeing on your own】
＜70＞

Ginzan Hot Springs

07:30

Tendo Hot Springs

09:30

Zao Hot Springs＜210＞
Sendai Sta.

2

Zao Ropeway【Hands-on snow activities】

14:15

16:00

＜90＞

17:15

【Lunch】

18:15【Snow monsters】＜105＞ 【Walk around on your own】 ＜60＞

Fox Village,
Miyagi Zao

10:40

Aizuyanaizu
Sta.

12:30

Aizuwakamatsu

Tokyo

Ouchi-Juku

Aizu-Miyashita Sta.

WINTER FESTIVAL★Yamagata Snow Festival (Sagae)(Early February)★Zao Snow Monster Festival (Zao Hot Springs)（Late December–early March）★Ouchi-Juku
Snow Festival (Shimogo, inamiaizu District)（2nd Sat. and Sun. in February）

13:00

14:40

15：30

Tendo Hot Springs===Fox Village,Zao====ICHIGO WORLD, Yamamoto=======＜80＞

Roadside
StationOzekaido
Mishimajuku

12:15

Zao summit〜〜〜======= Ginzan Hot Springs ==== Tendo Hot Springs (overnight)

ICHIGOWORLD

Roadside
StationAizuyanaizu
Seiryuen

10:45

Aizuwakamatsu==== Dondendaira Snow Park============ Zao Hot Springs〜〜

Zao Ropeway

Dondendaira
Snow Park【Dinner】

3＜100＞【Lunch: Boxed lunch】 【Strawberry picking】

17:00=======Sendai Sta.◧◧◧◧◧◧◧◧◧◧◧ Various locations＜90＞【Legend】====== Bus++++++ Train◧◧◧◧◧◧〜〜〜

BullettrainCable car

Route Info: Arrive from Fukushima Prefecture and take a tour of popular spots in South Tohoku, including snow
monsters, Sendai, and Ouchi-Juku. The tour also includes activities popular with foreign tourists, such as painting anakabeko (red cow) toy, hands-on snow activities, and strawberry picking. If it is winter (snow) festival season in
February, visitors should also go to the Yamagata Snow Festival, Ouchi-Juku Snow Festival, etc.

Fee (reference): From/to Tokyo 150,000 yen–190,000 yen (excluding airfare from overseas)

For other recommended routes, go here→ http://www.kingdom-of-winter-trip-tohoku.jp/㉑

Access

Airplane（Domestic routes）

Airplane（International routes）

Hakodateapprox.

Beijing

New Chitose
AirportSendaiHaneda Airport
Aomori Airport
Misawa Airport

1 hr. 15 min.
1 hr. 15 min.
Odate-Noshiro Airport 1 hr. 10 min.
Akita Airport
1 hr. 05 min.
Shonai Airport
60 min.
Yamagata Airport 60 min.

6 flights (JAL)
3 flights (JAL)
2 flights (ANA)
9 flights (JAL/ANA)
4 flights (ANA)
2 flights (JAL)

6 hr., 10 min.

Aomoriapprox.

Shanghai

Sendai2 hr., 50 min.

Odate-Noshiro
Akita

approx.

Tianjin

Aomori3 hr., 15 min.

Taipei

SapporoShonai
Yamagata

approx.

MisawaMoriokaHanamakiSendai

Narita Airport
Sendai Airport

60 min.

2 flights (ANA)

New Chitose Airport
Aomori Airport
Hanamaki Airport
Akita Airport
Yamagata Airport
Sendai Airport

50 min.
5 flights (JAL/ANA)
60 min.
3 flights (JAL)
1 hr. 10 min. 4 flights (JAL/ANA)
60 min.
1 flight (FDA)
1 hr. 10 min. 18 flights (JAL/ANA
Peach/AIRDO)

Sendai

Fukushima Airport 1 hr. 25 min.

1 flight (ANA)

3 hr., 10 min.
approx.

Seoul

AomoriTohoku Bullet Train/JR Line
Shin-Aomori Sta. 2hr. 59 min.

2 hr., 20 min.

3 hr. 45 min.

Morioka Sta.

2 hr. 11 min.

Yamagata Sta.

2 hr. 26 min.

Airplane（DepartSendai Sta.

1 hr. 30 min.

Airplane（Depart

Fukushima Sta.

1 hr. 22 min.

Sendai2 hr., 25 min.
Bullet train

Haneda/Depart Narita）

JR lineTokyo

Akita Sta.

approx.

StationFukushima

Haneda Airport

Narita AirportTokyo

New Chitose）

Airport*Shortest time required from Tokyo㉒