Without a doubt it is among the most beloved destinations, the Japan: In 2019, more than 30 million international travelers chose it as a vacation destination, especially in high season and focusing mainly on tourist areas Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
But there is a place that, less frequented by traditional tourist routes, is splendid all year round. And it holds great surprises. AND Tohoku, a region that includes six prefectures and is located in the northeastern part of the island Honshu. What makes it extraordinary? Its incredible mix of impressive landscapes, historical testimonies and a unique gastronomic culture.
In winter, Tohoku transforms under the freezing temperatures. Siberian winds coming from the Zao mountain range: Trees are covered in ice and snow, freeze and take on almost human shapes. The region becomes an alternative to Hokkaido for those looking for places to ski: Zao Onsen, in Yamagata Prefecture, is perfectly equipped for even the most demanding skiers. Although what makes Tohoku a must-see destination during winter is precisely its people. frozen “monsters”., which the Japanese call juhyo and which They can be admired between the end of January and the beginning of March..
Then there is, in the Tohoku region, Matsushima. considered one of the three most beautiful panoramas in Japan (along with Miyajima Island near Hiroshima and Amanohashidate near Kyoto), is a group of 260 islands covered in pine trees, in the bay of the same name. From season to season, from island to island, the landscape changes. And, passing through the islets by boat (the 50-minute tour departs from Matsushima pier and passes by the islands and an oyster farm), you have an incredible experience.
Not to mention the fish dinners that can be enjoyed here: from oysters to salmon, tuna to scallops, here seafood Fish enjoy nutrient-rich waters and are among the most prized in the world.
E-mail Japan, It is not just a land of nature: it is also a land of extraordinary temples, and one of the most beautiful is located in the Tohoku region. In Yamagata Prefecture, Climbing 1015 steps you reach the Yama-dera temple, at the top of Mount Hoju-san. Although its real name is "Risshakuji", locals simply call it "Yamadera", which means "the mountain temple": founded in 860 AD, it is actually a complex of a dozen religious sites.
Achieving it is an introspective experience of meditation and reflection. And, it is said, it seems that reaching the summit brings good luck. Like many of the attractions that Japan has to offer, Yama-dera is also splendid in all seasons: but, if you go in autumn or winter, the view you can enjoy from the top is truly impressive. How to achieve it? By train: the temple It is 40 minutes from Tohoku's largest city, Sendai.
