Sendai Destinations | Self-Driving Tour in Tohoku, Japan

In 2024, three airlines announced direct flights to Sendai, making it possible to reach Tohoku, Japan, in just 5 hours without needing to transfer or take the Shinkansen. Although various transportation passes are available in Tohoku, the attractions are generally quite far apart, making driving a more suitable option. This time, we will introduce the unique attractions of the 5 prefectures in Tohoku, starting from Sendai for an in-depth road trip.

Self-Driving Exploration of Tohoku's Five Prefectures from Sendai

Starting from the central point of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture connects with the four prefectures of Iwate, Akita, Yamagata, and Fukushima. As the largest city in Tohoku and located at the center of Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai is the ideal starting point for cross-prefecture self-driving tours.

Sendai Destinations | Miyagi Prefecture

1. Osaki Hachiman Shrine, Sendai

Located in the city of Sendai, Osaki Hachiman Shrine boasts a history of over 400 years and is built using one of Japan's oldest architectural styles. It was designated as a national treasure in 1952 (Showa 27). The 'Nagatsuka' in front of the main hall is an Important Cultural Property, and the stone torii gate is designated as a cultural asset protected by Miyagi Prefecture, making it highly valuable historically. Japanese figure skating champion Yuzuru Hanyu in his competitions, and you can see the ema (votive tablet) he personally wrote at the shrine.

Osaki Hachiman Shrine has a parking lot entrance with 80 free parking spaces available.

Address: 4-6-1 Hachiman, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture

2. Matsushima

Matsushima, located in central Miyagi Prefecture, is renowned as one of Japan's 'Three Scenic Views.' It features over 260 islands of various sizes. To explore the island clusters, you can take a sightseeing boat around Matsushima Bay, enjoying the coastal scenery from the cabin. The area also has several attractions, including 'Matsushima Rikyuu,' which combines dining, local specialties, museums, and Japanese gardens.

The historic temple 'Godaido,' located on a small island, showcases a rare Momoyama architectural style and is surrounded by the sea. Visitors can walk to it via the red 'Tōbashi' (transparent bridge), which has a grid-like structure beneath it, allowing glimpses of the sea through the gaps. It is said that couples often hold hands out of fear while crossing, earning it the nickname 'Enmusubi Bridge' (Marriage Connection Bridge).

Driving from Sendai Station to Matsushima takes about 40 minutes. The area has several paid and free parking lots, some open 24 hours, allowing visitors ample time for sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Parking locations can be checked on the official Matsushima website.

Address: 10 Takashiro, Matsushima Town, Miyagi County, Miyagi Prefecture

3. Naruko Gorge

Naruko Gorge is a cliff that reaches a depth of 100 meters and stretches approximately 2.5 kilometers. It is one of the famous spots for viewing autumn foliage in Tohoku, Japan, attracting many visitors each year during the viewing season. In the fall, the leaves of the maple trees on the cliffs gradually turn red, creating a stunning landscape with various shades of red and yellow throughout the valley.

Visitors can experience the height and beauty of the gorge from the 'Ofukazawa Bridge,' capturing classic images of trains crossing the canyon bridge. They can also explore the Naruko Gorge walking trail to appreciate the natural beauty.

Naruko Gorge has three large parking lots, which charge a fee of JPY ¥500 per regular car during the autumn foliage season, while parking is free on other days.

Address: Naruko Onsen, Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture

Sendai Destinations | Iwate Prefecture

1. Jōdo no Hama (Jōdo Beach)

Jōdo no Hama is a rocky beach facing the Sanriku Coast, known for its natural barrier that keeps the waters calm year-round. It is also one of Japan's top 100 swimming spots. In addition, Jōdo no Hama features several hiking trails that lead to nearby mountains, offering beautiful views of the beach. For those who enjoy exploring hidden gems, visitors can take a boat tour of the 'Blue Cave,' sailing into the inner bay to see unique rock formations and venture into the underwater cave, appreciating the beach's distinctive beauty.

Driving from Sendai to Jōdo no Hama takes about 4 hours, and there are available for use.

Address: 32-69 Hiratihama-cho, Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture

2. Ryusendo Cave

Ryusendo Cave is one of Japan's three major limestone caves, with a total known length of 4,088 meters, of which 700 meters is open to the public. The average temperature inside the cave is about 10 degrees Celsius year-round. There are three underground lakes currently open for viewing, with the deepest reaching 98 meters, glowing with a dreamlike blue light under illumination. The stalactite corridor known as 'Tsuki no Kyuden' (Moon Palace) features intersecting blue and purple lights, creating a serene lunar atmosphere. The cave is also home to five species of bats, which may fly overhead during your visit.

Ryusendo Cave has four parking lots available for use; details and locations can be found on the official website.

Address:

3. Koiwai Farm

Established in 1891, Koiwai Farm covers an area of 3,000 hectares, where visitors can enjoy close encounters with animals, participate in various guided tours, and savor delicious meals made from farm-fresh ingredients. The farm's Mokuba Garden also hosts seasonal events throughout the year. You can take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride to see the sheep grazing or hop on a farm tractor to explore the grounds. With a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, it’s a perfect destination for families.

The farm also offers free parking, accommodating up to 30 large buses and 1,500 private cars.

Address: 36-1 Maruyachi, Shizukuishi Town, Iwate Prefecture

Sendai Destinations | Akita Prefecture

1. Nyuto Onsen Village

Nyuto Onsen Village is located at the foot of Mount Nyuto in the Hachimantai National Park, Akita Prefecture. It consists of seven hot spring ryokans, including 'Tsuru no Yu,' 'Myo no Yu,' 'Kaniba Onsen,' ' ,' 'Kyuukamura,' 'Mago Roku Onsen' (closed in winter), and ' (closed in winter). Each hot spring source has its own therapeutic effects, and the ryokans are all within a short driving distance, allowing visitors to enjoy 'onsen hopping'! Myo no Yu is particularly popular among women, said to promote health and beauty. Guests can relax in the hot springs while enjoying the secret beauty of nature.

The journey from Akita City to Nyuto Onsen Village takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Nearby attractions include Lake Tazawa, known for its clear waters and stunning seasonal lake views.

Address of Kyuukamura: 2-1 Komagatake, Tazawako, Senboku City, 014-1201

2. Oyasu Ravine

Oyasu Ravine is a V-shaped canyon formed by the rushing waters of the Minasegawa River, which have eroded the banks over the years. In spring, visitors can enjoy fresh greenery, while autumn brings vibrant foliage, and in winter, the area is famous for its large icicles, making it a stunning sight in every season.

By following the walking trail, visitors can reach the famous 'Oyasu Ravine Grand Geyser.' Here, you can see 98°C hot water and steam forcefully erupting from the cracks in the cliff rocks, creating a dramatic scene that has earned it the nickname 'Hell’s Cauldron.' Please note that the walking trail is closed in winter and may also be closed if river levels rise suddenly after heavy rain.

There are parking lots at both the southern and northern entrances of Oyasu Ravine, with spaces for 10 and 60 cars, respectively.

Address: Aratokoro Minase, Yuzawa, Akita

3. Kakunodate

Kakunodate, also known as 'Little Kyoto of Mutsu,' is located in the eastern part of Akita Prefecture in Senboku City. Its streets retain a historical appearance, filled with traditional Japanese ambiance, and it boasts a large number of ancient buildings, including samurai residences, making it one of Japan's best-preserved historical sites. Visitors can explore the Bukeyashiki (samurai residences) in Kakunodate Town to experience what Japan looked like in the 17th century.

Kakunodate is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, with streets lined with weeping cherry trees. Nearby, the Hinokinai Riverbank features about 400 Yoshino cherry trees stretching over 2 kilometers, creating a breathtaking sea of pink when in full bloom.

Self-driving visitors can park at the Tamachi-yama parking lot near Kakunodate Station, which has approximately 90 free parking spaces.

Address: 14 Nakasukazawa, Kakunodate Town, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture

Sendai Destinations | Yamagata Prefecture

1. Mogami Gorge

Mogami Gorge is located in the middle reaches of the Mogami River in northern Yamagata Prefecture and is one of Japan's three major rapids. The gorge stretches approximately 15 kilometers, where visitors can take the Mogami Gorge Basho Line boat tour, enjoying traditional songs sung by the boatmen while admiring the breathtaking seasonal scenery along the riverbanks. The beauty of the gorge is captivating year-round, with the boat ride lasting about one hour.

Drivers can also enjoy a scenic drive along National Route 47, taking in the beautiful river views. There are free parking lots available for use.

Address: 86-1 Furukuchi, Tozawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture

2. Ginzanso Onsen

Ginzanso Onsen retains the atmosphere of the Taisho era, with streets filled with vintage charm that resemble scenes from the animated film 'Spirited Away.' Especially during winter, the hot spring town is blanketed in white snow, with thick layers of snow and warm orange lights creating a nostalgic and romantic ambiance that attracts many visitors, allowing them to soak in the hot springs while watching the snowflakes fall.

Due to the increase in visitors, Ginzanso Onsen implements traffic control and admission restrictions every winter. Day-trippers are . The free parking lot, Ginzanso Common Parking Lot, will be closed during winter. Self-driving visitors must park at the Ginzanso Tourist Center 'Taisho Romance Hall' and then take a shuttle bus or walk to Ginzanso Onsen.

Address: 446 Ginzanshinhata, Obanazawa City, Yamagata Prefecture

3. Zao

Yamagata Zao offers not only hot springs and ski resorts but also the unique natural phenomenon known as 'Zao Juhyo' or 'frozen trees.' From December to February, visitors can see a vast expanse of tree ice formed when droplets freeze on coniferous trees and are then covered in snow. Due to their strange shapes, these formations are often referred to as 'snow monsters.' During this period, there are seasonal night illumination events where colorful lights enhance the mystique of the snow monsters, creating a particularly spectacular sight recognized as part of Japan's Night View Heritage.

To see the tree ice, visitors must go to the 'Zao Ropeway Mountain Station' to take the cable car to the 'Juhyo Plateau Station,' and then transfer to the summit line to reach the 'Jizo Mountain Summit Station.'

Drivers can park at the Zao Central Ropeway 'Onsen Station,' Zao Ropeway 'Mountain Station,' Zao Onsen Ski Resort, and Zao Sky Cable 'Ueno-dai Station.' Parking is free on weekdays, while on weekends and national holidays, the fee is JPY ¥1,000 per day.

Address: 229-3 Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture

Sendai Destinations | Fukushima Prefecture

1. Hanamiyama Park

Hanamiyama Park was developed by local farmers and opened to the public in 1959. The park features six varieties of cherry blossoms that bloom sequentially from late March to early May, making it a very popular cherry blossom viewing spot. In addition to cherry blossoms, the park also cultivates various flowers such as plum blossoms, hydrangeas, and rapeseed flowers, creating a stunning sight akin to a paradise of blooming flowers. Strolling through the park also offers views of snow-covered high mountains in the distance.

The park has a free parking lot with space for five cars. However, traffic control is implemented in spring, and visitors may need to park at temporary parking lots or paid parking areas around JR Fukushima Station.

Address: Wataru, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture

2. Ashinomaki Hot Spring

Located in the Ashinomaki Hot Spring district of Aizuwakamatsu City, this area is built along a scenic valley and is renowned for its rich and beautiful natural landscapes, as well as its abundant natural hot springs, earning it the nickname 'Dream Village.' The hot spring source has a temperature of up to 60 degrees Celsius and is a sulfate spring known for its calming effects. It is said to improve cold sensitivity, hydrate the skin, relieve muscle pain, and promote overall health.

There are up to 20 ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in the area, each with its unique features. Notably, the 'Okawaso' ryokan's floating stage has gained attention for resembling the villain's lair 'Infinity Castle' from episode 26 of the anime 'Demon Slayer,' attracting many fans of the series. The ryokan offers parking, and guests can park for free.

Address of Okawaso: 984 Shimodaira, Ouchi Town, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture

3. Ouchi-juku

The buildings in Ouchi-juku have a history of over 300 years, featuring traditional thatched roofs and streets with gutters on both sides, reflecting the customs and lifestyle of the Edo period. The area also includes the 'Ouchi-juku Town Exhibition Hall,' where visitors can experience the way of life during that time.

Every year on July 2nd, Ouchi-juku holds the 'Hange Matsuri,' where portable shrines, lion dances, and local villagers dressed in white garments with black caps parade to pray for family safety and a bountiful harvest. Additionally, on the second weekend of February, a snow festival is held, where the snow-covered Ouchi-juku is illuminated with snow lanterns, and fireworks light up the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can also visit the nearby 'Tower Cliff,' designated as a national natural monument, which is about a 20-minute drive away.

There is a paid parking lot at the entrance of Ouchi-juku, and a free parking lot is available about a 5-minute walk from the other end.

Address: Ouchi, Shimogo Town, Minamiaizu District, Fukushima Prefecture

4. Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum

The Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011, was the most severe natural disaster in Japan's history. The tsunami triggered by the earthquake led to the Fukushima nuclear disaster, resulting in significant casualties. The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum opened in 2020 and provides a detailed account of the events and the reconstruction process. It showcases approximately 290,000 items related to the disaster, including before-and-after comparisons, domestic and international responses and support, local residents' thoughts, and the path to recovery, with a strong emphasis on disaster prevention experiences and legacy.

Visitors can also participate in guided tours and view explanatory videos to personally experience the shock and impact of the disaster and its ongoing effects.

It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the museum from Sendai City. There is a parking lot on-site that can accommodate 111 private cars.

Address: 39 Takada, Nakano, Futaba Town, Futaba District, Fukushima Prefecture

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there direct flights from Hong Kong to Tohoku, Japan?

There are three airlines operating direct flights to Sendai from Hong Kong: Greater Bay Airlines, Hong Kong Express Airways, and Hong Kong Airlines. The flight takes approximately 5 hours.

What attractions do you recommend in Sendai?

Sendai is home to famous attractions such as Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, Matsushima, and Naruko Gorge, where visitors can enjoy beautiful natural scenery and historic architecture. Additionally, Miyagi Prefecture, where Sendai City is located, connects to Iwate, Akita, Yamagata, and Fukushima Prefectures, making it an ideal starting point for a cross-prefecture road trip.