Australia
USA
Small Group Tour IJT Classic
A Northern Soul
14 Nights: from US$6780 Trip Code: ANS
Activity Rating: Adventure
A Northern Soul takes you away from the well-worn tourist route and into Japan's northern landscapes and communities. If you've got a sense of adventure and a desire to get deeper into everyday Japanese culture, this is your tour. Read more >
Forget the familiar sights of Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. Instead, you’ll head north of Tokyo to the Tohoku region – rich in natural beauty and enduring tradition, visited by few. English is rarely spoken here, so your Insider guide will be invaluable. They’ll break down language barriers and open doors to remote communities and experiences: practicing taiko drumming on Sado Island, cruising between the steep, leafy cliffs of Geibikei Gorge, and making lunch with a local women’s group in Izu Numa.
You may not visit Kyoto, but you won’t miss out on history. And, beyond the golden route, there won’t be streams of crowds. In Nikko, the UNESCO-listed town, you’ll visit Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu’s final resting place – the founder of Japan’s greatest shogunate. Further north, you’ll visit two of Hiraizumi’s World Heritage sites: the gold-leaf layered Chuson-ji temple and Motsu-ji’s temple garden - with its calming, paradise garden lake.
Nature is its own great spectacle on A Northern Soul, and you’ll be immersed throughout. With our own private bus for seven days of the tour, the possibilities of exploring Nikko National Park open up: from panoramic views at Akechidaira Plateau, to steaming hot spring onsen and the thunderous Kegon Falls. If you fancy trekking solo for a day, that’s an option too.
You’ll cruise across Matsushima Bay – an ocean inlet, studded with pine-covered islands – officially one of the Nihon San-Kei, or “Three Great Sights of Japan”. Deep underground in the Yugendo caves lie eerie limestone formations, chambers and silent pools. At Izu Numa – a marsh teeming with life – you’ll hear how 35 species of dragonfly thrive among its wetlands.
This is one of our most culturally immersive tours. You won’t just see Japan, you’ll live it. Make tatami mats with a family who’ve been producing tatami for 180 years, slosh and paddle great papermaking vats in a traditional workshop, and learn to make ice cream in Zao Onsen. And then, of course, there’s the food. You’ll cook lunch with the women’s association in Izu Numa – dumpling soup known as hattojiru and chewy mochi sweet rice cakes – and sample beef tongue in Sendai (surprisingly delicious, even for the sceptical).
In Kesennuma City, a quiet weight hangs in the air. The 2011 earthquake and tsunami hit the Sanriku Coast hard. With a local storytelling guide, you’ll visit a former school, now the City Memorial Museum. Water rose high enough to hurl a car through a third-floor window. It’s sobering. But it’s also hopeful. Life is returning – an excellent sake brewery, restaurants and cafes are opening their doors again.
If you’ve got a taste for the region’s sake and fish, Niigata could become your favourite town on the tour. Thanks to its local rice fields and sea port trading routes, the sake, snow crab and salmon are of high quality here. There’s even a sake vending machine in Niigata station – with over 100 types of sake to choose from. One of our historical highlights is the opulent Saito Villa, with three traditional gardens to stroll through. Your Insider will tell you of Japan’s merchant history, and how the Saito family made their fortune operating cargo ships out of Niigata, hosting many famous politicians and businessmen at their villa.
And then, our final stop: Sado Island. A highlight for many, it once served as a place of exile for emperors, monks and rebels. That sense of separation from mainland Japan lingers – in its traditions, religion and art. You’ll ride in the island’s famous tub-shaped boats, rowed by energetic older women, and visit the world-renowned taiko drummers at rehearsal.
On your last morning, you’ll wake to a view of bobbing boats on a quiet sea. That night, you’ll sleep within the neon buzz of Shinjuku. The contrast within one day is startling, and one of the reasons we love this tour so much.
A Northern Soul is true to its name. You’ll experience the spirit of northern Japan – its landscapes, crafts, cuisine and communities. At times, perhaps, you won’t quite know where you are, or what’s next. And that’s the magic. Each place offers something unique. No filters, no crowds.
Is this trip for you?
What’s great
· This isn’t a tour many people do in Japan – you’ll get to see some really special places that aren’t on most travel routes
· You get a feel of traditional, rural Japan by visiting places and communities yourself
· Boats! This is a coastal route and there are lots of opportunities to get out on the water. From punting through the Geibikei Gorge to taking a tub boat ride on Sado Island
· Packed full of UNESCO sites – away from the crowds of Kyoto, you can take in some of Japan’s most special sites that are less well-known
· Eight destinations included, with the perfect amount of time at each stop to experience the highlights.
Things to consider:
· This tour doesn’t go to Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone or Hiroshima – if these are on your must-see list, try another of our tours
· Solo travellers pay a single supplement
· All accommodation is 3* and above. The tour also includes traditional ryokan stays with six nights on a futon bed (floor level) – for the full Japanese experience
· With an Adventure activity rating, this tour is for people confident spending a substantial amount of time on foot every day
· Two nights in Nikko and two nights on Sado Island will be with smaller overnight bags. For ease of transfer, large luggage will be forwarded between destinations.
Important Tour Information
Travelling with family? Under 18s get 10% off the tour price.
The accommodation listed is for 2025 departures. Please note that accommodation is subject to change. Final details of the accommodation will be included in your Info-Pack, which will be sent out approximately four weeks before departure. If you would like to know more, please speak to your travel consultant.
Group Size: 4 - 14
Single Supplement: Single rooms are guaranteed at all night stops on this tour through payment of a mandatory single supplement.
Fitness: Even when not using public transport, sightseeing in Japan often involves walking between sights, climbing up steps in temples and being 'on the go' for much of the day. To enjoy any of our Small Group Tours you should be of moderate fitness, able to walk and climb stairs without difficulty and able to maintain a pace that is comfortable for the majority of the group.
Check-in: Upon arrival you will probably be tired after a long international flight. Please note that rooms at the Tokyo hotel are only available from 3pm.
Hotels in Japan operate strict check-in policies. If you have an early arrival you can either book an extra night for any-time check-in, or the hotel will be happy to securely store your luggage for you while you go for a drink or explore the local area.
We recommend booking at least one extra night to check in and relax before the tour begins.
Transport: We will be using several modes of transport on this tour including private minibuses, ferry, taxis, trains and jet foil rides - as well as making use of Japan's first-rate rail network.
Luggage: We highly recommend that to make your stay more enjoyable you pack reasonably light. Large suitcases will be an inconvenience to you. A small case or bag with wheels or a rucksack are most appropriate for this tour as you will have to carry your bags for short distances and some stations do not have escalators or elevators/lifts. You will also need a small overnight bag for up to two nights (e.g. backpack), for use when we forward our main bags to the next location.
Accommodation: We aim to secure rooms at all accommodation with attached en-suite facilities. Culturally, communal bathing is common practice in Japan. Shared facilities (when included) will always be separated by gender.
Please note that in Japan, twin rooms are very much the norm, and there are far fewer double rooms available. Please understand that on this tour we are not able to offer double rooms at any of the locations.
International Flights: This tour starts and finishes in Tokyo for arrivals and departures at Tokyo Narita Airport or Tokyo Haneda Airport. Please note that the included meet-and-greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available from these two airports.
What's included
- 14 nights' accommodation
- Breakfast every day, one lunch and eight evening meals
- All transport between destinations in Japan, including airport transfers
- IC transport card with 3,000 yen credit for city transport
- Loop bus pass for transport in Hiraizumi
- Full day private guide service in Nikko
- Two full days' private guide service on Sado Island
- Entrance to Hamarikyu Gardens in Tokyo
- Entrance fees for temples and shrines in Nikko
- Day trip to the Yugendo Caves, including boat trip & paper-making workshop
- Mini tatami mat making experience
- Excursion to Izu Numa town and mochi rice cake making experience
- Entrance fees to Kesennuma City Memorial Museum and Brewery Tour at Otokoyama Sake brewery
- Sightseeing tour of Matsushima Bay
- Dairy visit & ice cream making in Zao Onsen
- Entrance fees for two days' sightseeing on Sado Island
- Taiko drumming experience on Sado Island
- Luggage forwarding from Tokyo to Hiraizumi, Niigata to Tokyo and Ishinomaki/Kesennuma to Sendai
What's NOT included:
- International flights
- Any local transport (subways, taxis, buses) unless covered by the included transport passes
- Entrance fees (including those for temples, shrines and museums) unless otherwise specified
- Baggage handling and luggage forwarding unless otherwise specified
Tour Price Information
2025
- Tour Price: From US$6780
- Single Supplement: From US$988
Extra Nights
- Pre-Tour: Twin Share From US$169 pp Single From US$319 pp
- Post-Tour: Twin Share From US$163 pp Single From US$228 pp
2026
- Tour Price: From US$6780
- Single Supplement: From US$923
Extra Nights
- Pre-Tour: Twin Share From US$143 pp Single From US$260 pp
- Post-Tour: Twin Share From US$150 pp Single From US$202 pp
Tour Highlights
- Visit Sado Island – once a place of exile, now a culturally rich island in its own right
- Cruise through Matsushima Bay – one of Japan's top three views – studded with tiny islands
- Immerse yourself in Tokyo's peaceful Hamarikyu Gardens – surrounded by skyscrapers
- Make hattojiru soup and mochi with the local women's institute in Izunuma
- Learn about the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in the Sanriku Coast region – and how the region is moving on and up
- Join the local taiko drumming group for practice, in its spiritual home of Sado Island
- Explore Nikko National Park with the group's private bus – visiting Kegon Falls and hot springs
- Explore religious architecture in Nikko and visit the final resting place of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu
- Visit the ancient temples of Hiraizumi – Chûson-ji temple is entirely covered in gold leaf
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
What, where, when and how...
A Northern Soul - 15 Days
A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Day by Day
A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Accommodation
A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Experiences
A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Booking
Single supplement from US$923
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Day 1-2
Begin your tour in Tokyo, where towering skyscrapers and brilliant neon provide the perfect introduction to modern Japan.
On arrival at either Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, you will travel by shared shuttle bus to your hotel in Asakusa, Tokyo's most traditional district. Here you'll meet your tour leader and have the chance to begin getting to know your travel companions. Asakusa is a fascinating and very accessible district of Tokyo, known for the bright-red Senso-ji Temple, its many market stalls, and Kappabashi-dori (“Kitchen Street”). This is a fantastic place to begin your trip to Japan, and this evening your tour leader will take you out for a welcome meal at one of the area's many excellent restaurants.
On day two, having recharged your batteries with a good night's sleep, your tour leader will take you on a tour of the city using public transport – including famous spots such as the Shibuya scramble crossing, the crazy shopping streets of Harajuku and Akihabara “electric town”. You'll also visit serene Hamarikyu Gardens, an oasis of calm in the midst of the hubbub.Overnight: Asakusa View Annex Rokku
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Day 3-4
Begin your journey northwards with two nights in Nikko, the home of some of Japan's most elaborate religious architecture set in a beautiful national park.
On day three you will take the train direct from Asakusa to Nikko, just a couple of hours' north of Tokyo yet worlds away in character and charm. This World Heritage Site is the final resting place of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of Japan's greatest shogunate, and exhibits some of the most impressive traditional architecture found anywhere in Japan. After checking in at your traditional ryokan accommodation, you will be met by our expert local guide for a full day's tour of the area's most impressive sites. This is sure to include Tokugawa's mausoleum, the “three wise monkeys” carving from the proverb “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”.
On day four you'll have another full day to really explore the national park, with its winning combination of deep forest, beautiful lakes, impressive waterfalls and steaming hot springs. You'll have a private bus at your disposal to take you to some of the area's most scenic spots – including the Akechidaira Plateau and Kegon Falls – or you are welcome to strike out independently for an invigorating day of hiking.Overnight: Kanaya Hotel
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Day 5-6
Move on to Hiraizumi, where beautiful temples and shrines remain as a legacy of the town's illustrious past.
In the 12th century, during the Heian Period of Japanese history, Hiraizumi was the seat of the powerful Fujiwara clan and was important enough to rival imperial Kyoto in the south. Today a glimpse of Hiraizumi's former glory remains in its beautiful temples and shrines, which are the most impressive in the Tohoku region - and another World Heritage Site.
After checking in at your accommodation in Hiraizumi, you will head out with your tour leader to visit Chuson-ji, the town's most famous temple. Chuson-ji is set in beautiful woodland and once comprised an extensive complex of buildings, but today there are just two – one of which, Konjikido, is entirely covered in gold like Kyoto's famous pavilion.
On day six you'll have a full day to enjoy the Hiraizumi region. You'll take a boat ride through the Geibikei Gorge, visit the Yugendo Caves, and take part in a paper-making workshop.
In Hiraizumi you'll be staying at a Japanese-style hotel, where a traditional multi-course meal will be served on both nights of your stay'.Overnight: Musashibo
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Day 7
Spend the night in Naruko, a traditional onsen town where hot spring steam billows through the wood-panelled streets.
Today you'll transfer by private coach from Hiraizumi to Naruko Onsen, a charming traditional town known for its nine different hot springs – each with its own mineral composition and reputed health benefits. Your tour leader will accompany you on a day tour to some of the area's sights, including another stunning gorge – the Naruko Gorge, the impressive Naruko Dam, a visit to a nearby geyser, and an optional rowing boat trip on Katanuma Pond.
You will also take part in a hands-on tatami-making experience, crafting a miniature tatami mat, and join a mochi-making masterclass to make—and taste—Japan's famous rice cakes.
Tonight you'll be staying at a traditional ryokan inn, where a delicious kaiseki dinner will be served this evening.Overnight: Kameya
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Day 8
Learn about the devastating events of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami
On 11th March 2011, Tohoku was struck by the largest earthquake in Japan's history, triggering a massive tsunami that devastated the region's eastern coast. Minamisanriku was nearly wiped off the map, while Kesennuma suffered catastrophic flooding and fires. In the aftermath, several InsideJapan staff members traveled to the region to assist with the clean-up and witness the scale of the damage first-hand.
Today, you'll visit these two tsunami-hit towns. In Minamisanriku, you'll explore the Minamisanriku Memorial Park, a site dedicated to those who lost their lives and the town's remarkable recovery.
In Kesennuma, you'll visit the Kesennuma City Memorial Museum, formerly Kesennuma Koyo High School, which was heavily damaged by the tsunami, with most of its four-story structure submerged. Now a powerful memorial, the museum serves as both a reminder of the disaster and an educational site about tsunami preparedness. You'll tour the museum with a local guide who will share moving accounts of survival and the community's efforts to rebuild.
Though it is a sobering experience, the warmth and generosity of the people of Kesennuma will ensure that your stay here is a highlight of your trip – and you will be left in no doubt that your visit is greatly appreciated.
In the afternoon, you'll have the option to visit a sake brewery, explore the Rias Ark Museum of Art, or unwind at a craft beer brewery or café in the port areaOvernight: Kesennuma Plaza Hotel
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Day 9
Following your visit to Ishinomaki, visit Matsushima Bay and spend a night in Sendai: the biggest, most energetic city in the Tohoku region.
Today you will travel by private coach from Kessenuma to Matsushima Bay, an ocean inlet studded with leafy islands which is officially designated one of the Nihon San-Kei, or ‘Three Great Sights of Japan'. You'll explore the area by boat, visiting some of the bay's scenic piers and islands, as well as the lovely Entsuin Temple Gardens. After the day's sightseeing you'll take the train onwards to Sendai, where the rest of the afternoon will be at leisure to enjoy the city.
Sendai is known by the locals as the ‘city of trees' for its wild, tree-lined avenues and spacious parks, one of the more positive outcomes of the heavy bombardment the city suffered in WWII. As the capital of the north it has the best restaurant scene and nightlife in Tohoku, as well as plenty of excellent shops and galleries, so you'll have no problem entertaining yourself for the remainder of the day.Overnight: Hotel Vista Sendai
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Day 10-11
Visit a dairy farm, make your own ice cream, admire vertiginous waterfalls and gaze over Okama Crater Lake on your way from the east to the west coast.
This morning, if you have time, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Sendai morning market before jumping onboard your coach again for the journey from east to west.
In Zao Onsen you'll stop at a local dairy farm, meet the farm's cows and try your hand at making (and tasting) ice cream, while at Togatta Onsen you'll stop to give your feet a rest in the ashiyu hot spring foot bath. From here, the ‘Zao Echo Line' road will lead you past spectacular waterfalls and mountains to Kattadake Peak, which boasts stunning views over the Okama Crater Lake and its mysterious colour-changing waters. Your final destination today is Niigata, a sizeable city on Japan's western coast.
On day 11 you'll continue your exploration of the west coast with a day of sightseeing in and around Niigata, including the beautiful Saito Family Summer Villa – an opulent example of turn-of-the-century Japanese architecture, a visit to the pretty Hakusan Park, and a spot of shopping at Honcho Market. The afternoon will be at leisure for you to spend as you choose; your tour leader will have some excellent suggestions as to how best to spend your time.Overnight: Hotel Sunroute
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Day 12-13
Spend two nights on Sado Island, a former place of exile for Japanese dissidents that has its own unique culture and beautiful scenery.
On the morning of day 12 you will transfer by taxi to the port, where you'll catch the Jetfoil to Sado Island. Sado's remote location made it the perfect place for Japanese rulers to send dissenting politicians, artists, and other prominent figures – beginning with a poet in 722 and concluding almost a millennium later in 1700. During this time, Sado became home to banished emperors, monks and aristocrats alike, developing its own religious and cultural scene whose influence is still evident today.
On arrival on Sado you will meet your local guide, who will be with you for two full days to help you get beneath the surface of the island. Travelling in a private minibus, first you'll explore the Old Fishing Street and ride in a distinctive tub boat, later on you'll get the chance to learn about Sado's other most famous export: taiko drumming. This art is enjoyed throughout Japan, but Sado's taiko group, Kodo, is the most famous – having toured extensively through Japan, Europe and the US. You'll get a chance to have a go yourself with a lesson today. You'll arrive at your accommodation in time for the included dinner.
Gold was discovered on Sado around 400 years ago and briefly made the island the largest gold producer in the world. On your second full day on Sado Island, you'll start the day visiting the gold mine museum. After learning about the mining process, you'll pay a visit to the Sado Bugyosho, or former magistrate's office, from where the mining operation was governed. The rest of the day will be spent exploring a few more of the island's attractions, including a visit to the Ibis Sanctuary and a local sake brewery. Today you'll return to the accommodation with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the hot spring bath.Overnight: Yoshidaya Ryokan
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Day 14-15
Return to Tokyo for one final exciting night amongst the bright lights of the capital.
On day 14 you'll board the ferry once more for the journey back to Niigata, where you'll catch a taxi to the station and jump on the bullet train to Tokyo. Japan's shinkansen is an experience in itself, and you're bound to enjoy zipping through the countryside as you return to Tokyo to conclude your trip.
For your final tour night, you'll be staying in Shinjuku – one of Tokyo's brightest, most exciting entertainment districts, crowded with skyscrapers packed to the rafters with bars, shops, restaurants and karaoke booths. This is the perfect place to head out and make the most of your last few hours in Japan – and it's well connected to every other part of the city, so if there's one last museum you want to squeeze in or a special souvenir you'd like to seek out, this is the time to do it. Tonight, a farewell dinner is included for you to enjoy one last night in Japan, the perfect opportunity to swap your favourite memories of the trip.
On day 15 your adventure comes to a close and you'll bid farewell to your tour leader and travelling companions as you make your way to the airport by shared shuttle bus. We hope you'll be back soon!Overnight: Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
-
Day 1-2
Begin your tour in Tokyo, where towering skyscrapers and brilliant neon provide the perfect introduction to modern Japan.
On arrival at either Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, you will travel by shared shuttle bus to your hotel in Asakusa, Tokyo's most traditional district. Here you'll meet your tour leader and have the chance to begin getting to know your travel companions. Asakusa is a fascinating and very accessible district of Tokyo, known for the bright-red Senso-ji Temple, its many market stalls, and Kappabashi-dori (“Kitchen Street”). This is a fantastic place to begin your trip to Japan, and this evening your tour leader will take you out for a welcome meal at one of the area's many excellent restaurants.
On day two, having recharged your batteries with a good night's sleep, your tour leader will take you on a tour of the city using public transport – including famous spots such as the Shibuya scramble crossing, the crazy shopping streets of Harajuku and Akihabara “electric town”. You'll also visit serene Hamarikyu Gardens, an oasis of calm in the midst of the hubbub.Overnight: Asakusa View Annex Rokku
-
Day 3-4
Begin your journey northwards with two nights in Nikko, the home of some of Japan's most elaborate religious architecture set in a beautiful national park.
On day three you will take the train direct from Asakusa to Nikko, just a couple of hours' north of Tokyo yet worlds away in character and charm. This World Heritage Site is the final resting place of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of Japan's greatest shogunate, and exhibits some of the most impressive traditional architecture found anywhere in Japan. After checking in at your traditional ryokan accommodation, you will be met by our expert local guide for a full day's tour of the area's most impressive sites. This is sure to include Tokugawa's mausoleum, the “three wise monkeys” carving from the proverb “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”.
On day four you'll have another full day to really explore the national park, with its winning combination of deep forest, beautiful lakes, impressive waterfalls and steaming hot springs. You'll have a private bus at your disposal to take you to some of the area's most scenic spots – including the Akechidaira Plateau and Kegon Falls – or you are welcome to strike out independently for an invigorating day of hiking.Overnight: Kanaya Hotel
-
Day 5-6
Move on to Hiraizumi, where beautiful temples and shrines remain as a legacy of the town's illustrious past.
In the 12th century, during the Heian Period of Japanese history, Hiraizumi was the seat of the powerful Fujiwara clan and was important enough to rival imperial Kyoto in the south. Today a glimpse of Hiraizumi's former glory remains in its beautiful temples and shrines, which are the most impressive in the Tohoku region - and another World Heritage Site.
After checking in at your accommodation in Hiraizumi, you will head out with your tour leader to visit Chuson-ji, the town's most famous temple. Chuson-ji is set in beautiful woodland and once comprised an extensive complex of buildings, but today there are just two – one of which, Konjikido, is entirely covered in gold like Kyoto's famous pavilion.
On day six you'll have a full day to enjoy the Hiraizumi region. You'll take a boat ride through the Geibikei Gorge, visit the Yugendo Caves, and take part in a paper-making workshop.
In Hiraizumi you'll be staying at a Japanese-style hotel, where a traditional multi-course meal will be served on both nights of your stay'.Overnight: Musashibo
-
Day 7
Spend the night in Naruko, a traditional onsen town where hot spring steam billows through the wood-panelled streets.
Today you'll transfer by private coach from Hiraizumi to Naruko Onsen, a charming traditional town known for its nine different hot springs – each with its own mineral composition and reputed health benefits. Your tour leader will accompany you on a day tour to some of the area's sights, including another stunning gorge – the Naruko Gorge, the impressive Naruko Dam, a visit to a nearby geyser, and an optional rowing boat trip on Katanuma Pond.
You will also take part in a hands-on tatami-making experience, crafting a miniature tatami mat, and join a mochi-making masterclass to make—and taste—Japan's famous rice cakes.
Tonight you'll be staying at a traditional ryokan inn, where a delicious kaiseki dinner will be served this evening.Overnight: Kameya
-
Day 8
Learn about the devastating events of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami
On 11th March 2011, Tohoku was struck by the largest earthquake in Japan's history, triggering a massive tsunami that devastated the region's eastern coast. Minamisanriku was nearly wiped off the map, while Kesennuma suffered catastrophic flooding and fires. In the aftermath, several InsideJapan staff members traveled to the region to assist with the clean-up and witness the scale of the damage first-hand.
Today, you'll visit these two tsunami-hit towns. In Minamisanriku, you'll explore the Minamisanriku Memorial Park, a site dedicated to those who lost their lives and the town's remarkable recovery.
In Kesennuma, you'll visit the Kesennuma City Memorial Museum, formerly Kesennuma Koyo High School, which was heavily damaged by the tsunami, with most of its four-story structure submerged. Now a powerful memorial, the museum serves as both a reminder of the disaster and an educational site about tsunami preparedness. You'll tour the museum with a local guide who will share moving accounts of survival and the community's efforts to rebuild.
Though it is a sobering experience, the warmth and generosity of the people of Kesennuma will ensure that your stay here is a highlight of your trip – and you will be left in no doubt that your visit is greatly appreciated.
In the afternoon, you'll have the option to visit a sake brewery, explore the Rias Ark Museum of Art, or unwind at a craft beer brewery or café in the port areaOvernight: Kesennuma Plaza Hotel
-
Day 9
Following your visit to Ishinomaki, visit Matsushima Bay and spend a night in Sendai: the biggest, most energetic city in the Tohoku region.
Today you will travel by private coach from Kessenuma to Matsushima Bay, an ocean inlet studded with leafy islands which is officially designated one of the Nihon San-Kei, or ‘Three Great Sights of Japan'. You'll explore the area by boat, visiting some of the bay's scenic piers and islands, as well as the lovely Entsuin Temple Gardens. After the day's sightseeing you'll take the train onwards to Sendai, where the rest of the afternoon will be at leisure to enjoy the city.
Sendai is known by the locals as the ‘city of trees' for its wild, tree-lined avenues and spacious parks, one of the more positive outcomes of the heavy bombardment the city suffered in WWII. As the capital of the north it has the best restaurant scene and nightlife in Tohoku, as well as plenty of excellent shops and galleries, so you'll have no problem entertaining yourself for the remainder of the day.Overnight: Hotel Vista Sendai
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Day 10-11
Visit a dairy farm, make your own ice cream, admire vertiginous waterfalls and gaze over Okama Crater Lake on your way from the east to the west coast.
This morning, if you have time, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Sendai morning market before jumping onboard your coach again for the journey from east to west.
In Zao Onsen you'll stop at a local dairy farm, meet the farm's cows and try your hand at making (and tasting) ice cream, while at Togatta Onsen you'll stop to give your feet a rest in the ashiyu hot spring foot bath. From here, the ‘Zao Echo Line' road will lead you past spectacular waterfalls and mountains to Kattadake Peak, which boasts stunning views over the Okama Crater Lake and its mysterious colour-changing waters. Your final destination today is Niigata, a sizeable city on Japan's western coast.
On day 11 you'll continue your exploration of the west coast with a day of sightseeing in and around Niigata, including the beautiful Saito Family Summer Villa – an opulent example of turn-of-the-century Japanese architecture, a visit to the pretty Hakusan Park, and a spot of shopping at Honcho Market. The afternoon will be at leisure for you to spend as you choose; your tour leader will have some excellent suggestions as to how best to spend your time.Overnight: Hotel Sunroute
-
Day 12-13
Spend two nights on Sado Island, a former place of exile for Japanese dissidents that has its own unique culture and beautiful scenery.
On the morning of day 12 you will transfer by taxi to the port, where you'll catch the Jetfoil to Sado Island. Sado's remote location made it the perfect place for Japanese rulers to send dissenting politicians, artists, and other prominent figures – beginning with a poet in 722 and concluding almost a millennium later in 1700. During this time, Sado became home to banished emperors, monks and aristocrats alike, developing its own religious and cultural scene whose influence is still evident today.
On arrival on Sado you will meet your local guide, who will be with you for two full days to help you get beneath the surface of the island. Travelling in a private minibus, first you'll explore the Old Fishing Street and ride in a distinctive tub boat, later on you'll get the chance to learn about Sado's other most famous export: taiko drumming. This art is enjoyed throughout Japan, but Sado's taiko group, Kodo, is the most famous – having toured extensively through Japan, Europe and the US. You'll get a chance to have a go yourself with a lesson today. You'll arrive at your accommodation in time for the included dinner.
Gold was discovered on Sado around 400 years ago and briefly made the island the largest gold producer in the world. On your second full day on Sado Island, you'll start the day visiting the gold mine museum. After learning about the mining process, you'll pay a visit to the Sado Bugyosho, or former magistrate's office, from where the mining operation was governed. The rest of the day will be spent exploring a few more of the island's attractions, including a visit to the Ibis Sanctuary and a local sake brewery. Today you'll return to the accommodation with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the hot spring bath.Overnight: Yoshidaya Ryokan
-
Day 14-15
Return to Tokyo for one final exciting night amongst the bright lights of the capital.
On day 14 you'll board the ferry once more for the journey back to Niigata, where you'll catch a taxi to the station and jump on the bullet train to Tokyo. Japan's shinkansen is an experience in itself, and you're bound to enjoy zipping through the countryside as you return to Tokyo to conclude your trip.
For your final tour night, you'll be staying in Shinjuku – one of Tokyo's brightest, most exciting entertainment districts, crowded with skyscrapers packed to the rafters with bars, shops, restaurants and karaoke booths. This is the perfect place to head out and make the most of your last few hours in Japan – and it's well connected to every other part of the city, so if there's one last museum you want to squeeze in or a special souvenir you'd like to seek out, this is the time to do it. Tonight, a farewell dinner is included for you to enjoy one last night in Japan, the perfect opportunity to swap your favourite memories of the trip.
On day 15 your adventure comes to a close and you'll bid farewell to your tour leader and travelling companions as you make your way to the airport by shared shuttle bus. We hope you'll be back soon!Overnight: Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
Tour Reviews
Small Group Tour A Northern Soul
Read more >Very well organized with a lot of variety of places and things to do.
Small Group Tour A Northern Soul
Read more >Everything went super smoothly and the tour and guide were great.
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Tour Reviews
Small Group Tour A Northern Soul
Read more >Very well organized with a lot of variety of places and things to do.
Small Group Tour A Northern Soul
Read more >Everything went super smoothly and the tour and guide were great.
5.0 out of 5 from 20 reviews Show all A Northern Soul Reviews
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Head north to experience Japan in autumn that is rarely seen by travellers... #AutumnLeaves #AutumnColours… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
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