Exploring Tohoku in 3 Days

Day 1: Historic Aomori & Hirosaki

Aomori City, Japan

8:00AM

Visit Aomori Bay Bridge

Enjoy panoramic views of Aomori Bay and the city. The bridge is a popular spot for morning walks and photography.
The bridge is easily accessible by foot from the city centre.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Try the local seafood at Furukawa Fish Market

Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies such as scallops and sea urchins. Don't miss the famous tuna auctions at the market.
A short walk from Aomori Bay Bridge.
£15, 2 hours

2:00PM

Explore Hirosaki Castle

Admire the beauty of this Edo-period castle surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring or colourful foliage in autumn. Take a leisurely stroll around the castle park.
Take a local train from Aomori to Hirosaki. Castle is a short walk from the station.
£8, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dine at a traditional Izakaya

Savour local dishes and sake at a cosy izakaya. Try regional specialties like Tsugaru Jankara Miso.
Recommendation: Hirosaki Honten Izakaya.
£25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Serenity in Sendai & Matsushima

Sendai City, Japan

9:00AM

Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum in Sendai

Discover the ornate resting place of Date Masamune, a prominent figure in Japanese history. The mausoleum's architecture is a blend of Japanese and Dutch styles.
Zuihoden is accessible by subway or taxi from Sendai Station.
£5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Gyutan restaurant

Don't miss the opportunity to taste Sendai's famous grilled beef tongue. Served in various styles, it's a local delicacy that's not to be missed.
Recommended: Rikyu Gyutan Honpo restaurant.
£20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Cruise around Matsushima Bay

Embark on a scenic boat tour of the 'Three Views of Japan'. Marvel at the picturesque islands and their lush greenery.
Boat tours can be taken from Matsushima Pier.
£30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Savour seafood dinner with a view

Dine at a waterfront restaurant in Matsushima Bay and enjoy the freshest seafood caught from the bay. Sip on local sake as you watch the sunset.
Recommendation: Matsushima Fish Market.
£35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Heritage in Hiraizumi & Akita

Hiraizumi Town, Japan

9:00AM

Explore Chusonji Temple in Hiraizumi

Wander through the serene temple complex and admire the Konjiki-do, a stunning golden hall that houses relics of the Fujiwara clan.
Chusonji is a short bus ride from Hiraizumi Station.
£10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a traditional soba noodle restaurant

Taste authentic buckwheat soba noodles, a local speciality in Hiraizumi. Choose from a variety of toppings and enjoy the simple elegance of this dish.
Try Soba Dokoro Mugen for a traditional dining experience.
£15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Akita Castle Ruins

Learn about the history of the region at the site of the former Akita Castle. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the castle grounds.
Akita Castle Ruins are a short walk from Omachi Station.
£5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Indulge in Kiritanpo Nabe for dinner

Warm up with a hearty hotpot meal featuring local delicacy Kiritanpo, mashed rice sticks cooked in a savoury broth. A comforting dish for a relaxing evening.
Recommended: Akita Kiritanpo restaurant.
£30, 2 hours
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