10-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Tohoku, Japan

Day 1: Explore Morioka

Morioka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsubaki Saryo

Start your day with a delightful traditional Japanese breakfast at Tsubaki Saryo, where fresh local ingredients and a serene atmosphere await.
Walk from your accommodation to Tsubaki Saryo; approximately 15 minutes.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Morioka Castle Ruins

Take a stroll through the historic Morioka Castle Ruins for stunning views and a glimpse into the city's samurai heritage.
A short 15-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Iwate Park

Enjoy the relaxing surroundings of Iwate Park, an oasis filled with seasonal flowers and the picturesque ruins of Morioka Castle.
5-minute walk from Morioka Castle Ruins.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Niku no Hasegawa

Try the famous Morioka Jaja-men at Niku no Hasegawa, a must-try local dish of noodles topped with miso meat sauce.
15 minutes by train from Iwate Park.
JPY1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Morioka History and Culture Museum

Learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage at the Morioka History and Culture Museum.
15-minute walk from lunch spot to the museum.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Enjoy a Coffee at Morioka Coffee Stand

Relax and recharge with a cup of specialty coffee in one of Morioka’s popular cafés.
15-minute walk from the museum.
JPY500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsuya

End your day with a delicious dinner of sushi and sake at Matsuya, where you can try local specialties.
10-minute walk from the coffee stand.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Dive in Kakunodate

Kakunodate, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Ryokan

Enjoy breakfast at your ryokan, featuring seasonal and regional foods.
On-site at your chosen ryokan.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kakunodate Samurai District

Explore the beautifully preserved Samurai district with traditional wooden houses, a window into Japan’s feudal past.
10-minute walk from your ryokan.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Sakura-no-Yama Hill

Climb up to Sakura-no-Yama Hill to enjoy breathtaking views of the cherry blossoms (in season) and the surrounding area.
15-minute walk from the Samurai District.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Kakunodate Kura

Try local soba noodles prepared by expert chefs at Kakunodate Kura, a historic restaurant housed in an old sake brewery.
15-minute walk from the hill.
JPY1300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Hinokinai Venue

Visit the Hinokinai Venue, where you can participate in traditional arts and crafts workshops, like indigo dyeing.
10-minute walk from lunch spot.
JPY2000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Kakunodate Cherry Blossom Park

Wander through Kakunodate Cherry Blossom Park, an exquisite site adorned with hundreds of cherry trees.
5-minute walk from the venue.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Tatsuya

Try the exquisite local cuisine featuring grilled Ayu fish at Tatsuya, a jewel among Kakunodate’s dining options.
20-minute walk from the park.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and Flavors in Aomori

Aomori, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chikudo

Enjoy fresh seafood breakfast featuring Aomori’s famous Hoya (sea pineapple) at Chikudo.
10-minute walk from your accommodation.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aomori Museum of Art

Experience contemporary art and stunning architecture at the Aomori Museum of Art, showcasing works by Aomori natives.
15-minute bus ride from the breakfast spot.
JPY1000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse

Discover the history of the famous Nebuta Matsuri festival with immersive displays at Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse.
15-minute walk from the museum.
JPY800, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sasaki Shokudo

Savor the local specialty, Aomori beef, grilled to perfection at Sasaki Shokudo.
15-minute walk from Nebuta Museum.
JPY1800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Aomori Bay and Its Views

Relax and enjoy a scenic walk along Aomori Bay, perfect for photography and soaking in the stunning landscape.
20-minute walk from lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping at Aomori Bay Plaza

Explore Aomori Bay Plaza for local crafts, souvenirs, and tasty snacks.
10-minute walk from the bay.
Free to browse, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mamezo Aomori

Conclude your Aomori trip with ramen at Mamezo, known for its rich and hearty broth.
10-minute walk from the plaza.
JPY900, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature Day in Aomori

Aomori, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Coffee Kan

Start your day with a light breakfast and freshly brewed coffee at Coffee Kan.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
JPY700, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore Shirakami Sanchi

Venture into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakami Sanchi and hike through stunning beech forests to appreciate nature.
Take the bus from Aomori Station to Shirakami Sanchi (2 hours).
JPY1000, 4 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch at Shirakami Sanchi

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch from the local market while surrounded by nature.
Enjoy your picnic in the Sanchi area.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Continue Hiking

Continue your exploration of Shirakami Sanchi, discovering varied fauna and flora as you ascend to beautiful viewpoints.
On foot.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return to Aomori City

Take the bus back to Aomori city.
2 hours on the bus.
JPY1000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Shidate

Finish your day with a delicious seafood platter at Shidate, featuring fresh catch from Aomori Bay.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Temple Trails in Yamadera

Yamadera, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Fuel up for a day of exploration with coffee and a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café.
Nearby your accommodation.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Yamadera Temple

Hike the scenic trail to Yamadera Temple, renowned for its silver pagoda and stunning mountainous views.
10-minute walk from breakfast spot.
JPY300, 3 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Temple Grounds

Take your time to explore the temple grounds, gardens, and peaceful meditation spots.
On-site.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Yamadera Soba

Try the famous Yamadera soba noodles made from locally sourced ingredients at Yamadera Soba.
5-minute walk from temple.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Historical Museum

Learn more about Yamadera’s history and culture at the local historical museum.
15-minute walk from lunch.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk to the Scenic Viewpoint

Conclude your day with a leisurely walk to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley.
20-minute hike from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Savor traditional Japanese dishes at a local izakaya, featuring seasonal offerings from the Yamagata region.
15-minute walk from viewpoint.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Serenity in Yamadera

Yamadera, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ryokan

Indulge in a relaxing breakfast at your ryokan.
On-site.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Meditation Session

Join a guided meditation session in the tranquil surroundings of Yamadera Temple.
At the temple.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Tsudokado

Wander through Tsudokado, a famous rock formation that offers stunning panoramic views.
25-minute hike from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mototakane

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients at Mototakane.
20-minute hike back to town.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Gassan Shrine

Take a short trip to Gassan Shrine, a serene place dedicated to the mountain gods.
30-minute bus ride.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Jōzenji Temple

Visit Jōzenji Temple and enjoy their zen gardens and peaceful atmosphere.
20-minute bus ride from Gassan Shrine.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Tobo

Savor dinner at Tobo, where you can experience delicious grilled fish from Yamadera's rivers.
30-minute return trip.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Art and Culture in Morioka

Morioka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Specialty Café

Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring artisanal bread and locally sourced toppings at the Specialty Café.
10-minute walk from your accommodation.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Koiwai Farm

Head to Koiwai Farm, known for its dairy produce and beautiful scenery, and take part in cheese and butter-making workshops.
30-minute train ride.
JPY1500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Burger Joint

Treat yourself to gourmet burgers featuring local ingredients at a well-loved Morioka burger joint.
15-minute walk from the farm.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Gokoku Shrine

Visit Gokoku Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine surrounded by nature, perfect for serene walks.
15-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Art Appreciation at Iwate Museum of Art

Discover modern and contemporary art at the Iwate Museum of Art, housing an impressive collection.
20-minute bus ride from the shrine.
JPY800, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Naruhe Restaurant

Conclude the day with a delightful kaiseki dinner at Naruhe, known for using seasonal ingredients.
15-minute bus ride from the museum.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Kakunodate

Kakunodate, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kakunodate Bakery

Start your day off right with fresh pastries and coffee from a charming local bakery.
Close to your accommodation in Kakunodate.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tour of Kakunodate Historical District

Dive deeper into Kakunodate's rich history with a guided walking tour of the charming historical district.
On foot.
JPY1500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Local Craft Workshop

Attend a workshop and learn the art of Kintsugi, the Japanese tradition of repairing pottery with gold.
15-minute walk from the tour endpoint.
JPY2000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Local Soba Restaurant

Indulge in handmade soba noodles at a local soba restaurant, a true Kakunodate specialty.
10-minute walk from the workshop.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:30PM

Gaze at Cherry Blossoms

If you're visiting in spring, enjoy a leisurely walk while gazing at the beautiful cherry blossoms along the roads of Kakunodate.
5-minute walk from the soba restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Yamagata-tei

Dine on a fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and modern culinary techniques at Yamagata-tei.
10-minute walk from the cherry blossom area.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Exploring Aomori Culture

Aomori, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Daishin Katsu

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Daishin Katsu, known for their excellent tonkatsu dishes.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Aomori's Historical Walk

Discover the hidden gems of Aomori by taking a guided walking tour focusing on historical landmarks.
Meet at Aomori Station.
JPY2000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit A-Factories

Head over to A-Factories, a marketplace filled with local food, drink, and crafts, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
15-minute walk from the tour endpoint.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aomori Gyosai Center

Savor seafood from the Aomori Gyosai Center, known for its fresh catch, including sea urchin and crab.
15-minute walk from A-Factories.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Sannai Maruyama Site

Explore the ancient hunter-gatherer village of Sannai Maruyama, a fascinating glimpse into Japan's early history.
20-minute bus ride from lunch.
JPY600, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at local Onsen

Unwind in an onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring, to reflect on your experiences.
Take the bus back to Aomori city (30 minutes).
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hokkai Donburi

Conclude your trip with a dinner of donburi filled with fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables.
20-minute walk from the onsen.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Final Day in Morioka

Morioka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe del Sol

Relax with a delicious fusion breakfast at Cafe del Sol, known for combining Japanese and Western flavors.
Nearby your accommodation.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to the Lake Gosho Park

Stroll around Lake Gosho Park, a picturesque spot highlighting the beauty of Morioka's landscape.
20-minute bus ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Local Market

Visit the local market to find unique handmade goods and local delicacies to take home.
10-minute walk from the park.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yakiniku Ryoma

Enjoy a lunch featuring premium cuts of beef, grilled to perfection at Yakiniku Ryoma.
15-minute walk from the market.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Wrap Up with Souvenir Shopping

Complete your journey with some souvenir shopping in Morioka, ensuring you take a piece of this beautiful region home.
On foot.
Free to browse, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Kurofune

Cap off your adventure with an elegant dining experience featuring a mix of traditional and modern cuisine at Kurofune.
15-minute walk from your shopping areas.
JPY4000, 2 hours
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