JAPAN

Tokyo: The Perfect Starting Point for a Japan Adventure

Every great Japan itinerary begins in Tokyo, where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony. My journey kicked off with a city tour led by the delightful Hiroko, who brought Tokyo’s neighborhoods and history to life.

​

The following evening, Kazue guided me through an evening food tour of Tokyo — hopping between izakayas and hidden gems to savor yakitori, ramen, and local desserts. It was the ideal introduction to Japan’s vibrant food scene.

 

From Tokyo to Fukushima by Shinkansen

Our FAM Group met in the Tokyo Central Train Station where we boarded the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train) north to Fukushima.  We checked into Hotel Sansuiso, a classic ryokan-style inn complete with tatami mats, sliding screens, and rejuvenating onsen baths. After a warm welcome reception, we were already enchanted by Japan’s legendary hospitality.

​

The next day, we hiked the Volcano Trail, surrounded by forested peaks and fresh mountain air. After travel time, a day out on the trail was a welcome respite.

​

That evening, we stayed in a Shukubō (temple lodging), where we experienced Buddhist vegetarian cuisine (shōjin ryōri) and a serene introduction to the spiritual culture of northern Japan. The temple priest welcomed us in preparation for our pilgrimages the following day.

​

The hikes up Mt. Haguro and Mt. Yudono were true highlights of the journey. Mt. Haguro’s 2,446 stone steps, shaded by towering cedar trees, created a peaceful, almost meditative climb — every turn revealing ancient shrines and moss-covered statues.

​

By contrast, Mt. Yudono offered a wilder, more spiritual experience. The path led us along streams and waterfalls, with the sound of rushing water adding to the mountain’s mystical atmosphere. Both hikes captured what makes hiking in Japan so extraordinary — the balance of natural beauty, deep spirituality, and quiet reflection that stays with you long after the journey ends.

 

Cultural Experiences and Traditional Cuisine

Our next stop, the Kameya Hotel, treated us to a kaiseki dinner, Japan’s elegant multi-course feast. Every dish was beautifully presented — a true celebration of seasonal flavors and artistry.

​

The following day brought a fascinating look at Japanese craftsmanship during a factory tour at Yamamo Miso and Soy Sauce Brewery, followed by a visit to a samurai residence that offered a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.

​

Dinner that night was a highlight — a cozy local restaurant where we tried rice ball making and were treated to a charming traditional dance performance by the owner’s daughter and her friend. These kinds of personal encounters are what make traveling through rural Japan so meaningful.

 

Hiking the Matagi Trail & Meeting Local Legends

We set out on the Matagi Trail with the Matagi hunters, learning about their centuries-old respect for the mountains and wildlife. Lunch was their signature bear stew — a surprisingly delicious local specialty!

​

Later, we stopped at “Grandma’s house” to make sweet dumplings, sharing laughter and stories that transcended language barriers. That evening, we headed to Hachinohe and explored Miroku Yokocho, a lively alley of small bars where locals welcomed us with open arms.

 

The Michinoku Coastal Trail: Beauty, Resilience, and Connection

Our coastal adventure began along the Michinoku Coastal Trail, a breathtaking route that showcases the natural beauty and strength of Tohoku’s coastline.

​

A ride on the Sanriku Railway offered one of the most moving moments of the trip — hearing the station master share his memories of the 2011 Great Eastern Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, and how his community rebuilt in the years since.

​

That evening, at the Park Hotel Jodogahama, we enjoyed a relaxing soak in the onsen and a dinner accompanied by Kagura, a lively Shinto music and dance performance that celebrates Japan’s ancient spiritual traditions.

 

Sea Kayaking and Endless Bowls of Soba in Morioka

Our final morning in Tohoku began with sea kayaking at Jodogahama Beach, gliding over crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

​

Lunch brought one last taste of fun — an “Endless Bowls of Soba” competition in Morioka. Our guide, affectionately nicknamed “Yellow Rice Cake,” wowed the group by eating 161 bowls!

​

We ended our trip at a local marketplace, meeting travel partners and reflecting on all we’d experienced in this unforgettable region.

 

Why Visit Tohoku (and Why It’s Perfect for Travelers to Japan)

Tohoku is Japan at its most authentic — peaceful, welcoming, and rich in tradition. Travelers will find fewer crowds, lower prices, and a slower pace that encourages genuine cultural connection.

​

Whether it’s soaking in a hot spring, tasting miso at a family-run brewery, or hiking ancient pilgrimage routes, Tohoku offers experiences you simply won’t find in Tokyo or Kyoto.

​

For anyone planning a Japan trip and seeking something beyond the classic highlights, Tohoku deserves a place on your itinerary.

 

Plan Your Japan Adventure with Trekese

At Trekese, we create immersive, small-group and custom travel experiences that bring you closer to the heart of Japan. From iconic cities to quiet countryside escapes, we’ll help you discover the real Japan — full of history, hospitality, and heart.