Experience Tohoku's Stunning Scenery from Both Land and Sky!
Tohoku offers countless hands-on programs to enjoy its dynamic nature and rich culture, but some let you explore it in a whole new way through unique ride experiences!
Head to the Kounan Railway Train Depot in Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture, and try operating a retro Russell car—the perfect activity for all train enthusiasts!
For those looking to take to the skies and enjoy a bird's-eye view, Nanyo City in Yamagata Prefecture offers a spectacular hot air balloon experience with breathtaking scenery—including a sea of clouds when conditions are just right!
Be sure to brave the seas to see Tohoku's dramatic cliffs from a Sappa boat (small fishing boat) in Tanohata Village, Iwate Prefecture, and savor the local seafood before hiking along the Michinoku Coastal Trail.
Visit Iide Town in Yamagata Prefecture for a leisurely e-bike ride through the stunning Tohoku countryside, and discover the history and traditional snacks of Yamagata.
Make sure to explore Tohoku on your trip to Japan and experience its vast nature and rich culture!
Yamagata Prefecture: Soar Through a Surreal Sea of Clouds in a Hot Air Balloon at Mt. Jubuichi
Mt. Jubuichi in Nanyo City, Yamagata Prefecture, is famous for its sea of clouds. Experience a one-of-a-kind hot air balloon ride and take in the superb scenery spread out before your eyes as you soar over the rice fields and Yonezawa City.
If the weather conditions are just right, you may even be lucky enough to see the sea of clouds! The balloon itself is moored with ropes, so even first-timers can enjoy this experience stress-free.
Immerse yourself in this dream-like feeling of floating leisurely in nature!
Iwate Prefecture: Discover the Sanriku Region From Land and Sea on This Sappa Boat & Hiking Experience
Take in the charms of Iwate's Sanriku area on the "Sanriku Sappa Boat and Trail Adventure"!
Start on a small Sappa boat for a cruise that brings you up close to the dynamic coastline, offering stunning views. Enjoy the excitement of the waves crashing against the dramatic cliff faces!
Return to the shore and savor a seafood meal before heading out on the Michinoku Coastal Trail for the last part of the tour. Experience all the area has to offer on this adventure-packed course with hand-dug tunnels and rock climbs using ladders!
*Advance reservation required.
Yamagata Prefecture: Take in the Scenic Japanese Countryside on a Relaxing E-Bike Ride
Iide Town in Yamagata Prefecture is recognized as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in Japan". Explore its rich natural beauty with your local guide on the "Yamagata Rice Field Cycling Tour" by e-bike, and be amazed by the stunning rice fields set against the backdrop of some of Japan's 100 Most Famous Mountains.
Along the way, you will stop by a historic storehouse to learn about the history and practices of rice cultivation before taking a quick break to sample some tea and brave the traditional flavors of Inago no Tsukudani (locusts simmered in a blend of soy sauce and mirin).
Enjoy a relaxing ride through the Japanese countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while feeling the gentle breeze on your face.
Aomori Prefecture: Calling All Rail Enthusiasts! Visit a Railway Train Depot and Operate a Retro Russell Car!
Tour a local private railway train depot in Aomori Prefecture with the "Kounan Railway Train Depot Tour and Russell Car Operation Experience".
Enter a train depot normally closed to the public and see one of Japan's most valuable train repair techniques! The highlight, however, is the Russel car, a snowplow unique to Aomori, the prefecture with the largest amount of snowfall! Sit in the cockpit and try operating the "wing" and "flanger" equipment used for snow removal.
You won't want to miss this chance to feel the power of trains up close!
*Note that the Russell car hands-on experience is only available from April to November.