3days in Miyagi and Yamagata!

Suggested Time
Suggested Time : 3 days / 2 nights
Transport Options
Transport Options : Drive
Area Map 青森県 岩手県 宮城県 秋田県 山形県 福島県 新潟県

1. Zao Onsen (stay)

2. Shiogama: Sushi/Matsushima Bay SUP Plan

3. Ichinokura (sake brewery tour)

4. Okama Crater, Zao

5. Takahata Winery

6. Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji Temple, Mt. Hoju)/Tendo (fruit-picking)/Ginzan Onsen

7. Naruko Gorge

START
Day1
Sendai Station

Miyagi Sushi Kaido (Shiogama Area)

Shiogama is the city of sushi. Unique sushi restaurants compete for your attention

Miyagi Sushi Kaido (Shiogama Area)
Shiogama is a port town that boasts one of the largest fresh tuna landings in Japan. Shiogama, where a rich variety of fish is landed from season to season, has long had a large number of sushi restaurants, each of which competes for the best taste with its own unique flavor and technique. Eleven sushi restaurants will be participating in this event, offering seasonal dishes and other menu items to let everyone know about the delicious sushi of Shiogama, which is made with rice from Miyagi, a rice-producing region, and plenty of fresh seafood from the Sanriku coast.

Matsushima SUP Plan

SUP Experience in Matsushima Bay

Matsushima SUP Plan
Matsushima, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, straddles Shichigahama Town, Shiogama City, Matsushima Town, and Higashimatsushima City, and is made up of more than 260 islands of various sizes in and around the bay.Thanks to its unique topography, the waves are calm and the wind is less likely to affect you, making it the perfect environment for SUP.Above all, the beauty of the landscape is unparalleled.It is a dream place for SUPers, who can cruise, SUP surf, or ride the wind and swell downwind, all within this area, depending on their purpose.Come and encounter a special view that cannot be seen from land.

ICHINOKURA Co.,Ltd.

Handcrafted sake: made with traditional techniques and a passion for craftsmanship

 ICHINOKURA Co.,Ltd.
Ichinokura was established in 1973 from four historical sake breweries in Miyagi Prefecture. Ichinokura values the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature and aims to preserve tradition, satisfy customers, and promote the local community. While carefully maintaining traditional methods and producing high-quality, hand-crafted sake, Ichinokura is also actively developing products that use brewing and fermentation technologies. They developed "Himezen," sake with low alcohol content, and "Suzune," a sparkling sake, to create a new market for this traditional Japanese beverage.<Latest Information>Twitter:https://twitter.com/ichinokura_sakeInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/ichinokura_sake/?hl=jaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/Ichinokura.Sake

Stay at Zao Onsen

Stay at Zao Onsen
Recommended accommodation here
Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso
Day2
Depart from accommodation

Okama Crater of Zao

Zao’s iconic crater-lake changes hues depending on the sunlight

Okama Crater of Zao
Located on the border of Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures, the Zao Mountain Range has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 most famous mountains. Okama Crater is a crater-lake surrounded by three mountains (Kattadake, Kumanodake and Goshikidake) and, along with its frost-covered trees, is an iconic image of the Zao Mountains. Nicknamed the “Cauldron” because of its appearance, Okama Crater is also known locally as “Goshikilake” (the five-coloured pond) thanks to the changing hues of the water from dark green to blue according to the sunlight. The colours of the crater-lake also fascinate visitors as they change depending on the angle of view. The lake is a kilometre in circumference, 325m in diameter, and has a depth of 27.6m. There is no life in the lake due to strong acidity of the water.
The crater is accessible via a scenic drive along the Zao Echo Line, traversing the Zao Mountains from east to west, to the Zao High Line. The Zao Summit Rest House along the way offers a restaurant and gift shop with a splendid view of Okama Crater. The Zao Echo Line and Zao High Line are open from late April to early November. Please be mindful that these mountain roads are closed during winter.
There is an easy 10-minute trail from Okama Crater to the top of Mount Kattadake (1758m) where the Kattamine Shrine stands worshipping the incarnation of Zao.
The one-hour “Umanose” trekking path leading to Mount Kumanodake offers magnificent views of Okama Crater. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and suitable clothes.
* The roads and paths around the crater are subject to closure for safety reasons. Please refer to the Japanese Meteorological Agency’s website for the latest warnings.

Takahata Winery

Takahata Winery
Among the fruit kingdom of Yamagata, Takahata Winery is located in Takahata Town, which has the largest shipment of Chardonnay and Delaware grapes used for wine in Japan. The winery's wines, made from grapes and Yamagata fruits (cherries, La France, peaches, etc.) lovingly cultivated by the winery and local farmers, are popular for their carefully crafted methods.
Upon entering the premises, you will first see the vineyards spread out before you. After admiring the vineyards, visitors can tour the wine-making process indoors. The store offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including limited-edition wines that can only be purchased here and snacks that go perfectly with the wine. The store has a corner where you can sample four to five different wines at any given time, and staff members are certified sommeliers, so you are sure to find a wine selection to your liking.
The winery also offers wine by the glass, coffee, soft drinks, and casual snacks such as pizza. In addition to grapes, we also recommend our original soft-serve ice cream containing white wine, which has been popular since the establishment of the winery.
Many events are planned, including the Harvest Festival held every year around October and the winery's Spring Festival. Each event attracts a large number of wine and food connoisseurs.

Yonezawas proud black beef Yonezawa beef

One of Japan's three most renowned brands of wagyu beef

Yonezawas proud black beef Yonezawa beef
【What is Yonezawa Beef?】Yonezawa Beef refers to beef cattle of the Japanese Black breed, raised for at least 18 months by livestock farmers in the three cities and five towns of the Okitama region. It is characterized by an excellent appearance, meat quality, and fat marbling, as certified by a stamp on the carcass.It is a rare beef that combines traditional flavor and deliciousness. Its finely marbled fat truly melts in your mouth, offering a truly moving experience when eaten.Due to this taste and deep history, Yonezawa Beef was registered under the Geographical Indication (GI) Protection System in March 2017.
【Characteristics】Its most notable features are the fine marbling and the exceptional quality of its fat. This high-quality fat possesses umami and aroma, and melts at a low temperature, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.The secret to this superior fat lies in the climate and natural environment of the Okitama region, combined with the breeding techniques cultivated over many years through trial and error by our predecessors.Enjoy it your preferred way, such as in sukiyaki or as steak.

【Major Yonezawa Beef Retailers】Please check the following websites:・Yonezawa Noren Association (http://yonezawagyu-norenkai.com/)・Yonezawa Beef Brand Promotion Council (http://yonezawagyu.jp)
We invite you to savor the supreme taste of “Yonezawa Beef,” born from the fertile Yonezawa Basin in the upper reaches of the Mogami River.

Stay at Zao Onsen

Stay at Zao Onsen
Recommended accommodation here
Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso
Day3
Depart from accommodation

Risshaku-ji Temple

The historic temple rising to the sky along delightful mountain paths described in the great Haiku master’s poem

Risshaku-ji Temple
Risshaku-ji Temple is popularly known as Yamadera (Mountain Temple). The rocky mountain itself is a sacred location for ascetic Zen practices. Visitors can enjoy breath-taking views along the one-hour path from the foot of the mountain to Okunoin Temple and Daibutsuden Hall at the top. The great Haiku master Basho Matsuo composed one of his best-known Haiku poems “Shizukesa ya/iwa ni shimiiru/semi no koe” in the work “Oku no Hosomichi” (Narrow Road to the Deep North) while walking this path.
The series of 1,015 stone steps to Okunoin Temple is said to steadily release visitors from their worldly desires as they ascend. The many historic sites and scenic locations along the way encourage visitors to continue the climb while enriching the mind and senses.
The path begins with Konpo Chudo Hall, the oldest cedar wood building in Japan and a designated Important Cultural Property. Midahora Rock is a lucky location that is said to bring happiness if visitors can find the figure of Buddha on the side of the rock eroded by wind and rain over thousands of years. Passing through the Niomon Gate with a pair of fierce guardian god statues brings you to the majestic Kaizando and Nokyodo Halls. The red Nokyodo Hall sitting on a craggy mountain outcrop is an iconic view of the Yamadera. The steps on from Kaizando Hall take visitors to Godaido Hall which is evocative of a traditional Noh stage offering a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The final destinations are Okunoin Temple and Daibutsuden Hall, which is said to expel evil spirits.
After exploring the mountain temples be sure to enjoy the variety of local specialties available at the nearby shops including Yamadera Chikara Konjac, cherry ice cream and Dashi Soba noodles!

Ohsyo Fruits Farm

Stay at a fruit farm and experience fruit picking in the town of Shogi

Ohsyo Fruits Farm
At Ohsyo Fruits Farm, you can experience seasonal harvesting as shown in the table below. The cherry, peach, and grape harvesting experiences are available even in the rain. Depending on the weather, there may be slight differences in the periods when experiences are available. Please check in advance before coming to the fruit farm. If your feet are exposed due to wearing sandals, mules, and other such footwear, your feet may get dirty. You are at risk of falling if you wear shoes with high soles, such as heels. Please arrive wearing shoes such as sneakers that are easy to walk in.

Ginzan Onsen

This classic hot spring town lined with traditional wooden architecture is full of photogenic nostalgia!

Ginzan Onsen
Travel back in time to classical Japan in Ginzan Onsen! The town is home to wooden hot spring inns lining each side of the Ginzan River and resonates with nostalgic beauty when illuminated at night by gas street lamps. The view reminds visitors of scenes from the famous film “Sprinted Away” by Hayao Miyazaki. Before that the town was used as a location of NHK’s popular TV drama series “Oshin”, a monumental hit of 1983. The night view of the town blanketed in snow beneath the warm streetlights is particularly photogenic during winter.
Walking along the town’s streets visitors will find colourful pictures known as Kote-e on the walls of hot spring inns and snowflake designs on tiles on the roads. Relax your feet in hot spring water rising directly from its source at the “Warashiyu” footbaths along the Ginzan River while exploring the town! The compact town is suitable for strolling around and has a variety of cafes, eateries and gift shops. Classical costumes of the Taisho period can be rented from local shops to enhance the Onsen experience and take visitors back to the time when Japanese arts and culture flourished following exposure to western cultural influences. Why not enjoy strolling around this picturesque town in a chic costume?
The town is covered with deep snow in winter however it is easily accessible via a 3-hour Shinkansen from Tokyo and direct 40-minute bus ride. A relaxing soak in a hot spring surrounded by snowy scenery is an exceptional delight! After a warm hot spring bath, enjoy savouring local specialties including the local Wagyu beef “Obanazawa” and Obanazawa Soba noodles!
Neighbouring natural attractions include Senshinkyo Gorge, a scenic location during the seasons of verdant greens and autumn leaves and the 22-metre vertical drop of Shirogane-no-taki Waterfall.
A thematic journey in the Tohoku region:Hot springs

Naruko Gorge

Enjoy the views of this spectacular gorge! One of Tohoku’s best locations to admire autumn leaves

Naruko Gorge
Naruko Gorge was created by the erosion of the Oya River. The gorge located in the Kurikoma Quasi-National Park is officially recognised as a place of scenic beauty. The 100m high sheer cliffs offer spectacular views with a range of unique rock formations and thick bushes covering the rough rock surface. Known as one of Tohoku’s greatest places of autumnal beauty, the deep gorge is particularly impressive when decorated with colourful autumn leaves. The white rock surface contrasts beautifully with a covering of colourful trees and bushes. The best time to enjoy this display of colours is from late October to early November. Visitors can enjoy the magnificent views from the observation platform at the Naruko-kyo Rest House as well as the observation decks along the local walking trails.
The beautiful arch of Ofukasawa Bridge over the Oya River is a popular scenic view of Naruko-kyo Gorge. Visitors can also enjoy the incredible view of the gorge from the bridge itself. You may even be lucky enough to see a charming local train passing from the gorge tunnel!
The 2.2km Ofukasawa Trail is a pleasant walking path from which to enjoy views of the gorge while listening to the sounds of the river flowing below. Please note that the trail is closed during winter.
Thanks to the popular hot springs such as Nakayamadaira Onsen and Naruko Onsen in the neighbourhood, Naruko-kyo Gorge is filled with visitors throughout the year.
A thematic journey in the Tohoku region:Okuno Hosomichi・The History of Michinoku

Naruko Onsen Yumeguri Plaza (Hand Bath)

A covered walkway in the heart of Naruko Onsen town. At the end of the corridor lies a rare hand-washing fountain. Anyone can freely touch it, so please give it a try.

Naruko Onsen Yumeguri Plaza (Hand Bath)
A covered walkway in the heart of Naruko Onsen town. At the end of the corridor lies a rare hand-washing fountain. Anyone can freely touch it, so please give it a try.
 
GOAL
  • Miyagi Sushi Kaido (Shiogama Area)
  • Matsushima SUP Plan
  • ICHINOKURA Co.,Ltd.
  • Okama Crater of Zao
  • Takahata Winery
  • Yonezawas proud black beef Yonezawa beef
  • Risshaku-ji Temple
  • Ohsyo Fruits Farm
  • Ginzan Onsen
  • Naruko Gorge
  • Naruko Onsen Yumeguri Plaza (Hand Bath)

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