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Tokyo departure "Recommended summer trip! Tohoku 9 nights, 10 days trip" model itinerary

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Introducing a 9-night, 10-day trip to Tohoku, recommended for summer. Rent a camper van from Tokyo and enjoy famous Tohoku sightseeing spots, local cuisine, BBQs, and boat rides! We also introduce souvenirs unique to the area.

Latest update :
Required time

9 nights, 10 days *Travel by car. Use train only on the last day to return the car and go to the airport

Transportation
train Train
directions_car_filled Car
directions_walk On foot
Day 1

1
JAPAN ROAD TRIP VORT Mita Station

Address: 3F, 4-3-11 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014

JAPAN ROAD TRIP (Official)

JAPAN ROAD TRIP [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

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Approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes

2
Matsumoto Castle

In winter, the castle features two different coloured exterior walls, painted with white plaster and black lacquer. When the mountains behind the castle are covered in snow, the black of the castle and the white of the snow make it even more spectacular!
In winter, the castle features two different colors, white plaster and black lacquer, on its exterior walls. When the mountains behind the castle are covered in snow, the black of the castle and the white of the snow make it even more spectacular!

Address: 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, 390-0873

National Treasure Matsumoto Castle [Official]

Experience Programs

Not only can you see Matsumoto Castle, but there are also a variety of experience programs available!

"Soba noodle making experience" : With detailed explanations and demonstrations from veteran instructors, even beginners can easily try it out

Kimono rental and dressing plans available!

Experience Program [Official]

Experience Program [Official] English version

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Approx. 27 minutes

3
大王わさび農場

"Real Wasabi Rice" : The unexpected combination of wasabi and rice is surprisingly addictive. You can eat this specialty at "Yusui Meshikama Daiouan."

The "fresh wasabi" that has been carefully grown over a period of one and a half years spreads the unique "pungent aroma and sweetness" of wasabi the moment it is grated, and when it is placed on warm rice, the aroma fills your nose! Please enjoy the deliciousness of "real wasabi" by eating it as a staple food!

The "Blue Sky Float" is a popular activity every year during the hot summer.

The ever-popular "Premium Wasabi Soft Serve" : Wasabi soft serve ice cream topped with freshly grated wasabi!

For souvenirs, try Wasabi- do's "Kneaded Spicy," which is also popular among foreign visitors. It can be stored at room temperature for a long time, and just by mixing it with water and kneading it, you can turn it into real wasabi from Daio Wasabi Farm!

For those who want to enjoy "real wasabi rice" at home, we also have a "real wasabi rice set" . We also have "grated fresh wasabi" and "hachimi" (seven spices) with a subtle wasabi aroma that adds a nice accent. We also sell "fresh wasabi" !

Address: 3640 Hotaka, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture, 399-8303

Daio Wasabi Farm | Japan's largest wasabi farm in Azumino, Shinshu [Official]

Daio Wasabi Farm | Japan's No. 1 wasabi farm in Azumino, Shinshu [Official] English version

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Approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes

4
Shinshu Wagyu Beef Specialty Shop Marugyu

2 pieces of lean meat<br>
2 pieces of lean meat

Address: 602-1 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture, 389-0102

Shinshu Wagyu Beef Specialty Store Marugyu - Karuizawa/Beef dishes | Tabelog

Shinshu Wagyu Beef Specialty Store Marugyu Instagram [Official]

Old Karuizawa Ginza Street

The main street of Kyu-Karuizawa, the approximately 750m Kyu-Karu Ginza Ginza Street is lined on both sides with long-established bakeries, coffee shops, souvenir shops and food stalls.

Old Karuizawa Ginza Street | Karuizawa Tourism Association [Official]

Old Karuizawa Ginza Street | Karuizawa Tourism Association [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

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Approx. 4 minutes

5
Kyu Karuizawa Hotel Otowa No Mori

"Restaurant Katsurahime"

"Restaurant Katsurahime" : Not only does it serve French course meals using ingredients from Shinshu and in season, but it also offers a wide selection of Shinshu wines, mainly from France and Italy.

"Otowa-tei Charcoal Grilled Skewers" : You can fully enjoy the delicious flavors of chicken slowly grilled over binchotan charcoal.

"Café OTOWA" uses seasonal fruits and local Shinshu produce to create cakes made with the sophisticated techniques and attention to detail of the hotel's pastry chefs. Enjoy different sweets for each season! Otowa's special afternoon tea is also recommended.

Address: 1323-980 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture, 389-0102

Old Karuizawa Hotel Otowa no Mori [Official]

Kyukaruizawa Hotel Otowa no Mori [Official] English version

Day 2
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About 3 hours and 1 minute

6
Kiyotsu Gorge

The Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel is 750 meters long and takes 30 to 40 minutes round trip.

Located at the very back of the Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel, the Panorama Station (Water Mirror) is filled with water. The water is shallow at the end, only 0.5 to 2 cm deep, so you can walk in and take photos!

Inside the tunnel, the temperature is around 21 to 24 degrees, and it can even feel cold. This is because it is out of the sun and there is a constant cool breeze from the clear stream, making it a natural air conditioner .

*As it is easy to get wet, we recommend bringing spare shoes, socks, towels, etc.

*Cars can be parked in Parking Lot 1 and Parking Lot 2.

Address: Koide, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, 949-8433

Kiyotsukyo Gorge, one of Japan's three great canyons [Official website]

Kiyotsukyo Gorge, one of Japan's three great gorges [Official] English, Chinese, and Korean versions

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Approx. 19 minutes

7
Uono Village

Hegi soba: The chewy texture and smoothness of this soba are extremely popular! You can also eat set meals made with Niigata's famous "Koshihikari" rice.

Sweet shrimp soft serve : A rich "raw milk vanilla soft serve" topped with a "Nanban shrimp rice cracker" and two whole dried sweet shrimp, made with Niigata-exclusive "Nanban shrimp miso soup base" mixed with local miso.

Sasadango soft serve ice cream : A popular attraction on bus tours!

Address: 699 Ubajimashinden, Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, 949-6425

Uonosato [Official]

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Approx. 2 hours 57 minutes

8
Tsuruga Castle

You can also see this view in winter. Tsuruga Castle in January 2023
You can also see this view in winter. Tsuruga Castle in January 2023

Address: 1-1 Oitemachi, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, 965-0873

Tsuruga Castle [Official]

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Approximately 10 minutes

9
Yoshinoya Restaurant

Address: 113 Yumoto Iihira, Higashiyama-cho, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, 965-0814

Yoshinoya Shokudo - Aizuwakamatsu Other/Tonkatsu | Tabelog (tabelog.com)

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Approx. 41 minutes

10
Inawashiro Ski Resort RV Park with a spectacular view of Mt. Bandai

There are three accommodation areas

Altitude 650m Parking area : 3,500 yen/car per night

Altitude 750m Slope area : 6,800 yen per car per night (6,300 yen without power)

Altitude 900m Slope area : 12,800 yen/car per night (no power)

All reservations can be made online , and if you make a reservation, there is no need to check in! You can arrive at any time, so you can have fun all day long without worry!

Free Services

Toilets available 24 hours a day, power supply (100V 15A), microwave, pot, kitchen, dump station (gray only) * Portable and domestic wastewater only, washing machine

Paid services

Bathing facilities: Villa Inawashiro Bathing hours: 6:00-9:00, 14:00-16:00, 21:00-23:30 Bathing fee: 700 yen for adults (junior high school students and above), 500 yen for children *For bathing outside the above hours, please contact the hotel directly. Villa Inawashiro TEL: 0242-62-4111

Villa Inawashiro : If you contact them in advance, they will serve you a menu using local ingredients. They also offer delivery to the RV park for those who want to eat in their camper!

*Supermarkets, convenience stores, home improvement centers, coin laundries, etc. are located within a 10-minute drive.

Address: 7105 Hayama, Inawashiro-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture, 969-3102

"Inawashiro Ski Resort RV Park with Spectacular Views of Mt. Bandai" [Official]

Day 3
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Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes

11
Chinese Noodles Yoshiichi

The ramen soup is pure chicken soup made only from chicken . The chef tries not to add too much to the cooking method in order to bring out the natural flavor of the chicken. The soup made only from chicken is odorless and full-bodied . Please enjoy this "pure chicken soup" made with the natural flavor of chicken!

*Parking: There are paid parking lots nearby

Address: 3-8-12 Kokubuncho, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, 980-0803

Sendai Chinese Noodles Meiten Kaichi | Ramen shop with soup made only from pure chicken [Official]

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Approx. 12 minutes

12
Zuihoden

In the summer, the temple grounds, including the main approach and the main hall, are lit up with bamboo lanterns as part of the " Fantasy Lights Night - Zuihoden Tanabata Night" event , and there are also bamboo flute performances and forest concerts!

Address: 23-2, Reiyashita, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi-ken, 980-0814

Zuihoden - The mausoleum where Date Masamune, the founder of the Sendai domain, rests [Official]

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Approx. 43 minutes

13
Matsushima Fish Market

There are about 1500 kinds of fresh seafood from all over Japan! With a wide variety of products, you can find all kinds of delicious seafood from Tohoku that are perfect as souvenirs! In addition, you can enjoy "eating " and "buying" the extremely fresh "wild tuna" and delicious seafood from Sanriku, which can only be provided by a shipowner who owns a tuna fishing boat!

On the second floor of the building, there is a spacious dining area where you can enjoy fresh seafood! There is a wide variety of menu items, including sushi, rice bowls, and ramen. You can also try the delicious oysters that are unique to Matsushima .

Yakigaki House : All-you-can-eat hot, jiggly oysters! 3,300 yen for 45 minutes

Tuna cutting show : In addition to the tuna cutting show, there are many other events every month where they serve freshly caught seasonal seafood, so there are plenty of fun events to enjoy!

Address: 4-10 Fugendo, Matsushima, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture, 981-0213

Matsushima Fish Market [Official]

Matsushima Fish Market [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

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Approximately 6 minutes by car or 16 minutes on foot

14
Matsushima Kaigan Station

"Matsushima Coast" is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan . The other three are "Amanohashidate" in Kyoto, "Miyajima" in Hiroshima, and "Matsushima" in Miyagi.

Matsushima is the collective name for the 260 or so islands floating in and around Matsushima Bay. Long ago, it was a hill, but due to crustal movements it sank, and the tops of the mountains and hills remained above sea level, becoming islands. It is said that many people, including Date Masamune , the first lord of the Sendai domain, haiku poet Matsushima Basho , and Albert Einstein , visited Matsushima to enjoy the moon.

It is easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area and Sendai, and is visited by over 3 million tourists every year . There, you can enjoy the scenery that captivates people of all ages and countries!

Shooting spot

The Shirai Kannon Observatory, where you can see a view that says "This is Matsushima!" , is a particularly recommended spot for taking photos! It seems that many of the photos used in tourist brochures are taken from here.

Saigyo Modoshinomatsu Park: A view spot with a panoramic view of Matsushima

The symbol of Matsushima : Godaido

Zuiganji Temple , the family temple of Date Masamune, the ruler of Oshu

Address: Matsushima, Matsushima-cho, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture, 981-0213

A detailed explanation of the charms of Matsushima, one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Spots | Matsushima Tourism Guide [Official]

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Approximately 5 minutes

15
Hotel Matsushima Taikanso

Japanese Restaurant: Enjoy kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal flavors from every season.

The five restaurants serve Japanese, Western and Chinese cuisine in open kitchens, where you can enjoy a buffet using local Miyagi ingredients and seasonal ingredients, a Japanese-style seafood buffet using carefully selected ingredients, mainly fresh seafood from the local sea, kaiseki cuisine, and authentic Chinese cuisine that makes lavish use of seafood and local ingredients.

The "open-air bath" gives you the feeling of floating on the water : you can enjoy bathing while enjoying the magnificent and beautiful location of Matsushima Bay, one of the Three Most Scenic Spots in Japan! You can also see the sunrise from the open-air bath . You can enjoy the view of Matsushima Bay from the bathtub, which juts out to blend in with the natural surroundings.

You can spend a relaxing time looking at the magnificent scenery of Matsushima, which changes with the seasons. <br>
You can spend a relaxing time looking at the magnificent scenery of Matsushima, which changes with the seasons.

Address: 10-76 Inuda, Matsushima, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture, 981-0213

Resort Hotel in Matsushima | Hotel Matsushima Taikanso [Official]

Matsushima Resort Hotel | Hotel Matsushima Taikanso [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

Day 4
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Approximately 4 minutes by car or 18 minutes on foot

16
Abe Kamaboko Shop Matsushima Teramachi Store

Recommended: A classic taste with a strong fish flavor . Winner of the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award at the 65th National Seafood Processed Food Exhibition , "Abe no Sasa Kamaboko" in the Seafood Paste Products category

The seasoning is a "strong start, clean finish" that our chefs have finally arrived at after studying 300 different recipes . The umami of the fish is well preserved and the fishy smell is suppressed so that even people who don't like fish can enjoy it!

Hand-grilled sasakama experience : The hot, freshly grilled sasakama you grill yourself is exceptionally delicious! 300 yen (tax included) Time required: about 10 minutes *No reservations required

Address: 58 Matsushimacho, Matsushima-cho, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture, 981-0213

Abe Kamabokoten [Official]

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Approximately 6 minutes by car or 25 minutes on foot

17
Bridge33

Matsushima tomato taco rice
Matsushima Tomato Taco Rice

Address: 2-6, Takagi-cho, Matsushima-cho, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture, 981-0215

Bridge33 (Bridge33) Instagram [Official]

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After this, we will have "wankosoba" so it's okay to skip breakfast!
Approx. 2 hours 18 minutes

18
Soba-dokoro Higashiya Main Store

"Wankosoba" is a nutritious and healthy Japanese dish made from soba noodles, born from the "spirit of hospitality" unique to Iwate. It is an "all-you-can-eat soba noodle dish with servings."

How to eat: The waiter will call out, "Here you go, janjan. Here you go, dondon ♪," and toss a bite-sized serving of soba into the bowl in front of you!

Empty bowls are piled up on the table as you eat, so you can count the number of bowls you have eaten. Enjoy the atmosphere of Wankosoba with the sound of bowls being stacked and the bowls piling up in an instant ! *15 bowls equals about one bowl of kake soba noodles.

If you eat more than 100 bowls, you will receive a "certificate of sale" , so please try it as a commemorative challenge! (Children will receive a certificate regardless of the number of bowls they eat)

Address: 1-8-3 Nakanohashi-dori, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, 020-0871

Soba Restaurant Azumaya [Official]

Soba Restaurant Azumaya [Official] English and Chinese versions

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Approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes

19
Geibikei boat descent

Geibikei Gorge is one of the 100 most scenic spots in Japan , and is the first place in the prefecture to be designated as a national historic site, scenic spot, and natural monument.

At Geibikei, you can take a boat ride down the river. The route is round trip from the departure point, so you can enjoy it safely even if you go by car!

The round trip takes about 80 to 90 minutes, so you can relax and enjoy the natural scenery!

Dogs and cats can board the boat if they are on a leash for an additional 200 yen! *Please note that we may not be able to accommodate you if the boat is in service or depending on the boarding situation on the day. You can also rent the boat exclusively and enjoy a spacious and relaxing time with your family, club members, or friends.

*There are 200 parking spaces around the boat dock.

In winter, you can see a view like this. <br>
In winter, you can see a view like this.

Address: 467 Nagasakacho, Higashiyamacho, Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture, 029-0302

Geibikei Gorge Boat Trip | Relaxing boat ride at Geibikei Gorge [Official]

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Approx. 2 hours 53 minutes

20
Ryusendo Cave

Ryusen-do Cave is considered one of the three largest limestone caves in Japan , and is designated as a national natural monument along with the bats that live within the cave.

Ryusendo Cave is an eye-opening "blue underground lake" with one of the clearest waters in the world . Once you see it, you will be impressed and never forget it!

The temperature inside the cave is around 10℃ throughout the year, making it a recommended spot to escape the heat during the hot summer months! *Short sleeves and dresses can be chilly in the summer, so we recommend bringing something to put on over your clothes.

There are three lakes worth seeing

First underground lake, 35m deep

Second underground lake, 38m deep

The third underground lake is 98m deep.

Heart Spot : At Tsukimiya Palace, if you look from the direction you are heading back, there is a place where the overlapping rocks make the space look like a heart. If you stand near the guardian lion and look in the direction of Kameiwa, you will see a heart that is tilted slightly to the left, so try and find it! *When traveling one-way, it only passes by once on the way there, so be sure to keep an eye out.

In fact, the best time to see it is in the winter when there is no rain and the water level is stable. This time, we recommend visiting in the summer as a summer resort, as the year-round temperature is around 10℃.

Address: 1-1 Iwaizumi Kannari, Iwaizumi-cho, Shimohei-gun, Iwate Prefecture, 027-0501

Ryusendo Cave [Official]

Ryusendo Cave [Official] English and Chinese

Parking lots near Ryusendo Cave

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Approximately 5 minutes

21
Ryusendo Onsen Hotel

Seasonal Meal Standard Plan : You can eat Iwaizumi Wagyu beef, a rare beef breed called Japanese Shorthorn, which is one of the varieties known as "Wagyu" and accounts for less than 1% of all Wagyu beef.

Japanese-Western room : Enjoy a view of lush nature from your room.

For those who are uncomfortable bathing with others, rest assured. We also offer rare private baths ! The walls are made of cypress, which is sure to have a relaxing effect.

Address: 48 Iwaizumi-fukin, Iwaizumi-cho, Shimohei-gun, Iwate Prefecture, 027-0501

Ryusendo Onsen Hotel [Official]

Ryusendo Onsen Hotel [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

Day 5
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Approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes

22
Hasshoku Center

Hasshoku Center, which has been in business for over 30 years, is a 170-meter-long mall with around 60 stores, offering a wide range of products, from fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables, meat, dried goods, delicacies, sweets, alcohol, and everyday items, including souvenirs, and all of Hachinohe's specialties. The sight of seasonal ingredients lined up is truly impressive!

The fish shop is lined with a wide variety of fresh seafood that is caught every morning , including seasonal fish, dried fish, freshly cut sashimi, and even rare fish and shellfish !

If you're not sure what to buy, just ask the shop staff.

Shichirin Village : You can buy ingredients at the facility and have them grilled over charcoal on the spot.

Grill fresh seafood and meat purchased at the market over charcoal in a chisel!

・Basic equipment such as a shichirin (a Japanese-style cooking pot), tongs, and seasonings will be provided.

・It's an indoor facility so you don't have to worry about the weather! You can enjoy BBQ anytime

Scallops, a specialty of Aomori : We recommend grilling them with the shells on.

For those who can't decide what to eat, we recommend the "BBQ Set" which allows you to try a variety of seafood!

In addition to seafood, you can also purchase Aomori's famous "Kuraishi beef", which has a fine, tender, high-quality texture and rich flavor, as well as "charcoal grill skewers" that are unique to butcher shops!

Address: 22-2 Kawaraki Shinsai, Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, 039-1161

Hasshoku Center | All the delicious foods of Hachinohe are available here! The market! [Official]

Hasshoku Center | All the delicious foods of Hachinohe are available here! The market! [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

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Approx. 19 minutes

23
Kabushima Shrine

The shrine enshrines Benzaiten, and has long been worshipped by local people as the guardian deity of "prosperous business" and "safe fishing."

Because the "kabu" (turnip) at Kabushima Shrine and the "kabu" (stock) are pronounced the same, the "kabuagari hyotan omamori" (turnip-rising gourd charm) is said to bring about an increase in stock prices and the "kabu" (turnip) of popularity, making it a very popular item.

Address: 56-2 Samemachi, Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, 031-0841

Kabushima Shrine [Official]

When you come to Kabushima, please use the Kabushima Parking Lot.

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Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

24
Hirosaki Apple Park

Boasting an area of ​​about 5.2 hectares, Apple Park is home to an astounding 2,300 apple trees of about 80 varieties . There are plenty of facilities where you can enjoy the delicious apples that can only be found in this famous apple-producing region, including an apple-picking experience.

Apple-picking experience : From August 1st to mid-November, you can pick apples at the "Apple Production Experience Garden." The freshly picked apples taste exceptional! *Please note that the period during which you can experience this varies depending on the condition of the apples, so please check in advance. You can also stroll freely along the garden paths and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mt. Iwaki beyond the apple orchards!

Apple House : Approximately 1200 kinds of apple-related products are sold, including original local crafts with an apple motif and apple sweets. In the snack corner, you can enjoy apple gourmet such as apple curry, apple sundae, and cider.

Address: 125 Shimizu Tomitaderasawa, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, 036-8262

Hirosaki City Apple Park | Spots and Activities | Aomori Prefecture Tourism Information Site [Official]

Hirosaki Apple Park | Spots & Activities | Aomori Prefecture Tourism Information Site [Official] English, Chinese, Korean Version

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Approximately 10 minutes

25
Hirosaki Castle

Hirosaki Park is home to many valuable cultural assets that have been passed down from the feudal era. Within the park, remains of the castle tower, turrets, castle gates and other structures that still retain the appearance of the feudal era remain. There are few examples in the country of a castle of this size that has been opened as a park while still retaining its original appearance as a historic site!

Address: 1 Shimoshiroganecho, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, 036-8356

Hirosaki Castle | Hirosaki Park General Information [Official]

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After learning a lot about history, make a detour to a roadside station for some sweets!
Approx. 29 minutes

26
Roadside Station Tsuruta, Crane Village

Located next to Hirosaki City, which is the top producer of apples in Japan , Tsuruta is home to a wide variety of apple-related products, including "Steuben," the number one producer of apples in Japan, and Tsuruta's rice "Tsuru no Kagayaki."

Left: Soy milk dandan noodles made with soy milk from

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Left: Soy milk dandan noodles made with soy milk from "Osuzu" soybeans grown in Tsuruta. Right: "Steuben gyoza" made with dough kneaded with Steuben, the most produced wheat in Japan, can only be tasted here!

Jumbo-sized

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Jumbo-sized cream puffs are perfect for sharing with family or friends!

The Tsurutamachi Jumbo Series of sweets are surprisingly big and are a hot topic on the internet! They also have bread and pudding, so if you have the chance, please give them a try!

business hours

・Roadside station main building: 09:00-17:00

・Restaurant Banryu: 11:00-15:00 (last order 14:30)

・Soybean rice processing facility Aruan: 10:00-17:00

・Farm produce direct sales store: 8:00-17:00

Parking lot and toilets: Available 24 hours a day. *Opening hours may change depending on the season and weather. Parking lot: Large enough to accommodate more than 10 large buses.

Address: 176-1, Sakai, Satomi, Tsuruta-machi, Kitatsugaru-gun, Aomori Prefecture, 038-3524 (along National Route 339 Bypass)

Roadside Station Tsuruta Tsuru no Sato Aruja [Official]

What is a "Roadside Station"? English version

train
Approx. 12 minutes

27
Staying at home in Goshogawara

Dinner: "Tsugaru Wild Boar Hot Pot" : The wild boar meat is provided by the "Okutsugaru Wild Boar Farm," a rare breed of wild boar in Japan. The wild boars are raised on plant-based feed and apples from Aomori Prefecture, and are characterized by their thick meat but light flavor . The more you chew, the more the texture of the red meat and fat and the rich flavor spread in your mouth !

Breakfast: "Two-tiered bento box and miso soup" : It is a portable size and can be eaten wherever you like, either in your room or in the small garden while admiring the dry landscape garden.

Address: 40-1 Umeda Fukuura, Goshogawara City, Aomori Prefecture, 037-0022

Komoru Goshogawara [Official]

Komoru Goshogawara [Official] English and Chinese versions

Day 6
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39 min

28
Nebuta House Wa Rasse

Aomori Hishiyukai

Aomori Hishiyukai "Gozu Tenno" Produced by Hiroo Takenami Best Creator Award Nebuta Grand Prize

The Nebuta Museum and Nebuta Hall on the first floor is the main facility, a vast space with an atrium that stretches up to the second floor. Every year, the large Nebuta floats that take part in the festival are on permanent display , and Nebuta parts that you can touch, Nebuta masks that show the characteristics of their creators, and more are all on display and introduced in a cramped space. You'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the world of the Nebuta Festival!

For souvenirs, head to "Aomori Furusato Shop Aimory." Don't miss the original works made by Nebuta makers for this store! There are works you won't find anywhere else, such as "mini 3D Nebuta," "masks," and sketches! In addition to Nebuta goods, there are plenty of products that are perfect for souvenirs, including sweets, seafood, and agricultural products!

Address: 1-1-1 Yasukata, Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture, 030-0803

Nebuta House Wa Rasse [Official]

directions_walk
The next restaurant, "Osanai," doesn't seem to have a parking lot, so we left our car at "Nebuta House Wa-Rasse" and walked there to eat lunch. *There is a paid parking lot nearby, about 1 minute by car or 4 minutes on foot.

29
Restaurant Osanai

The most popular dish we recommend is the " Grilled Scallops with Miso Set Meal ."

The scallop-shell shaped bowl is cute, and the scallops are rich and delicious. The piping hot scallops are a great match with rice.

Address: 1-1-17 Shinmachi, Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture, 030-0801, 1F *No parking lot, but there is paid parking nearby

Restaurant Osanai - Aomori/Dining | Tabelog

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Check in at the hotel first, leave your car and luggage in the room, and enjoy a stroll around the area to the Nebuta Festival! (About 2 minutes)

30
Aomori Center Hotel

An open-air natural hot spring bath using the source water "Furukawa Onsen"

"Banquet plan": Food and all-you-can-drink (90 minutes) from 6,500 yen

We also have izakaya menu items that you can enjoy starting from 300 yen. We have a wide variety of items, from standard izakaya menu items to local dishes that you can't get anywhere else! You can enjoy izakaya cuisine without leaving the hotel.

Address: 1-10-9-1 Furukawa, Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture, 030-0862

Machinaka Onsen Aomori Center Hotel | The only hotel in front of the station with natural hot springs [Official]

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Move to your favorite spot to view the Nebuta Festival

Nebuta Festival

In 1980, Aomori's Nebuta was designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.

The Aomori Nebuta Festival, Japan's fire festival, is held every year in grand style, welcoming approximately 2.7 million tourists from all over Japan and the world!

Size of the Nebuta: Including the cart (height approximately 2m), it is 9m wide, 7m deep, and 5m high. It weighs a whopping 4 tonnes including the cart.

Creating a Nebuta: It takes about three months to create a Nebuta. After the festival, the Nebuta craftsmen start planning for the next year.

Cost of Nebuta: Total of about 20 million yen

What are Nebuta made of?: Japanese paper is pasted onto wire. Approximately 2,500 sheets of Japanese paper (hosho paper) the size of one side of a newspaper are used. In the past, the frame was made of bamboo, but now it is made of wire.

Nebuta Q&A [Official]

Operation Schedule: August 2nd to 7th every year (excluding the eve of the festival)

August 1st: 18:00-21:00 (scheduled) (Venue: Aoiumi Park Special Stage) Eve of the event

August 2nd and 3rd: From 19:00 (lead departure time of the children's Nebuta) Children's Nebuta (approximately 10 floats planned) and large Nebuta (approximately 15 floats planned) will be paraded

August 4th to 6th: 18:45~ (departure time of the first large Nebuta) Large Nebuta parade (approximately 20 floats planned)

The results will be compiled from August 2nd to 5th, and the Nebuta Grand Prize and other award winners will be announced on August 6th. *The winning Nebuta will be available to view on the 6th.

August 7th: 13:00~ (first large Nebuta departure time) Large Nebuta parade (approximately 20 floats planned) 19:15~21:00 (venue: Aomori Port) 70th Aomori Fireworks Festival and Nebuta sea parade

On the final day, August 7th, four large Nebuta (including the winning Nebuta) will be paraded around Aomori Port, marking the finale of the festival with fireworks.

Maritime parade and fireworks

The Aomori Fireworks Festival will be held at Aomori Port from 7:15pm to 9pm on August 7th.

Schedule : The Nebuta floats depart from Hamacho Pier at 6:30 AM, cruise off the coast of Aoi Umi Park from 7 PM to 8 PM, and arrive at Hamacho Pier at 8:40 PM.

In the sea parade, the Nebuta are placed on a barge and paraded around Aomori Port. The Grand Prize, Governor's Prize, and Mayor's Prize Nebuta participate .

The fireworks display will feature approximately 10,000 fireworks, which will be launched along with the "Nebuta" floating on the sea, marking the finale of the festival!

Where can you see the maritime parade and fireworks display?

You can see it from the Tsutsumi Wharf of Aomori Port along the coast near the Memorial Ship Hakkoda Maru! *Please note that there are some areas where spectator seats are installed and dangerous areas, so entry is prohibited.

Where are the seats for the sea parade and fireworks display ?

・S seats: 5,500 yen (shared for Aoi Umi Park, Aoi Umi Park West Side, and Shinchuo Pier)

・A seat: 4,500 yen (shared for Aoiumi Park, Aoiumi Park West Side, and Shinchuo Pier)

*Seats are on sale at the To-o Nippo newspaper, the organizer of the fireworks display. All seats are reserved pipe chair seats.

*Sales will begin in early July. For more information, please contact the To-o Nippo Newspaper Business Division at 017-718-1135.

To-o Nippo Business Division Seat Reservation Site [Official]

Route

Nebuta Festival Operation Video

Operation Schedule and Route [Official]

About viewing

Where can I watch the parade?: Paid viewing seats are available on the sidewalks along the route. You can watch the parade from other locations without purchasing a seat, but they tend to be crowded with spectators.

Can I reserve a spot?: You can watch from any available space except for the seating area. Please refrain from making any nuisances, such as reserving a spot days in advance or by sticking duct tape on the road. Please be mindful of etiquette and make this a fun festival!

What if I want to watch from a viewing seat? ( These seats are different from those for the marine navigation and fireworks display.) There are group viewing seats (for 10 or more people) and individual viewing seats (for 9 or less people). The price for both group and individual viewing seats is 3,500 yen per person (tax included, pamphlet included). Applications for group viewing seats will be accepted from early April, and individual viewing seats will go on sale from late June.

Where are the seats?: The seats are set up on the sidewalk. There are two types of seats: pipe chair seats and pipe box seats. Since the Nebuta Festival is an outdoor event, the seats are not covered. In case of rain, please prepare a raincoat. Please refrain from using umbrellas as they will obstruct the view of other customers.

Are there seats for the physically handicapped?: They will provide wheelchair spaces and reserve a spot for you so that you can enter in your wheelchair. The price is discounted from the regular seating fee, and if an accompanying person requires a seat, the regular seating fee will apply.

About viewing [Official]

Enjoy the Nebuta Festival while wearing "Haneto" costumes

Not only can you watch the spectacular festival, but you can also wear a "Haneto" and join in the fun!

How to participate in Haneto

1: Wearing a haneto costume (formal attire)

2: Meet at the Haneto meeting point (Shinmachi Yanagimachi intersection, sea side)

3: Join the waiting Nebuta group and dance together.

*Please note that we may not be able to accept joins from mid-way through the route depending on how crowded the haneto is.

*You can participate even if you are not a member of any group. It is voluntary participation, and there is no need to register in advance or check in on the day, so all you have to do is put on your haneto and have fun!

How to buy or rent haneto costumes

・Purchase: The set is sold at department stores in Aomori City.

Rental: Approximately 4,000 yen for the whole set (socks, sandals, and flower hats are charged separately) Please contact the store directly for details such as rental fees. Advance reservations are recommended. *Please note that there are some stores that only offer costume rentals and do not provide dressing services.

How to buy or rent haneto costumes [Official]

How to wear the "Haneto" costume

Nebuta Festival [Official]

How to wear a haneto costume "Let's become a haneto man" Japanese, English and Chinese versions

Day 7
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Approx. 8 hours 19 minutes

31
Asakusa View Hotel

standard double room

View Bath King/View Bath Twin

Restaurant : We offer a wide range of cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, authentic dim sum, Yum Cha, Cantonese cuisine and teppanyaki French cuisine. Please enjoy your favorite dinner.

Address: 3-17-1 Nishiasakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0035

Asakusa View Hotel [Official]

Asakusa View Hotel [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

Day 8
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Approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes

32
Izu Animal Kingdom

At the zoo, you can feed the white tigers and giraffes, which are very impressive and very close to you. The way they look at their food is just like the eyes of a hunter! Experience the thrill of being close to them.

Animal Kingdom Restaurant : This is a rare restaurant in Japan where you can dine while watching wild animals, allowing you to feel close to the animals as you enjoy your meal!

Address: 3344 Inatori, Higashiizu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture, 413-0411

Izu Animal Kingdom [Official]

Izu Animal Kingdom [Official] English, Chinese, Japanese version

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Approx. 2 hours 11 minutes

33
Lake Yamanaka Flower City Park

At Hana no Miyako Park, flowers bloom in every season across an area of ​​300,000 square meters, allowing you to enjoy different scenery every season!

In the summer, 300,000 sunflowers spread across the ground , and on a clear day, you can take some spectacular photos with Mt. Fuji in the background . Come and enjoy the summertime view of Mt. Fuji!

Best time to see: Mid to late August *The best time to see is only a guide. Please check the current situation at This Week's Flower Field or call Hana no Miyako Park (0555-62-5587).

Besides sunflowers, there are other cute flowers that bloom in each season, such as tulips, cosmos, and baby's breath, so you can enjoy them all year round!

Address: 1650 Yamanaka, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, 401-0501

Lake Yamanaka Tourist Guide [Official]

Lake Yamanaka Tourist Guide [Official] English Version

What is Lake Yamanaka? Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism [Official] English, Chinese and Japanese versions

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Today we're saving money and going to an RV park! We're going to have a bath at "Spa Resort Oasis Gotemba".
Approx. 27 minutes

34
Spa Resort Oasis Gotemba

There are a total of 9 baths!: Open-air bath, dry sauna, mist sauna, cold bath, shape-up pool, diet jet bath, connected bath, medicinal bath, herbal bath, and more.

You can enjoy medicinal baths that suit the season, such as refreshingly cool baths in the summer and Chinese herbal baths that warm the body in the winter!

A sauna or powerful jetted tub can improve circulation and provide a massaging effect .

Address: 420-1 Shinbashi, Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 412-0043

Spa Resort Oasis Gotemba [Official]

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Approximately 3 minutes

35
Sawayaka Gotemba Inter Store

Over 5 million meals sold per year! Our commitment to selling hamburger steaks is to use only 100% beef blocks.

The recommended dish is the popular "Genkotsu Hamburger" with the most popular sauce, "Onion Sauce."

The hamburger steak is cooked over charcoal on a hot iron plate and then cut right in front of you to prevent the juices from leaking out, allowing you to enjoy a fresh, piping hot hamburger steak! *Please be careful of the sauce splashing.

Address: 984-1 Higashi Tanaka, Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 412-0026

Sawayaka Gotemba Inter Store [Official]

Sawayaka [Official] English, Chinese, and Japanese menu

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Approx. 4 minutes

36
RV Park Gotemba

Address: 292-1 Shinbashi, Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 412-0043

RV Park Gotemba

Day 9
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Approximately 8 minutes

37
Myoken

Founded in 1935, Myoken has sourced the ingredients for its three main dishes - sushi, eel, and tempura - from Toyosu Market without any compromise ever since.

The five types of pressed sushi, including "Trout Sushi," have been so popular that they have gained many fans, including celebrities from all walks of life!

The popular menu item "Unadon" is charred just right, and the softness spreads in your mouth. Please enjoy it hot. It's so popular that some people come all the way from far away just to eat it!

Trout sushi: It is said that many famous people, including Prime Minister Yoshida, Prime Minister Kishi, and Prince Chichibu, have eaten this sushi.

Address: 1983 Shinbashi, Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 412-0043

Myoken [Official]

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Approx. 33 minutes

Helicopter tour of Gotemba and the Fuji area

You can also enjoy the spectacular view of Mt. Fuji from the sky by taking a helicopter !

You can visit Mount Fuji, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Saiko, Aokigahara Jukai, Lake Shojiko, Lake Motosu, Fuji Speedway, Gotemba Premium Outlets, Ashigara SA, Ashigara Pass, Gotemba city, Owakudani, Mt. Komagatake, Lake Ashi, and more.

Price: 3 minutes ~ 4,900 yen (tax included) / person ~

Meeting place: Lake Yamanaka Communication Plaza Kirara Field (Lake Yamanaka Heliport)

Address: Lake Yamanaka Viewpoint (halfway between Mt. Iimori and Mt. Ohira), Uchino, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, 401-0512

Helicopter tour of Gotemba and the Fuji area | AIROS Skyview [Official]

Helicopter tour of Gotemba and Fuji area | AIROS Skyview [Official] English and Chinese version

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Approx. 36 minutes

38
Gotemba Premium Outlets

Address: 1312 Fukazawa, Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 412-0023

Gotemba Premium Outlets [Official]

Gotemba Premium Outlets [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

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Approximately 6 minutes

39
Natural hot spring Fujizakura no Yu Dormy Inn Gotemba

Semi-open-air bath : Natural hot spring water from Gotemba Otome Onsen

Address: 1505-3 Higashi Tanaka, Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 412-0026

Natural Hot Spring Fujizakura no Yu Dormy Inn EXPRESS Mt. Fuji Gotemba [Official]

Day 10
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Approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes

40
JAPAN ROAD TRIP VORT Mita Station

Address: 4-3-11 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014

JAPAN ROAD TRIP (Official)

JAPAN ROAD TRIP [Official] English, Chinese, Korean version

train
Approx. 30 minutes to Haneda Airport Approx. 1 hour 16 minutes to Narita Airport

Haneda Airport/Narita Airport

Thank you for reading this far!

summary

This time, we will introduce a model itinerary for "Recommended Summer Trip! A 9-night, 10-day trip around Tohoku" that starts in Tokyo and travels to Nagano Prefecture → Niigata Prefecture → Fukushima Prefecture → Miyagi Prefecture → Iwate Prefecture → Aomori Prefecture → Tokyo → Shizuoka Prefecture → and back to Tokyo . This is a travel plan where you can rent a camper van from Tokyo and enjoy famous tourist spots, local cuisine, BBQs, and boat rides. We also introduced souvenirs that are unique to the region!

Some of the places we introduced this time are also recommended in winter and during cherry blossom season, so please try visiting them in your favorite season.

Written by

Japan Road Trip is one of the largest camper rental companies in Japan, with rental locations all over the country, from Hokkaido to Kyushu. It is ideal for trips with pets or small children, leisure trips with lots of luggage, and girls' trips. Rentals are accepted between 10:00 and 19:00, 365 days a year. Even beginners who have no experience driving a camper can rent one with peace of mind, as we provide free training. It can seat up to 9 people and sleep up to 8 people, and you can choose from American, natural, resort style, etc. depending on your purpose/preference. Rent a camper with a stylish interior that is one of a kind in the world and have a memorable trip!

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