An Adventure Through Snow Country Living and Mountain Faith

Start your trip at Tsurugajo Castle, the formidable heart of the Aizu Domain, where samurai loyal to the shogunate made a defiant stand during the Boshin War. Today, its faithfully restored keep is a unique landmark in Japan, distinguished by its iconic red roof tiles. Delve deeper into the samurai era by visiting the immaculately preserved Aizu Samurai Residences and the tranquil Goyakuen medicinal herb garden in the city. The afternoon concludes with a hands-on cultural experience: painting your own Akabeko, a beloved local folk toy and a charming symbol of the region’s resilience.

Relax and unwind at Higashiyama Onsen. Its history stretching back to the 8th century, this resort flourished as a favorite retreat of the samurai of the Aizu domain. The soothing waters and scenic natural surrounds are just the thing to soothe your aches and pains away after a busy day of sightseeing.

Step back in time as you wander the main street of an old post town that flourished as a respite for travelers between the Tohoku region and Edo. As you wander the main street, you’ll see the community’s wisdom for living in a harsh climate firsthand in the magnificent thatched roofs, an architectural design built to withstand the region’s heavy snow. Explore the lives of a community that called the snowy mountains home and try your hand at cooking some of the local cuisine.

Sendai is home to numerous sites connected to the Date Domain, perhaps most famously the ruins of Aoba Castle (Sendai Castle). Further afield lies the breathtaking coastline of Matsushima—one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views—and Zuigan-ji, the Date family temple.

Often called the “Little Kyoto of Tohoku,” Kakunodate invites visitors to step back into Edo period warrior life through its historic streets lined with beautifully preserved samurai residences. You can also refine your sword-drawing skills in an Iai experience or find calm and focus through a Zazen meditation session. Come spring, the samurai quarter and the banks of the Hinokinai River are transformed by the spectacular, sweeping cherry blossoms.

Akita is a former castle town of the Kubota Domain. It developed a vibrant cultural scene during the Edo period, including the distinctive Ranga painting movement incorporating Western artistic techniques. The city continues to display artistic flair today through its museum, crafts and festivals.

Set in grounds of the former villa of the prosperous Honma merchant family, the Homma Museum of Art showcases works of art spanning multiple eras, including pieces donated by Edo period feudal lords. The original house, a lavish example of Edo period architecture, and the elegant strolling garden it overlooks are just as much of a highlight as the collection.

Zuishin Gate on Mt. Haguro is the grand entrance to the world of the Dewa Sanzan Shrine, which venerates the three sacred mountain peaks of Haguro, Gassan and Yodono. Tomorrow, you’ll pass through here and walk the famous approach path, lined with ancient giant cedar trees, consisting of 2,446 stone steps.

Walk in the footsteps of Edo period pilgrims who journeyed here to honor the mountain faith of the three sacred peaks of Dewa Sanzan. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic sites like the five-story pagoda nestled among towering cedars, as well as sacred landmarks that elevate the spiritual ascent to the shrine at the summit.

Round off your journey through Tohoku in Tsuruoka, the heart of the former Shonai Domain. The city still evokes the charm of a traditional castle town and bears the lasting imprint of the Sakai clan who once ruled here. Highlights include Tsuruoka Park, built on the grounds of the former castle, and Chido Museum, which offers a captivating look into the region’s rich samurai-era history.