Some travellers prefer the path less travelled – whether that means experiencing deep and authentic culture, going out of the way to see one-of-a-kind natural sights or uncovering the regional spots yet to be discovered by others.

A short trip from any major city, in any direction, is a Japan often overlooked. With plenty to see, do and eat, regional Japan is the place to be if you’re looking to avoid the tourist traps and discover the ‘other side’. 

Tohoku is a region of Japans main island – Honshu Island. Located north of Tokyo it’s known for its mountains, skiing, snowboarding, lakes, streams, temples, forests and volcanoes. 

Kakunodate is a town located in Senboku District, Akita Prefecture, Northern Japan. This town has two claims to fame: one being that it is a historical Samurai or castle town; and the other for its glorious weeping cherry trees which line the streets and along the banks of the Hinokinai River, which runs through Kakunodate.

Tohoku is a region of stunning natural beauty found just to the north of Tokyo. Made up of 6 prefectures (Akita, Aomori, Fukushima, Iwate, Miyagi and Yamagata), Tohoku is bursting with hot springs, snowy mountains, ancient castles and precariously-perched mountain temples.