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Getting closer to nature with mountain asceticism

Recommended season

DAY 1

The spring trip to Tohoku starts from Sakata City in Yamagata Prefecture. Enjoy the remnants of a port town and historical sites such as Hiyoriyama Park and merchant houses that still retain their historical architecture, as well as the blooming cherry blossoms in spring. At noon, head to Maiko Chaya Somaro to have lunch and watch the maiko dance. Don't forget to take a commemorative photo with the maiko after the performance!

DAY 2

On the second day, go to Mt. Haguro of the Dewa Sanzan (Mt. Haguro, Mt. Gassan, and Mt. Yudono), one of Tohoku's most sacred mountains, and practice Yamabushi (asceticism) in the nature. Yamabushi is an ascetic who practices abstinence in the mountains to gain supernatural power. Dressed in white, learn about Shugendo (the way of asceticism) away from the earthly life. Lunch is vegetarian made with seasonal wild vegetables from the local area. Learn to appreciate the blessings of the mountains.

DAY 3

On the third day, take a 3-hour train ride from Tsuruoka Station to Oishida Station, and then to Ginzan Onsen. You'll see a retro landscape that will take you back in time! There are many cafes, eateries, and souvenir shops. Why not take this opportunity - rent a kimono and enjoy a stroll? At dusk, the gas lamps will be lit and the light will spill out from the onsen lodges - unfolding a fantastic world. Stay at a historic ryokan (Japanese inn) and enjoy the local cuisine and hot spring baths to recover from your ascetic practice.

DAY 4

Take the bus or train to Sendai, the largest city in Tohoku. When you reach there, don't miss the famous "gyutan" (beef tongue)! In the afternoon, take a stroll around the city and visit the famous Cherry Blossom Festival at Tsutsujigaoka Park. There are many things to see, such as music events and illuminated cherry blossoms at night. Don't miss the cherry blossoms at the neighboring Tsutsujigaoka Tenmangu Shrine!

OTHER ROUTES

A trip to Kyoto by the sea, Enjoying the superb view and delicious food

Recommended season

Enjoy "Kyoto by the Sea", vast sand dunes and the breathtaking scenery of nature to the fullest! You can also savour Japanese gourmet meal such as Wagyu beef.

Enjoy the sea ! A family trip to Kansai

Recommended season

Cycling along the sea & driving with the refreshing breeze blowing... and don't miss the local cuisine! A magnificent road trip for families.

Walking the World Heritage Site

Recommended season

Dress up in traditional costumes and reminisce about the past on the Kumano Kodo, a World Heritage Site pilgrimage trail, where Japan's most sacred shrines and temples are located.

Autumn meditation retreat

Recommended season

Conquer Japan's largest lake and famous autumn foliage spots! Experience Zen at a traditional temple and stay at a glamping facility!

Savour Kyoto's long-established restaurants with Maiko

Recommended season

Cross-cultural interaction with Maiko and visit world heritage castles and temples - a must for the bucket list.

A relaxing trip in an unexplored region

Recommended season

Experience the unexplored lifestyle that has lasted for 1000 years. Traditional dances and a relaxing trip in nature.

A summer island hopping trip in Setouchi

Recommended season

Enjoy everything from cycling to maritime activities around the islands. Don't miss the shrines floating on the sea!

A photogenic trip to the Art Islands

Recommended season

The Seto Inland Sea in autumn is a treasure trove of photogenic spots! Take a photogenic trip surrounded by art and amazing scenery!

A classic, popular itinerary starting from Kobe

Recommended season

Easy travel on the Shinkansen! Visit World Heritage Sites, explore port towns, and enjoy some autumn leaves viewing! Classic travel course starting from Kobe.

Savour udon, bonito, and other Setouchi delicacies

Recommended season

Check out the seasonal bounty of Seto Inland Sea! Hand-made udon noodles, straw-roasted bonito, and other local delicacies!

A relaxing vacation in mystical Yakushima Island

Recommended season

Enjoy trekking through the primeval forest and diving in the sea! The World Heritage Site, Yakushima, where you can enjoy both the sea and the mountains

A family trip to great nature in Kumamoto

Recommended season

Panoramic view in the meadow & wild dolphin watching. A magnificent nature trip with your family.

The Nature & Shinto Shrine worship trip

Recommended season

Worship at the Three Great Inari-jinja Shrines of Japan & Make Pottery! Indulge in traditional cuisine, experience a tatami room and meet a geisha.

A gastronomic journey with Beauty and Deliciousness

Recommended season

Spectacular views of nature and craft of glass-making, summed up with a fish market visit - famous for blowfish.

600-year-traditional performing arts experiences

Recommended season

Experience Noh - cherished and preserved by the Japanese. Enjoy tea ceremony at a samurai residence, and immerse yourself deeply into Japan

Tropical resort stay in Japan

Recommended season

An out-of-the-world luxurious trip. Relish dolphin-watching cruises and exclusive resorts.

Travel back in time in Kanazawa

Recommended season

Soak up in the Japanese spirit through this trip by experiencing samurai, making traditional crafts, and visiting Japanese-style gardens

Cherry Blossom Viewing Tour in Tohoku

Recommended season

Cherry blossom viewing and local farmhouse stay. Soothe your soul in the tranquility of Japan's nature.

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