A large prefecture on the Pacific Coast in the Tohoku region, Iwate is a former cultural and political centre of northern Japan with many surprises hidden up its sleeve. 

On your way up into Hokkaido from Tokyo by bullet train, you'll stumble across this unassuming port town with oodles of history and culture on offer. A star-shaped fortress, squid fishing, a Michelin-starred night view, onsen monkeys and fantastic food - all this and more is on offer in Hakodate.

The Tohoku region definitely takes the crown in the ranking of the most underrated areas of Japan. What many people don’t know is that’s where you will find some of the most incredible cherry blossom spots! Lower prices, less crowds and magnificent nature at your fingertips are one of the best things about Tohoku. We have ventured to every corner of Tohoku to find the best cherry blossoms and we have found something for everyone: samurai castles, magnificent mountains, cherry blossom tunnels...

Grab your passport and get ready to embark on a soul-searching adventure with writer Julie Caplin and Fiona, the star of her new book The Little Teashop in Tokyo! Julie talks us through the ins and outs of Tokyo and some of the best spots the city has to offer for cherry blossom viewing this spring!

Located just 90 minutes from Tokyo by the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train), Fukushima is the ideal destination for an authentic, deep journey to off the beaten track Japan.