Tohoku Culture

Tohoku far to the northeast of Japan, was referred to as “Michinoku,” meaning “remote land,” until the end of Japan’s Edo period (1603-1867) and developed its own distinct culture and traditions far from the capital. Of all Tohoku’s unique cultures, it is the various festivals held all over the region that continue to capture people’s imagination to the present day. Each prefecture is home to long-cherished festivals, and during the summer festival season, Tohoku welcomes visitors from all over Japan. Tohoku is also home to a rich tradition of artisanal crafts which were originally created by farmers during the winter months, or created by low-ranking samurai as a side passion. Today’s Tohoku is still alive with the traditions of the past. The fact that these ancient cultures and customs have been so carefully preserved and passed down is a testament to the diligent and patient character of Tohoku’s people.

Tohoku Nature

Located at a latitude between 36 and 41 degrees north, Tohoku has one of the cooler climates in Japan. Large differences in year-round temperatures give Tohoku four distinct seasons that completely transform the landscape. The start of spring brings piercing green shoots and striking cherry blossoms that break through the lingering snow before giving way to deep green forests in summer, fiery foliage in fall, and finally the landscape is once again blanketed in snow come winter; Tohoku truly allows you to appreciate the beautiful changes of the seasons.

The Ou Mountain Range stretches across the central part of Tohoku, along the prefectural borders of Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, and Fukushima. From the foothills of those mountains spread sweeping plains that reach to the coast, where Tohoku is flanked by the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Sea of Japan to the west. Sculpted as it is by the volcanic activity of the Ou Mountain Range, the region is also home to countless natural hot springs.

The word fuzei is often used to describe the nature of Tohoku and means a uniquely Japanese aesthetic of beauty—it captures the sense of being profoundly moved by the worn beauty found in nature. Tohoku, which is blessed with abundant nature, has many picturesque places that embody this concept of fuzei, from well-weathered temples and shrines that appear to be at one with the landscape, to open-air steaming hot springs framed amidst the snow. Throughout the four seasons, Tohoku is full of stunning vistas you will want to go out of your way to see.