Most reviewed Points of Interest & Landmarks in Tohoku


  1. 4.0 Sendaijo Ato (1.045 reviews)
    - Samurais All Over
    Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
    Sendaijo Ato image
    This was a fun place to visit. The shrine was neat and the statue was great! The first time we went there, there were samurai's there to take pictures with but the 2nd time we went, they weren't there. I'm not sure why one day they were there and one day they weren't. See more..
  2. 4.0 Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse (857 reviews)
    - A must visit
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
    Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse image
    The huge three-dimensional work that made by wire and paper called Nebuta. Here, fully sized shiny Nebuta that participated in the Aomori Nebuta Festival are displayed. Footage of the Nebuta parade is also projected onto a 400-inch screen. Also you can enjoy taking souvenior photos! See more..
  3. 4.0 Sendai Station (780 reviews)
    - Transportation Hub with Plenty to do
    Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Sendai Station image
    JR Sendai station is a convenient transportation hub in the area. Despite its size, the station is clearly marked and easy to navigate. There are plenty of shopping and eating options in the station (check out Gyutan Dori on the third floor). See more..
  4. 4.0 Zuihoden (619 reviews)
    - Historical…
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues • History Museums
    Zuihoden image
    Interesting architectural structure surrounded by a peaceful green surroundings. Very serene when I was there and there wasn’t a lot of people as well. This was where the late Date Masamune was enshrined. It was built in the year after his death according to his last will and testament by the next lord of Sendai-han, Date Tadamune. It was designated a national treasure in 1931. However, the mausoleum sustained massive damage from an airstrike by the US Air Force on July 10, 1945 during strategic bombings in World War II. It was burned down in a fire, along with the Kansenden of Sendai-han's second-generation lord, Date Tadamune and the Zenouden of Sendai-han's third-generation lord, Date Tsunamune. There was dispute over the reconstruction of the mausoleum, but reconstruction began in 1974 and finished in 1979. During excavation of the site, Date Masamune's remains and burial accessories were discovered. See more..
  5. 4.0 Jozenji-dori Avenue (470 reviews)
    - Only lights up during winter
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Jozenji-dori Avenue image
    Went at night with the wife. We were disappointed to find the trees not lit up, apparently that only happens in winter. Still, it was a nice stroll, plenty of tall leafy trees, clean broad sidewalks and balmy weather. Plus, it was quiet when we went, a refreshing change from the tourist choked main streets of Osaka and Kyoto. A few nice restaurants too, although we couldn't find anything with an English menu (for more food options and other "action", one should head to Kokobun-Cho). It's almost impossible to visit a small city like Sendai and not walk down the main street. But Jozenji Dori is worth it, especially at night. See more..
  6. 4.0 Sazaedo (360 reviews)
    - Visited this 20 times over the years, always fun
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Sazaedo image
    This building is a national treasure of Japan. It is a small temple which is built as a wooden tower structure which, essentially, contains solely a double-helix staircase (one of only a few in the world). You pay a ~500 yen entrance fee and may then donate a few yen at the entrance. Then, you can enter this building and go up the double-helix on one staircase, cross over at the highest point to the second staircase and go down, effectively on the roof of the staircase which you used to ascend. There are several crossover points (openings) between the formerly mentioned two staircases in the central axle of the building where kids and smaller adults can squeeze through in-between huge wooden beams. Altogether experiencing the geometry of the building is fun. One hears the steps of other visitors on the wooden planks of the building. There are several works of art in niches along the visitor's way. See more..
  7. 4.0 Sunmall Ichibancho (356 reviews)
    - Close to Station
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Sunmall Ichibancho image
    Just a quick walk from the central Sendai train station the covered walking street offers a variety of shops an restaurants. Hidden gems for wine and food can be found in side allies and back streets. See more..
  8. 4.0 Godaido (336 reviews)
    - Easy Access to a Small Temple Hall
    Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
    Godaido image
    Godaido Hall stands just northeast of the pier and is worth stopping by. A lovely (if somewhat precarious as the handrails are rotting away) bridge connects the small island to the shore. The hall itself stands proudly overlooking the bay. There is a small shop selling souvenirs and trinkets just landside of the bridge. See more..
  9. 4.0 Sankyo Soko Storehouse (328 reviews)
    - Great to wander around and soak up atmosphere
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Sankyo Soko Storehouse image
    Museum is very small but lively area to visit and lovely gift shops. Lots of nice photo opportunities and if you are an artist great for drawing See more..
  10. 4.0 Iimoriyama (317 reviews)
    - Interesting historical site
    Mountains • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
    Iimoriyama image
    Historical site of the tombs of the 20 Byakkotai who got cut off from the rest of their division during the battle of Tonoguchihara of the Boshin war who looked down from the mountain to see the city in flames; thinking that Aizu had fallen, the 20 committed ritual suicide at Iimoriyama. (One was rescued and survived). The Byakkotai was a reserve unit and consisted of teenage boys. Excellent view of the city of Aizuwakamatsu from the mountain. Walking shoes would be comfortable to climb the many stairs up the mountain to the site; however, there is a motorized conveyor ramp up the mountain for those who cannot or do not want to make the climb. (It costs 250 yen to take the conveyor ramp up; the walk down is mostly a sloped, paved path.) See more..
  11. 4.5 Mt. Haguro (311 reviews)
    - Tiring but peaceful hike (2D1N Haguro-san, Gassan and Yudono-san)
    Historic Sites • Mountains • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Mt. Haguro image
    I took a bus from the front of Tsuruoka station. My initial intention was to climb up the legendary 2466 steps all the way to the top from the 羽黒センター. However, the route up was snow laden and thusly in my own opinion, treacherous. Yes snow, you hear me right. It was spring and there was snow. In view of that and my fondness for self preservation, I took the easy way up - bus. Saikan is a simple temple lodging surrounded by woods and sits on the edge of the mountain. Guess what, I was the only guest there. I spent my entire time in my room (no key, no lock, just sliding door) infront of the heater (portable type). I came to Japan with clothes meant for Spring. The whole structure of the lodging is typically Japanese, wooden. With planks covered with tatami for flooring, windows that works like sliding doors thus the cold seeped through the tiny slits. Even the journey from my room to the common toilet was a feat with the cold wind escaping into the lodging thru the cracks. When night came, I fell asleep with the sound of the wind howling & rattling on my window panes. It snowed during my slumber. I have nvr experience snowfall in my life (my country is in the Equator). I opened my eyes, and before me, snowfall. It was the most beautiful sight. I would gladly do this again even with the cold and exhorbitant bus fare. See more..
  12. 4.0 Osaki Hachiman Shrine (299 reviews)
    - Highly recommended
    Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
    Osaki Hachiman Shrine image
    Beautiful Japanese gardens and old temple buildings. Excellent for photography. No bathrooms or food available: it is a working shrine. See more..
  13. 3.5 Tonohetsuri (298 reviews)
    - A national treasure
    Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations
    Tonohetsuri image
    One of the lesser known national treasure but should not missed when in Aizu /Minamiaizu. Hetsuri means "cliff" in local dialect. The area is beautiful and riding the local train is fun. The super friendly conductors keeps pointing out photo spots along the way. See more..
  14. 4.0 Rock-breaking Cherry Tree (263 reviews)
    - Impressive display of nature
    Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Rock-breaking Cherry Tree image
    Almost unbelievable that a tree could grow and split a giant granite rock. Located on the grounds of the Morioka courthouse. This display of nature is well worth a visit. See more..
  15. 4.5 Frost Covered Trees of Zao (252 reviews)
    - Grandeur of Juhyo
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Frost Covered Trees of Zao image
    To view Zao juhyo (frost covered trees) takes good luck. The last time I went up there the weather did not cooperate. The spectacular sights I had hoped to see were all lost in low visibility conditions. But as the place, with these natural wonders, is worth many more visits in the future, I left with no regrets and decided to come again soon. When you arrive at Yamagata Station (East Exit), go to Bus Information Center to purchase the "Juhyo Admiration Bus Setticket" (¥3100, including a round-trip bus ticket and the Zao Ropeway Exchange Ticket). Go to Bus Stop #1 and get on the bus bound for Zao Onsen. When you arrive at the terminus, follow the signs and go to Zao Ropeway (not Zao Chuo Ropeway!). Redeem the Zao Ropeway Exchange Ticket at the front desk and proceed to the entrance. Change cars at Juhyokogen Station and arrive at Jizosancho Station. I suggest that you check the weather before you go up, in case you do not see any juhyo. In addition to juhyo, the snow-clad Zao Jizoson that was established there in 1775 is a sight of peace and quiet. If you need a place to stay warm, there is a restaurant right next to the Jizosancho Station. I actually stayed until past 17:00, thinking that it would clear up during the evening Light-Up session (open season from December of 2015 to February of 2016, for 50 days on selected dates). But it was windy and snowy, and many areas were off-limits. When I left, the temperature had already dropped to -11 degrees Celsius. I decided to return soon in the near future for the grandeur of juhyo that I missed admiring. See more..
  16. 4.0 Appi Kogen Ski Resort (201 reviews)
    - Great hotel and services . Plenty of skiing runs for all levels
    Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations • Ski & Snowboard Areas
    Appi Kogen Ski Resort image
    APPI is located in latitude 40° N whereworld'sfamous ski resorts such as Austria's Arlbergand USA's Aspen are located. Enjoy outdoor leisure activity in magnificent nature. There are the various items for families and couples. In the case of bad weather, APPI resort also has a lot of enjoyable indoor items for children and adults! See more..
  17. 4.0 Omazaki Cape (197 reviews)
    - It’s awesome for us
    Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Omazaki Cape image
    The distance between Cape Oma and Cape Shiokubi in Hakodate City is only 17.5 kilometers over the Tsugaru Strait. On a clear day, you can see Hakodate’s famous Goryokaku Tower from Cape Oma with the naked eye. You can also take a commemorative photo at our tuna monument. The monument is modeled after a 440 kilogram tuna that was caught by pole fishing here in Oma. The entire Shimokita Peninsula has been recognized as a national geopark (Shimokita Geopark). In November 2017, Shimokita Geopark entered into a cooperation agreement with Yehliu Geopark in Taiwan. Omazaki is one of the 16 geoheritage sites of Shimokita Geopark. ◆Tourism Information Center Resthouse Open from late April to October 31 Hours of operation: 9:00 to 17:00 Wi-Fi available; restrooms nearby Here, we offer the Oma Town Tourism Organization’s original “Certificate of Arrival to the Northernmost Point of Honshu.” See more..
  18. 4.0 Fukuurajima (189 reviews)
    - A wonderful walk
    Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Islands
    Fukuurajima image
    I had the amazing opportunity to walk through this picturesque island when there was nearly no-one else around. This island offers many walking paths (paved and unpaved) that meander through the woods, offering great views of the bay. The large trees are full of singing birds and it is easy to enjoy the peaceful scenery. Don't miss this location if you have the chance! See more..
  19. 4.5 Miharutakizakura (171 reviews)
    - A giant, thousand years old sakura!!!
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Miharutakizakura image
    Sweet cherry blossom with a thousand years of history.. I have never seen a giant cherry tree like this! See more..
  20. 4.0 Morioka Castle Ruins (170 reviews)
    - Picturesque!
    Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Morioka Castle Ruins image
    The family visited this site enroute from Sendai to Aomori. There are parking lots available right below the park. The castle building is no longer there but there are remnants of its past like the stone walls and such. It’s interesting to have a slow stroll around the park, especially now that we are nearing the winter season. Some nice pictures can be taken around the castle ruin as well like there is a small bridge right at the centre. From one corner, I could actually see mount awate from a distance. See more..
  21. 4.0 Shiroishi Castle (166 reviews)
    - NIce stop
    Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
    Shiroishi Castle image
    Friendly locals on hand, and we could even dress up like samurai for free :) Nice views of the city below. See more..
  22. 4.0 Nyudozaki (164 reviews)
    - Interesting Spot
    Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas
    Nyudozaki image
    The boat tour with the glass bottom boat was however not worth the trouble. The information on the 40th Parallel and the monument were interesting. See more..
  23. 4.5 Tappizaki Cape (156 reviews)
    - Dramatic Japan
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Tappizaki Cape image
    This is a remote windy dramatic location. I found the locals very friendly and enjoyed eating at the local places. The Tsugaru Channel is unpredictable with tides and wind, part of the charm. Lots of fresh fish See more..
  24. 4.0 Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building (153 reviews)
    - Eye catching
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
    Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building image
    Very eye catching building in Iwate city. We drove it and it immediately captured my attention. Later on when I was going for lunch, I walked past this building again and admired the historical architecture. I did not go inside the building. I understand that the building is being used as a museum. But it was still a sight to behold. See more..
  25. 4.0 Miracle Lone Pine Tree (145 reviews)
    - Humbling experience
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Miracle Lone Pine Tree image
    Visited the area and all I can say it is a very humbling experience to see the pine tree and what it stands for in the area. The surrounding landscape almost resembles a construction site, but there are remnant buildings around to remind you of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. See more..
  26. 4.0 The ruins of Nihonmatsu Castle (143 reviews)
    - Great Japanese castle with stonewalls
    Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    The ruins of Nihonmatsu Castle image
    Here is ruin of castle and no main tower. Although you can find structure of Japan castle. Some of Great stone wall is reconstructed and going up the place where main tower was built. From there mountains landscape is excellent. Adatara mt. to Azuma mount range are clear. In front of main gate there is local restaurant Kasumi and they serve good set linch. See more..
  27. 4.0 Tsurunomai Bridge (138 reviews)
    - Probably the world's most beautiful bridge
    Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges
    Tsurunomai Bridge image
    Although not so old, the Tsuronomai wooden bridge which crosses Fujimi Lake was built using old Japanese construction techniques. It's 300 meters long, with three arches and is made from Aomori cypress trees. It is said that those who cross the bridge are blessed with a long life. Let's hope that's true. Whether one intends to cross the bridge or not, it is well worth seeing. It certainly is the most beautiful bridge I have ever seen. See more..
  28. 4.0 Komine Castle Remains (137 reviews)
    - Komine Castle
    Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
    Komine Castle Remains image
    Komine castle is One of the 100 Fine Castles of Japan, and in 2007 was designated a National Historic Site. See more..
  29. 4.0 Abukumado Limestone Cave (123 reviews)
    - Total beauts
    Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Caverns & Caves
    Abukumado Limestone Cave image
    Naturally formed beauty created over the course of 80 million years. Lining 600m of the cave is what is said to be the greatest number and variety of stalactites in Asia. There’s a lot to see in Takine Goten, the largest hall in the cave, including the Tsuki no Sekai, which features the first light control system for stage productions ever introduced in a Japanese limestone cave. Enjoy this mysterious and impressive underground fantasy world. See more..
  30. 4.5 Hachimantai Promenade Peak (122 reviews)
    - Casual yet incredibly worthwhile hiking trail through alpine wetlands among crystal-clear lakes.
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Hachimantai Promenade Peak image
    The summit area of Mt. Hachimantai has a network of very well-maintained trails that are mostly stone or wood, so even in wet weather you don't have to worry about mud. The trails circle a number of pristine ponds and allow you to explore an alpine wetland. I've been up here dozens of times and love it. If you go in the early spring it's still covered in snow and you can walk around in snow shoes or boots. In the summer there are all kinds of flowers blooming, and in the fall you get all the beauty of the fall colors. (The road up to the summit closes for the winter, making it basically inaccessible until April 15th when it opens again for the spring.) See more..
  31. 4.5 Ginzan Onsen (113 reviews)
    - Lovely little onsen town
    Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas • Hot Springs & Geysers
    Ginzan Onsen image
    If looking for some relaxing time in an old onsen town with a charming and nostalgic atmosphere, Ginza Onsen could be the choice. The good thing is that it is a small town lined mostly with onsen ryokans along the main street, so everything is within walking distance. While there are some shops and restaurants, it is not a place bustling with activities. For a typical onsen visit, arrive at around 3pm, stroll around town for 2 hours, head to the hotel and take an onsen bath before dinner, enjoy a lovely dinner and then a leisure stroll along the main street when the lights are up. Definitely a nice place to unwind and relax. See more..
  32. 4.5 Shiriyazaki (95 reviews)
    - Shiriyazaki lighthouse
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Shiriyazaki image
    Awesome views and the horses we're very friendly. We tried to keep our distance, but they crossed the street to get to us. Definitely worth the drive and I would do it again. See more..
  33. 4.0 Kajo Central (87 reviews)
    - Fantastic view of Yamagata
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Visitor Centers • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Kajo Central image
    Kajo Central is the tallest building in Yamagata city. It is connected by a walkway from the train station. It has several floors of shopping which seem underutilized at the moment. The view from the 24th floor is outstanding. The trick is to find that special set of elevators which take you up there. You can catch those elevators only on the 1st and 2nd floors. See more..
  34. 4.5 Shiroishigawa Embankment Hitome Sembonzakura (80 reviews)
    - Sakura Festival at Shiroishi River
    Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Scenic Walking Areas
    Shiroishigawa Embankment Hitome Sembonzakura image
    There is a Sakura festival that takes place at Funaoka Castle Park, closer to the Shiroishi River, which is located atop a hill. Sakura trees are lined along the pathway to the hill. Walking along the flower-lined pathway to the top of the hill is a beautiful journey. There is also a trolley available that takes you to the top of the hill. This park is the best place to have a bird view of the lined up Sakura along the Shiroishi River. See more..
  35. 4.0 Former Honma Family Residence (76 reviews)
    - Well preserved
    Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Former Honma Family Residence image
    A very nicely preserved home of an upper class. Very spacious and interesting architecture of Japanese home using the verendas. I liked the simple decor that made look elegant and functional. See more..
  36. 4.0 Michi-no-Eki Sagae Cherry Land (74 reviews)
    - Souvenirs and the popular ice cream shop
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Visitor Centers • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Michi-no-Eki Sagae Cherry Land image
    It's a huge souvenir stores mall. I bought cherry cake and cookies. There was a line in front of the famous ice cream shop. You can choose 2 flavors. I ate white rice and lemon, it was nice. See more..
  37. 4.5 Somaro (69 reviews)
    - Interesting and enjoyable, well worth doing.
    Wednesday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Somaro image
    Dating back over 200 years to the Edo Period, Somaro is a maiko teahouse and museum in the northern port city of Sakata. It is one of the very few places outside of Kyoto where geisha culture can be enjoyed. Originally called Soma-ya, Somaro's geisha culture was brought up to Northern Japan through the thriving trade ties that once existed between Kyoto and Sakata. During that time, Somaro served as an entertainment destination and exquisite restaurant for the many merchants and shipping agents who shuffled through this city. Beautifully restored in 2000, Somaro is a museum and maiko dance house that preserves and showcases the splendor of Sakata's geisha culture. See more..
  38. 4.5 Geto Onsen (44 reviews)
    - Geto Onsen - Traditional Mixed bathing and communal cooking inn, good for famillies
    Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas
    Geto Onsen image
    I first visited Geto with my familly (three small chilldren) in 1990 and last visited by myself in November 2015. It is a traditional single inn hot spring where people can go to stay for a night or a few weeks with their families. It is closed during the winter because it lies at the end of a mountain road which is snowed in, closed from early November to early May. Pictures on trip advisor are accurate. There are five or so outdoor baths situated along the river. Most have separate changing areas for men and women, but the baths are communal. There is a set time for women only, and there is a bath that is full-time for women only. The main inn buillding serves meals. The other buildings, each with a seperate name, are cook for youself places with comunal kitchens and restrooms are one or two per floor, and not connected to the individual rooms. There is a small store with food you can buy to prepare for yourself. The kitchens are great places to socialize and learn how local people cook. No beds, but nice futons. There are public and free busses from Kitakami station to the spring. The free busses are twice a day and you can ride them into town to buy gorceries and then back out to the hot spring about an hour later. I only saw one other foreigner there, an eastern European woman traveling solo through Japan. Japanese is required for a full experience here. See more..