All About Japan

Tohoku in Summertime: Green Means Go!

The colors of northeastern Japan are vibrant and beautiful, from the pinks of spring to the wintry whites. But on this tour of the region, we focused on the emerald greens of summertime in Tohoku.

Wonders of Japan: The Coastline

Enjoy the breathtaking coastal landscapes unique to this island nation.

How to Get Around (& to) Tohoku

Ready to start your trip to Tohoku? Before grabbing your luggage and putting on your shoes, you'd better plan how to move around once you’re there. We’re here to help!

Flock with the Seagulls at Kabushima Shrine

Take flight with our writer Nick as he heads back to Tohoku to visit a shrine that's quite literally 'for the birds!'

The 5 Biggest Snow Festivals in Tohoku

Check out Tohoku's Five Great Snow Festivals and see how the region's long history of culture and tradition brings the frozen to life!

The Beautiful Nature of Miyagi

With the Pacific Ocean coastline on one side and stunning mountain ranges on the other, Miyagi is home to some of Japan's most breathtaking natural scenery.

Get a Guitar from a Ferrari Designer

Looking for a new guitar? How about one produced via the same techniques used to build Japanese temples, designed by a Ferrari designer?

6 Must-Try Local Specialties in Tohoku

To learn the heart of a region, you gotta eat like a local! Here are six ways to make sure you eat right in Tohoku.

Eating My Way Through Sendai

Come on a journey to the northeastern region of Japan's largest island as I enjoy the delicious foods and snacks of Sendai.

Get Crafty in Tohoku by Making 'Kokeshi'

Travel to Sendai and learn all about 'kokeshi,' the traditional wooden dolls that come from the Tohoku region, before getting a chance to make one of your very own!

Embracing the Warmth of Tohoku in Hachinohe

My journey to northern Japan led to an immersion in the rich culture and hospitality of the residents and regions of Hachinohe, Aomori.

Could the Tomb of Christ Be Hiding in Aomori?

Located roughly three hours north of Tokyo by bullet train, the isolated village of Shingo claims to be home to the 'Tomb of Christ.' We sent Chris Broad of Abroad in Japan to get to the bottom of this mystery.

From Silver Mine to Hot Spring Village

Learn why people are flocking from all over Japan to this former mining town, from the relaxing hot springs to the feeling of ancient Japan.

The True 'Deep' North: Caving in Tohoku

Big, small, weird, wonderful, and beautiful! Welcome to the world of caving in Tohoku!

Following in the Footsteps of Matsuo Basho

While it didn't take 156 days, our friend Johnny at Spoon & Tamago headed to Yamagata Prefecture to see the world through Japanese poet Matsuo Basho's eyes.

Undiscovered Japan: Fukushima & Miyagi

While Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures were both badly hit by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the region has now largely recovered, and is looking to see travelers flock in once again.

Explore the Mysteries of Tohoku

If the heavy winter snow or rugged mountains didn’t keep you away, the stories of roaming bandits and forest monsters would! But nowadays people come to Tohoku to explore folklore, sacred rituals and natural wonders thousands of years in the making.

Global Stars Shine Light on Tohoku-Made Goods

Yamagata casting is considered one of the national treasures among traditional Japanese crafts, as seen on the TV program 'Streets to Tohoku and Hokkaido, Japan.' But thanks to online shopping, you don't have to fly to Japan to own a piece of history.

Shop Tohoku! Support Tohoku!

Find out how you can do your part to help support the recovering Tohoku region of Japan and pick up some tasty goods as well.

Escape Reality by Relaxing at Hotel Sakan

If you're looking for a vacation spot that has the convenience of city life and the charm of the countryside, Sendai is the place to go. And while you're there, pamper yourself with a stay at a top-of-the-line hotel that's a cut above the rest!

know-before-you-go