Hi everyone! Need some advice on our Japan trip. Our family (2 A + 2 C – both below 10) will be visiting in December. This is our 2nd time travelling to Japan, previously did the Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka + Disneyland / USJ route. This time round planning to explore Tohoku.
Below will be what we planned so far. We like to visit smaller villages (visited Shirakawa-go, Takayama and Narai-juku during the last trip and love the rustic vibes!) Love to hear your opinions!
Day 1 – 3 – Tokyo
Relatively easy to plan. Some vintage watch shopping (recommendations pls!!!!), Shimokitazawa for some vintage/thrift shopping, cafe capyba (couldn’t reserve during the last trip. hope to get a seat this time round!). I can plan this part of the trip with online resources myself.
Day 4 – 6 – Morioka (base)
Will take a train to Morioka and use it as base to explore a little of Akita and Iwate.
Explore Morioka on day 4 (Morioka Castle Ruins, Hachimangu Shrine etc. Anymore suggestions?)
Day 5 – Renting a car and start visiting places below:
– Kakunodate
– Suzufuku You Mart Otsuka (does this place sells packed lunch?)
– Lake Tazawa (Statue of Tatsuko, Kansagu (Ukiki Shrine), Gozanoishi Shrine)
– Nyūtō Onsen (probably find an onsen that is still available for a outdoor bath experience and possibly dinner)
Day 6
– Hiraizumi
– Chusonji temple
– Tōno Furusato Village (couldn’t find much information on this. Might skip this)
– Fukusenji Temple
– Arakawakomagata Shrine (should I do these instead of Geibikei Gorge instead? We are not really that into hiking)
Day 7 – 9 – Sendai (base)
Ok, should I drive to Sendai, or should I return the rental car and take a train instead? My concern is parking in a city which will be costly.
Places to see in Sendai:
– Osaki Hachimangu Shrine
– Matsushima Bay (Godaido Temple & Fukuurajima)
Day 8
– Shiogama Wholesale Seafood Market
– Shiogama Shrine
– Kinkasan Island
– Jozenji-dori (x’mas lights)
– Shopping arcades (suggestion?)
Day 9
– Sendai Asaichi (for the morning market)
– Ginzan Onsen (planning to drive there)
Day 10 – 13 – drive to Zao Onsen – will visit Jogi Nyorai Saihoji Temple and Akiu Great Falls along the way
Skiing for everyone. Will probably visit the below during our off-time
– Dewa Sanzan
– Yamadera
– Okama Crater
– Ouchi-juku
Day 14 – 15
Back to Tokyo and flight home.
Is my plan is too hectic? Would you replace/drop any areas?
I know Gyutan is a must eat in Sendai, but are there any other local food that I must not miss?
Finally, are there any morning markets in the places I’m visiting? I loved the morning market in Takayama. Hope to find something similar.
Thank you so much for any feedback!
by tjce1412