Tohuku Discovered
16 days from £6360 per person
This 16-day journey through northern Japan combines scenic drives, cultural immersion, and moments of quiet reflection. Begin in Tokyo before heading north to the shrines and lakes of Nikko, followed by Matsushima Bay, famed for its sunrise views. Continue through the Oirase Gorge to Lake Towada and unwind in the open-air hot springs of Nyuto Onsen. Explore the samurai town of Kakunodate, then journey to the sacred peaks of Dewa-sanzan for mountain hikes and temple stays steeped in spiritual tradition. The itinerary includes international flights, fully insured vehicle hire, accommodation, and 24-hour in-country support.
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Why book Audley Travel with TravelTime World?
COMPLIMENTARY CHAUFFEUR TRANSFER FROM HOME
Book any* Audley holiday with TravelTime World and receive a complimentary private chauffeur transfer to and from home to your departure airport. (Geographical conditions apply)
PRICE PARITY
You won’t pay any more to book through us than going direct – and you get the addition of our concierge service, complimentary chauffeur and local contact.
TWO EXPERTS
By booking with us you get two experts, an Audley destination expert who has extensive knowledge in the destination, and our all round travel knowledge to help make your trip as stress free as possible.
CLOSE PARTNERSHIP
We’re an Audley ‘Preferred Partner’, so you’ll benefit from our close relationship, as well as regular updates, events and training – which includes our inclusion in Audley’s invitation-only Agent’s Members’ Club – Kindred.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1-3
Tokyo
On arrival in Tokyo, you’ll be met by an airport guide who’ll provide your travel documents and direct you to a shared shuttle transfer to your hotel. After checking in, the remainder of the day is free to relax or explore nearby sights such as the Imperial Gardens. The following morning, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby for an orientation and introduction to your trip before setting out together to explore Tokyo’s highlights, including a scenic river cruise from Hamarikyu Gardens to the historic Asakusa district to visit the impressive Sensoji Temple.
Day 4-5
Nikko
This morning, take the high-speed bullet train north from Tokyo to Nikko, a historic mountain city famed for its ornate shrines and tranquil lakeside scenery. Spend the day exploring the region’s highlights, from the temples and Lake Chuzenji to the scenic walking trails that wind through the surrounding hills.
Day 6
Matshusima
Continue by bullet train today to Sendai then local train to Matsushima, one of Japan’s top three most scenic spots. Take a boat trip out to the bay this afternoon.
Day 7-8
Towadako & Hirosaki
Travel by train to Hachinohe, where you’ll collect your hire car for a scenic drive through the Oirase Gorge to Lake Towada. Stay at a traditional ryokan and spend the following day exploring the lake and its surroundings on foot or by car, taking time to unwind in one of the many natural hot springs.
Day 9
Nyuto Onsen
Drive south to Nyuto Onsen, one of the best-known hot springs in northern Japan. Spend the evening relaxing in one of the outdoor baths, some of which are mixed-sex — this is rural Japan, so modesty goes out of the window here!
Day 10-11
Kakunodate
After a relaxed morning, continue your scenic drive through Japan’s mountainous interior to Kakunodate, a charming town celebrated for its samurai heritage. Stay overnight in a beautifully converted samurai residence, and spend the following day exploring the town’s historic streets and preserved samurai houses, or take a short drive to Lake Tazawa to enjoy its peaceful lakeside views.
Day 12-14
Dewa-sanzan
Depart Kakunodate early for a scenic drive to Dewa-sanzan, a sacred mountain range made up of three holy peaks, where you’ll stay in simple yet atmospheric temple lodgings. Over the next two days, climb the stone steps to the summit of Mt Haguro and take in its spiritual ambience, then hike to the top of Mt Gassan to visit its mountaintop shrine and enjoy sweeping views before relaxing in the temple’s communal bath.
Day 15
Tokyo
Drop off your car in Tsuruoka and then take local and bullet line trains to Tokyo.
What’s Included?
INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
TRANSFERS
ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS (DESCRIBED BELOW)
24/7 ASSISTANCE
CALL US
We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).
01442 879787
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