Northern Japan Tours & Trips

What our customers ask about Northern Japan Tours & Trips

• Why Visit Northern Japan Instead of Tokyo or Kyoto?

  You know what's amazing about Northern Japan? While everyone flocks to Tokyo and Kyoto you'll discover this incredible mix of untouched landscapes and authentic culture at a way more relaxed pace. Travelers absolutely love exploring Hokkaido's national parks especially Shiretoko National Park where you can wander around the famous Five Lakes. The canals in Otaru are super charming and if you time it right you can catch the Nebuta Matsuri festival in Aomori with these massive glowing floats that tell stories from Japanese mythology.

• What Can I Eat That's Special to Northern Japan?

  The food scene up north is incredible and totally unique. When you're in Hokkaido definitely head to Hakodate's morning market for the freshest king crab and uni (sea urchin) you'll ever taste. If you're in Sapporo you've got to try their famous miso ramen - there's this amazing spot called Ramen Yokocho in Susukino where the rich miso broth is just perfect. Over in Aomori they're really proud of their apples and make everything from fresh cider to amazing apple pies.

• How Do I Get Around Northern Japan?

  Getting around is actually pretty straightforward thanks to Japan's amazing rail system. The bullet trains connect all the major spots like Sapporo Hakodate Aomori and Sendai and the views are incredible especially when you're zooming through the Seikan Tunnel between Hokkaido and Honshu. For smaller towns you've got regional trains like the Super Hokuto Limited Express. If you're planning to do lots of traveling grab a Japan Rail Pass it'll save you loads and local buses in cities are super convenient and won't break the bank.

• What Makes Northern Japan Different from the Rest?

  The north just feels different you know? It's got this untouched natural beauty preserved traditions and moves at its own pace. In Hokkaido you'll find these incredible national parks amazing volcanic hot springs (check out Noboribetsu's 'Hell Valley') and you can learn about Ainu culture at places like the Kawamura Kaneto Museum. Tohoku's got the most beautiful autumn colors historic samurai areas and these gorgeous traditional villages like Ouchi-juku with its thatched roofs. Plus you'll deal with way fewer tourists which means a more genuine Japanese experience.

• Which Festivals Should I Plan My Trip Around?

  The festivals up north are absolutely incredible. If you're around in August the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori is mind-blowing with these huge illuminated floats mythical figures and such energetic music and dancing. February brings the Sapporo Snow Festival where you'll see the most amazing snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park and Susukino created by artists from all over the world. For something really special time your visit for the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival in April-May when 2500 cherry trees bloom around the castle it's absolutely magical.