Small Group Tour IJT Classic

A Northern Soul

14 Nights: from US$6780 Trip Code: ANS Activity Rating: Adventure

Tour Menu

The northern reaches of Japan's main island hold some of the country's most beguiling attractions: rugged national parks, mountaintop temple communities, and enchanting hot spring villages. A Northern Soul introduces some of these hidden delights, revealing a side of Japan rarely seen by outsiders. Read more >

The region of Tohoku lies north of Tokyo, stretching all the way up to the tip of Honshu Island and encompassing six prefectures. This is one of the most remote regions in Japan, with a reputation for stunning scenery, deep winters, and exceptionally warm hospitality - and until 2011 it was a name virtually unknown to the outside world.

Then, on the 11th of March, this unassuming region suddenly found itself at the centre of the world's attention thanks to the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in 2011. To help you understand the effects of the earthquake, the tour will include a visit and stay in one of the towns worst affected by the tsunami, where you'll have the chance to learn about what happened in the region, meet local people whose lives were affected by the disaster and support the region through your visit.

Tohoku is a truly beautiful region and this tour is packed with stunning locations and fascinating cultural experiences - including several World Heritage Sites. As part of this tour you'll visit beautiful Matsushima Bay, considered one of the top three scenic views in Japan; historic Hiraizumi, whose golden temple rivals Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto for brilliance; and Naruko Onsen, a charming onsen town where hot spring steam billows through the wood-panelled streets. Outside of the Tohoku region you'll also visit the monumentally elaborate temples of Nikko, final resting place of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the abandoned gold mines of Sado Island, a rural isle known for its world-famous taiko drummers.

This is a fantastic itinerary taking you well off the beaten path into Japan's magical northern reaches. Though most of Tohoku was completely untouched by the disaster of 2011, the whole region has suffered the effects of a decline in tourism to the area, so your presence will be greatly appreciated by the hotels, inns, restaurants and museums we'll visit on the tour.

If this sounds good and makes you want to see even more, why not extend your tour in Japan!

Important Tour Information

Travelling with family? Under 18s get 10% off the tour price.

The accommodation listed is for 2025 departures. Please note that accommodation is subject to change. Final details of the accommodation will be included in your Info-Pack, which will be sent out approximately four weeks before departure. If you would like to know more, please speak to your travel consultant.

Group Size: 4 - 14

Single Supplement: Single rooms are guaranteed at all night stops on this tour through payment of a mandatory single supplement.

Fitness: Even when not using public transport, sightseeing in Japan often involves walking between sights, climbing up steps in temples and being 'on the go' for much of the day. To enjoy any of our Small Group Tours you should be of moderate fitness, able to walk and climb stairs without difficulty and able to maintain a pace that is comfortable for the majority of the group.

Check-in: Upon arrival you will probably be tired after a long international flight. Please note that rooms at the Tokyo hotel are only available from 3pm.

Hotels in Japan operate strict check-in policies. If you have an early arrival you can either book an extra night for any-time check-in, or the hotel will be happy to securely store your luggage for you whilst you go for a drink or explore the local area.

We recommend booking at least one extra night to check in and relax before the tour begins.

Transport: We will be using several modes of transport on this tour including private minibuses, ferry, taxis, trains and jet foil rides - as well as making use of Japan's first-rate rail network.

Luggage: We highly recommend that to make your stay more enjoyable you pack reasonably light. Large suitcases will be an inconvenience to you. A small case or bag with wheels or a rucksack are most appropriate for this tour as you will have to carry your bags for short distances and some stations do not have escalators or elevators/lifts. You will also need a small overnight bag for up to two nights (e.g. backpack), for use when we forward our main bags to the next location.

Accommodation: We aim to secure rooms at all accommodation with attached en-suite facilities. Culturally, communal bathing is common practice in Japan. Shared facilities (when included) will always be separated by gender.

Please note that in Japan, twin rooms are very much the norm, and there are far fewer double rooms available. Please understand that on this tour we are not able to offer double rooms at any of the locations.

International Flights: This tour starts and finishes in Tokyo for arrivals and departures at Tokyo Narita Airport or Tokyo Haneda Airport. Please note that the included meet-and-greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available from these two airports.

At a glance

What's Included >

What's included

14 nights' accommodation
Breakfast every day, one lunch and eight evening meals
All transport between destinations in Japan, including airport transfers
IC transport card with 3,000 yen credit for city transport
Loop bus pass for transport in Hiraizumi
Full day private guide service in Nikko
Two full days' private guide service on Sado Island
Entrance to Hamarikyu Gardens in Tokyo
Entrance fees for temples and shrines in Nikko
Day trip to the Yugendo Caves, including boat trip & paper-making workshop
Mini tatami mat making experience
Excursion to Izu Numa town and mochi rice cake making experience
Entrance fees to Kesennuma City Memorial Museum and Brewery Tour at Otokoyama Sake brewery
Sightseeing tour of Matsushima Bay
Dairy visit & ice cream making in Zao Onsen
Entrance fees for two days' sightseeing on Sado Island
Taiko drumming experience on Sado Island
Luggage forwarding from Tokyo to Hiraizumi, Niigata to Tokyo and Ishinomaki/Kesennuma to Sendai

What's NOT included:

International flights
Any local transport (subways, taxis, buses) unless covered by the included transport passes
Entrance fees (including those for temples, shrines and museums) unless otherwise specified
Baggage handling and luggage forwarding unless otherwise specified

View full price information >

Tour Price Information

2025

Tour Price: From US$6780
Single Supplement: From US$988

Extra Nights

Pre-Tour: Twin Share From US$169 pp Single From US$319 pp
Post-Tour: Twin Share From US$163 pp Single From US$228 pp

2026

Tour Price: From US$6780
Single Supplement: From US$923

Extra Nights

Pre-Tour: Twin Share From US$143 pp Single From US$260 pp
Post-Tour: Twin Share From US$150 pp Single From US$202 pp

Please note: Prices displayed above are all "From" prices as individual prices vary depending on the tour departure date.

Tour Highlights

Take a boat trip through Matsushima Bay
Learn about the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in the Sanriku Coast region
Admire Japan's religious architecture in Nikko
Immerse yourself in Tokyo's peaceful Hamarikyu Gardens

Have a go at taiko drumming in its spiritual home
Try your hand at traditional papermaking
Visit the ancient temples of Hiraizumi
If all this sounds great and makes you want to see even more, why not extend your stay in Japan!

For more information email us: info-usa@insidejapantours.com or call: 303 952 0379

What, where, when and how...

A Northern Soul - 15 Days

Destinations

A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Day by Day

Close all days

A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Accommodation

Tokyo

Asakusa View Annex Rokku

Superior
Nikko

Kanaya Hotel

Superior
Hiraizumi

Musashibo

Moderate
Naruko Onsen

Kameya

Superior
Kesennuma

Kesennuma Plaza Hotel

Moderate
Sendai

Hotel Vista Sendai

Moderate
Niigata

Hotel Sunroute

Moderate
Sado Island

Yoshidaya Ryokan

Superior
Tokyo

Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku

Moderate

A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Experiences

A Northern Soul - 15 Days - Booking

07 May 2025

US$6773

Sold Out

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
14 May 2025

US$6773

Sold Out

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
28 May 2025

US$6773

Sold Out

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
18 Jun 2025

US$6780

Book It!

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
27 Aug 2025

US$6780

Book It!
03 Sep 2025

US$7417

Book It!

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
24 Sep 2025

US$7417

Book It!

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
01 Oct 2025

US$7969

Sold Out

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
13 May 2026

US$7417

Book It!
10 Jun 2026

US$6780

Book It!

Single supplement from US$923

Day 14-15

Return to Tokyo for one final exciting night amongst the bright lights of the capital.

On day 14 you'll board the ferry once more for the journey back to Niigata, where you'll catch a taxi to the station and jump on the bullet train to Tokyo. Japan's shinkansen is an experience in itself, and you're bound to enjoy zipping through the countryside as you return to Tokyo to conclude your trip.

For your final tour night, you'll be staying in Shinjuku – one of Tokyo's brightest, most exciting entertainment districts, crowded with skyscrapers packed to the rafters with bars, shops, restaurants and karaoke booths. This is the perfect place to head out and make the most of your last few hours in Japan – and it's well connected to every other part of the city, so if there's one last museum you want to squeeze in or a special souvenir you'd like to seek out, this is the time to do it. Tonight, a farewell dinner is included for you to enjoy one last night in Japan, the perfect opportunity to swap your favourite memories of the trip.

On day 15 your adventure comes to a close and you'll bid farewell to your tour leader and travelling companions as you make your way to the airport by shared shuttle bus. We hope you'll be back soon!

Overnight: Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
Day 1-2

Begin your tour in Tokyo, where towering skyscrapers and brilliant neon provide the perfect introduction to modern Japan.

On arrival at either Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, you will travel by shared shuttle bus to your hotel in Asakusa, Tokyo's most traditional district. Here you'll meet your tour leader and have the chance to begin getting to know your travel companions. Asakusa is a fascinating and very accessible district of Tokyo, known for the bright-red Senso-ji Temple, its many market stalls, and Kappabashi-dori (“Kitchen Street”). This is a fantastic place to begin your trip to Japan, and this evening your tour leader will take you out for a welcome meal at one of the area's many excellent restaurants.

On day two, having recharged your batteries with a good night's sleep, your tour leader will take you on a tour of the city using public transport – including famous spots such as the Shibuya scramble crossing, the crazy shopping streets of Harajuku and Akihabara “electric town”. You'll also visit serene Hamarikyu Gardens, an oasis of calm in the midst of the hubbub.

Overnight: Asakusa View Annex Rokku
Day 3-4

Begin your journey northwards with two nights in Nikko, the home of some of Japan's most elaborate religious architecture set in a beautiful national park.

On day three you will take the train direct from Asakusa to Nikko, just a couple of hours' north of Tokyo yet worlds away in character and charm. This World Heritage Site is the final resting place of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of Japan's greatest shogunate, and exhibits some of the most impressive traditional architecture found anywhere in Japan. After checking in at your traditional ryokan accommodation, you will be met by our expert local guide for a full day's tour of the area's most impressive sites. This is sure to include Tokugawa's mausoleum, the “three wise monkeys” carving from the proverb “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”.

On day four you'll have another full day to really explore the national park, with its winning combination of deep forest, beautiful lakes, impressive waterfalls and steaming hot springs. You'll have a private bus at your disposal to take you to some of the area's most scenic spots – including the Akechidaira Plateau and Kegon Falls – or you are welcome to strike out independently for an invigorating day of hiking.

Overnight: Kanaya Hotel
Day 5-6

Move on to Hiraizumi, where beautiful temples and shrines remain as a legacy of the town's illustrious past.

In the 12th century, during the Heian Period of Japanese history, Hiraizumi was the seat of the powerful Fujiwara clan and was important enough to rival imperial Kyoto in the south. Today a glimpse of Hiraizumi's former glory remains in its beautiful temples and shrines, which are the most impressive in the Tohoku region - and another World Heritage Site.

After checking in at your accommodation in Hiraizumi, you will head out with your tour leader to visit Chuson-ji, the town's most famous temple. Chuson-ji is set in beautiful woodland and once comprised an extensive complex of buildings, but today there are just two – one of which, Konjikido, is entirely covered in gold like Kyoto's famous pavilion.

On day six you'll have a full day to enjoy the Hiraizumi region. You'll take a boat ride through the Geibikei Gorge, visit the Yugendo Caves, and take part in a paper-making workshop.

In Hiraizumi you'll be staying at a Japanese-style hotel, where a traditional multi-course meal will be served on both nights of your stay'.

Overnight: Musashibo
Day 7

Spend the night in Naruko, a traditional onsen town where hot spring steam billows through the wood-panelled streets.

Today you'll transfer by private coach from Hiraizumi to Naruko Onsen, a charming traditional town known for its nine different hot springs – each with its own mineral composition and reputed health benefits. Your tour leader will accompany you on a day tour to some of the area's sights, including another stunning gorge – the Naruko Gorge, the impressive Naruko Dam, a visit to a nearby geyser, and an optional rowing boat trip on Katanuma Pond.

You will also take part in a hands-on tatami-making experience, crafting a miniature tatami mat, and join a mochi-making masterclass to make—and taste—Japan's famous rice cakes.

Tonight you'll be staying at a traditional ryokan inn, where a delicious kaiseki dinner will be served this evening.

Overnight: Kameya
Day 8

Learn about the devastating events of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami

On 11th March 2011, Tohoku was struck by the largest earthquake in Japan's history, triggering a massive tsunami that devastated the region's eastern coast. Minamisanriku was nearly wiped off the map, while Kesennuma suffered catastrophic flooding and fires. In the aftermath, several InsideJapan staff members traveled to the region to assist with the clean-up and witness the scale of the damage first-hand.

Today, you'll visit these two tsunami-hit towns. In Minamisanriku, you'll explore the Minamisanriku Memorial Park, a site dedicated to those who lost their lives and the town's remarkable recovery.

In Kesennuma, you'll visit the Kesennuma City Memorial Museum, formerly Kesennuma Koyo High School, which was heavily damaged by the tsunami, with most of its four-story structure submerged. Now a powerful memorial, the museum serves as both a reminder of the disaster and an educational site about tsunami preparedness. You'll tour the museum with a local guide who will share moving accounts of survival and the community's efforts to rebuild.

Though it is a sobering experience, the warmth and generosity of the people of Kesennuma will ensure that your stay here is a highlight of your trip – and you will be left in no doubt that your visit is greatly appreciated.

In the afternoon, you'll have the option to visit a sake brewery, explore the Rias Ark Museum of Art, or unwind at a craft beer brewery or café in the port area

Overnight: Kesennuma Plaza Hotel
Day 9

Following your visit to Ishinomaki, visit Matsushima Bay and spend a night in Sendai: the biggest, most energetic city in the Tohoku region.

Today you will travel by private coach from Kessenuma to Matsushima Bay, an ocean inlet studded with leafy islands which is officially designated one of the Nihon San-Kei, or ‘Three Great Sights of Japan'. You'll explore the area by boat, visiting some of the bay's scenic piers and islands, as well as the lovely Entsuin Temple Gardens. After the day's sightseeing you'll take the train onwards to Sendai, where the rest of the afternoon will be at leisure to enjoy the city.

Sendai is known by the locals as the ‘city of trees' for its wild, tree-lined avenues and spacious parks, one of the more positive outcomes of the heavy bombardment the city suffered in WWII. As the capital of the north it has the best restaurant scene and nightlife in Tohoku, as well as plenty of excellent shops and galleries, so you'll have no problem entertaining yourself for the remainder of the day.

Overnight: Hotel Vista Sendai
Day 10-11

Visit a dairy farm, make your own ice cream, admire vertiginous waterfalls and gaze over Okama Crater Lake on your way from the east to the west coast.

This morning, if you have time, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Sendai morning market before jumping onboard your coach again for the journey from east to west.

In Zao Onsen you'll stop at a local dairy farm, meet the farm's cows and try your hand at making (and tasting) ice cream, while at Togatta Onsen you'll stop to give your feet a rest in the ashiyu hot spring foot bath. From here, the ‘Zao Echo Line' road will lead you past spectacular waterfalls and mountains to Kattadake Peak, which boasts stunning views over the Okama Crater Lake and its mysterious colour-changing waters. Your final destination today is Niigata, a sizeable city on Japan's western coast.

On day 11 you'll continue your exploration of the west coast with a day of sightseeing in and around Niigata, including the beautiful Saito Family Summer Villa – an opulent example of turn-of-the-century Japanese architecture, a visit to the pretty Hakusan Park, and a spot of shopping at Honcho Market. The afternoon will be at leisure for you to spend as you choose; your tour leader will have some excellent suggestions as to how best to spend your time.

Overnight: Hotel Sunroute
Day 12-13

Spend two nights on Sado Island, a former place of exile for Japanese dissidents that has its own unique culture and beautiful scenery.

On the morning of day 12 you will transfer by taxi to the port, where you'll catch the Jetfoil to Sado Island. Sado's remote location made it the perfect place for Japanese rulers to send dissenting politicians, artists, and other prominent figures – beginning with a poet in 722 and concluding almost a millennium later in 1700. During this time, Sado became home to banished emperors, monks and aristocrats alike, developing its own religious and cultural scene whose influence is still evident today.

On arrival on Sado you will meet your local guide, who will be with you for two full days to help you get beneath the surface of the island. Travelling in a private minibus, first you'll explore the Old Fishing Street and ride in a distinctive tub boat, later on you'll get the chance to learn about Sado's other most famous export: taiko drumming. This art is enjoyed throughout Japan, but Sado's taiko group, Kodo, is the most famous – having toured extensively through Japan, Europe and the US. You'll get a chance to have a go yourself with a lesson today. You'll arrive at your accommodation in time for the included dinner.

Gold was discovered on Sado around 400 years ago and briefly made the island the largest gold producer in the world. On your second full day on Sado Island, you'll start the day visiting the gold mine museum. After learning about the mining process, you'll pay a visit to the Sado Bugyosho, or former magistrate's office, from where the mining operation was governed. The rest of the day will be spent exploring a few more of the island's attractions, including a visit to the Ibis Sanctuary and a local sake brewery. Today you'll return to the accommodation with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the hot spring bath.

Overnight: Yoshidaya Ryokan
Day 14-15

Return to Tokyo for one final exciting night amongst the bright lights of the capital.

On day 14 you'll board the ferry once more for the journey back to Niigata, where you'll catch a taxi to the station and jump on the bullet train to Tokyo. Japan's shinkansen is an experience in itself, and you're bound to enjoy zipping through the countryside as you return to Tokyo to conclude your trip.

For your final tour night, you'll be staying in Shinjuku – one of Tokyo's brightest, most exciting entertainment districts, crowded with skyscrapers packed to the rafters with bars, shops, restaurants and karaoke booths. This is the perfect place to head out and make the most of your last few hours in Japan – and it's well connected to every other part of the city, so if there's one last museum you want to squeeze in or a special souvenir you'd like to seek out, this is the time to do it. Tonight, a farewell dinner is included for you to enjoy one last night in Japan, the perfect opportunity to swap your favourite memories of the trip.

On day 15 your adventure comes to a close and you'll bid farewell to your tour leader and travelling companions as you make your way to the airport by shared shuttle bus. We hope you'll be back soon!

Overnight: Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
Day 1-2

Begin your tour in Tokyo, where towering skyscrapers and brilliant neon provide the perfect introduction to modern Japan.

On arrival at either Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, you will travel by shared shuttle bus to your hotel in Asakusa, Tokyo's most traditional district. Here you'll meet your tour leader and have the chance to begin getting to know your travel companions. Asakusa is a fascinating and very accessible district of Tokyo, known for the bright-red Senso-ji Temple, its many market stalls, and Kappabashi-dori (“Kitchen Street”). This is a fantastic place to begin your trip to Japan, and this evening your tour leader will take you out for a welcome meal at one of the area's many excellent restaurants.

On day two, having recharged your batteries with a good night's sleep, your tour leader will take you on a tour of the city using public transport – including famous spots such as the Shibuya scramble crossing, the crazy shopping streets of Harajuku and Akihabara “electric town”. You'll also visit serene Hamarikyu Gardens, an oasis of calm in the midst of the hubbub.

Overnight: Asakusa View Annex Rokku

Previous story Next story

Day 1-2

Begin your tour in Tokyo, where towering skyscrapers and brilliant neon provide the perfect introduction to modern Japan.

On arrival at either Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, you will travel by shared shuttle bus to your hotel in Asakusa, Tokyo's most traditional district. Here you'll meet your tour leader and have the chance to begin getting to know your travel companions. Asakusa is a fascinating and very accessible district of Tokyo, known for the bright-red Senso-ji Temple, its many market stalls, and Kappabashi-dori (“Kitchen Street”). This is a fantastic place to begin your trip to Japan, and this evening your tour leader will take you out for a welcome meal at one of the area's many excellent restaurants.

On day two, having recharged your batteries with a good night's sleep, your tour leader will take you on a tour of the city using public transport – including famous spots such as the Shibuya scramble crossing, the crazy shopping streets of Harajuku and Akihabara “electric town”. You'll also visit serene Hamarikyu Gardens, an oasis of calm in the midst of the hubbub.

Overnight: Asakusa View Annex Rokku
Day 3-4

Begin your journey northwards with two nights in Nikko, the home of some of Japan's most elaborate religious architecture set in a beautiful national park.

On day three you will take the train direct from Asakusa to Nikko, just a couple of hours' north of Tokyo yet worlds away in character and charm. This World Heritage Site is the final resting place of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of Japan's greatest shogunate, and exhibits some of the most impressive traditional architecture found anywhere in Japan. After checking in at your traditional ryokan accommodation, you will be met by our expert local guide for a full day's tour of the area's most impressive sites. This is sure to include Tokugawa's mausoleum, the “three wise monkeys” carving from the proverb “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”.

On day four you'll have another full day to really explore the national park, with its winning combination of deep forest, beautiful lakes, impressive waterfalls and steaming hot springs. You'll have a private bus at your disposal to take you to some of the area's most scenic spots – including the Akechidaira Plateau and Kegon Falls – or you are welcome to strike out independently for an invigorating day of hiking.

Overnight: Kanaya Hotel
Day 5-6

Move on to Hiraizumi, where beautiful temples and shrines remain as a legacy of the town's illustrious past.

In the 12th century, during the Heian Period of Japanese history, Hiraizumi was the seat of the powerful Fujiwara clan and was important enough to rival imperial Kyoto in the south. Today a glimpse of Hiraizumi's former glory remains in its beautiful temples and shrines, which are the most impressive in the Tohoku region - and another World Heritage Site.

After checking in at your accommodation in Hiraizumi, you will head out with your tour leader to visit Chuson-ji, the town's most famous temple. Chuson-ji is set in beautiful woodland and once comprised an extensive complex of buildings, but today there are just two – one of which, Konjikido, is entirely covered in gold like Kyoto's famous pavilion.

On day six you'll have a full day to enjoy the Hiraizumi region. You'll take a boat ride through the Geibikei Gorge, visit the Yugendo Caves, and take part in a paper-making workshop.

In Hiraizumi you'll be staying at a Japanese-style hotel, where a traditional multi-course meal will be served on both nights of your stay'.

Overnight: Musashibo
Day 7

Spend the night in Naruko, a traditional onsen town where hot spring steam billows through the wood-panelled streets.

Today you'll transfer by private coach from Hiraizumi to Naruko Onsen, a charming traditional town known for its nine different hot springs – each with its own mineral composition and reputed health benefits. Your tour leader will accompany you on a day tour to some of the area's sights, including another stunning gorge – the Naruko Gorge, the impressive Naruko Dam, a visit to a nearby geyser, and an optional rowing boat trip on Katanuma Pond.

You will also take part in a hands-on tatami-making experience, crafting a miniature tatami mat, and join a mochi-making masterclass to make—and taste—Japan's famous rice cakes.

Tonight you'll be staying at a traditional ryokan inn, where a delicious kaiseki dinner will be served this evening.

Overnight: Kameya
Day 8

Learn about the devastating events of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami

On 11th March 2011, Tohoku was struck by the largest earthquake in Japan's history, triggering a massive tsunami that devastated the region's eastern coast. Minamisanriku was nearly wiped off the map, while Kesennuma suffered catastrophic flooding and fires. In the aftermath, several InsideJapan staff members traveled to the region to assist with the clean-up and witness the scale of the damage first-hand.

Today, you'll visit these two tsunami-hit towns. In Minamisanriku, you'll explore the Minamisanriku Memorial Park, a site dedicated to those who lost their lives and the town's remarkable recovery.

In Kesennuma, you'll visit the Kesennuma City Memorial Museum, formerly Kesennuma Koyo High School, which was heavily damaged by the tsunami, with most of its four-story structure submerged. Now a powerful memorial, the museum serves as both a reminder of the disaster and an educational site about tsunami preparedness. You'll tour the museum with a local guide who will share moving accounts of survival and the community's efforts to rebuild.

Though it is a sobering experience, the warmth and generosity of the people of Kesennuma will ensure that your stay here is a highlight of your trip – and you will be left in no doubt that your visit is greatly appreciated.

In the afternoon, you'll have the option to visit a sake brewery, explore the Rias Ark Museum of Art, or unwind at a craft beer brewery or café in the port area

Overnight: Kesennuma Plaza Hotel
Day 9

Following your visit to Ishinomaki, visit Matsushima Bay and spend a night in Sendai: the biggest, most energetic city in the Tohoku region.

Today you will travel by private coach from Kessenuma to Matsushima Bay, an ocean inlet studded with leafy islands which is officially designated one of the Nihon San-Kei, or ‘Three Great Sights of Japan'. You'll explore the area by boat, visiting some of the bay's scenic piers and islands, as well as the lovely Entsuin Temple Gardens. After the day's sightseeing you'll take the train onwards to Sendai, where the rest of the afternoon will be at leisure to enjoy the city.

Sendai is known by the locals as the ‘city of trees' for its wild, tree-lined avenues and spacious parks, one of the more positive outcomes of the heavy bombardment the city suffered in WWII. As the capital of the north it has the best restaurant scene and nightlife in Tohoku, as well as plenty of excellent shops and galleries, so you'll have no problem entertaining yourself for the remainder of the day.

Overnight: Hotel Vista Sendai
Day 10-11

Visit a dairy farm, make your own ice cream, admire vertiginous waterfalls and gaze over Okama Crater Lake on your way from the east to the west coast.

This morning, if you have time, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Sendai morning market before jumping onboard your coach again for the journey from east to west.

In Zao Onsen you'll stop at a local dairy farm, meet the farm's cows and try your hand at making (and tasting) ice cream, while at Togatta Onsen you'll stop to give your feet a rest in the ashiyu hot spring foot bath. From here, the ‘Zao Echo Line' road will lead you past spectacular waterfalls and mountains to Kattadake Peak, which boasts stunning views over the Okama Crater Lake and its mysterious colour-changing waters. Your final destination today is Niigata, a sizeable city on Japan's western coast.

On day 11 you'll continue your exploration of the west coast with a day of sightseeing in and around Niigata, including the beautiful Saito Family Summer Villa – an opulent example of turn-of-the-century Japanese architecture, a visit to the pretty Hakusan Park, and a spot of shopping at Honcho Market. The afternoon will be at leisure for you to spend as you choose; your tour leader will have some excellent suggestions as to how best to spend your time.

Overnight: Hotel Sunroute
Day 12-13

Spend two nights on Sado Island, a former place of exile for Japanese dissidents that has its own unique culture and beautiful scenery.

On the morning of day 12 you will transfer by taxi to the port, where you'll catch the Jetfoil to Sado Island. Sado's remote location made it the perfect place for Japanese rulers to send dissenting politicians, artists, and other prominent figures – beginning with a poet in 722 and concluding almost a millennium later in 1700. During this time, Sado became home to banished emperors, monks and aristocrats alike, developing its own religious and cultural scene whose influence is still evident today.

On arrival on Sado you will meet your local guide, who will be with you for two full days to help you get beneath the surface of the island. Travelling in a private minibus, first you'll explore the Old Fishing Street and ride in a distinctive tub boat, later on you'll get the chance to learn about Sado's other most famous export: taiko drumming. This art is enjoyed throughout Japan, but Sado's taiko group, Kodo, is the most famous – having toured extensively through Japan, Europe and the US. You'll get a chance to have a go yourself with a lesson today. You'll arrive at your accommodation in time for the included dinner.

Gold was discovered on Sado around 400 years ago and briefly made the island the largest gold producer in the world. On your second full day on Sado Island, you'll start the day visiting the gold mine museum. After learning about the mining process, you'll pay a visit to the Sado Bugyosho, or former magistrate's office, from where the mining operation was governed. The rest of the day will be spent exploring a few more of the island's attractions, including a visit to the Ibis Sanctuary and a local sake brewery. Today you'll return to the accommodation with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the hot spring bath.

Overnight: Yoshidaya Ryokan
Day 14-15

Return to Tokyo for one final exciting night amongst the bright lights of the capital.

On day 14 you'll board the ferry once more for the journey back to Niigata, where you'll catch a taxi to the station and jump on the bullet train to Tokyo. Japan's shinkansen is an experience in itself, and you're bound to enjoy zipping through the countryside as you return to Tokyo to conclude your trip.

For your final tour night, you'll be staying in Shinjuku – one of Tokyo's brightest, most exciting entertainment districts, crowded with skyscrapers packed to the rafters with bars, shops, restaurants and karaoke booths. This is the perfect place to head out and make the most of your last few hours in Japan – and it's well connected to every other part of the city, so if there's one last museum you want to squeeze in or a special souvenir you'd like to seek out, this is the time to do it. Tonight, a farewell dinner is included for you to enjoy one last night in Japan, the perfect opportunity to swap your favourite memories of the trip.

On day 15 your adventure comes to a close and you'll bid farewell to your tour leader and travelling companions as you make your way to the airport by shared shuttle bus. We hope you'll be back soon!

Overnight: Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku

Close all days

View our Gallery >
Video Gallery > Watch video

Tour Reviews

Small Group Tour A Northern Soul
Excellent
Very well organized with a lot of variety of places and things to do.
Read more >
Small Group Tour A Northern Soul
Excellent
Everything went super smoothly and the tour and guide were great.
Read more >

(12 month average based on 20 reviews)

5.0 out of 5 from 20 reviews Show all A Northern Soul Reviews

Latest from Twitter

Head north to experience Japan in autumn that is rarely seen by travellers... #AutumnLeaves #AutumnColours… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

Follow Retweet

Other IJT Classic Tours you may like...

Small Group Tour

Hidden Japan (IJT Classic)
- Kyoto
- Mount Koya
- Tokushima
- Takamatsu
- Kotohira
- Matsuyama
- Hiroshima
- Kyoto
Discover the road less travelled

12 nights: US$6468 Read more >

View more Small Group Tours
Small Group Tour

Autumn Elegance (IJT Classic)
- Tokyo
- Matsumoto
- Takayama
- Kanazawa
- Kyoto
- Hakone
- Tokyo
As stunning as spring — just in a different colour scheme. Autumn Elegance combines cities and countryside at a gorgeous time of year.

13 nights: US$6214 Read more >

View more Small Group Tours
Small Group Tour

Classic Japan (IJT Classic)
- Tokyo
- Hakone
- Osaka
- Kyoto
- Takayama
- Japan Alps
- Tokyo
Classic Japan combines the famous cultural sights of Japan with the staggering natural beauty of its mountainous region. You'll visit the “golden route”: Tokyo, Kyoto and Hakone, but also spend four days in the beautiful Japan Alps – including Kamikochi National Park, a place we think is a contender for one of the most stunning on Earth.

13 nights: US$6559 Read more >

View more Small Group Tours