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Tohoku, the prefectures that make up the northern portion of Honshu, is one of the most remote areas of Japan. Trains are few. Buses are fewer. But for those willing to venture out with their own transportation, the reward is spectacular temples, museums, and natural scenery that can be enjoyed in virtual solitude. Even more so if one travels off season on purpose, like we did, to make sure crowds would be something we would not have to contend with.
A couple of shots from Rikuchu Kaigan National park in Iwate's rugged southeast, from a region of coastal cliffs known as the "alps of the ocean". First, the dramatic arches of Anatoshiiso and below that, a shot from misty Kitayamazaki.
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A drive through Tohoku consists invariably of days upon days of rice fields at every turn. But every now and then in even this most rural part of Japan, an example of striking modern architecture would inexplicably appear.
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Intriguing Takkoku Cave temple, constructed in 801. I don't know which was more exhilarating: poking around a structure over 1200 years old, or the feeling of amazement in having the grounds all to ourselves to do so.
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Off the eastern coast of Miyagi lies the peaceful island of Kinkazan, a short ferry ride from Oshika. Off season travel means being alone on the island with its multitudes of "wild" deer.
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One of the hundreds of islands in famous Matsushima Bay, reputed to be one of the three most beautiful places in Japan. The fact that I found this area to be no more remarkable than the many others we visited is testament to the fact that spectacular scenery can be found all over Tohoku.
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Heading inland through the mountains that run the length of Honshu's spine brings us to some incredible scenic overlooks. We were not expecting snow in May, but scooping it into our cooler kept our stash of Dr Pepper chilled to perfection!
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In the center of Honshu at the southern edges of Tohoku lies impressive Tsuruga "White Crane" Castle in Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima.
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Gold statue of a maiden hovers in Akita over the waters of Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan.
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A shot of tranquil Hirosaki Castle in Aomori from the extensive botanical garden across the moat.
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One very pleasing aspect of Tohoku travel is the variety of climates since the regions spreads over a great distance from north to south. In the course of one week I encountered the quintessential spring vision of cherry petals cascading over forest trails, while many trees in the far north were already sprouting a full range of bright colors that one would normally associate with autumn.
