Travel with the JR EAST PASS, and stay with us, Hoshino Resorts, at participating locations for the best value.
David and Uyanga, originally from France and Mongolia, went to Northeastern Japan following the Course One itinerary, for the first time. Here is what they had to say about their experience.
- David, on the trip to Northeastern Japan
- Uyanga, on the Shamisen guitar live at KAI Tsugaru.
JR Tokyo Station, a classic brick building recently renovated, is where our trip begins. We go to the Travel Service Center to get the JR EAST PASS.
JR EAST Travel Service Center »
We first get our hands on the JR EAST PASS. This pass allows for easy travel at a great discount – no need to calculate the fare, just enter the pass through the designated slot as we go.
For more information on the JR EAST PASS, please refer to the JR website. »
Off we go to Matsushima, one of the Top Three Landscapes in Japan.
The first leg is a 2.5-hour ride on the sleek, Tohoku Shinkansen.
We switch trains to the Senseki Line at Sendai Station, arriving at Matsushima Kaigan Station.
Time for a leisurely stroll in Matsushima, the town known for breathtaking famous pine clad islets of Matsushima Bay.
Next we are headed to Oirase Keiryu (River) in Aomori. The free shuttle from the station is waiting to take us to the inn.
Our final destination for the day is the Oirase Keiryu Hotel, with modern Japanese rooms, vivid local highlights and amazing hot springs, where we spend the night.
After a good night’s rest, we wake up and go on an early morning stroll along the river.
Breakfast by the river is absolutely refreshing.
After check-out, we are off to Mt. Hakkoda to see the beautiful fall foliage.
A swift ropeway takes us to the mountaintop, then a ride on a shuttle bus to Hachinohe Station. Take the Aoimori Railway to Misawa Station (JR EAST PASS route).
Tonight’s lodging Aomoriya is only minutes away, a Japanese inn rich with local culture and cuisine. Recommended: Experience the ‘Floating Bath’ at Aomoriya, a resort hotel rich with local culture and flavors.
The Nebuta Festival Show at Michinoku Matsuriya Restaurant is a highlight.
Hirosaki is a town well known for its beautiful Hirosaki Castle, as well as for the hand-carved Kokeshi dolls.
From Hirosaki Station to Owani Onsen Station is a 10-minute train ride – KAI Tsugaru, our stay for the night is only minutes away.
Dip in the hot spring, slip into a comfortable kimono - it's time for dinner.
At night, the live Tsugaru Shamisen concert is a true treat.
Final day – check out. Off to Owani Onsen Station for our return trip.
We decide to send an apple-shaped postcard made from wood to friends and family, to say hello from the 'Apple Country'. Makes a perfect souvenir for memories.
A swift ride on the Tohoku Shinkansen to Tokyo Station marks the end our unforgettable days in Tohoku.
David and Uyanga, a couple currently living in Tokyo, but originally from France and Mongolia, went to Northeastern Japan following the Course One itinerary, for the first time. Here is what they had to say about their experience.
“You will experience Japan's countryside fully, beautiful nature and architecture followed with relaxing moments in quiet hot springs, and kind people always happy, eager to share their lifestyles and culture.”
- David, on the trip to Northeastern Japan
“I was utterly impressed. Now, this is a lasting impression, and a lasting culture that I would want to come back to, time and time again.”
- Uyanga, on the Shamisen guitar live at KAI Tsugaru.
Before or after your trip to Northeastern Japan, take full advantage of the JR EAST PASS and JR Kanto Area Pass on all JR lines in Tokyo area, including the Narita Express and Tokyo Monorail. This is the must have pass if you want to venture out to other areas of Japan from Tokyo.
The JR EAST PASS is an unlimited ride pass, offered at a special discounted price, available only to foreigners visiting Japan (with a short-term visa no longer than 90 days) with a non-Japanese passport.
Go on unlimited rides on all JR East train lines.
Start with from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport to Tokyo, then ride around the city - then hop aboard the Shinkansen, limited express to Sendai or Nagano, or on any line in the JR East train area.
The JR EAST PASS can also be used on some trains in the Izu and Nikko areas.
Take full advantage of this great offer - see a lot more, for a lot less.
For details on JR EAST PASS, please refer to the JR page »
Purchase JR EAST PASS here, please refer to the JR page »
The JR Kanto Area Pass is an unlimited ride pass, offered at a special discounted price, for rides in Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto area.
Valid for three days, the pass is good for unlimited rides for reserved seats on ordinary cars on Shinkansen, limited express and other trains.
The JR Kanto Area Pass offers the best discount fares to visit popular tourist destinations such as Mt. Fuji, Izu and Karuizawa.
For details on JR Kanto Area Pass, please refer to the JR page »
Purchase JR Kanto Area Pass here, please refer to the JR page »
Enter now to win JR EAST PASS and a stay at KAI Tsugaru!
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For details on JR EAST PASS, please refer to the JR page.