Exclusive Experience of Japan's Snow Country: Win Free Hot Spring Gifts

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

Where to enjoy snow this winter? Want to feel the thrill of speeding across snowy fields on a heated train? Curious to uncover the truth behind the recently trending snow monsters? The newly released and free online guidebook "Complete Guide to Northern Tohoku" provides information on snow festivals, local hot pot dishes, hidden hot springs with snow views, and great travel deals. Now, go online to enter a draw to win amazing hot spring gifts from Tamagawa Onsen, a famous hot spring in Northeastern Japan.

Surrounded by the Sea of Japan, Tsugaru Strait, and the Pacific Ocean, the three prefectures of Akita, Aomori, and Iwate along with Sendai City offer heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures in winter. Visitors can not only challenge the three major frosty experiences in Aomori, enjoy a family snow day at Iwate’s largest ski resort, but also explore Akita’s warmest and most charming snow huts, and experience the magical sensation of skiing through a forest of snow monsters in Sendai’s Zaō area. Especially during the coldest months of January and February, various snow festivals are held across the region. Highlights include the Iwate Snow Festival at Oirase Farm, where you can admire snow sculptures and dine in snow huts, and the romantic night fireworks at Lake Towada’s Winter Story, both of which are extremely popular attractions.

The ultimate winter pleasure is soaking in a warm hot spring while admiring the falling snow, and the prefectures of Northern Tohoku offer many hidden hot springs tucked away in mountain forests as well as the traditional mixed-gender bathing culture that adds even more charm to the experience. Local delicacies include Akita’s grilled rice skewers served in hot pot, Aomori’s grilled mochi soup, Iwate’s hatto nabe, and Sendai’s oyster hot pot. Among them, the unique cruise experience on Matsushima Bay—where you can glide past its scattered islets while savoring delicious oyster hot pot—is the most distinctive winter food journey. For more details, visit http://www.promotions.com.tw/kitatohoku.