Japan’s most beautiful hidden gems in the Tohoku region – Must-visit winter destinations

Text/Photos provided by HowToTrip

The Japanese yen has been depreciating recently, reigniting everyone’s desire to travel to Japan. Japan has always been one of the most popular travel destinations for people in our country. In winter, aside from visiting Hokkaido to see the snow, the natural winter attractions of Japan’s Tohoku region are also an unmissable travel option. Known as Japan’s most beautiful hidden paradise, the Tohoku area boasts the world’s most beautiful stream, the “Oirase Gorge,” the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Chuson-ji Temple,” one of Japan’s Three Great Views, “Matsushima Bay,” and the unique winter natural phenomenon of “juhyo” (frost-covered trees) on Mount Zao in Yamagata Prefecture. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs or enjoying the scenery, it’s a trip that’s truly worth every penny.

Take the Zao Ropeway to see this incredible sight. The Zao “juhyo” (frost-covered trees) are the most unique natural winter phenomenon on the Zao Plateau in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. They typically begin forming around late November to early December each year. During this period, cloud particles and rime ice carried by the winter seasonal winds of the Tohoku region gradually coat the coniferous trees with ice and snow. From January to February, the lush green pines of the Zao Plateau become entirely blanketed in white snow, taking on shapes resembling humans, beasts, or even local deities—each form wildly unique and varied. Since they only appear in winter, they are referred to by locals as “snow monsters.”

Chuson-ji Temple is located in Iwate Prefecture in Japan’s Tohoku region. With a history of over a thousand years, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. The temple’s “Konjiki-do” (Golden Hall), considered a national treasure of Japan, is known as the “Golden Pure Land.” It is completely covered in gold leaf inside and out, and is a structure that has been preserved since the temple’s founding. Its exquisite craftsmanship is truly breathtaking.

The scenery of Matsushima varies depending on the location and season, and its beauty is regarded as the best among Japan’s Three Great Views. On the calm waters of Matsushima Bay, numerous small islands float, with black pines and red pines standing atop grayish-white rocks. Among them, the views at Shariki, Fugan, Ojima, and Tadamiyama are known as the “Four Great Views of Matsushima,” famous for the different expressions of Matsushima that can be admired from the islands. Especially when taking a cruise around Matsushima Bay, navigating through about 260 large and small islands, you can enjoy the uniquely shaped islets.

Japan’s Tohoku region offers captivating scenery and a leisurely cultural experience. Quickly pack your bags and fly to this beautiful hidden paradise to admire the snowscapes, soak in hot springs, take boat rides, and go skiing—immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Tohoku in winter.

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