Japan’s Basho Tohoku Walk

Start your adventure in Japan with a warm welcome from your guides and a scenic transfer south. Visit the renowned Bonsai Abe family home to explore the intricate art of bonsai, where nature’s elements like wind and snow inspire creations. Enjoy a leisurely 6km walk through bonsai gardens, then experience the rugged beauty of the mountains that shaped these masterpieces. Relax at a traditional Japanese inn, Sansuiso, and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Overnight in Sansuiso

After a traditional Japanese breakfast, embark on a hike through Bandai-Asahi National Park, following the Onsen Trail towards the historic Dake Onsen. Explore the connection between the hot springs and nature, learning about the region’s 1,200-year-old onsen culture. The day culminates in a soothing soak in the rejuvenating waters of Dake Onsen, followed by a delicious regional lunch. Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening and a taste of local cuisine.

Overnight in Sansuiso

Enjoy a scenic boat ride through Matsushima Bay, known for its pine-covered islands. Explore historic sites like Zuigan-ji Temple and the tranquil Entsu-in Temple, famous for its beautiful gardens. The walk across Fukuurabashi Bridge to Fukuurajima Island offers spectacular views. After a fulfilling day of cultural exploration, enjoy dinner at The Lane Hotel, reflecting on the stunning beauty of the area.

Overnight in The Lane Hotel

Today’s journey takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hiraizumi, starting with Genbikei Gorge and stopping at Motsuji Temple. Explore the remarkable Chuson-Ji Temple, where the Golden Hall’s splendour and the site’s rich history unfold. Learn about the once-mighty Fujiwara clan, whose legacy is intertwined with these temples. The day concludes with a traditional Japanese dinner and a cultural dance performance.

Overnight in Kajitsu no Mori

After breakfast, head to the Natagiri Pass, following the historic “27 Curves” mountain trail through dense forests. Pause at the Basho monument, reflecting on the poet’s journey. Then, enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Mogami River, complete with an Oshin lunch box and a traditional folk song. The day ends with a delicious dinner at Shukubo Daishinbo in Tsuruoka, where the flavours of the region shine through.

Overnight in Shukubo Daishinbo

Begin the day with breakfast before ascending Mount Haguro, one of Japan’s sacred peaks, known for its spiritual significance. Climb 2,446 stone steps through an ancient cedar forest to reach the Dewa Sanzan Shrine. Pause for a traditional Shojin Ryori meal before descending and transferring to the picturesque Ginzan Onsen. Enjoy a relaxing evening at Ginzanso with locally sourced seasonal cuisine.

Overnight in Ginzanso

Stroll through the charming town of Ginzan, where time seems to stand still, and discover wooden hot spring inns and quaint cafes. Relax at the Warashiyu footbaths along the Ginzan River before enjoying a celebratory final lunch. After a leisurely exploration of the town, the tour concludes with a transfer back to Sendai, filled with memories of a week immersed in Japan’s natural beauty and rich culture.

Sansuiso offers a charming, traditional stay in Tokyo’s Shinagawa district, just a short walk from Gotanda Station. This family-run inn provides an authentic Japanese experience with tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, and sliding shoji screens. Guests can unwind in the shared bathhouse and enjoy the serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city. With its warm hospitality and convenient location near shops and restaurants, Ryokan Sansuiso is an ideal base for exploring Tokyo’s vibrant culture.

Lane Hotel offers a tranquil, family-friendly stay in the scenic town of Higashimatsushima, Miyagi Prefecture. Just a 10-minute walk from Rikuzen-Otsuka Station, the hotel provides easy access to the natural beauty of Matsushima Bay and the surrounding attractions. The hotel features a variety of rooms, including Western-style, Japanese-style, and themed family rooms like the popular “Dinosaur Room.” Guests can relax in the semi-natural hot spring baths, “Matsushima Saga no Yu,” which utilize Komyo stone known for its ionizing effects. The on-site restaurant serves seasonal kaiseki meals highlighting local seafood and ingredients from Miyagi Prefecture.

Kajitsu no Mori is a tranquil retreat nestled in the natural beauty of Ichinoseki, Iwate Prefecture. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering panoramic views of the Ōu Mountains, this boutique hotel provides a serene escape for travellers seeking relaxation and cultural exploration. The hotel features spacious, soundproofed rooms with private balconies overlooking the garden or mountains. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with bathtubs. Guests can unwind in the on-site spa and wellness centre, offering a range of treatments to rejuvenate the body and mind.

Shukubo Daishinbo is a historic temple lodging nestled at the base of Mount Haguro in Yamagata Prefecture. Operated by a 17th-generation yamabushi family, this 300-year-old shukubo offers an authentic experience of Japan’s mountain worship culture. Guests are welcomed into serene tatami-mat rooms and can participate in morning rituals where prayers are offered for their well-being. The lodge serves traditional shōjin ryōri meals, featuring seasonal mountain vegetables and the renowned sesame tofu, all prepared by hand.

Ginzanso is a serene onsen ryokan located at the entrance of Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture. Surrounded by lush mountains and the soothing sounds of the Ginzan River, it offers a tranquil retreat blending traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. The ryokan features a variety of Japanese-style rooms, many with private open-air baths offering views of the river or mountains. Guests can unwind in the spacious public baths, including indoor and open-air options, as well as unique lying-down baths, all fed by natural hot springs. The on-site restaurant serves seasonal kaiseki meals highlighting local Yamagata ingredients.