Hidden in Urabandai, Fukushima Prefecture, is the mysterious group of lakes and ponds known as “Goshikinuma.” Influenced by volcanic activity and minerals in the water, the surfaces of the ponds display ever-changing shades such as cobalt blue and emerald green, as if you had stepped into a natural color palette. Goshikinuma received one star in the Michelin Green Guide in 2016 and is one of the most iconic natural scenic spots in Japan’s Tohoku region.
Tohoku region
[Sendai Travel Guide]2026 Independent Travel Guide to Attractions, Transportation, Accommodation, and Food in Sendai, Japan
Sendai, located in Miyagi Prefecture in Japan’s Tohoku region, is one of the liveliest cities in northeastern Japan. Compared with other destinations in Tohoku, transportation in Sendai is relatively simple, making it an excellent destination for independent travel. Sendai has been the largest city in the Tohoku region since the era when the famous Sengoku-period warlord Date Masamune ruled the Sendai Domain. If you want to travel beyond Tokyo and explore another city while still enjoying plenty of shopping, Sendai is an excellent choice.
[Where to Stay in Sendai]Best Sendai Hotels for 2026: Near the Station and Great Value for Money
Sendai, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is one of the liveliest cities in Japan’s Tohoku region. The city itself offers plenty of shopping areas, attractions, and delicious food. Whether you are planning an independent trip from Tokyo to Sendai or using Sendai as a starting point to explore other cities in northeastern Japan, transportation is very convenient. If you have already visited popular destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, you may want to consider traveling to Sendai. This article introduces several hotels near JR Sendai Station, including some affordable options that offer excellent value for money.
[2026 Aomori Accommodations] Accommodations in Aomori, Japan: Recommended Hotels and Hot Spring Inns with Convenient Access to the Nebuta Festival
Summer vacation is the perfect time for Japanese Tohoku festivals, and the Aomori Nebuta Festival is one of the most famous festivals in the Tohoku region. Aomori is especially beautiful in summer. Besides enjoying delicious apples, visitors can also explore scenic spots such as Oirase Stream and Lake Juniko. Although the weather is still warm, these places offer a refreshing escape from the heat. So how should you choose accommodation in Aomori? If you want to experience the Aomori Nebuta Festival, where are the recommended places to stay? This article introduces hotels I have stayed at during previous Nebuta Festival trips as well as my personal hotel picks. Some are located close to Aomori Station, and I also recommend accommodations in Towada, allowing you to experience the hot spring ryokans of Aomori, Tohoku.