Yamagata Prefecture, facing the Sea of Japan and being run across by the Dewa Mountains and Mogami River, is the nation's top producer of cherries and known as the fruit kingdom. You can enjoy pleasant skiing in Zao, the largest resort area in Tohoku where utilising the features of Dewa Mountains. All the cities, towns and villages in Yamagata are blessed with hot springs. Each hot spring is unique. For example, Ginzan Hot Spring that preserves the old townscape is tastefully laid out when it is covered with snow. For dinner, enjoy "Yonezawa Beef," premium brand beef from Yamagata!

Akita Prefecture has the most significant intangible folk cultural assets in Japan. You can see the traditional culture of the districts in every season. Many tourists come from abroad to enjoy Kakunodate Sakura Festival in Spring and Kanto Matsuri/Omagari Fireworks in summer. In winter,Yokote's Kamakura and the peculiar custom of Namahage in the Oga Peninsula attract visitors. There remains the unspoiled nature regarded as the original landscape of Japan in the Shirakami Mountains, a World Heritage Site, spreading out in the northern part of the prefecture.

Fukushima is easily accessible from the cities, but it still preserves magnificent nature. You can enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling and fishing in Lake Inawashiro. If you like to travel back in time, please visit to Tsuruga-jo Castle. It is counted as one of Japan's 100 best castles. Another recommended place is Ouchi-juku where you can find folk houses with rare thatched roof stand in a row. Try Kitakata Ramen, one of the 3 most famous style ramens in Japan!

In Iwate Prefecture, you can enjoy mysterious sceneries that nature created such as the ria coast and limestone caves. If you go to Iwate, don't miss the World Heritage Site Hiraizumi where temples and gardens are preserved beautifully. Konjiki-do Hall of Chuson-ji Temple, covered with gold leaf, is a must-see spot. Iwate has popular destinations like Hanamaki and Tono. Tono is the setting of "Tono Monogatari," a compilation of Japanese spoken stories, and children's stories by Kenji Miyazawa. Tono has Kappabuchi Pool and Ihatov Museum related to folklore.