Because the Japanese archipelago extends north-south, seasonal changes are clear, and many tourists visit Tohoku to appreciate seasonal beauty. In spring, as the "cherry blossom front" moves north, "Hanami," the festival of viewing cherry blossoms in full bloom, is held across the region. From Miharu in Fukushima Prefecture in the south, the ruins of Funaoka Castle in Miyagi Prefecture, Kitakami-Tenshochi in Iwate Prefecture, old Samurai residences in Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture, to Hirosaki Castle in Aomori Prefecture in the north, you can enjoy the pretty colors of spring here in Tohoku.
Tohoku is covered with rich greenery during the summer. Mountains and rice paddies are painted verdant green, and deep forests lie just outside the suburban areas, creating a view just like a green velvet carpet. Here, great rivers run down as if to symbolize the rich blessings bestowed by nature.
As the leaves gradually change color, from green to deeper tints, the season changes into autumn. This time, the "autumn leaves front" moves down south, and from the mountains tops to lower ground. The splendor of the crimson and yellow autumn leaves covering the mountains and valleys is another seasonal charm that Tohoku offers. Many visitors wander outdoors, viewing maple leaves and collecting mushrooms.
Then, as the white snow falls on mountains and a winter-sports season sets in, ski resorts and hot spring spas in the surrounding areas become crowded with visitors. The mountainous areas in Tohoku are scattered with many hot spring spas, which adds to the "after-ski" pleasure.
Tohoku fascinates visitors with its natural blessings and seasonal delicacies throughout the entire year. That is the magnetism of four seasons in Tohoku.
