Tōhoku by Shinkansen
For most travelers, exploration of Tōhoku begins aboard the Shinkansen, the flagship of Japanese railways. From Tokyo, you can reach cities such as Sendai, Morioka, Akita and Niigata in a flash. The Tōhoku Shinkansen, Akita Shinkansen, Yamagata Shinkansen and Jōetsu Shinkansen are the gateway to the region from the capital. At speeds of over 300 km/h, the scenery whizzes past sparkling rivers, majestic mountains and vast green plains. A spectacular experience that invites you to contemplate, while enjoying the exemplary comfort and smoothness of the journey. It's also impossible not to admire the elegant design of these slender-nosed trainsets, painted red and green in the case of the legendary Tōhoku and Akita Shinkansen. Their streamlined silhouette evokes the country's modernity and technical elegance, while blending in perfectly with the landscapes they cross. Taking the Shinkansen is much more than a simple journey: it's a whole ceremonial, a tasty ritual that travelers love to indulge in. Starting with the purchase of an ekiben (the carefully prepared bento sold in stations), which quickly becomes a precious travel companion, especially on long journeys such as the one between Tokyo and Akita. The curious traveler will also delight in the little rituals that come to life before his very eyes. The cleaning staff precisely orchestrate the rotation of seats to orient them in the direction of travel, like a perfectly regulated ballet. As for the station managers, they execute a meticulous choreography of gestures and signals, the hallmarks of Japanese know-how. And we remain admiring, almost hypnotized, by the impeccable order that reigns on the often crowded platforms. There's no doubt about it: we're in Japan, and the change of scenery by train has only just begun.
Local lines, in tune with the landscape
After the brisk pace of the Shinkansen, it's time for a completely different kind of journey: one that matches the peaceful rhythm of local lines. Tōhoku is criss-crossed by a number of picturesque trains that wind their way through the countryside, slowly but surely. And that's precisely where their strength lies: here, you travel at your own pace, letting the landscape pass peacefully by behind the glass. Mountains, rice paddies, plains or small hamlets: local train journeys in Tōhoku turn into enchanted interludes, where the journey becomes an end in itself. With the passing of the seasons, the spectacle is constantly renewed. These lines trace their way across snow-covered plains in winter, skirt flaming mountainsides in autumn, and slip beneath a canopy of cherry blossom in spring. Among the most emblematic, the Tadami line links Aizu-Wakamatsu (Fukushima) to Koide (Niigata). Aboard a two-car train, passengers travel through picture-postcard scenery along the Tadami River, between photogenic bridges, misty valleys and lush countryside. This line, renowned for its breathtaking panoramas, invites contemplation. It also provides access to sites such as the Mugenkyo ravine and its peaceful boat rides. The same atmosphere prevails on the Akita Nairiku line, between Takanosu and Kakunodate. Made up of a single carriage, this train crosses sublime landscapes at a leisurely pace, so that every moment of the journey leaves a lasting impression on the traveler's memory. Every prefecture in Tōhoku is home to this type of bucolic line. In Iwate, the Kamaishi line links Hanamaki to the Pacific coast. In Aomori, the Aoimori line runs between Metoki and the city of Aomori. And in Miyagi, the Senseki line links Sendai to the coast, passing through places marked by history and natural landscapes. Travelling aboard one of these trains is like taking a break from the hustle and bustle, a serene experience conducive to daydreaming. A moment apart, for those who choose to slow down and fully savor the present moment.
On board the theme trains
"A Joyful Train is not just a means of transport, it's an experience in its own right, a concentrate of pleasures that makes the train journey the real reason for the trip." This is what JR East's official website has to say about the region's theme trains, known here as Joyful Trains. The program is simple: take advantage of the rail to experience a memorable moment. It's not the destination that counts, but the journey itself, rich in surprises and emotions. An awakening of the senses along the railroads. Looking at your watch becomes superfluous: the journey is lived slowly, and you savor the moment. A case in point? You can reach Hirosaki from Akita in two hours on the Tsugaru express train, but if you choose one of the three Resort Shirakami trains, you'll need five hours to cover the Gono line. Yet this train has unbeatable arguments that make you forget time and any desire to get there as quickly as possible. It runs along the coast of the Sea of Japan, slowing down as it approaches the most spectacular sections. You can admire the scenery from large windows, get off at certain quays to take part in a short activity, even attend a shamisen concert on board... This is not the typical journey of a hurried traveler, but a parenthesis to be lived to the full. And there's no shortage of examples. The Tōhoku Emotion offers a gastronomic experience in an elegant and cosy setting, between Hachinohe and Kuji. Travelers savor cuisine generously inspired by local Tōhoku produce, while admiring the sparkling shores of the Sanriku coast. Lovers of old locomotives will be charmed by the SL Banetsu Monogatari, a charming retro train that links Aizu-Wakamatsu to Niitsu, through forests, to the rhythm of the machine's deep breath. As for fans of Japanese pop culture, they'll be delighted aboard the three Pokémon with You trains, which link Morioka to Miyako, Hanamaki to Kamaishi and Ichinoseki to Kesennuma. These Pikachu-colored trains offer a unique journey through the Tōhoku countryside. Children climb on the giant Pikachu plush in the playroom car, while adults have fun stamping their notebooks in the stations they pass through. Playful, contemplative, gourmet or nostalgic, these trains are much more than means of transport: they are an invitation to slow down, enjoy the journey and conclude your stay in Tōhoku with an unforgettable experience, off the beaten track.
Practical tips for train travel
If you're planning to explore Tōhoku by train, one name comes to mind as a matter of course: JR EAST PASS. Designed with foreign travelers in mind, this pass is quite simply one of the best ways to discover the region in complete freedom, with unbeatable value for money. For 5 or 10 days (at 30,000 and 48,000 yen respectively for an adult), this pass opens the doors to most JR East lines, including the legendary Shinkansen connecting Tokyo to the major cities of the north (except Niigata, which is not included in this pass). But the JR EAST PASS doesn't stop there. It also covers many local lines, perfect for boarding a Joyful Train or setting off on an adventure in the Tōhoku countryside, without worrying about the ticket price. The JR EAST PASS pays for itself after just a few journeys, especially if you take the Shinkansen. Bonus: seat reservations are included and can be made easily online or at stations. Like its big brother, the Japan Rail Pass, this pass allows you to travel at a low price, while retaining complete freedom to change your itinerary according to your desires, the people you meet... or the weather. As for the Joyful Trains, it's good to know that the number of seats can be very limited. It is therefore strongly recommended to book as soon as possible, especially in high season. Seat reservations generally open one month in advance, from 10 a.m., and can be made at the main stations, at the "Midori-no-Madoguchi" ticket offices or via automatic reservation terminals. Online reservations are also available on the official JR East Train Reservation website. Please note that not all Joyful Trains run every day: check the JR East website to find out when they do. The Tōhoku railways are waiting for you!
