Happy Japan DriveROAD TRIP GUIDE

Tohoku · 仙台

Sendai road trips

Start with an easy Matsushima Bay drive from Sendai, then explore farther into Tohoku. Winter daylight is short and mountain roads need separate snow and closure checks.

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HOW TO CHOOSE

With one day, choose Matsushima and Shiogama; reduce walking stops when travelling with older family members.

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Drives from Sendai

Naruko Onsen & Gorge
1–2 days · 85 km

Naruko Onsen & Gorge

Suggested 2 days: D1 Naruko Gorge—Katanuma|D2 onsen town—Onikobe; arrive early in foliage season.

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Akiu Onsen & Falls
1 days · 28 km

Akiu Onsen & Falls

Suggested day trip: Akiu Great Falls—Rairai Gorge—Akiu Traditional Craft Village—day-use onsen.

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Lake Inawashiro & Aizuwakamatsu
2–3 days · 145 km

Lake Inawashiro & Aizuwakamatsu

Suggested 3 days: D1 Lake Inawashiro|D2 Tsurugajo—Aizu Samurai Residence|D3 Ouchi-juku; winter tyres are essential.

Local visitor information ↗
Sanriku Coast & Kesennuma
2–3 days · 135 km

Sanriku Coast & Kesennuma

Suggested 3 days: D1 Minamisanriku|D2 Kesennuma Bay—Oshima|D3 Karakuwa Peninsula; note tsunami evacuation signs.

Local visitor information ↗

Prefer to pick your own stops? Filter routes by city on the homepage and add places to your printable trip notebook.

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