Explore Tohoku on a 5-Day Culinary and Cultural Tour of Northern Japan

Tohoku, located in the northeastern region of Japan’s main island Honshu, is a land of rugged beauty, rich traditions, and heartfelt hospitality. Known for its untouched nature, spiritual mountain temples, seasonal festivals, and pristine seafood, the region offers a slower, deeper Japan away from the tourist crowds. From snow-covered onsens to vibrant summer matsuri, Tohoku invites travellers to experience culture and cuisine in harmony with the land.

Japan Navi Journey’s Premium Tohoku Gourmet Tour blends the best of this soulful region into a meticulously curated 5-day itinerary. With private transport, exclusive access to local experiences, and an exclusive menu curated by by Chef Toshiharu Nozaki, head chef of the acclaimed Los Angeles restaurant FUJI Omakase. This is a chance to explore Tohoku through its stories, flavours, and people—up close and unforgettable.

This immersive journey is officially recognised by the Japan Tourism Agency for its excellence and cultural value.

Premium Tohoku Gourmet Tour: A Culinary and Cultural Journey through Shimokita with a Renowned Chef from LA “To the Source of the World-Renowned “Oma Tuna”

Available only from now till 31 October 2025, this limited-time tour offers the perfect opportunity to catch the region’s vibrant autumn atmosphere while savouring its seasonal flavours.

Sign up here

Tour Highlights

(1) Oma Tuna Experience
(2) Shojin Ryori at Temple Lodging
(3) Chef Nozaki’s Special Menu
(4) Hands-On Culture in Aomori and Sendai
(5) Luxury Ryokan and Private Driver

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 – Aomori to Shimokita
Private transfer, welcome dinner, and stay overnight at seaside ryokan.
Day 2 – Oma Tuna & Temple Stay
Fishing, sushi lunch, Fugen-in Temple shojin dinner and lodging.
Day 3 – Aomori City Traditions
Nebuta hands-on activities, cultural sites, check in at wellness-focused designer hotel.
Day 4 – Scenic Transfer to Sendai and Gourmet Dinner
Explore the countryside en route, round off with a fusion Japanese dinner
Day 5 – Free Time in Sendai
Enjoy a leisurely morning before the tour concludes with drop-off at Sendai Station or the airport in the afternoon.

(1) Oma Tuna Experience

Source: Japan Navi Journey

Go beyond the market stalls and onto the sea in Japan’s most famous tuna town—Oma. Join local fishermen for a traditional line-fishing session and learn what makes Oma maguro so prized in high-end sushi restaurants.

After the catch, enjoy an ultra-fresh sushi lunch, offering a true sea-to-table moment you’ll never forget.

(2) Shojin Ryori at Temple Lodging

Source: Japan Navi Journey

Spend a night in quiet reflection at Fugen-in Temple, where you’ll take part in a rare culinary and spiritual experience. Learn how to prepare shojin ryori, a traditional vegetarian meal rooted in Buddhist teachings, and enjoy it in the tranquil temple dining room. A morning prayer session and a peaceful temple garden walk add depth to this soulful stay.

(3) Chef Nozaki’s Special Menus

Source: Japan Navi Journey

On the first night, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring a specially curated omakase course curated by Chef Nozaki, a Los Angeles–based master of Edomae sushi with deep ties to Tohoku. Each meal is crafted to highlight the region’s seasonal ingredients—whether it’s grilled local fish, mountain vegetables, or delicate Aomori apples, plated with artistry and purpose.

(4) Aomori to Sendai: A Gourmet Journey with a Celebratory Finale

Source: Japan Navi Journey

Travel south toward Sendai, soaking in the scenic landscapes and stopping by the charming wineries of Akiu along the way.

Source: Japan Navi Journey

The journey concludes with a celebratory evening: a refined Japanese-fusion dinner at the acclaimed Shozan restaurant, one of the city’s most refined restaurants, showcasing Miyagi’s elegant produce and wines.

(5) Luxury Ryokan and Private Driver

Source: Japan Navi Journey

Travel stress-free in a private vehicle as you move between coastal towns, mountain temples, and city centres. Your accommodations include handpicked luxury ryokan, wellness-focused designer hotel and a 5-star hotel that blend comfort with regional character—think open-air onsens, serene forest views, and impeccable service. It is the perfect way to experience Tohoku in style and peace.

Premium Tohoku Gourmet Tour: A Culinary and Cultural Journey through Shimokita with a Renowned Chef from LA “To the Source of the World-Renowned “Oma Tuna”

Tour Information

Availability period
Now till 31 October 2025

All-inclusive Package
Includes full transfers, 4-night accommodation, experiences, meals specified in the itinerary, guides and taxes for 5 days 
Group booking offer
For a group of 2 pax: ¥872,113 per person
For a group of 4 pax: ¥581,488 per person

*The tour itinerary can be customised to suit your preferences. For more information, please contact Japan Navi Journey.

Tour Registration

Enquire here

About Japan Navi Journey

Japan Navi Journey is managed by Japan Navi Group, a global company originally founded in Singapore with a deep-rooted presence across Japan. Japan Navi Journey designs bespoke private tours that reveal the heart of Japan beyond the typical tourist trail. Each journey is curated to uncover lesser-known destinations, from serene countryside villages to deeply historical cultural sites—experiences that reflect the quiet richness of everyday Japan.

Japan Navi Journey
Email: info@japan-navi-journey.com
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*This article is brought to you in partnership with Japan Navi Journey.


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Vernicia

Avid fan of all things Japanese. Reminiscing her work-study-play life in 日本。

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