A 3-day itinerary from Tokyo to Akita and Aomori, featuring the Resort Shirakami, Shirakami Sanchi, Juniko and authentic rural experiences.
Beyond the Golden Route: A Journey Through Northern Akita
Go beyond Japan's Golden Route and discover a different side of the country on this three-day journey through northern Akita — riding the scenic Resort Shirakami train, meeting Akita dogs in their hometown, and exploring a UNESCO World Heritage beech forest most visitors never see.
Trip at a Glance
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (can be extended to 4–5 days by continuing into Aomori)
Route:
Tokyo → Akita City → Mitane / Noshiro / Happo → Juniko → Aomori
Pace:
Moderate — train travel, short walks, and one optional guided forest hike
Best for:
First-time visitors who want nature and local culture beyond the Golden Route
Best season:
April–November (the Resort Shirakami train runs on a seasonal, limited schedule — check dates before booking)
Getting around:
JR trains and local buses; advance reservation required for the Resort Shirakami train
Do you need a car?:
No — this itinerary is designed around train and local bus connections
FAQ
Q: Do I need a rental car for this itinerary?
A: No. This itinerary is built around JR trains and local buses, including the Akita Shinkansen and the Resort Shirakami train.
Q: Can I do this itinerary without speaking Japanese?
A: Yes. Major stations and the Resort Shirakami train have English signage, and many accommodations in Akita City are used to international guests. In smaller towns, a translation app is helpful.
Q: What is the best time of year for this trip?
A: April through November, when the Resort Shirakami train operates. Autumn (October) is especially popular for beech forest colors.
Q: How far in advance should I book the Resort Shirakami train?
A: Reservations open roughly one month before travel and can fill quickly in peak seasons, so book as early as possible.
Q: Can this itinerary be extended?
A: Yes. Many travelers extend Day 3 into Aomori, or add an extra day of hiking in Shirakami Sanchi — see our hiking trail guide for options.
Day 1: From Tokyo to Akita
Leave the energy of Tokyo behind and begin your journey north on the Akita Shinkansen.
As the scenery gradually changes from city streets to mountains and countryside, the journey marks the beginning of a different kind of adventure—one that takes you beyond Japan's major tourist routes and into the landscapes, traditions and everyday life of northern Japan.
DAY 1
Discover Akita's Festival Culture
Start your time in Akita with a visit to the Akita City Kanto Museum, where you can discover the traditions behind one of northern Japan's most famous festivals.
The Kanto Festival is known for its towering bamboo poles decorated with rows of lanterns. At the museum, visitors can learn about the festival's history and see the impressive lantern poles up close.
It is an easy introduction to Akita's distinctive culture before continuing your journey deeper into northern Japan
Meet an Akita Dog
No visit to Akita would be complete without meeting one of Japan's most iconic native dog breeds.
At the Akita Inu Fureai-dokoro, visitors can see Akita dogs up close and learn more about the breed that originated in this region.
It is the perfect introduction to the Akita dog before tomorrow's journey into the countryside, where you'll have the chance to experience a different side of rural Akita alongside Masa.
Rest and Recharge for the Journey Ahead
After exploring Akita City, spend the night near Akita Station.
Staying close to the station makes it easy to continue your journey north the following morning. Enjoy a relaxed evening, explore the local dining options, and get ready to leave the city behind for a day of rural experiences in Mitane, Noshiro or Happo.
Popular restaurants around Akita Station can fill up quickly. Consider making a reservation in advance.
Akita Banya Sakaba
Eiraku Shokudo
Nagaya Sakaba
Today's Journey
Tokyo to Akita by Shinkansen
Take the Akita Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Akita Station.
After arriving in Akita, explore the city before staying overnight near the station. This makes it easy to continue north by local train the following morning.
The Akita Shinkansen connects Tokyo and Akita directly, making northern Japan an easy addition to a wider Japan itinerary.
Day 2: A Day in Rural Akita
Leave Akita City behind and travel north into the quieter landscapes of rural Akita.
Today, slow down and experience a different side of Japan. Begin the morning in Mitane with a walk alongside Masa, an Akita dog, then choose your own afternoon adventure—immerse yourself in traditional culture in Noshiro or explore the forests and coastal landscapes of Happo.
It is a day shaped by local encounters, nature and the simple pleasures of travelling beyond Japan's major cities.
DAY 2
Walk with Masa, an Akita Dog
Begin your day in Mitane Town with a walk alongside Masa, an Akita dog.
Starting from Kado Station, this experience takes you into the peaceful countryside of Mitane, where you can enjoy a relaxed walk while spending time with one of Japan's most distinctive native dog breeds.
Rather than simply seeing an Akita dog, you'll have the opportunity to experience the countryside together—an intimate introduction to rural life in northern Akita.
Choose Your Afternoon
Choose between local culture in Noshiro and outdoor adventures in Happo.
Step into Akita's Traditional Culture
After your morning walk, head to Noshiro for an afternoon immersed in local culture.
Choose a kimono experience at Former Ryotei Kaneyu, a historic building that offers a glimpse into Noshiro's past. Put on a traditional kimono and take the opportunity to capture photographs in the town before continuing your journey.
For a quieter cultural experience, Ryusenji Temple offers Buddhist experiences in a peaceful setting with views toward the Shirakami mountains.
Choose the experience that best suits your travel style, then spend the evening exploring Noshiro's local food and atmosphere.
Walk Through the Forests of Shirakami in Happo
Head to Happo for a guided walk through Tomeyama Forest, where towering beech trees and the peaceful sounds of nature create a different pace of travel.
Walking with a local guide offers more than a chance to enjoy the scenery. Along the trail, learn about the forest ecosystem and how the surrounding communities have lived alongside the natural environment of Shirakami Sanchi for generations.
For travelers looking to slow down and connect with the landscape, Tomeyama is a memorable way to experience the natural side of Akita-Shirakami.
Choose Your Stay
Stay where you explore and enjoy a relaxed evening in rural Akita.
Explore Yanagimachi on an Izakaya-Hopping Evening
After your afternoon cultural experience, stay overnight at Town Hotel Minami in central Noshiro.
The hotel is located in Yanagimachi, Noshiro's central dining area, making it easy to explore the neighbourhood on foot in the evening. Enjoy local food and sake at one of the area's izakaya, or try several spots for a relaxed izakaya-hopping evening.
For specific restaurant recommendations, see our local dining guide.
Relax by the Sea at Hatahata-kan
After a day exploring the forests and coastline of Happo, unwind at Hatahata-kan.
Enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot spring, savour fresh local seafood, and take in the coastal atmosphere. The rocky shore near the property offers another way to enjoy the Sea of Japan, while the hot spring facilities provide a comfortable end to a day outdoors.
Stay here overnight and wake up ready for the next stage of your journey aboard the Resort Shirakami.
Today's Journey
Akita → Mitane → Noshiro or Happo
Morning
Take a local train from Akita Station to Kado Station in Mitane Town for the 9:30 a.m. Akita dog walking experience.
Afternoon
Continue by local train or other local transport to your chosen destination: Noshiro for traditional culture or Happo for nature and outdoor activities.
Overnight
Stay in Noshiro or Happo, depending on your chosen afternoon route.
Next morning
Your journey continues by Resort Shirakami toward Juniko and Aomori.
Day 3: A Scenic Journey from Shirakami to Aomori
Board the Resort Shirakami No. 1 and travel north through the landscapes of northern Akita.
Step off at Juniko to explore the forests and lakes at the foot of Shirakami Sanchi, then return to Juniko Station and continue to Aomori on the Resort Shirakami No. 5.
From the train window to the forest trails of Juniko, today is all about experiencing the landscapes that make this corner of Japan so special.
DAY 3
Make the Journey Part of the Experience
The Resort Shirakami is one of the highlights of this journey.
Settle into your seat as the train travels through the countryside and along the Sea of Japan. Bring a bento on board, enjoy the changing scenery through the large windows, and look out for seasonal events and local performances offered on selected services.
The journey itself is part of the experience, so take your time and enjoy watching northern Japan unfold outside the window.
Step Into the Forest at Juniko
Arrive at Juniko Station on the Resort Shirakami No. 1 and continue by local bus to the Juniko area.
Explore the peaceful beech forests and clear lakes surrounded by the natural landscapes of Shirakami Sanchi. After your walk, return to Juniko Station and board the Resort Shirakami No. 5 for the journey to Aomori.
For bus schedules, walking routes and practical information, see our Juniko Travel Guide.
One-Day Adventure: Shirakami Sanchi and Juniko (Twelve Lakes) Sightseeing with Local Delicacy
Juniko Lakes (Twelve Lakes): A Scenic Gateway to Shirakami Sanchi
Continue North to Aomori
After exploring Juniko, board the Resort Shirakami No. 5 and continue north toward Aomori.
As the train leaves the Shirakami region behind, enjoy one more stretch of the Sea of Japan coastline before arriving in Aomori.
If you have more time, stay another night and continue exploring northern Japan at your own pace.
Today's Journey
Noshiro / Happo → Juniko Station → Aomori
Noshiro / Happo
(Noshiro Station / Akita Shirakami Station)
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↓ Resort Shirakami No. 1
↓
Juniko Area
Local bus
↓
↓ Resort Shirakami No. 5
↓
Aomori Station
Resort Shirakami services and timetables can change. Check the latest JR East timetable when planning your journey and reserve your seats in advance.
How to Reserve the Resort Shirakami Sightseeing Train from Overseas
Resort Shirakami Train