route40

Route 40°North Latitude
Japan has a variety of natural landscapes and regional cultures scattered throughout its long, narrow territory. At the northern end of Honshu, the 40th parallel cuts through the three prefectures of the northern Tohoku region―Aomori, Iwate, and Akita. The landscapes change colors with the seasons―fresh green in spring, red and yellow leaves in autumn, and white snow in winter. Here lie traces of the ancient Jomon culture, the roots of modern Japan. Northern Tohoku is also home to the remains of the golden culture that once flourished with the region's gold mines; the "Kingdom of Hot Springs" with both famous and hidden hot spring resorts; and a local way of life which draws on the wisdom of past generations to face the harsh winters. All of these reflect the natural beauty and culture typical of northern Tohoku, a region famed for its festivals and steeped in folklore. In northern Tohoku we hope that you will discover another Japan, where the old and the new blend together. In this pamphlet we propose eight different sightseeing courses to introduce you to the charms and attractions of northern Tohoku. Half are seasonal while the rest can be enjoyed any time of year. In northern Tohoku you will discover "Another Japan," and your travel experience is sure to be an inspirational one.

The autumn leaves of Lake Towada (Towada City/Kosaka Town) are famous throughout Japan. The double caldera lake, created by volcanic activity, is known for the mystical beauty of its surface. The lush green of spring and the brilliant white of snow-covered winter are also captivatingly beautiful.

Route 40°North Latitude1-8 Year-Round Routes
	Route 40°North Latitude----------1 Discover Another Japan Route A plan designed to enjoy "Another Japan" to its fullest. This trip highlights historical spots including the ruins of an ancient village and traditional architectural remains from both the golden culture and samurai society.
	Route 40°North Latitude----------2 Wonders and Marvelous Route Discover the wonder of an area where culture and religion are enshrined in peoples' daily lives, as they struggle with the severe natural climate of northern Tohoku.
	Route 40°North Latitude----------3 Japanese Homeland Route Visit farming and fishing villages to see the rice fields, apple orchards, the fishing fires lit by the squid fishing boats, and traditional events of the region. This course will give you a nostalgic vision of old Japan.
	Route 40°North Latitude----------4 Hot Springs Route A trip through the "Kingdom of Hot Springs," from busy modern resorts to tranquil hot springs hidden in the mountains.
Seasonal Routes
	Route 40°North Latitude----------5 [Spring/approximately April to June] Flowering Spring Route A trip focusing on the beautiful cherry blossoms and other flowers that herald the end of the long, cold winter and the arrival of spring.
	Route 40°North Latitude----------6 [Summer/approximately July-August] Summer Festival Route A course visiting a variety of summer festivals held throughout northern Tohoku. Experience the energy of the people who enjoy the short summer to its fullest.
	Route 40°North Latitude----------7 [Autumn/approximately September-November] Autumn Colors and Apple Route Enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery around northern Tohoku during the most colorful season of the year by visiting spots famous for their foliage, such as the Shirakami Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
	Route 40°North Latitude----------8 [approximately December to March] Snow Festivals and Winter Life Route Experience the winter festivals and other traditional events of the region, characterized by its heavy snowfall. Enjoy the picturesque scenery of towns and mountains covered by a think blanket of snow.