There is something profoundly special about escaping the peak of summer by heading north to the cool, untouched nature of Tohoku. The sound of rushing water, the refreshing forest air, and the gentle touch of breeze on the skin—this is the essence of hisho, Japan’s poetic tradition of summer retreat. Dotted across Tohoku are waterfalls, gorges, and highlands that embody this sense of seasonal serenity. Here are a few must-visit spots to experience the “cool beauty” of a Tohoku summer.
Begin with Yasu-no-Taki in Akita Prefecture, one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls. With a dramatic 90-meter drop in two cascading tiers, it is both powerful and refreshing. As you approach, a mist of fine spray envelopes you—nature’s own cooling shower. Though it’s about an hour’s walk from the trailhead, the shaded forest path makes for a pleasant summer hike.
In Aomori Prefecture, Oirase Gorge stands as one of Tohoku’s most iconic landscapes. Stretching 14 kilometers along the outflow of Lake Towada, it features countless waterfalls and tranquil streams enveloped by lush greenery. In summer, the trail becomes a tunnel of leaves, offering cool relief beneath the forest canopy. Well-maintained paths and bike routes make it easy to explore at your own pace. Scenic highlights like Ashura Stream and Kumoi Falls provide unforgettable photo opportunities, each visit revealing new facets of this dynamic landscape.
In Iwate Prefecture, the traditional boat ride through Geibikei Gorge offers a uniquely soothing summer experience. As you glide gently along the river, the murmuring waters and the nostalgic songs of the boatman create a tranquil rhythm that washes away the noise of the season. Opting for a morning ride ensures cooler temperatures and a more intimate view of the gorge’s deep green beauty.
In Yamagata Prefecture, the Zao Highlands rise over 1,000 meters above sea level, offering a cool summer refuge with temperatures hovering around 20°C and refreshing, low-humidity breezes. The open pastures, where cattle and horses graze freely, lend the landscape a peaceful, almost pastoral European charm. The area is dotted with trekking trails and wetlands, making it easy to enjoy the highland nature even on a half-day trip. Even during peak summer holidays, the area remains pleasantly uncrowded—ideal for those seeking calm and space.
In Fukushima Prefecture, Jododaira is a must-visit destination. Located along the scenic Bandai-Azuma Skyline, this alpine plateau sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters. The volcanic terrain gives rise to sweeping views and dramatic natural features, cooled by crisp mountain winds even in midsummer. Nearby, the crater of Azuma-Kofuji offers a popular walking trail around its rim. Breathing deeply in this sky-high setting brings a liberating sense of clarity—an experience nearly impossible to find in the bustle of the city.
Summer in Tohoku offers a refreshing contrast to air-conditioned interiors. Here, you can listen to the rhythm of waterfalls, gaze into crystal-clear streams, and let the highland breezes carry your thoughts away. Each of these quiet, sensory moments offers not only relief from the heat but also healing from the everyday. By the end of your journey, what began as a simple escape from the heat may leave you feeling more deeply renewed than you ever expected.