Whether you are seeking powder-perfect skiing, breathtaking scenery, or cultural immersion, Tohoku offers an extraordinary glimpse into Japan’s seasonal beauty — less crowded yet equally captivating as other well-known destinations.

Appi Kogen: First-Rate Powder Snow in One of Tohoku’s Top Snow Resorts

Located in Iwate Prefecture, Appi Kogen is one of Japan’s premier ski destinations, offering vast slopes, impeccable snow quality, and breathtaking alpine scenery. Easily accessible from Tokyo via the Tohoku Shinkansen and just 50 minutes from Morioka Station, Appi Kogen is celebrated for its fine, dry powder snow—often compared to that of Hokkaido. With 21 ski runs, including 11 that stretch over 2,000 meters, both seasoned skiers and beginners can enjoy a seamless glide down perfectly groomed trails. The resort’s longest run spans 5,500 meters, ideal for those who want to savor the mountain’s vastness at a comfortable pace.

For adventure seekers, the Tree Run Zone offers ungroomed powder areas surrounded by beautiful forests, while families can enjoy snow tubing, snowshoe trekking, or scenic snowmobile rides. After a full day of winter fun, visitors can relax and recharge at the resort’s many dining and leisure facilities, where they can enjoy local cuisine and unwind in comfort while admiring the mountain scenery. From its exceptional ski conditions to its variety of activities and serene winter landscapes, Appi Kogen offers the perfect balance of thrill and tranquility for a luxurious winter escape in northern Japan.

Oirase Gorge: Where Frozen Waterfalls Transform Nature into Art

In the heart of Aomori Prefecture, Oirase Gorge is a masterpiece of natural beauty, particularly enchanting during winter. While the gorge is famous for its lush green moss and waterfalls in summer, the cold months unveil an entirely new spectacle—icy cascades, glistening branches, and crystalline air that give the landscape an ethereal quality. Stretching for nine kilometers along the Oirase Stream, the trail leads visitors through a serene forest where waterfalls like Ashura Current and Choshi Falls transform into magnificent frozen sculptures. Choshi Falls, at seven meters high and twenty meters wide, creates a striking winter tableau with its icy blue hue. Even during the coldest months, the sound of flowing water beneath the ice adds a tranquil rhythm to the scene, reminding visitors of nature’s vitality amid stillness. Whether you walk along the trail or admire the views from nearby observation points, Oirase Gorge offers a rare chance to experience Japan’s winter wilderness in its purest form — peaceful, awe-inspiring, and deeply moving.

The Fierce Rhythm of Namahage Taiko at Oga Onsen, Akita

In Akita Prefecture’s Oga Peninsula, an extraordinary winter performance captures the soul of Tohoku — the Namahage Taiko Drumming Show. This dynamic folk art combines two iconic traditions: Namahage, a UNESCO-recognized ritual in which men wearing fierce masks visit homes on New Year’s Eve to warn against idleness, and Taiko, the thunderous Japanese drumming known worldwide for its power and precision. The performances take place at Oga Onsen Gofu event hall. As the deep rhythms of the taiko fill the hall, the Namahage figures appear among the audience, their powerful presence both awe-inspiring and exhilarating. The show embodies the spirit of the local people — a fusion of discipline, passion, and reverence for ancestral customs. Oga Onsen can be reached in about 1.5 hours from Akita Airport by Akita Airportliner, making it an ideal stop for travelers exploring northern Japan. Witnessing Namahage Taiko is not just entertainment; it is a vivid encounter with the cultural heartbeat of Tohoku.

A Luxurious Mountain Escape: ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort

Nestled amid the majestic snow-covered peaks of Tohoku, ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort redefines mountain luxury with its seamless blend of sophistication, comfort, and natural beauty. Overlooking the serene Hachimantai Highlands, this five-star resort offers guests an exquisite retreat surrounded by the region’s famous “miracle silky snow.” Each guest room and suite has been thoughtfully designed to frame breathtaking views of the surrounding slopes and forests, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in Appi’s tranquil winter landscape. Whether seeking a peaceful escape or an active holiday, the resort provides an ideal base for both skiers and nature lovers. Dining at ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort is an experience in itself. The signature restaurant, Shiratsuyu, presents an elegant fusion of Japanese and French cuisine using locally sourced ingredients from the rich farmlands and coastal waters of the surrounding area. Guests can experience the region’s seasonal flavors with dishes that celebrate freshness and artistry. From its exceptional location to its gourmet dining and heartfelt hospitality, ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and natural serenity—an ideal destination for travelers seeking a luxurious winter escape in northern Japan.