In the southern Tohoku region, Fukushima, Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures are rich in nature and offer the perfect spots for campers. Here are some recommended locations in each region and information on the surrounding area.
1. Mt.Bandai ,Fukushima Prefecture
The iconic mountains of Fukushima Prefecture and their natural surroundings are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The scenery is particularly beautiful during the autumn leaf season.
- Recommended time of day
Afternoon to evening. The mountains in the evening sun are breathtaking. - Places to park in your car
Bandai-san trailhead parking lot” and “Michi no Eki Inawashiro”.
Bandaisan Trailhead Parking Lot” and ‘Roadside Station Inawashiro’ are easily accessible and comfortable. - Hot springs nearby: Inawashiro Onsen
Inawashiro Onsen” is a hot spring where you can relax after a day of climbing. - Local food you must try: “Horse Sashimi” and “Kozuyu”.
Enjoy local delicacies such as “horse sashimi” and “kozuyu,” a local delicacy of Fukushima. - Roadside Stations and Markets to Stop by
At “Roadside Station Inawashiro”, you can buy fresh local vegetables and souvenirs.
2. Matsushima Bay ,Miyagi Prefecture
Matsushima Bay, known as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, is a scenic place to visit with a camper. You can also enjoy a cruise around the islands.
- Recommended time of day:.
Evening is especially recommended. The view of Matsushima Bay lit by the setting sun is spectacular. - Places to stay in your car: The “Matsushima Kanko Parking Lot” is conveniently located near many tourist spots.
The Matsushima Tourist Parking Lot is convenient, and there are many sightseeing spots nearby. - Nearby Onsen (Hot Springs) Information: Matsushima Onsen is a hot spring resort located in the vicinity of Matsushima.
Matsushima Onsen is a hot spring where you can enjoy a hot spring bath with a view of the sea. - Must-try local foods: Fresh oysters and other local delicacies are available in Matsushima.
Fresh oysters and sea eels are a must-try. - Roadside Stations and Markets to Stop By
At “Roadside Station Oku-Matsushima,” you can find fresh local seafood and specialty products.
3. Zao Area ,Yamagata Prefecture
Zao is a place where one can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons. In winter, the ice formed by the trees is especially worth seeing. In summer, it is also popular as a cool summer resort.
- Recommended time of day:.Early morning is recommended. You can enjoy the quiet mountain scenery in the clear air.
- Parking spot: The Zao Echo Line parking lot and the Zao Onsen Ski Area parking lot are convenient.Zao Echo Line Parking Lot and Zao Onsen Ski Area Parking Lot are convenient.
- Hot springs nearby: Zao Onsen Hot SpringZao Onsen is a hot spring resort with highly acidic spring water, which is good for beautiful skin.
- Must-try local foods: Yamagata Beef and Tamakoko.Yamagata Beef and Tama-Konnyaku are some of Yamagata’s specialties that you should definitely try.
- Roadside Stations and Markets: At Michi no Eki Zao (Roadside Station Zao), you can get fresh local fruits and vegetables.
4. the Mogami River ,Yamagata Prefecture
It is one of the three major rapids in Japan, and outdoor activities such as rafting and canoeing can be enjoyed. The autumn leaves are especially beautiful in fall.
- Recommended time of day: Morning is best. The river is calm and ideal for activities.
- Places to stay in your car: Roadside Station Mogami and Roadside Station Sagae are comfortable spots to spend the night along the river.
- Hot springs nearby: Akayu Onsen and Shinjo Onsen:Akayu Onsen, Shinjo Onsen, and other hot springs are scattered throughout the area, surrounded by nature.
- Must-try local foods: Yamagata soba noodles and cherries: Yamagata soba noodles and desserts made with cherries are just a few of the local delicacies that can be enjoyed in Yamagata.
- Roadside Stations and Markets to Stop by; You can purchase fresh cherries and other local produce at “Sagae Cherry Land,” a roadside station.
5. Abukuma Valley ,Fukushima Prefecture
Abukuma Valley is a place of beautiful scenery created by deep valleys and the tranquility of nature. Hiking courses along the valley are also popular.
- Recommended time of day: Morning is recommended. You can enjoy the fresh morning air while listening to the murmuring of the river flowing through the valley.
- Places to stay overnight in a car: “Roadside Station Abukuma” and “Abukuma Canyon Campground”.Roadside Station Abukuma and Abukuma Valley Campground are good places to stay overnight in a car.
- Hot springs nearby: Yabuki Onsen (hot spring) and Tamura Onsen (hot spring).Yabuki Onsen and Tamura Onsen offer hot springs surrounded by nature.
- Must-try local foods: Fukushima peaches and local produce.Try fresh local foods such as Fukushima peaches and chicken dishes.
- Roadside Stations and Markets to Stop by: You can purchase local specialties and fresh vegetables at Michi no Eki Abukuma.
A campervan trip to attractive spots in Fukushima, Miyagi, and Yamagata prefectures is a luxurious way to enjoy the beauty of nature and local delicacies. Take advantage of the hot springs and roadside stations in each area for a comfortable trip.
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