Winter in Japan’s Tōhoku region is harsh. The people of Tōhoku have a long tradition of late winter festivals that represent a celebration of the approaching spring, as well as people’s wishes for good health and bountiful harvests in the year ahead. In modern times, new festival traditions that emphasise aesthetics and entertainment have joined the age-old festivities. Whatever their origin, these winter festivals play an important role in keeping the regional communities together through the hardships of winter. This tour will provide you with a sampler of the diverse winter festivals of Akita Prefecture in northern Tōhoku that are little known to the mainstream international traveller, including Yokote’s Kamakura (Snow Igloo) festival. Besides the festivities, you will have opportunities to explore the treasures of Akita’s regional towns. Immerse yourself in the old-world charm of historic towns mantled in winter white, be witness to everyday winter life in coastal and rural areas, observe traditional craft artisans in their workshops, and sample regional food at local eateries handpicked by your tour leader based on his personal travel experiences.

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MAIN DESTINATIONS COVERED: Kakunodate, Oga, Yokote

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TOUR LENGTH: 7 days (6 nights)

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MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PERSONS: 6 (larger groups possible on request)

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SEASON: mid-February; THIS TOUR ONLY DEPARTS ONCE A YEAR DUE TO THE FIXED DATES OF FESTIVALS (in 2020, departs on 12 February)

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BOOKINGS CLOSE: 180 days before agreed departure date

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START LOCATION: JR Shinjuku Station, Tokyo [MAP]

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END LOCATION: JR Tokyo Station [MAP]

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FITNESS LEVEL: moderate

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CULTURAL TOLERANCE: moderate (must be able to sleep on traditional futon bedding on 2 nights)

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COST: AUD $3600/person (6 persons) to $5700/person (2 persons) including ALL ground transport, accommodation, meals, tour guiding, fees and charges