To get around in Tohoku, a region in northern Japan, you can use a combination of trains, buses, and cars, with the rail network being the most convenient and efficient way to travel.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Tohoku is easily accessible by air, with Sendai Airport being the main international airport in the region. The airport receives direct flights from major Asian cities such as Seoul, Shanghai, and Taipei, as well as domestic flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and other Japanese cities. You can also enter Tohoku by train or bus from other parts of Japan, with the Tohoku Shinkansen bullet train line connecting the region to Tokyo and other major cities. Additionally, there are several overland entry points, including bus and train stations, where you can enter Tohoku from neighboring regions.
The main entry points for Tohoku include Sendai Airport, which is located about 30 minutes from Sendai city center, and the Sendai train station, which is a major hub for the Tohoku Shinkansen and other train lines. You can also enter Tohoku by car, with several major highways connecting the region to other parts of Japan. The Tohoku Expressway and the Joban Expressway are two of the main highways that run through the region, providing easy access to major cities and tourist destinations.
Domestic Flights
Tohoku has an extensive domestic air network, with flights connecting the region to major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo. The main domestic airlines operating in Tohoku include Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Skymark Airlines. You can fly from Sendai Airport to other parts of Japan, including Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports, as well as Osaka's Kansai International Airport. Booking domestic flights in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, and you can expect to pay around $100-$200 for a one-way ticket. It's also a good idea to compare prices and book through the airlines' websites or a travel agency to get the best deals.
Trains & Rail
Tohoku has an extensive rail network, with the Tohoku Shinkansen bullet train line being the fastest and most convenient way to travel. The Tohoku Shinkansen connects Sendai to Tokyo in about 2 hours, and also runs to other major cities in the region, including Fukushima and Morioka. You can also use local trains and express trains to travel to smaller cities and towns in Tohoku. The rail network is operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East), and you can book tickets online or at train stations. The booking process is relatively straightforward, and you can choose from a range of ticket options, including reserved seats and unreserved seats.
Buses & Coaches
Tohoku has a well-developed bus network, with intercity buses connecting major cities and towns in the region. The main bus companies operating in Tohoku include JR Bus Tohoku and Miyagi Kotsu, and you can book tickets online or at bus stations. The bus network is a good option for traveling to smaller towns and villages that are not connected by train, and you can expect to pay around $10-$30 for a one-way ticket. The buses are generally comfortable and well-maintained, and some buses also offer Wi-Fi and other amenities.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Sendai, other cities | $2-$3 | Convenient and efficient way to get around cities |
| City Bus | Sendai, other cities | $2-$3 | Affordable and widespread, but may not be as frequent as metro/subway |
| Taxi | everywhere | $5-$10/km | Convenient, but can be expensive for long distances |
| Ride-Hailing | Sendai, other cities | $5-$10 | Convenient and affordable, but may not be available in all areas |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | not available | - | Not available in Tohoku |
Driving
- To drive in Tohoku, you will need to have a valid international driving permit or a Japanese driver's license.
- The road conditions in Tohoku are generally good, with well-maintained highways and roads.
- Fuel costs in Tohoku are relatively high, with gasoline prices averaging around $1.50 per liter.
- Car rental is available at Sendai Airport and other major cities, with companies such as Toyota Rent-a-Car and Nissan Rent-a-Car offering a range of vehicles.
- When driving in Tohoku, be aware of the potential for snow and ice on the roads during winter months, and take necessary precautions such as using snow tires and slowing down.
- It's also a good idea to have a GPS or map with you, as some roads in rural areas may not be well-signposted.
Transport Tips
- When using public transportation in Tohoku, it's a good idea to have a Suica or Pasmo card, which are prepaid cards that can be used to ride trains, buses, and subways.
- Be aware of the potential for train delays due to weather or other conditions, and plan your itinerary accordingly.
- When taking a taxi, make sure to check the meter to ensure that you are being charged the correct fare.
- To avoid getting lost, it's a good idea to have a map or GPS with you, and to ask for directions from locals if you are unsure.
- When driving in Tohoku, be aware of the potential for traffic congestion in urban areas, and plan your route accordingly.
- It's also a good idea to download transportation apps such as Hyperdia or Google Maps, which can help you navigate the public transportation system and find the best routes.
- Finally, be sure to respect local customs and rules when using public transportation in Tohoku, such as giving up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers.