With the JR EAST PASS, exploring eastern Japan by Shinkansen is now easier and more affordable. Our travel writer finds out how
Dashing through the snow, we rode through the magical landscape of eastern Japan. Only two hours away from sunny Tokyo, winter had already made a dramatic entrance in Tohoku, providing an entirely different view of the country. Snow-capped mountains rose in the distance, framed by pine trees, fields and homes donning pure-white coats.
This beautiful region of Japan has now opened up thanks to the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku Area) by the East Japan Railway Company, which covers the area of Tokyo all the way to Shin-Aomori on the edge of Hokkaido. Here are seven treasures we uncovered in the reaches of Tohoku.
5. Footbath on a train
Stations: Fukushima to Shinjo
One of the perks of taking JR EAST’s trains through Tohoku is getting to ride on the Toreiyu Tsubasa, or the Joyful Train. After hours of trekking through the frozen streets, we were taken through the carriages and greeted by a most welcome sight: A whole section dedicated to giving passengers a hot foot bath.
Dip your feet into the hot bath and watch as the scenery streaks by before your eyes. Each session lasts 15 minutes and can be reserved together with your train ticket.
Available at JR EAST Travel Service Centres.
ADVERTISEMENTS