Tōhoku region, Region in northeastern Honshu, Japan.
Tōhoku is a region in the northeastern part of Honshu that covers six prefectures: Aomori, Akita, Iwate, Yamagata, Miyagi, and Fukushima. Mountain peaks and volcanoes shape the landscape, while coastal areas hold small fishing towns between cliffs and sandy bays.
Emishi and Ainu communities inhabited these areas before central authority from the south gradually extended its reach. The rule of the Northern Fujiwara family ended in the late 12th century when imperial forces took control.
Local summer festivals called nebuta blend giant illuminated floats with drumming performances that fill town streets during warm evenings. Families continue to prepare regional dishes such as miso-based soups, rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, and fermented vegetables that reflect the agricultural rhythm of each season.
Shinkansen trains connect Sendai and other main cities to Tokyo, while local rail lines reach smaller towns across the prefectures. Winter months bring snow to mountain areas, while summers along the coast stay cooler than in southern Japan.
Three parallel mountain ranges divide the land from north to south and create different weather patterns between the Sea of Japan and the Pacific Ocean. The Sea of Japan side receives heavy snowfall in winter, while the Pacific coast remains drier and windier.
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