Naruko Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Naruko in Miyagi, Japan with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to try, and tips to make the most of your visit.


A Comprehensive Naruko Travel Guide – Explore The Best of Miyagi in Japan

Naruko, a small town located in Miyagi prefecture, Japan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From natural hot springs to breathtaking scenery, Naruko has something for everyone. This travel guide will help you plan your trip to Naruko by providing information on the best places to visit, hike, bike, eat, and stay, as well as insights into local customs and culture.

Introduction to Naruko

Naruko is a town in Miyagi Prefecture, approximately 370 kilometers north of Tokyo. Known for its hot springs, scenic natural attractions, and cultural heritage, it is a destination that offers a unique blend of modern and traditional Japan.

List of Places to Visit in Naruko

There are numerous places to visit in Naruko. They can be categorized into two main groups: culturally important attractions and natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Naruko Hot Spring Village: This quaint village is home to some of the region’s most renowned natural hot springs.
  2. Naruko Gorge: A stunning gorge that is most beautiful during the autumn season.
  3. Katanuma Lake: A serene volcanic lake and popular spot for fishing.
  4. Hijiori Onsen: A rustic hot spring town located deep in the mountains of Naruko.
  5. Kokeshi Museum: A museum dedicated to the traditional Japanese wooden dolls that originated in the Tohoku region.

Natural Attractions of Naruko: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mt. Kurikoma: A popular hiking destination in Naruko.
  2. Naruko Dam: A picturesque destination for fishing or enjoying a picnic.
  3. Oyasukyo Gorge: A breathtaking gorge known for its stunning autumn leaves.
  4. Takimi Bridge: A stunning suspension bridge that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  5. Naruko-kyo Gorge: A popular destination for kayaking, rafting, and canoeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Naruko

  1. Naruko Odaki Course: A popular hiking trail that takes you to the stunning Naruko Falls.
  2. Higashifukawa Course: A scenic hiking trail that takes you through lush forests to Mt. Kurikoma.
  3. Shizuishi Course: A biking trail that takes you along the Shizuishi River, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
  4. Naruko Onsen Course: A hiking and biking trail that takes you through the hot springs village of Naruko.

Best Things to Do in Naruko: Activities and Tours

  1. Hot spring hopping: Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of Naruko’s many hot springs.
  2. Trekking and hiking: Explore the stunning natural beauty of Naruko on hiking and trekking tours.
  3. Cultural experiences: Take part in traditional Japanese activities such as a tea ceremony or wearing a kimono.
  4. Winter sports: In the winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports at one of Naruko’s ski resorts.
  5. Day trips: Take a day trip to nearby destinations such as Sendai, Matsushima, or Yamadera.

Week-Long Itinerary for Naruko

Day 1: Explore the Naruko hot springs village Day 2: Hike or bike the Naruko Odaki Course Day 3: Visit the Kokeshi Museum and Naruko Gorge Day 4: Take a day trip to Sendai Day 5: Relax at Hijiori Onsen Day 6: Tour the Oyasukyo Gorge and Takimi Bridge. Day 7: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding at one of Naruko’s ski resorts.

Food and Drink Scene of Naruko

Naruko is known for its fresh seafood, local sake, and other traditional Japanese dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Naruko:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sasa-kamaboko: A Naruko specialty made of ground fish that is steamed in bamboo leaves.
  2. Kamameshi: A rice dish made in a small metal pot, cooked with various toppings such as mushrooms, salmon, or eel.
  3. Yakitori: Skewered and grilled chicken, a popular Japanese dish.

Local Beverages

  1. Naruko Sake: Made from locally produced rice and water, Naruko sake has a unique, smooth taste.
  2. Miyagi Beer: A craft beer brewed in Miyagi prefecture that is gaining popularity.

Where to Stay in Naruko: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Naruko offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional Japanese inns to modern Western-style hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Naruko:

  1. Tsurunoyu Onsen Ryokan: A traditional Japanese inn that offers hot spring baths and Japanese-style rooms.
  2. Ryokan Miyukiya: A cozy inn that offers impeccable service and comfortable Japanese-style rooms.
  3. Naruko Onsen Hotel: A modern hotel located near the Naruko hot springs village that offers Western-style rooms.

What to Buy in Naruko: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Kokeshi dolls: Traditional wooden dolls that originated in the Tohoku region.
  2. Local sake: Miyagi prefecture produces some of the best sake in Japan.
  3. Sasa-kamaboko: A Naruko specialty that makes for a unique and delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Naruko

  1. Onsen etiquette: When visiting hot springs in Naruko, it is customary to bathe fully naked.
  2. Respect for nature: Naruko’s natural beauty is a source of pride for locals, so it is important to show respect for the environment.

Best Time to Visit Naruko

The best time to visit Naruko is during the autumn season, from September to November, when the fall foliage is at its peak. Winter is also a great time to visit for skiing and hot springs, while summer is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Naruko

Do:

  1. Do take part in traditional Japanese activities, such as attending a tea ceremony or trying on a kimono.
  2. Do respect the local customs and culture, especially when visiting hot springs.
  3. Do try the local specialties, including sasa-kamaboko and Naruko sake.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter or disrespect the natural environment in Naruko.
  2. Don’t wear shoes inside traditional Japanese buildings.
  3. Don’t be late for appointments or reservations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Naruko

Naruko is a generally safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should be aware of the risks associated with outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, especially during inclement weather.

Health in Naruko

Naruko’s clean and fresh mountain air is beneficial for respiratory health. Visitors should be aware of the risks of dehydration and sunburn, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Naruko: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Naruko

The nearest airport to Naruko is Sendai Airport, approximately 90 minutes away by train.

Bus Stations Near Naruko

Naruko can be reached by bus from Sendai or neighboring towns and cities.

Other Options

Alternatively, visitors can drive to Naruko or take a train to Naruko Onsen Station.

How to Get Around in Naruko

Naruko is a small town that can easily be explored by walking, biking or driving. There are also bus services that connect the town’s major attractions.

Where to Go Next from Naruko: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Sendai: The capital city of Miyagi prefecture, known for its shopping streets and historic sites.
  2. Matsushima: A beautiful bay in Miyagi prefecture known for its picturesque islands and temples.
  3. Yamadera: A scenic temple complex located on a hilltop in Yamagata prefecture.
  4. Zao Onsen: A popular ski resort and hot spring town located in Yamagata prefecture.

Conclusion

Naruko is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From natural hot springs to breathtaking scenery, it is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique blend of modern and traditional Japan. With this comprehensive travel guide, you are now ready to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to Naruko.

Outdoor bath, Ryokan Onuma Outdoor bath, Ryokan Onuma