Train journeys are a popular way of getting from A to B, and there are some truly exceptional routes to explore across the planet. National Geographic published their Best Train Trips in the World compilation for 2025 this week, and a popular Japanese route made the cut—the Tohoku Shinkansen, connecting Tokyo to Shin Aomori.
With a total route pushing close to 700 kilometers, the Tohoku Shinkansen holds the title of Japan's longest shinkansen route, and there are numerous excellent stops to explore along the way. Utsunomiya, in Tochigi Prefecture, is one of them, and this city is known for being the gyoza capital of Japan. With over 300 gyoza stores in the area, you won't have to look very far for a delicious meal.
Further north, Sendai is known as the city of trees, and it's a popular destination for history buffs. Founded in 1600 by feudal lord Date Masamune, the city has various interesting sites to explore, including Zuihōden—his resting place. Sendai is also known for their annual Tanabata festival, which is Japan's largest.
The terminus of this route is Shin Aomori Station, which is a short distance away from some of Aomori City's top attractions. Explore the Nebuta Museum WA RASSE to learn more about the famous annual Nebuta Festival, enjoy some culture at the Aomori Museum of Art, or shop for local apple goods at A-Factory. Aomori is Japan's leading apple producing prefecture, so the quality is excellent.
If you are planning a trip to Japan in 2025, the Tohoku region is well worth visiting—and we certainly hope that this recommendation from the team at National Geographic helps to encourage more travelers to explore this part of the country.
Getting there
The journey from Tokyo Station to Shin Aomori Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen takes just over three hours.
