Higashine Tourism Orchard | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

When visiting Sendai, you absolutely can’t miss its most iconic classic dish: beef tongue. I did plenty of research before the trip, and my first stop was the conveniently located Tanya Zenjiro Sendai Ekimae-Honten. Since it was very close to where I was staying, after taking a number, I could use the extensive network of elevated walkways to browse the nearby department stores while I waited. It was a very convenient way to combine shopping and dining.

The moment I stepped inside, the aroma of charcoal immediately whetted my appetite. In the semi-open kitchen, the chefs energetically grilled various cuts of meat. I ordered their signature classic thick-cut beef tongue with fragrant, pleasantly chewy Japanese white rice. With just simple salt seasoning, the smoky char and savory sweetness of the meat juices were perfectly sealed in. The springy, juicy texture was unforgettable. To this day, that beef tongue dinner in Sendai still holds the top spot in my heart.

Getting the chance to see Zao's iconic Okama Crater in person is definitely a journey that requires a bit of luck. Even when the sky is perfectly clear at the foot of the mountain, the weather on the way up can often change in an instant, with clouds and fog rolling in. I was very lucky to have good weather during my summer visit and immediately saw the dazzling blue-green crater lake, shining like a jewel, with patches of unmelted white snow dotting the slopes. It's hard to imagine the impact of nature's extraordinary power in creating such a unique and magnificent landscape without seeing it for yourself.

After arriving at Okama Crater, you can easily get closer for a view by following the gentle walking path. If you want a full view of the entire crater and the magnificent surrounding mountains, I definitely recommend climbing up to the shrine at the top, where the highest point offers an excellent panoramic view. Standing quietly and gazing at this emerald-green lake, formed by a volcanic eruption tens of millions of years ago, I was filled with emotion and awe. It's definitely a dreamlike spot you must visit when traveling in Tohoku.

While visiting Yamagata, I made a special point of adding Zao Fox Village, deep in the mountains, to my itinerary. Since I wasn't driving, joining a one-day bus tour was the easiest and most convenient option. When I visited the fox village hidden in the mountains in summer, the foxes were in the middle of shedding, so they looked a bit fluffy and unkempt, and the smell was also somewhat noticeable. However, this is also the season when adorable baby foxes are born. I was very lucky to have the chance to interact up close with the unbelievably cute fox cubs. They felt soft and fluffy when held, and were as warm as puppies. It was a rare experience.

Also, visitors need to be especially careful because foxes are easily startled. Be sure to move gently, don't run, and don't touch the adult foxes without permission, so you can safely enjoy this soothing wildlife experience!