We travel Japan's northeast on the JR Hachinohe Line and Aoimori Railway, stopping at port towns along the way to experience the energetic culture and nature of Iwate and Aomori Prefectures. Feel the earth's power at an expansive, natural lawn on the coast. Browse the 300 stalls at a bustling, morning market and wonder at the range of products on offer. Get a rush from the exciting musical style of the Tsugaru shamisen. And, view the impressive Nebuta Festival of lights, which draws one million spectators.

• Thane Camus
• Christelle Ciari
• Rachel Walzer