Tohoku Route

North of Main  – Island of Japan

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In this 15 days trip, you will be able to explore the most underrated region in Japan which is the Tohoku region. It has some of the best hidden gems Japan has to offer. In this trip, you will be able to pass through cities like Nikko, Fukushima, Yamagata, Sakata, Akita, Aomori, Moryoka and Iwate Miyako. With this route guide, we have listed some of the activities you can do at a certain city. You have a choice if you want to go hiking, sightseeing and even food tasting. We also listed some museums if you are looking for more Japanese history. This trip will not just be any other trip because it will be an eye opener for everyone and love the 日本の文化 Nihon no bunka, or the Japanese culture even more.

Day 1

Start in Our shop, 15-20 mins away from Narita Airport by Taxi. Recommended starting time is in the morning but if you’re arriving late, you can stay at the nearby Campgrounds and Roadside Station nearby below.
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Arnomien Auto Campground
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Narita Yume Farm Auto Campsite

Day 2

From Rental Car Station to Nikko, it is approximately 200KM, around 3 to 4 hours of driving depending on traffic.
Nikko National Park
If you are not a fan of heights, but still want to enjoy the beauty of Nikko, Nikko National Park has a lot to offer. It is stunning destination for nature lovers and culture seekers alike. Explore the World Heritage shrines and temples that showcase the rich history and spirituality of Japan, such as the ornate Toshogu Shrine and the serene Rinnoji Temple. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the park in any season, from the snowy peaks and frozen lakes in winter to the colorful flowers and waterfalls in spring and summer.
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Nikko Daiyagawa Park Auto Camping Ground
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Roadside Station Nikko
Nakimushiyama
Nakimushiyama is a popular hiking course in Nikko. It is famous and attracts many climbers due to its easy access to the trailhead. If you are an experienced climber, searching for a thrill, head on to Mt. Nantai. A 30 mins drive from Nakimushiyama.
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If you are not into climbing, another way to enjoy the view in Nikko is to take the Akechidaira Ropeway. It is a viewing platform with vistas over Kegon Waterfall and Lake Chuzenjiko which can be accessed by ropeway or hiking. Opens at 8:40 – 15:30.
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Ropeway fare: Adult: One-way 600JPY | Roundtrip: 1,000JPY / Child: One-way 300JPY | Roundtrip: 500JPY

Day 3

After a tiring day 2, its time to relax and cool down. Enjoy Nikko’s enchanting waterfalls.
Ryuzu Waterfall
Ryuzu Waterfall (竜頭ノ滝, Ryūzu no Taki) means "dragon head waterfall" in Japanese. The name comes from the shape of the falls, which resembles the head of a dragon. The waterfall is located on Yukawa River, shortly before the river discharges into Lake Chuzenji.
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Kegon Waterfall
Kegon waterfall is Nikko`s most famous waterfall, and was also listed as one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls. Kegon Waterfall can be seen from a free observation platform that is easily accessible on foot, as well as from a paid platform at the base of the falls. The paid platform is accessed via a 100-metre-deep elevator and offers more impressive views.
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Elevator to the lower observation deck:
8:00 to 17:00 (March to November) | 9:00 to 16:30 (December to February) | No closing days | Admission Fee: 570JPY
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Nikkoyumoto Camping Ground
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Roadside Station Nikko

Day 4

After witnessing the natural beauty of Nikko, it’s time to explore Japan’s unique culture. Head to Fukushima, the third largest prefecture in Japan. Aizu Wakamatsu (Old Japanese Village) Known as the City of Samurai and Sake. Aizu Wakamatsu is about 1 1/2 to 2 hours (77km) drive from Nikko National Park.
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This brewery in Aizu, Fukushima prefecture is one of the largest and most famous sake producers in Tohoku region. Their premium sake is produced using the traditional “Yamahai” method which utilizes slow open-fermentation to produce a full complex flavour.
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Tsuruga Castle (Tsurugajo)
Tsurugajo was built in 1384 and changed hands many times between the different rulers of the Aizu region. IT was destroyed after the Boshin war of 1868. The castle was one of the last strongholds of Samurai loyal to the shogunate.
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Aizu Bukeyashike
(Large reconstructed Samurai mainsion)The samurai residence in Aizu Wakamatsu served as the quarters of the region’s most important and highest ranked samurai, as well as his family, employees and servants.
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Opening hours: April - November ( 8:30-17:00 ) / December - March ( 9:00 - 16:30 ) / Entrance Fee ¥850
Oyakuen Garden (Traditional Japanese landscape garden)
Oyakuen is a pleasant Japanese landscape garden with a pond where visitors in Aizu can go for a quiet stroll. Oyakuen can be translated as “Medicinal herb garden” a name given in the 18th century when the feudal lord encouraged citizens to cultivate medicinal plants.
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Opening hours: 8:30 - 17:00 (Last Entry 16:30) No closing days - Entrance fee ¥330
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This roadside station has a cafe corner and restaurant. There is also a facility where you can paint your very own akeboko red ox bubblehead.
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A roadside station standing along National Route 49 in Nishiaizu town, Yama country, Fukushima prefecture.
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Day 5

After a long day of exploring Aizu Wakamatsu, it’s time to relax, enjoy the day and prepare for your next trip.
Higashiyama Onsen
(Hot Spring resort in the city outskirts)
Higashiyama Onsen is a hot spring resort in a valley just east of the downtown area of Aizu Wakamatsu. Although the hot bath may be relaxing and the surrounding valley is beautiful, the area seems a bit worn down and overdeveloped. However, one particularly notable ryokan in the area is the Mukaitaki Ryokan, which - contrasting with some of the surrounding concrete hotels, is a traditional, wooden construction. It is one of the best and most atmospheric Onsen ryokan in all of Japan. After the relaxing day, head on to Yamagata. About 2 hours 37 mins - 3 hours’ drive (126km).
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Bandai Asahi National Park
Bandai Asahi National Park is vast, straddling Fukushima, Yamagata and Niigata prefectures. Millions of years of volcanic activity have moulded its dramatic and diverse topography. The park encompasses sacred mountains steeped in history, dense beech forests, and volcanic lakes and ponds.
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There are activities available in Bandai-Asahi National Park. You can hike at Azuma Ridgeline trail, take a scenic drive at Bandai-Azuma skyline.

Start in Takayu onsen to Jododaira. (28.7km)

Takayu Onsen is a 400-year-old hot spring resort, renowned for its milky, sulfuric waters.

Shirakaba - no - mine pass is the first overlook after Takayu onsen. Enjoy the great views of Mt. Zao, the Adatara mountain range and the surrounding birch forests.

Tsubakuro valley is a picturesque spot famous for its beautiful autumn colours. Walk to the 170-meter Fudosawa bridge, which stands over the valley, for unobstructed views of Fukushima City.
Tengu-no-Niwa
Mythical creatures called tengu were said to have danced in the beautiful rocky landscape of Tengu-no-iwa. This spot offers great views of the conical volcano, Mount Azuma, Kofuji.
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The Tsuchiyu Roadside station was opened in April 1993 as the first roadside station in Fukushima prefecture. Vegetables, wild regables, and Konjac are often consumed in this rich area blessed by the mountains.The famous kon-jac, Konkororin, is made by hand using konjac flour from Japan and the water of Tsuchiyu. You can enjoy its traditional tasted texture without any coloring or preservatives.

Must try food: Tsuchiyu special ¥980 / Mountain Pass Oyaki ¥2800
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Located in Kitashiobara Village, Yama country, Fukushima Prefecture. Located in an area surrounded by vast natural beauty, this station is frequently used by drivers taking a brief break. The station has a farm-fresh shop selling fresh produce straight from local farms.

Recommended Menu: Aizu mountain salt ramen ¥7000

Day 7

For your day 7, continue to explore Niigata. About an hour away from Bandai Asahi National Park is an 11-kilometre stretch of coastline. Niigata is not just famous during the winter season. You will be surprised at how many caves, white sandy beaches and great scenery there are in Niigata. Make sure to pass through the coastline before you head to Sakata.
Sasagawa Nagare
Sasagawa Nagare is an 11-kilometre stretch of coastline near the city of Murakami, with beautifully contrasting clear blue water and white sandy beaches. Along this stretch of coast, the rough waters of the Sea of Japan have created uniquely eroded rocks with submerged peaks and caves, scenery that takes visitors’ breath away. The magnificent view has been designated a place of scenic beauty and a national natural treasure.
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Day 8

After spending the whole day in Sasagawa Nagare, head to Sakata. On your way to Sakata, don’t forget to drop by at Haguro-san Otorii. About 2 hours 24 mins - 3 hours’ drive from Bandai Asahi National Park (125km)
Haguro - san Otorii
The large torii gate located at the entrance of Mt. Haguro in Tsuruoka City. Yamagata Prefecture. It is known as one of the three great torii gates in Japan, it is designated as an important cultural property of the country. 
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Haguro - san
Is the most easily accessible of the three mountains of Dewa sanzan. At its summit stands Haguro - san Shrine, the only of the three Dewa Sanzan shrines that is open year-round. Symbolizing birth, Haguro - san is usually the first shrine visited. The traditional and recommended approach to the shrine is via a walking trail, which leads through a cedar forest over 2446 stone steps from the base of the mountain. 33 figures carved into the stoned steps bring prosperity to anyone who can find them all.
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Information on shugendo (a folk religion based on mountain worship), Yamabushi (practitioners of shugendo) and the Dewa Sanzan. Many of the explanations are in English, and a risit is a good way to learn about the area’s history and religious values.
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April - November: 9:00 4:300M / December - March: 9:30 - 4:00 | Adult:400¥ / Student: 300¥
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This station is located inside the full-service park, Iroribi no Sato along the Ushu coastal highway in Yokoyama Azatsutsumi, in Mikawa Town. Maideru means waiting for you in Shonai dialect.
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After spending the day in Haguro san, continue your journey to Sakata. To start your day, drive to Sakata Port Market
Sakata Port Market
Before starting your day in Sakata, head out to Komatsu Maguro. It is an understated restaurant in the Sakata Port market area.If you enjoy or love eating tuna donburi or tuna nice bowl, this is the perfect place for you.
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See the practiced perfection and elegance of the Marko of Somaro Maiko Teahouse in the heart of Sakata city. There are 2 scheduled performances of Maiko every day. (close on Wednesday)
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12:00 PM Bento lunch and performance
Multi - course Kaiseki Bento ¥8000 / Chinashi Sushi Bento ¥9,000 / Unagi Fel Bento ¥10,000 / Childrens bento ¥2, 500

2 PM performance
Admission fee is ¥2,500 per person plus arrangement fee of ¥1500 per person.
Sankyo - Soko Rice Storehouses
Although they are technically "rice" storehouses, the iconic structures of Sankyo - Soko house a much more interesting product. Specifically, you can try a sample of Nihonshu or most known as Japanese sake for around ¥110 per shot. Sakata’s Japanese name literally means "alcohol field"
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9:00 - 5:00 / 1 Chome-1-20 Sankyomachi, Sakata, Yamagata 998-0838 / 0234-23-7470.

You can choose to end your day exploring Sakata area
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This roadside station is located in Yusa Town, the northernmost town in Yamagata Prefecture, and is situated along National Route 7, which runs along the Sea of Japan.
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If you’re into sports, this campsite is for you. They have different kinds of court for sports like archery, tennis, roller skates, and jogging course. It is said to be one of Sakata’s biggest campsites.

Day 10

After exploring the alcohol field of Japan, head to Akita. Akita Prefecture, located on the northern tip of Japan's main island, has many natural sightseeing attractions! Among the cool things to do in Akita are soaking in hot springs and seeing the cherry blossom trees in the mountains, which can add an element of serenity to your trip. The best season to visit Akita is during the Autumn season. If you’re planning to visit Akita prefecture during the summer season, which is August, you definitely need to go to Kanto Matsuri.
Kanto Matsuri (August 3-6 only)
Kanto Matsuri (Pole lantern festival). It is celebrated every year from August 3 -6. Performers of this festival balance kanto or the long bamboo poles with arrays of paper lanterns attached to the end. It is a very famous festival that you must visit.
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Kakunodate Samurai Residence
The little Kyoto of Tohoku. Take a walk along the samurai residence street in Kakunodate. The town is home to a district two-kilometres in radius consisting of samurai residences and traditional architecture. There are also a lot of kimono rentals in this town and a rickshaw ride will surely make for an unforgettable experience.
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8:30-5:00 | Entrance fee: 660¥
If you are looking for more intense Japanese culture, this is a museum for you. This is the ritual worth fighting your fear to see. The Namahage is said to have been a messenger of Yama-no-Kami, mountain gods of disaster, and wears a carved wooden mask, wielding a knife. You can see displays of actual Namahage masks, and even wear a Namahage costume yourself.
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Godzilla Rock
You can choose to end your day seeing the one-of-a-kind Godzilla rock!A famous rock that looks exactly like Godzilla is a popular tourist spot in Oga City. Standing in a rocky area called Shiosezaki, you can almost hear roars from the rugged, raised rocks.
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October to May: 9:00 – 17:00 | June to September and the Golden Week holidays: 9:00 – 18:00
Note: Admission to the Sannai Maruyama Jomon Culture Center is required.
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The Michi-no-Eki of Akita Port has a landmark tower. It is a large tourism terminal facility composed of three buildings. There is a superb view of the sun setting into the Sea of Japan! The atmospheric night view is also splendid. It’s wonderful that such an observation platform is free.
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This campsite has a lot of facilities. If you want to relax and enjoy the night more comfortably, this campsite offers bungalows. With the amazing view of Lake Tazawa, you will surely want to stay more than just one night.

Day 11

If you’re looking for more nature trips, head to Aomori which literally means blue forest. Aomori boasts stunning natural landscapes, including and mountains. When you visit Aomori, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. This place is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Sannai-Maruyama Ruins
If you're fascinated by Japan’s ancient history, this place is for you. The Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site is the largest and one of the most complete and best-preserved villages from the Jomon Period. This Archaeological site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List on July 27, 2021. It is also considered as one of the most visited places in Aomori.
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Mount Osore / Osorezan
If you do believe in the after-life or the other part of the world, you must consider visiting Osorezan. Osorezan is considered as one of the most sacred places in Japan. It is believed that this is the place where the souls of the dead are gathered. It is known as the closest place to the other side of the world. Osorezan is translated as "Fear Mountain", a name that comes in part from the mountain's exceptional landscape. The area is rich in volcanic activity, and a strong smell of sulfur permeates the air. Osorezan is also known as the entrance to afterlife, because it features geographical elements similar to descriptions of hell and paradise, including eight surrounding peaks and a river, Sanzu no Kawa, which has to be crossed by all dead souls on their way to afterlife and is often compared to the River Styx of ancient Greek mythology. Despite its remote location, Osorezan is a well-known destination, and theyequipped with a modernthat allows overnight guests to spend the night on the mountain.
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October to May: 9:00 – 17:00June to September and the Golden Week holidays: 9:00 – 18:00
Note: Admission to the Sannai Maruyama Jomon Culture Center is required.
Aoiike Pond
Among the twelve lakes in the vast beech forests of the Shirakami-Sanchi, a registered World Heritage Site, the most popular spot is Aoiike (Blue Pond), which features beautiful clear blue water. There are not much to see around here, but if you’re looking for a place where you can unwind with a peaceful environment, you must visit the Aoiike pond.
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This Auto campsite in Aomori offers not just the majestic view of the lake. They have activities in line. If you have no plans for the day, they have canoes and nature rambling, in which you are going to explore nature. The campsite also has a sauna which you can enjoy after a tiring day.
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Michi-no-Eki Inakadate “Yayoi no Sato” is a “relaxing and playable open space” with a direct production center, restaurants, playset facilities, putter golf course, etc. on a vast 7.5-hectare site. From June to September, you can enjoy “rice field art” from the “Yayoi no Sato Observatory” on-site.

Day 12

Aomori is such a big city to explore in just one day. For the 12th day, continue your trip in Aomori. There are still a lot of scenery to explore and discover.
Hakkoda Ropeway was established in October 1968. You can enjoy mountain skiing from the end of November through to the middle of May. As the snow melts, the mountains are filled with many alpine plants in bloom. Walking the nature trail from the Summit Park Station, you can easily enjoy watching marshes and alpine vegetation, and it takes about 30-60 minutes.
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Jogakura Bridge
If you have already reached Aomori, you should not miss the Jogakura bridge. The Jogakura Bridge is part of Japan National Route 394, which connects the Tsugaru and Nambu areas of Aomori Prefecture. It is proudly recognized as the longest upper-deck arch bridge in Japan, and it stands 122 metres above the ravine below. At the bridge visitors can enjoy all four seasons of the Hakkoda mountain system.
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Showa Daibutsu
Aomori Showa Daibtsu is the biggest bronze seated Buddha in Japan and is located at Seiryu-Ji in Aomori. You can get inside of the Buddha statue, and there is a war memorial and a Buddha Museum.
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This michi-no-eki in Aomori is definitely one of a kind, it has an amazing view of the ocean. There is also an Onsen where you can bathe while appreciating the beauty of Aomori. 
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One of the most recommended camping grounds in Aomori. The amazing view and large area will surely re-charge not just your vehicle. It will give you some energy before you head back to the Kanto region.

Day 13

For day 13, you need to start making your way back to Chiba Prefecture. On your way back, make your way to Iwate Miyako.
Todogasaki or Cape Todo
Todogasaki is one of the most famous Capes in Japan. Watching the first sunrise of the year is a popular event in Japan. Many says that you will first see the sunrise if you are located in this Cape before anyone else in Japan.(To get here, one way distance from parking nearby is 4Km by walk)
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A great way to make your Tohoku trip more memorable and meaningful is by visiting the places that have been affected by the damage of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011.
Sanriku Fukko National Park
A national park where you can sense both the blessings and threats of nature, and the life and culture nurtured by the coexistence between people and nature.
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Miracle Pine Tree
The Miracle Pine Tree was the lone surviving tree of the Takata Pine Forest, which suffered deadly damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake tsunami in 2011. It was located in Rikuzentakata, Iwate Prefecture. Preserved as a permanent reminder of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
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Fresh seafood and the birthplace of Persimmon soft ice cream. 

Day 14

For your last full day on this trip, head on to Ibaraki to get that adrenaline rush before finishing this trip!
Ryujin Suspension Bridge stands 100 metres above the Ryujin Dam Reservoir. Spanning 375 metres, the bridge is inspired by the legend of a dragon said to reside in the Ryujin River. It offers panoramic views of the area’s mountainous landscape, including wild cherry blossoms during the spring and fiery foliage in autumn.
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If the suspension bridge did not get that adrenaline rush, you have to try to go Bungee jumping! Ryujin Bungy, which has become Japan’s premier bungy jump, and one of the most exciting experiences of any sort nationwide. It’s no surprise that countless celebrities have taken the plunge and several major commercials have featured the bridge. Test your will, and come experience for yourself one of Japan’s biggest thrills!
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Lined up with stalls offering fresh produce, Okukuji Daigo's market is typical of road stations in Japan with their commitment to promoting local produce and goods. Oyaki buckwheat dumplings, apple ice cream and green tea are specialities of the area along with beer made from the region's fresh water.

Day 15

For your last day, start driving from Ibaraki prefecture back to our office at Chiba prefecture. Along the way, you will see Road stops and restaurants. You can still grab a bite before heading to your last stop! Hope you enjoyed your Tohoku trip!

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Parking Tips Guide CTAOnsen Map Guide CTA
The Onsen webpage is Japanese language so , To use that is Press 機能(Function) button then 現在地(Location) button then OK button then choose any Onsen icon near you and press GP button to open Google Maps.