Aomori is a Japanese prefecture with natural attractions like the Oirase Gorge national park, the Shirakami Sanchi UNESCO World Heritage site, and the famous maple leaf viewing of Mt. Hakkoda. Its summer festival, the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, is a globally acclaimed celebration. Besides, Aomori is famous for local delicacies such as apples, Oma tuna, and seafood rice bowls.

The main public transportation options are the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) and JR train services. If you plan to explore Aomori and the broader Tohoku region during your trip to Japan, purchasing a JR Pass that can provide substantial savings is highly recommended.

The Oirase Gorge is a natural wonder stretching approximately 14 kilometers, featuring breathtaking waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and pristine landscapes, all untouched by human hands.

It has been designated as both a National Special Natural Monument and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in Japan, making it a quintessential gem of the country's natural sights. The scenery transforms with the seasons, with vibrant greenery making summer an ideal time for hiking and exploration. Autumn brings enchanting red hues of maple leaves, while winter showcases the captivating spectacle of frozen waterfalls, making the gorge a year-round wonder.

To get there using public transportation, you can take JR route buses from Aomori Station, Shin-Aomori Station, or Hachinohe Station, all served by the Shinkansen (bullet train).

If you're traveling on your own, it's advisable to check the public transportation schedules ahead while planning a day trip to Oirase Gorge. For those seeking to further immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Oirase Gorge, the luxury Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel is an excellent option for a tranquil retreat.

Shirakami Sanchi is a primeval forest that spans across Aomori and Akita Prefectures, covering an area of approximately 130,000 hectares. It is considered to be the largest primeval forest in the world. The forest is home to popular tourist attractions such as Aoni-ike Pond, Anmon Falls, and Lake Juniko. In 1993, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite the calm and unspoiled environment, the forest is perfect for exploration with several hiking trails available. Before embarking on any hiking expedition, visitors can visit the Shirakami Sanchi Visitor Center located at the entrance. At the center, visitors can learn about the local ecosystem, hiking trail routes, scenic viewpoints, and more. Guided hiking tours led by local experts are also available.

For travelers using public transportation, a bus ride from JR Hirosaki Station takes approximately 55 minutes to get to the Shirakami Sanchi Visitor Center. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a guided tour for a more convenient experience.

Hirosaki Castle is the only castle in the Tohoku region that has preserved its Edo-era main keep until today. The open grounds surrounding the main keep are called Hirosaki Park, which boasts around 2,600 cherry blossom trees. During spring, the fallen cherry blossoms create a stunning pink carpet on the surface of the moat, making Hirosaki Park one of the top cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan.

Other seasons offer unique attractions as well. Summer brings lush greenery, autumn boasts vibrant foliage, and enchanting winter scenes adorned with lanterns. Within the park, various historical structures and castle ruins can be found, making it an excellent place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, and sightseeing.

The nearest train station is JR Hirosaki Station, which is roughly a 30-minute walk from Hirosaki Park. Alternatively, you can opt for a 10-minute taxi ride or take a bus to Shiyakusho-mae, which takes about 15 minutes followed by a 4-minute walk.

Convenient Aomori Accommodations: Recommended Hotels Around Hirosaki Park

Located right next to Hirosaki Park, the Tsugaru Han Nebuta Village is a themed facility showcasing the actual lantern floats that have appeared in the local Nebuta Matsuri festival. The on-site staff even perform with flutes and drums to provide a lively experience reminiscent of the Nebuta Matsuri festivities. Listening to a live performance of the shamisen (a traditional Japanese instrument) by professional masters is highly recommended. Performances are held almost hourly, and even for the same piece, the improvisational changes bring a unique atmosphere every time, showcasing true charm of the Tsugaru shamisen.

From the north or east gates of Hirosaki Park, it's just a 5-minute walk to reach Tsugaru Han Nebuta Village. You can also explore Aomori craft workshops, shop for local products, enjoy freshly baked senbei (rice crackers), dine at restaurants, and savor delicious ice cream. It's a great place to visit on your way to or from Hirosaki Castle.

The Aomori Prefectural Museum of Art is located beside Japan's largest Jomon archaeological site, the Sanai Maruyama Site. The museum has a modern minimalist architectural style both on the exterior and interior. It showcases works by Aomori's own artists, including Nara Yoshitomo's 8.5-meter-tall sculpture, "Aomori-ken," and a 6-meter-tall figurative sculpture called "Miss Forest." These pieces are particularly beloved by art enthusiasts and culture lovers. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, and has a gift shop and café, where visitors can immerse themselves in art.

If you're coming from JR Aomori Station, you can take Aomori City Bus No. 6, which goes to the Sanai Maruyama Site and takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch the Route Bus Nebuta-go to Kenritsu Bijutsukan-mae from JR Shin-Aomori Station's east exit bus station, which takes approximately 10 minutes.

Lake Towada, situated on the border of Aomori and Akita Prefectures, is Japan's third-deepest lake, with a depth of 327 meters. Its beauty is both pristine and somewhat mystical, earning it a place as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument in Japan, just like the Oirase Gorge. The landscape transforms with the seasons and time of day, making it a popular destination during the summer peak in August. However, the autumn foliage, with its vibrant red and gold hues, is also a popular time to visit. It's recommended to take a sightseeing boat to surround yourself in the breathtaking natural scenery.

In addition to the stunning lake views, the Lake Towada area features attractions like Towada Trout Cuisine Cafes and the Towada Shrine, making it a great place for additional exploration. For public transportation, you can take the Mizuumi-go bus from JR Aomori Station, which takes approximately 3 hours.

Enjoy the Lakeside Scenery to the Fullest: Recommended Hotels Around Lake Towada

The Tsuru no Mai Bridge is situated in Tsuruta Town, on the western side of Aomori Prefecture. It's known for being Japan's longest wooden triple-arch bridge, spanning approximately 300 meters. The bridge's elegant curves reflect beautifully in the calm and serene waters, creating a dreamy and picturesque scene. It's one of the most popular photography spots in the Tohoku region, whether you visit during spring's cherry blossom season, enjoy the summer sunset, witness the autumn leaves, or experience the winter wonderland. Each moment you spend here leaves a lasting impression, making it a favorite location for many photographers.

If you plan to visit the Tsuru no Mai Bridge, the nearest station is JR Mutsu-Tsuruta Station, and you can reach the bridge by taxi in just 10 minutes. On both ends of the bridge, you'll find Fujimi Lake Park and the Japanese Crane Nature Park, where you can explore further. Once you return to Mutsu-Tsuruta Station, you can visit the Queue de Lapin bakery for souvenirs and snacks.

It's important to note that the Tsuru no Mai Bridge will undergo renovation and refurbishment work from September 2023 to March 2026. During this period, the bridge will be closed for certain months, but its appearance will not change significantly. Special events are expected to be held during the closure periods, allowing visitors to enjoy the site.

Mt. Hakkoda is a volcanic mountain range, and its highest peak reaches 1,585 meters above sea level. The Hakkoda Ropeway, situated at an altitude of 1,324 meters on Mt. Tamoyachi, provides breathtaking views from both the cable car and the observation deck at the summit. During the summer, you can enjoy hiking along the trails and immerse yourself in the refreshing natural scents. The fall season is famous for the entire mountainside turning into a stunning carpet of red foliage. In winter, you can appreciate the beauty of frost-covered trees and indulge in skiing. It's a popular year-round destination with something to offer in every season.

JR Aomori Station provides bus services to Mt. Hakkoda during summer and winter. You can take a JR bus to the Hakkoda Ropeway Station, and the journey lasts approximately 60-80 minutes.

The Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is a grand summer festival held annually from August 2nd to 7th in Aomori City. The festival is renowned for its impressive display of around 20 huge Nebuta lantern floats that parade through the streets of the city center. The floats are pulled by enthusiastic performers who sometimes come very close to the spectators. The performers dance wildly and shout, creating an exhilarating display of energy. Tourists can join the festivities as "haneto" by renting festival attire, enhancing the lively atmosphere of the event. The festival is one of the three major festivals in the Tohoku region and attracts over 2 million people every year.

Since the festival is a popular event, it's recommended that you plan your visit well in advance and ensure your accommodation and transportation are booked early. For a more comfortable experience, you can even purchase premium seats that allow you to get up close and feel the full impact of the massive floats!

The Tsugaru Railway in Aomori has a history of over 90 years. During the winter months, it offers a unique experience with its "Stove Train." This special train ride provides a nostalgic atmosphere with vintage seats and car floors. The carriages are equipped with round coal stoves, which were used by people to keep warm during frigid journeys in the past. Although it's now a seasonal tourist train, you can still purchase grilled squid and Japanese sake while traveling. Looking out the window at the snowy landscape and savoring the aroma of grilled squid creates a sensation similar to that of stepping into a world from a Showa-era Japanese movie. This makes it a favorite among international tourists.

The Stove Train has three departures daily and operates from December 1st to March 31st. It covers the western part of Aomori Prefecture, from Tsugarugoshokawara Station to Tsugarunakasato Station. In addition to the regular fare, you'll need to purchase a separate 500 yen Stove Train ticket.

Asamushi Onsen is a hot spring town situated on the coast in the eastern part of Aomori. The hot spring features clear and colorless spring waters that are believed to have therapeutic effects for nerve pain and rheumatism. After bathing, you will feel your skin become incredibly smooth. You will find several hot spring accommodations with unobstructed sea views near the train station. There is also a roadside rest area called YU-SA Asamushi which offers scenic baths. Asamushi Sunset Beach is a short walk away and offers a stunning sunset view. Whether you want to enjoy the hot springs for a day trip or stay overnight, Asamushi Onsen offers a delightful experience.

Asamushi Onsen is conveniently situated near Aomori City, and you can reach it by taking the Aomori Railway tram from Aomori Station. The journey takes only about 21 minutes.

Koganezaki Furofushi Onsen is a hot spring facility located on the coast of the Sea of Japan. It is an open and relaxing facility that offers accommodations and same-day bathing. The facility has an indoor bath known as the "Golden Bath," an outdoor "Fountain of Youth" bath, and a seaside open-air bath. The reddish-brown spring water not only has a soothing and moisturizing effect on the skin, but it has also earned the nickname "Fountain of Youth."

The nearest station to Koganezaki Furofushi Onsen is WeSPA Tsukiyama station on the JR Gono Line. You can reach the facility by taking the Resort Shirakami express train from Shin-Aomori Station. The travel time is approximately 3 hours, so be sure to double-check the train schedule before your journey. Once you reach the uncovered outdoor baths, you can enjoy the view of the waves crashing against the rocky shore while listening to the soothing sounds of the sea. It is definitely worth the effort to get there!

Aomori Spring Ski Resort is situated to the north of Mount Iwaki, Aomori's highest peak, and surrounded by pristine Japanese Zelkova forests. It is renowned for its consistent snowfall and fine powder snow, making it a popular choice for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort features 14 different slopes, catering to both beginners and experienced thrill-seekers who can enjoy the exhilaration of descending from higher altitudes. Additionally, equipment rentals and skiing lessons are available. The breathtaking views include frozen forests and the deep blue expanse of the Sea of Japan, providing a delightful skiing experience.

To reach the resort, take a 90 to 100-minute trip from Shin-Aomori Station to the nearest train station, Ajigasawa Station on the JR Gono Line. From there, it's a 20-minute drive to the resort. In winter, there are shuttle buses available for travel between Shin-Aomori Station and Aomori Airport, with a one-way trip taking approximately 1.5 hours.

Viennese Sweets Strauss is an Austrian-style tearoom that you can reach within a short 6-minute walk from Aomori Station. The head chef, who holds a nationally recognized certification, has undergone extensive training in Austria and crafts all the recipes used here. The tearoom has a luxurious classical ambiance and serves authentic Viennese pastries. Two of the most popular items on the menu are the Austrian national treasure, "Sachertorte," and the "Freshly Baked Apple Pie" made with Aomori apples.

The Taisho Romantic Tea Room is located on the ground floor of the Fujita Memorial Garden, right next to Hirosaki Park. This charming vintage-style café serves delicious food such as curry rice and pasta, but what really attracts visitors are the mouth-watering apple pies. The café offers up to nine different types of apple pies from various local bakeries, so you can enjoy a wide range of flavors without having to travel around the town. They even provide details about the temperature, the amount of cinnamon used, and whether the pies are available for takeout, ensuring you have a delightful and hassle-free experience.

The Aomori Fish and Vegetable Center is not your typical seafood market, located just a 4-minute drive from Aomori Station. Here, you can purchase "Nokke Don" meal tickets, which come in a set of 12 for 2,000 yen or 1 for 170 yen. With these tickets, you can create your own deluxe seafood bowl by exchanging them for white rice and a variety of ingredients at various stalls. You have a wide range of options to choose from, including fatty tuna belly, lean tuna, scallops, fresh shrimp, and more. This is a great way to enjoy all your favorite seafood in a single bowl, making it a fantastic value for money and a fun experience. If you're a seafood lover, Aomori Fish and Vegetable Center is a must-visit destination for you.

Tsurugameya Shokudo is a cherished local eatery renowned for serving a diverse range of seafood bowls prepared from the freshest catch of the day. They offer an array of delicious options, such as blackfin tuna, longfin tuna, local bluefin tuna, salmon roe, and even fresh sea urchin. However, the most in-demand dish is their towering blackfin tuna bowl. The picture above showcases the "Sakura Longfin Tuna Bowl" on the left and the "Blackfin Tuna Bowl" on the right, both of which are incredibly alluring and bound to tantalize your taste buds.

Hasshoku Center is a large market that has about 60 stalls offering a wide variety of products such as freshly caught seafood, vegetables, meat, snacks, and alcoholic beverages. You will find a wide selection of food items, and many of the stalls offer dining options. These include tempura bowls, customizable seafood bowls, and Aomori regional specialties like "Senbei Soup." One of the most popular attractions for visitors who enjoy Japanese seafood is Shichiri Village, where you can have all the ingredients you purchase at the market freshly grilled and served.

You can easily reach the market by taking a 100-yen shuttle bus from the east exit, bus stop #4, of JR Hachinohe Station.

The Aomori Prefecture Tourist and Specialty Product Center, also known as ASPM, is a one-stop-shop for Aomori souvenirs. It offers a wide range of traditional crafts like Tsugaru Lacquerware, which is created using a special lacquering technique. You can also find textile arts such as Tsugaru Komon Embroidery and Nambu Embroidery, both originating from the snowy regions. Food lovers can also find treats made from Aomori apples, cakes inspired by the Nebuta Festival, and more.

In addition to these souvenirs, ASPM has a restaurant food court, an observation deck with a scenic view, and freshly baked apple pies. The center is conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from the east exit of Aomori Station.

A-FACTORY is an all-in-one marketplace that offers a wide variety of local produce and specialty products from Aomori. Apart from fresh apples, you can also find apple-related items such as apple liqueur, dried fruits, and various local seasonings. Additionally, if you spend over 5,000 yen in the "foodMarche" section, you can enjoy duty-free shopping. Please check on-site for specific duty-free items and calculations.

Furthermore, A-FACTORY is home to several dining options, including award-winning freshly baked apple pies from the Hirosaki Apple Pie Contest, ice cream made from different apple varieties, an on-site apple liqueur workshop, a 100% Wagyu beef burger joint, and a restaurant serving beautifully presented omelette rice. The marketplace is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Aomori Station, and next to it is Warasse Nebuta House where you can explore the world of the Nebuta Festival.

Aomori is a year-round destination that offers more than just the famous Nebuta festival in the summer. In the fall and winter, visitors can enjoy the colorful foliage and snowy landscapes, as well as the unique experience of riding on a retro wood-burning stove train. Spring brings the stunning pink cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle, which are a must-see. Regardless of the season, there is always something to do in Aomori. We recommend booking your accommodation in advance and reserving festival activities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

You may also be interested in: