Aomori prefecture is located in the northernmost part of Honshu in Japan. This area is very cold and snow is rich except for the Pacific side. Still, Aomori attracts tourists. That is because there are many tourist attractions such as Hirosaki Castle and Oirase Stream, which are representative of Japan. The Nebuta Festival to be held in August is also amazing!
On this page, we will introduce things to do in Aomori, sightseeing spots to visit, and their attractions.
Table of Contents
Outline of Aomori
Orange color Train on snow covered tracks of Tsugaru railway line in mid winter at Goshogawara station, Aomori, Tohoku, Japan = shutterstock
Map of Aomori
Aomori prefecture faces the Pacific Ocean in the east, the Japan Sea in the west, and the Tsugaru Strait in the north. Major cities are Aomori City, Hirosaki City, Hachinohe City.
If you go to Aomori from Tokyo or Osaka, it is convenient to use an airplane. Aomori Prefecture has Aomori Airport and Misawa Airport. In addition, you can also use the Tohoku Shinkansen. In Aomori Prefecture there are Shin Aomori Station, Shichinohe-Towada Station, Hachinohe Station. If you want to travel around Aomori towns, a rail pass that allows unlimited rides on the Shinkansen and local trains is a great deal. >>See here for details.
Aomori prefecture is designated as a heavy snow area throughout the prefecture, some of which are designated as special heavy snow areas. A vast mountainous area spreads in this area. Especially in the mountains, it is harsh in winter. There are many dangerous places in winter, so please do not push yourself.
Hirosaki Castle
White Hirosaki Castle and its red wooden bridge in mid winter season, Aomori, Tohoku, Japan = shutterstock
Hirosaki Castle in Aomori Prefecture = Shutterstock
Hirosaki Castle is a historical castle that was built in the early 17th century and is especially known as a beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot. There are more than 2,500 cherry trees in and around the castle tower, which bloom from late April to early May, creating a spectacular and picturesque landscape.
Because Aomori Prefecture is really a region suffering from snow, when spring comes, the hearts of people will bounce. If you go this time, you will be able to feel the joy of spring coming after winter is over.
The castle tower is on a hill, so you can see the city and its surroundings. In addition, the castle grounds are beautifully maintained and planted with various cherry trees, including rare species, where you can take a leisurely stroll.
Oirase Stream / Lake Towada
Oirase stream in summer, Aomori Prefecture, Japan Shutterstock
Fall scenery of majestic Towada Lake with colorful autumn trees on lakeside mountains reflected in the peaceful water in Towada Hachimantai National Park, Aomori, Japan = shutterstock
Oirase Stream is a mountain stream flowing out of Lake Towada. Along this stream, there is a walking path about 14 kilometers. Here you can feel brilliant nature in the spring, summer, and fall in the vicinity.
>>Find the Oirase Stream best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say at Tripadvisor
Lake Towada, upstream of the Oirase stream, is a crater lake of 46 km around. It is on the mountain with an altitude of 400 meters. Most of the surroundings around this lake are cliffs.
At Lake Towada, you can ride a pleasure boat, except in winter. From the top of the ship you can enjoy fresh green in spring and autumn leaves in autumn.
Hakkoda Mountain
Hakkoda mountain in heavy snowfall, Aomori Prefecture, Japan = Shutterstock
Mt. Hakkoda is a mountain located in the northern Japan and it’s also an active volcano. In the winter, it’s known as a heavy snowfall area and a paradise for many skiers and snowboarders.
In addition, this mountain has historical significance. In 1899, the tragic incident known as the “Hakkoda Mountain Snow Disaster” occurred, in which a Japanese army unit conducting a snow march got lost and many soldiers died.
Today, Mt. Hakkoda is also popular as a hiking trail surrounded by beautiful nature. From the mountaintop, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Hokkaido and the Pacific Ocean.
Mt. Hakkoda is a place where you can experience the rich nature of Japan. Many people visit and enjoy the beautiful scenery in all four seasons.
Nebuta Festival
Giant illuminated Nebuta lantern float in Nebuta Warasse, Aomori, Japan = shutterstock
If you go to Japan in the summer, you may stop by Aomori on your way to Hokkaido. By all means, please visit the summer festival of Japan in Aomori Prefecture.
The Nebuta Festival is a traditional summer event that is inherited in Aomori Prefecture. In this festival, people carry a huge lantern on a bogie and walk around the city. Today, the Nebuta Festival is held in Aomori City and Hirosaki City in early August every year.
The Nebuta Festival is one of the must-see festivals in Japan. Just watching it is powerful and interesting. Participating and dancing makes it even more interesting. Dancing is easy. All you have to do is jump and jump to the unique shout.
Aomori local foods
Hasshoku Center
Hachinohe-Hssyoku-Center
Aomori Prefecture has a rich food culture. We will introduce a large market-type facility where you can experience it.
It is “Hasshoku Center” in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture. In Japan, it is known as a treasure trove of gourmet food, but it may not be well known overseas.
Hasshoku Center has more than 30 shops selling local ingredients and souvenirs. They are interesting just to look at. Tasting is also available, so please come on an empty stomach. Of course, there are also restaurants and food courts. You can experience Aomori’s unique food culture with tuna, scallops, sake, and other Aomori specialties lined up.
Various events and workshops are also held here throughout the year. If you want to experience Aomori’s unique food and culture, be sure to visit Hasshoku Center. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of this beautiful city while savoring the fresh and delicious seafood that Japan is known for.
Apple
Aomori prefecture is famous as a place to produce delicious apple. = Adobe Stock
Aomori Prefecture is known as an apple producing area. Every spring, pretty apple flowers bloom here and there. You can also enjoy apple picking at the farms in Aomori City and Hirosaki City from August until around mid-November. Try apple jam and apple juice by all means!
Thank you for reading to the end.
>>Click here if you want to the Aomori prefecture tour menu
Now, let’s plan to make your vacation in Japan the best experience ever!
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