AOMORI
Aomori Prefecture is a realm of dramatic, unspoiled nature at the northern tip of Japan’s main island, Honshu. It’s famed for its UNESCO World Heritage beech forests, majestic mountains, and a culture forged by long, snowy winters.
It offers a captivating blend of primeval wilderness and deep cultural history, from ancient Jomon ruins to vibrant summer festivals. It is a four-season destination where every vista, from fall leaves to winter snow monsters, is a masterpiece.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Natural Wonders & Scenery:
Shirakami Sanchi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting one of the world’s last virgin beech forests, offering deep wilderness hikes and pristine scenery.
Oirase Stream: A picturesque 14km river walk lined with mossy rocks, lush forest, and numerous waterfalls (like Choshi Otaki), connecting to Lake Towada.
Lake Towada: A stunning caldera lake straddling the border with Akita, ideal for boating and viewing dramatic fall foliage.
Mount Hakkoda: A volcanic mountain range famous for its “snow monsters” (Juhyo) in winter, fantastic skiing, and the Hakkoda Ropeway for panoramic views.
Hotokegaura: A remote, striking coastline on the Shimokita Peninsula with towering rock formations sculpted by the sea, said to resemble Buddhist statues.
Juniko (Twelve Lakes): A group of 33 lakes and ponds within Shirakami Sanchi, including the mysteriously translucent, vivid blue Aoike (Blue Pond).
Tanesashi Coast: A scenic, 12km coastal stretch within a National Park known for its natural lawn and diverse plant life.
Mount Osore (Osorezan): One of Japan’s three most sacred mountains, featuring a stark, volcanic landscape, steaming vents, and the ethereal Lake Usori.
Anmon Falls: A series of three cascading waterfalls located within the Shirakami Sanchi, accessible by a popular hiking trail.
Mount Iwaki: A majestic, conical peak often called “Tsugaru Fuji”, the highest mountain in the prefecture and a stunning landmark.
History, Culture & Art:
Sannai Maruyama Site: One of Japan’s largest and most important Jomon period archaeological sites (c. 5500–4000 years ago), with reconstructed pit-dwellings.
Hirosaki Castle & Park: The northernmost remaining castle tower in Japan, famous for its spectacular cherry blossoms (over 2,500 trees) in the spring.
Nebuta Museum WA RASSE: A museum dedicated to the famous Aomori Nebuta Festival, where you can see the enormous, illuminated lantern floats year-round.
Rice Paddy Art (Inakadate Village): A unique, modern agricultural attraction where villagers create massive, detailed images in rice fields using different colored rice plants.
Aomori Museum of Art: A contemporary art museum built into the earth like an archaeological trench, featuring works by local artists and a giant iconic dog sculpture.
Takayama Inari Shrine: Known for its breathtaking tunnel of thousands of vibrant red torii gates stretching across the landscape.
Dazai Osamu Memorial Hall “Shayokan”: The preserved, opulent childhood home of one of Japan’s most renowned 20th-century writers, Osamu Dazai.
Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge: Japan’s longest wooden three-arched bridge, spanning Tsugaru Fujimi Lake with beautiful views of Mount Iwaki.
Seikan Tunnel Memorial Hall: Located near the end of the Tsugaru Peninsula, this facility commemorates the world’s longest undersea rail tunnel.
Saishoin Five-Storied Pagoda: A beautiful and significant Edo-period pagoda in Hirosaki, built to honor the war dead.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Oirase Gorge: Walk or cycle the picturesque 14-kilometer path along this famous mountain stream, enjoying the cascades and vibrant autumn foliage or frozen winter waterfalls.
Explore Shirakami Sanchi (UNESCO World Heritage): Discover the pristine ancient beech forest—one of the last in East Asia—via guided treks or self-guided trails, such as those near the Anmon Falls.
Marvel at Aoike (Blue Pond) in the Juniko Lakes: Hike through the Juniko (Twelve Lakes) area to see the famously cobalt-blue, mysteriously clear waters of Aoike.
Ride the Hakkōda Ropeway: Take the gondola up the Hakkōda Mountains for panoramic views of the changing seasons, enjoying summer hikes, autumn leaves, or spectacular Juhyo (snow monsters) in winter.
Create Your Own “Nokke-don” Seafood Bowl: Visit the Furukawa Fish Market in Aomori City, where you buy tickets to choose and assemble your own custom rice bowl from various fresh seafood stalls.
Experience a Traditional Onsen: Soak in an authentic, rustic hot spring like Sukayu Onsen, famous for its historic Sennin-buro (thousand-person bath), often featuring mixed bathing (with separate options usually available).
Visit Hirosaki Park for Cherry Blossoms: If visiting in spring (late April/early May), experience one of Japan’s best cherry blossom viewing spots with the historic Hirosaki Castle as a stunning backdrop.
Witness the Aomori Nebuta Festival: Attend this spectacular summer festival (August 2–7) to see enormous, brightly lit warrior-figure floats paraded through the city streets. You can even join the Haneto dancers!
Go Apple Picking: Aomori is Japan’s leading apple producer. Visit an apple park or orchard, especially around Hirosaki, to sample different varieties or try apple-based sweets like local pies.
Drive the Scenic Shimokita Peninsula: Journey to the remote, axe-head-shaped peninsula to see the otherworldly, dramatic rock formations of Hotokegaura or visit the sacred, sulfurous landscape of Mount Osore.
Canoe or Kayak on Lake Towada: Explore the tranquil, deep-blue caldera lake by boat, especially beautiful during the vivid autumn foliage season.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended for Scenic Areas: Due to the large size of the prefecture and the scattered nature of its scenic spots (Shirakami Sanchi, Hotokegaura, Oirase Gorge), renting a car is highly recommended for maximum flexibility, especially outside of Aomori City.
Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Tohoku Shinkansen connects Tokyo to Shin-Aomori Station in just over three hours. From Shin-Aomori, transfer to a local train for Aomori Station.
Public Bus Networks: Bus services, such as JR Bus Tohoku, are available for major tourist routes, notably from Aomori or Hirosaki to Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge and the Hakkōda Mountains (Sukayu Onsen). Schedules are infrequent and often vary by season, so check in advance.
Local Trains: Local JR and private lines (e.g., Ou Line, Gono Line, Tsugaru Railway) connect major cities like Aomori, Hirosaki, and Hachinohe, offering scenic travel for those with time. The Tsugaru Railway features unique seasonal services like the “stove train” in winter.
Aomori City Transport: The city center is largely walkable. The Nebutan-Go sightseeing bus connects major city attractions, including Aomori Station, the Nebuta Museum, and the Sannai-Maruyama Site.
Seasonal Visits: Aomori offers dramatic beauty in every season, but plan accordingly:
Late Spring (late April/early May): Best for Hirosaki’s cherry blossoms (Sakura).
Summer (August): The time for the incredible Nebuta Festival (Aomori City).
Autumn (mid-October/early November): Best for the magnificent fall foliage at Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada.
Winter: Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and seeing the iconic Juhyo (Snow Monsters) on Hakkōda.
Embrace the Snow: Aomori receives some of the heaviest snowfall in the world. If visiting between December and March, be prepared for cold weather, snowy roads, and limited access to some natural areas (e.g., parts of Oirase Gorge).
Apple Culture: Aomori is synonymous with apples. Look for unique local products like apple cider (try the A-Factory near Aomori Station), apple pie (Hirosaki is known for having many varieties), and even apple ramen.
Hidden Gems:
Sannai-Maruyama Site: A huge, incredibly well-preserved archaeological site from the prehistoric Jomon Period, just a short bus ride from Aomori City.
Takayama Inari Shrine: Located in the Tsugaru area, this shrine features a stunning, snaking path lined with hundreds of brilliant red torii gates, reminiscent of Fushimi Inari-taisha but with fewer crowds and ocean views.
Tsugaru-han Neputa Village: If you can’t make the August festival, this village in Hirosaki offers a year-round experience of the float artistry and music (Tsugaru-shamisen).
Regional Language: While standard Japanese is spoken, the Tsugaru dialect is notoriously difficult to understand, even for other Japanese speakers. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases is appreciated, but the larger tourist centers will generally have English support.
Top Restaurants
Osanai Shokudo [$15-$25] – A popular, no-frills dining spot near Aomori Station famous for its fresh seafood bowls and the local specialty “Grilled Scallops with Miso,” which blends scallop broth, egg, and miso.
Aji no Sapporo Asari [$15-$25] – A ramen shop renowned for its unique Aomori “Miso Curry Milk Ramen,” a creamy, savory, and comforting local specialty.
Kudo Ramen [$10-$20] – A classic, long-established ramen shop in the Tsugaru area, known for its traditional, light-broth ramen that has been popular since 1948.
Tsugaru Joppari Isariya Sakaba Aomorihoncho Main Branch [$30-$40] – An izakaya that offers a cultural journey with traditional Tsugaru cuisine, a festive atmosphere, and live performances of Tsugaru Shamisen music.
Tsugaru Kappou Mirai [$65-$100] – Experience the best of traditional Tsugaru cuisine near Aomori Station, offering high-quality local dishes and sake in an upscale setting.
Shichibei Ya [$40-$55] – An authentic izakaya in Aomori known for its fresh seafood, lively atmosphere, and unique shichirin (small charcoal grill) grill delicacies.
Nebuta no Kuni Taka Kyuu [$35-$45] – Inspired by the Nebuta Matsuri festival, this izakaya offers a diverse menu of local seafood and dishes in a cultural setting, often with captivating shamisen performances.
Aji no Okatei [$20-$30] – A grill house that serves standout teppan grilled pork belly in Towada, known for using top-notch, locally sourced ingredients and house-made special sauces.
Tsukabara Yakizoku Shokudo [$20-$30] – A highly popular restaurant in Towada City for Bara-yaki (grilled beef rib belly), famous for its savory-sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with rice.
Fish Eater’s Daimanzoku [$30-$40] – Located in Oma, this restaurant is dedicated to its famous, high-quality Oma Maguro (bluefin tuna), offering fresh tuna bowls and rare dishes like “Stamina Yaki” (grilled tuna).
Saba no Eki [$20-$30] – A local spot in Hachinohe, known for its specialties centered around saba (mackerel), a popular fish in the Nanbu area.
Kikufuji Honten [$30-$40] – An izakaya where you can enjoy local Tsugaru cuisine and a wide selection of local sake.
Horoka [$10-$20] – A soba noodle restaurant located near Aomori Station, specializing in freshly made soba.
Izakaya Ryoji [$20-$30] – A popular izakaya run by a fish market store, guaranteeing fresh seafood in a casual pub atmosphere.
Daikoku Sushi [$25-$40] – A highly-regarded sushi restaurant in front of Aomori Station, known for its fresh, authentic sushi experience.
Aomori Gyosai Center (Nokkedon) [$15-$30] – A bustling fish market where you can create your own Nokkedon (build-your-own seafood bowl) by exchanging tickets for various fresh sashimi and toppings.
Hasshoku Center [$15-$30] – A huge marketplace in Hachinohe packed with food stalls and leisure goods, perfect for a casual lunch or trying diverse local foods like Senbei-jiru (a local soup with crackers).
Hide Zushi [$35-$45] – A sushi restaurant renowned for its Oma tuna, offering authentic sushi in a space that blends modern and traditional decor.
Petit Restaurant Bouquet de France [$45-$70 (Lunch), $80-$130 (Dinner)] – A cozy, house-based restaurant offering refined French-Japanese cuisine, with a focus on highlighting Aomori’s fresh local seafood and vegetables.
Sakana Dining Kokoro [$50-$80] – A “genuine restaurant” that blends classic and creative Japanese-style cuisine, serving both seasonal fresh fish (sashimi, sushi) and carefully selected local black Wagyu beef.
Nagomi Japanese Dining [$40-$60 (Dinner)] – Located within the Art Hotel Aomori, this restaurant focuses on traditional local dishes, including Aomori specialty Kuraishi beef, with a focus on providing inventive variations.
Tsugaru Dam Curry (Roadside Station Tsugaru Shirakami) [$15-$25] – A unique spot offering a novelty Dam Curry, where the roux is presented to resemble the Tsugaru Shirakami Dam, topped with rice shaped like the dam itself.
Bear Donburi (Roadside Station Tsugaru Shirakami) [$20-$35] – A specialty dish made with local bear meat, offering a unique taste of the region’s traditional Matagi (hunter) cuisine.
Fukaura Tuna Steak Donburi (Various) [$20-$35] – Offered at several restaurants in Fukaura, this local specialty is a must-try, featuring perfectly cooked tuna steak served over rice.
SIP HOK THAI CAFÉ [$15-$25] – A unique find in the Itayanagi Town area, serving authentic Thai cuisine, adding a diverse culinary option to the region.
Kaiseki Ryori Dokoro Kofunato [$80-$120 (Dinner Course)] – A renowned Japanese Kaiseki restaurant in Hachinohe, offering authentic, exquisite Japanese seafood course dishes and seasonal specialties like kaisendon.
Kashu [$150-$250 (Omakase)] – An exceptional French cuisine restaurant in Aomori, highly-regarded for its refined dining experience and masterful blend of French techniques with high-quality local Japanese ingredients.
Narumi [$40-$60 (Dinner)] – Located in Hirosaki, this restaurant offers exceptional Japanese cuisine in a beautiful historic warehouse setting.
Nagomi Japanese Dining (Course Meals) [$60-$90 (Course)] – Offers extensive course meals made with seasonal ingredients, focusing on traditional Aomori dishes but constantly innovating with creative variations.
Ishi to Sakana Jiraiya [$40-$60] – A casual izakaya that specializes in stone-grilled dishes (robatayaki) and extremely fresh seafood, offering a high-quality yet relaxed dining experience.
Sakesakana Shun Mitsuishi [$40-$70] – A historic Japanese restaurant in Aomori that offers carefully curated seasonal dishes and local sake.
Kappo Sanriku [$50-$80] – Located in the Nanbu area, this restaurant serves Japanese cuisine made from the freshest seafood landed from the local coast.
Aomori Kappou Kyuuan [$40-$60 (Dinner)] – Located in Misawa, this restaurant is known for uncovering and serving the seafood secrets of the local waters in a high-quality kappou (traditional Japanese cooking) style.
Sushi Teppanyaki Hiiragi [$50-$80] – Offers authentic high-quality sushi and sashimi along with recommended teppanyaki featuring Wagyu beef.
Sakana Dining Kokoro (Luxury Course) [$80-$110 (Course)] – A restaurant offering a selection of high-end course menus, including a 10-dish tasting course focusing on their selected ingredients.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Ark Lounge (Hachinohe): Widely recognized for its high-end, haute couture cocktails, this bar has an elegant, multi-floor setting in the coastal city of Hachinohe. Its drinks often incorporate local ingredients, like the “Jyawamegu” made with local Denshu sake.
Bar Aomori Cocktail (Aomori City): Located in the heart of the capital city, this spot is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to expertly crafted cocktails, a testament to the region’s developing mixology scene.
Dining Bar Yoshiya (Hirosaki): A hidden gem in Hirosaki, this cozy bar offers an extensive menu of over 100 cocktails, from classics to original creations, making it perfect for a long night of exploration.
Bar Glen More (Hirosaki): Specializing in whiskey, this Scottish-style bar in Hirosaki has a sleek, sophisticated black interior and offers a wide selection of over 100 types of whiskey for a refined evening.
CAFE&BAR 2WAY (Aomori City): Located near Aomori Station, this spot operates as a café by day and a trendy bar by night, offering a relaxed environment with good drinks and a central location.
Pub Grandpa (Hirosaki): Transporting visitors to a medieval European tavern, this bar near Chuo Hirosaki Station focuses on a selection of craft beers and a convivial, old-world ambiance.
SugarSpot (Hirosaki): A charming, newer spot in Hirosaki with a cute, café-style decor, popular for its colorful and unique cocktails in a relaxed, comfortable setting.
Ash (Hirosaki): An intimate bar about an 8-minute walk from Chuo Hirosaki Station, popular with groups for its budget-friendly options and cozy, local feel.
Robbin’s Nest (Hirosaki): Known for its friendly, English-speaking staff and jazzy atmosphere, this Hirosaki spot is beloved by locals and offers a great environment to chat, with occasional live events.
matahari (Aomori City): An Indonesian-themed bar near Aomori Station, offering a unique Balinese vibe and diverse drink menu, standing out in the local scene.
BAR THE GYO (Tsugaru Area): A modern gyoza bar located in the Tsugaru area, offering a selection of drinks and a lively, casual atmosphere to pair with its savory dumplings.
Blue Bar Aomori (Aomori City): A small, classic cocktail bar known for its intimate counter seating and professional bartenders who craft traditional drinks.
Bar Log (Aomori City): A cozy spot in Aomori’s nightlife district, known for its unique cocktails and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Kagayabar (Aomori City): Popular for its friendly vibe and unique drinks, offering a welcoming experience in the capital city.
Crazy Horse Saloon (Aomori City): A lively bar in Aomori City that often features good music and a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, making it a great pre-clubbing destination.
Square (Aomori City): A trendy bar that provides a lively atmosphere and delicious drinks, often attracting a younger crowd looking for a dynamic night out in Aomori City.
Theatro Club Aomori (Aomori City): While the club scene is limited, this type of venue provides a high-energy club experience with diverse music and a large dance floor, typically running late into the night.
Velvet Club Hirosaki (Hirosaki): Often functioning as a live music venue or late-night bar in Hirosaki, offering an alternative to electronic dance music with bands and a lively crowd.
Rock Bar ATORAN (Aomori City): Catering to rock and alternative music fans, this spot offers a spirited environment and a selection of drinks, making it a niche favorite in Aomori City.
Ongaku Shokudo Otonoki (Hirosaki): A “Music Dining” establishment that combines food, drinks, and a focus on music, providing a lively and engaging evening in Hirosaki.
OWL (Hirosaki): A popular bar that transitions into a late-night spot, offering a casual yet energetic environment near Chuo Hirosaki Station.
MIX bar PNYACK (Aomori City): Known for its inclusivity and entertainment, this “mix bar” is a great choice for a fun, lively, and welcoming night in Aomori City.
BAR YOMISE (Aomori City): A bar with a name meaning “night stall,” suggesting a friendly, casual atmosphere often associated with local festival vibes in Aomori City.
DISCO CLUB AOMORI (Aomori City): A dedicated venue providing a disco/dance club experience in the capital, playing a mix of popular and electronic music for those looking to dance.
Bar Is Open (Aomori City): Known as a premier karaoke bar, this venue offers a lively atmosphere and a staple of Japanese nightlife—singing with friends in a welcoming setting in Aomori City.