Top 32 Things To Do In Aomori, Japan

1. See "snow monsters" at Hakkoda Ski Resort

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Located in Aomori Prefecture, the Hakkoda Ski Resort is known for its unique natural phenomenon called “snow monsters.” These snow monsters, also known as “juhyo,” are trees covered with heavy snow and ice, forming a beautiful and eerie spectacle in the winter season. Visitors can take a gondola or chairlift to the mountaintop and see these stunning snow monsters up close.

The Hakkoda Ski Resort also offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities, with various courses catering to all levels of expertise.

2. Make your own seafood rice bowl at Nokkedo

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Have a unique experience at Aomori Gyosai Center, where one of the must-do activities here is making your seafood rice bowl, where you can choose your favorite seafood toppings, such as crab, sea urchin, and salmon roe, to create a unique and delicious dish.

The restaurant provides all the ingredients and tools needed, and friendly staff members are available to assist you with the cooking process. This hands-on experience is fun and allows you to appreciate the freshness and quality of Hokkaido seafood. After making your seafood rice bowl, you can savor your creation while enjoying the cozy and relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant.

3. Explore the cobalt-blue waters of Juniko Twelve Lakes

Amazing natural attractions are what’s there to see in Aomori. One of which is Tsugaru Quasi-National Park Lake Juniko, or Twelve Lakes if you prefer. However, the name doesn’t quite tell the whole story because it consists of 33 lakes and ponds. So, what gives? Well, it’s because an individual can only see 12 of these lakes if they stand on the summit of Mount Okuzure.

But the real reason tourists love visiting the Twelve Lakes is because of its stunning blue waters and many hiking, sightseeing, and mountain climbing opportunities. There are also camping grounds in the vicinity, which is ideal for those that want to spend more than a day here.

Juniko Twelve Lakes

Address: JR Juniko Station Grounds 33-1, Shita-Hamamatsu Matsukami Fukaura-machi Nishitsugaru, Aomori 038-2206, Japan

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free

4. Zip through panoramic landscapes on Resort Shirakami (From 46 USD)

Sometimes, there’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Japan than by train. But we all know how blazingly fast those Japanese bullet trains are so they’re not the ideal form of transportation for sightseeing. Fortunately, there’s another option known as Resort Shirakami, which is also dubbed the “Joyful Train” that’s designed for maximum enjoyment. Lucky travelers who take this line will get to view the stunning mountain range of the Shirakami Sanchi and the Tohoku coastline.

Resort Shirakami

Address: Take the 10:20 Hayabusa service from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori, Japan

Website:

View Deal

Opening hours: Refer to the JR East timetable before booking

Price: From 46 USD

5. Savour rich clams harvested from Lake Jusanko

If you’re heading to Lake Jusanko, then you should try out the area’s most famous treat, namely, Goshogawara Clam Ramen. So, what makes the clam ramen here so much better than in other regions of Japan? Well, the brackish water of the lake gives its clams a stronger taste than usual, and they also provide an exceptionally delicious taste when mixed with miso. These clams also offer good nutritional value since they have vitamin A and B12, but must be cooked and served in soup broth for the best results. You can taste this Lake Jusanko speciality at any of the shops in the area.

6. Learn about underground rail history at Seikan Tunnel Museum

We all know that Japan has played a vital role in pushing railway technology. After all, this is the country that boasts some of the most impressive bullet trains in the world. If you want to learn more, then a visit to Seikan Tunnel Museum is a must. It features a tunnel that’s embedded below the seabed of the Tsugaru Straits and an exhibition hall. The latter offers visitors an interactive tour that consists of music, models, and videos that explain how the tunnel was constructed and how it’s used.

Seikan Tunnel Museum

Address: 字三厩龍浜-99, 外ヶ浜町 Sotogahama, Higashitsugaru District, Aomori 030-1711, Japan

Website: Seikan Tunnel Museum

Opening hours: 8:40am - 5pm (daily)

Price: From 4 USD

7. Take a breezy jaunt around Cape Tappi

There are many scenic spots around Aomori, and one that will leave an impression is none other than Cape Tappi. The area is renowned for its strong winds that make their way through the nearby Tsugaru Channel, and that’s why it’s called Tappi, which means “as dragon flies.” Apart from the magnificent views of the peninsula, visitors can also check out the nearby lighthouse and stone monuments that honor famous figures such as Osamu Dazai and Shoin Yoshida.

Cape Tappi

Address: Minmayatatsuhama, Sotogahama, Higashitsugaru District, Aomori 030-1711, Japan

Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)

8. Tour the stately writer's home at Osamu Dazai Memorial Museum

Osamu Dazai was a prolific writer and novelist whose works enjoy enormous popularity in the literary world. He would often write in first person and express himself in both comedic and serious tones. Some of his famous novels include In Doke no Hana (A Clown Star), In Shayo (The Setting Sun), and Hashire Merosu (Meros, Run!) - to name a few. You’ll gain a greater appreciation of this writer once you visit his home in Kanagi, which is now a museum that showcases antique furniture, a comprehensive collection of his works, and various ornaments.

Osamu Dazai Memorial Museum

Address: Asahiyama-412-1 金木町 Goshogawara, Aomori 037-0202, Japan

Website: Osamu Dazai Memorial Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)

Price: From 5 USD

9. Appreciate live samisen music at Tsugaru Shamisen Hall

Enjoy the musical heritage of the region by visiting Tsugaru Shamisen Hall. And, if you love the sound of string instruments, then you’ll be in heaven since the focal point of the museum is the shamisen, which is a three-stringed instrument that’s played with a bachi. You’ll gain an appreciation for this traditional Japanese instrument and learn about its history inside the exhibition room. Furthermore, you can watch live performances and even reserve a lesson with a professional player at an additional fee.

Tsugaru Shamisen Hall

Address: Asahiyama-189-3 Kanagi, Goshogawara, Aomori 037-0202, Japan

Website: Tsugaru Shamisen Hall

Opening hours: 8:30am - 6pm (daily)

Price: From 5 USD

10. Munch on 'miracle apples' at Restaurant Yamazaki

Restaurant Yamazaki sounds like the quintessential Japanese restaurant, right? Well, not quite. This is a highly-regarded French restaurant that’s renowned for its beef dishes and scallops. It also features a cafe, catering service, and patisserie under the same roof. However, you’ll want to order their delicious miracle apple full course, which consists of amuse-bouche, seafood and miracle apple salad, miracle apple cold soup, scallops, pork, miracle apple dessert, and miracle apple-flavored black tea.

Restaurant Yamazaki

Address: 41 Oyakatamachi, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8191, Japan

Website: Restaurant Yamazaki

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11:30am - 8:30pm (closed on Mon)

11. Breathe in the crisp mountain air of Iwakiyama Shrine

There are thousands of shrines throughout Japan, but if you only have time to visit one, then you should consider Iwakiyama Shrine. The reason for this is due to its historical heritage and location, which is next to the picturesque Mount Iwaki. It was built about 1,200 years ago to honor a local deity, and constructed from Hiba that’s robust enough to withstand the region’s icy and windy climate. If you have some time to spare and are feeling energetic, then try out the hiking trail that goes up the mountain.

Iwakiyama Shrine

Address: 27 Terasawa, Hyakuzawa, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori, 036-1343, Japan

12. Celebrate cherry blossom season at Hirosaki Castle

Without a doubt, Japan is full of magnificent castles that are a testament to the country’s rich and fascinating history. But if you’re traveling to Aomori, then you should stop by Hirosaki Park, which is home to Hirosaki Castle Honmaru, the Budok shrine rest area, and a botanical garden. There is so much that awaits in the castle’s grounds that it perfectly encapsulates the question of what to do in Aomori.

The well-preserved castle dates back to the Kansei period and houses many valuable assets that impress most tourists. Don’t forget to check out the cherry blossom trees, and flora and fauna that you’ll find in the park.

Hirosaki Castle

Address: 1 Shimoshiroganecho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8356, Japan

Website: Hirosaki Park

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 3 USD

13. Admire the Western-style architecture of Aomori Bank Memorial Hall

Banks don’t sound very exciting, right? After all, most modern banks are housed inside bland glass buildings that lack character. But that’s not the case for Aomori Bank Memorial Hall, which was formally a national bank founded in 1879. What makes it so interesting is its Western-style architecture that also boasts strong Renaissance influences. Therefore, the building looks distinctive and majestic and has undoubtedly become an important cultural landmark in the area.

Aomori Bank Memorial Hall

Address: 26 Motonaga-machi, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori 036-8169, Japan

14. Marvel at the rice paddy art of Inakadate Village

We all know that when you visit Tokyo, you’re bound to stumble across something cool and wacky given the city’s propensity for edgy culture, design, and fashion. However, Aomori Prefecture is no stranger to the weird and wonderful, since you’ll find eye-catching rice paddy art adorning the fields of Inakadate village. Innovative artists have been creating these stunning art pieces by planting purple and yellow rice plants since 1993. And, tourists have been visiting this area in droves to admire fields that showcase images such as that of the Emperor and Empress of Japan.

Inakadate Village

Address: 123-1 Nakatsuji Inakadate, Inakadate-mura Minamitsugaru-gun, Aomori-ken 038-1113, Japan

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 2 USD

15. Lodge in the rustic tranquility of Aoni Onsen (from USD 88)

There’s nothing better to soothe weary bodies and souls than with a visit to a traditional Japanese onsen. We tracked down this cozy establishment that’s surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery. This inn features four types of public baths that include hot spring and open-air baths. If you’re planning on spending the entire day or staying overnight, then you’ll be treated to a traditional Japanese breakfast and healthy grilled vegetarian dishes. Keep in mind that this onsen operates without electricity and cellphone reception is non-existent.

16. Stroll around the enchanting gardens of Seibi-en

When in Japan, every savvy tourist should consider visiting the country’s abundant and beautiful gardens. And when in Aomori, Seibi-en awaits those that want to admire the region’s famous gardens. Here, you’ll find Morimi-en that boasts the Bakugaku style and dates back to the Meiji era, the Japanese and Western Ornamental Garden Appreciation Hall, and the Gohoden Taisho 6 temple. Anime and Studio Ghibli fans will be pleased to know that these grounds appear in “The Borrower Arrietty” feature anime.

Seibi-en

Address: Ishibayashi-1 Saruka, Hirakawa, Aomori 036-0242, Japan

Website: Seibi-en

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 2 - 4 USD

17. Enjoy the captivating float parade of Nebuta Matsuri

If you’re heading to Aomori during the summertime, then you should check out the Nebuta Matsuri. So, what exactly is the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri? Well, it’s a local float festival that commemorates heroic warrior figures of the region. These brightly colored and masterfully crafted floats truly come alive during the evenings since they’re illuminated. Young and old gather together in the streets and Aomori Heiwa Park to watch the float parades and enjoy the performances of dancers, kabuki actors, and taiko drummers.

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri

Address: National Route 4, Shinmachi Street, Kenchō Street and Aomori Heiwa Park, Aomori, Japan

18. Step back into olden times at Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site

Japan is an ancient country with a long and illustrious history. But its history doesn’t evolve strictly around warring states, shoguns, and samurais. Sadly, few people know about Japan’s Paleolithic age that’s chockful of interesting artifacts. That’s why it’s worth visiting the Sannai Maruyama Archaeological site that features excavated items such as accessories and sculptures that date back 10,000 years and discovered in 12 different ruins.

Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site

Address: Maruyama-305 Sannai, Aomori, 038-0031, Japan

Website: Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 7 - 9 USD

19. Visit the marine animals at Asamushi Aquarium

Animal and nature lovers are going to have a blast at Asamushi Aquarium. It overlooks Mutsu Bay and features about 11,000 animals making it the largest aquarium in the region. Here, you’ll find cold and warm water exhibits that consist of 45 tanks. These tanks house a wide variety of sea animals such as dolphins, penguins, seals, sea lions, and sea otters. Moreover, there’s a dolphin show pool, gift shop, and tropical rainforest exhibit on the premises.

Asamushi Aquarium

Address: Babayama-1-25 Asamushi, Aomori, 039-3501, Japan

Website: Asamushi Aquarium

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 10 USD

20. Have a soak in the famous sulphur springs of Mount Hakkoda

The Hakkoda mountain range consists of sixteen mountains and various wetlands in the nearby area. It’s a popular destination during the winter period and attracts many skiers and snowboarders from around Japan. But if that’s not your thing, then you may want to try out something more relaxing like soaking into its sulfur springs. After all, there’s an onsen at the foot of the mountain that’s renowned for its therapeutic qualities.

Mount Hakkoda

Address: 1-12 Kansuizawa Arakawa Aomori-shi Aomori-ken 030-0188, Japan

21. Indulge in a luxurious spa day at Sukayu Onsen

You may want to relax and rejuvenate during your daily excursions around Aomori. One of the best places to do this is at Sokuyu Onsen that’s just a short drive from the city. Here, you’ll find a mixed bathing facility that has a dedicated schedule for female bathers. There’s also a small public bath known as Tamanoyu that’s ideal for couples and has similar soothing effects to that of a hot spring. Moreover, there’s a soba restaurant and a snack bar on site if you get hungry, and there’s the Hakkoda Hotel next door if you want to stay the night.

Sukayu Onsen

Address: 1 Nitta, Aomori 038-0001, Aomori Prefecture, Japan

Website: Sukayu Onsen

Opening hours: 7am - 5:30pm (daily)

Price: 9 USD

22. Take a refreshing stroll around magnificent Lake Towada

One of Japan’s most beautiful natural attractions is none other than Lake Towada. It was formed by volcanic activity about 2,000 years ago and boasts deep blue waters and stunning foliage and trees along its periphery. There’s plenty of walking and hiking trails, which will immerse you in its natural beauty and allow you to view the lake and the boats that transverse its surface.

Lake Towada

Address: 486 Yasumiya Towada-kohan Okuse Towada-shi Aomori-ken 018-5501, Japan

23. Dip your toes into the picturesque Oirase Stream

Oirase Stream flows over the Oirase Gorge and winds through the picturesque landscape made up of leafy trees. The area looks truly striking during the autumn months since it’s covered with orange, yellow, and red leaves. Furthermore, there are a plethora of walking and hiking trails along the length of the steam. A good place to begin a hike is from Nenokuchi and follow the trail that will take you over the stream’s waterfalls and eventually ends at Ishigedo.

Oirase Stream

Address: Tochikubo-183 Okuse, Towada, Aomori 034-0301, Japan

24. Make a pilgrimage to the supposed Tomb of Jesus Christ

This is one of those attractions that has gained a bit of fanfare in recent years. It’s easy to see why that is, given the claim that the tomb of Jesus Christ was discovered here in 1935. Now, most people, including the locals, don’t believe this is the case. But the burial mound with its towering crosses continues to fascinate visitors. Whether you’re a true believer or enjoy visiting offbeat locales, then check out the tomb and the accompanying Christ’s Village Museum.

Tomb of Jesus Christ

Address: 32-1 Herai, Shingo-mura, Sannohe-gun 039-1801, Aomori Prefecture, Japan

25. Browse the zany modern art of Towada Art Center

Art and anime enthusiasts should consider adding Towada Art Center to their destinations for sightseeing in Aomori. This ultra-modern museum was designed by Ryue Nishizawa and has become an important cultural hub in Towada.

Here, visitors will find a collection of exclusively commissioned works and art from local and international artists. Some of these famous names include Jeong-Haw Choi, Yoko Ono, and Yoshitomo Nara. And, anime fans will be amazed by the collection consisting of about 100,000 anime body pillows.

Towada Art Center

Address: 10-9 Nishi-Nibancho, Towada-shi, Aomori, Japan

Website: Towada Art Center

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

26. Go bar-hopping in vibrant Hachinohe Yokocho

Do you like to go out drinking when visiting new places? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve tracked down one of Aomori’s hottest drinking spots. If you’ve already visited the Kokubuncho nightlife district in Sendai, then you’ll feel right at home in Hachinohe Yokocho since it has a similar vibe. Hachinohe is a bustling port city that dates back to a bygone era and features plenty of tightly packed bars and narrow alleyways. Every bar has a unique theme and usually run by the owner that you can get to know and let them recommend a couple of drinks for the night.

Hachinohe Yokocho

Address: Japan, 〒031-0033 Aomori, Hachinohe, Muikamachi, 10

Website: Hachinohe Yokocho

Opening hours: 4pm - 4am (daily)

27. Select freshly caught seafood at Hasshoku Center

It’s no secret that Japan is one of the leading countries when it comes to fresh seafood. And, it’s not only known for its wealth of excellent sushi restaurants but also for its massive markets that sell fresh fish and other items. One of the biggest markets in Japan is none other than Hasshoku Center, which houses approximately 60 shops that specialize in dried foods, fresh-caught fish, liquor, meat, produce, snacks, sweets, and souvenirs. If you get hungry during your shopping spree, then head over to Aji Yokocho for their delicious noodles, or Kuriya Stadium to munch on their fresh fish delicacies.

Hasshoku Center

Address: Kansai-22-2 Kawaragi, Hachinohe, Aomori 039-1161, Japan

Website: Hasshoku Center

Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 9am - 6pm (closed on Wed)

28. Explore the rugged Seagull Island, Kabushima

How often have you managed to get close and personal with our avian friends? Moreover, how often have you been in close proximity to Black-tailed gulls? Well, if you haven’t had the pleasure to check out these lovely animals, then you should definitely head over to the Island of Kabushima. This tiny island is only 140 meters (460 feet) wide with an elevation of 18 meters (59 feet), and it even has a Shinto Shrine that seems very welcoming. However, the island serves as a nesting ground for the gulls, and that’s why it has been aptly nicknamed ‘Seagull Island.’

Island of Kabushima

Address: Same-56-2 Samemachi, Hachinohe, Aomori 031-0841, Japan

Website: Island of Kabushima

29. Get hands-on with aircraft at Misawa Aviation & Science Museum

Have you ever wondered about Japan’s aviation industry and technology prowess? If that’s the case, then this museum will answer some of your questions, or fill in any gaps if you’re already knowledgeable about these matters. There’s much to see and do here since there are exhibits of Japanese warplanes, a science museum, and even an experiment studio where you can fly paper planes and attend workshops. Don’t forget to bring the little ones along, as they’ll surely enjoy the unique anime-themed events that they’ll unlikely experience back home.

Misawa Aviation & Science Museum

Address: Kitayama-158 Misawa, Aomori 033-0022, Japan

Website: Misawa Aviation & Science Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD

30. Discover the mystical site of Osore-zan Bodai-ji Temple

Osore-zan Bodai-ji Temple may seem like a creepy or magical place depending on your outlook. After all, this temple perfectly encapsulates the concept of dualism in its construction. Its windmills remind one of hell while the sandy beach depicts paradise within the context of the Buddhist religion. Moreover, it attracts many worshippers who come here during autumn, but also in summer for the dinosaur festival.

Osore-zan Bodai-ji Temple

Address: Usoriyama-3-2 Tanabu, Mutsu, Aomori 035-0021, Japan

Website: Osore-zan Bodai-ji Temple

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

31. Get spectacular coastal views atop Mount Kamabuse

There’s no better way to view the tranquil waters of Mutsu Bay and Ominato Bay than from high up. Luckily, the Osorezan Mountain Range is nearby and features Mount Kamabuse, which also has the mountain range’s highest peak. It’s approximately 878 meters (2,880 feet) above sea level, and you can reach the summit by taking one of its climbing paths. The summit has an observatory, which is the ideal spot to view the coast, Hokkaido during a clear day, and the neon lights of Mutsu City during the evenings.

Mount Kamabuse

Address: Mutsu, Aomori, Japan

32. Nosh on oma tuna delicacies on Honshu Island

Honshu Island is next to the Tsugaru Strait, which is known for its tasty Bluefin or Hon-maguro tuna that’s larger and heavier than ordinary tuna. And, for this reason, many fishermen specialize in Oma tuna fishing and try to catch some of the rarest and priciest tuna in Japan. The town of Oma is one of the best places to enjoy lunch specials and mouth-watering tuna bowls. What makes Oma tuna so delicious is that it’s extremely tender with just the right amount of fat.

Honshu Island

Address: 17-377 Omadaira Oma Oma-machi, Aomori 039-4601

The magnificent world of Aomori Prefecture

Aomori has much to offer travelers, especially those who have visited other prefectures in Japan. For one, it’s a nature lover’s paradise given its picturesque mountain ranges, stunning lakes, and soothing sulfur springs. It’s also a great option for those seeking culinary surprises since there are many diverse and excellent eateries in the region. With the help of this list of the best things to do in Aomori, an adventure-filled trip must already be in order.