Aomori is located in the north of the main island of Japan. Surrounded on three sides by the ocean and divided in two by the Ou Mountains, Aomori is diverse in culture, weather, and nature. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, Aomori offers a range of experiences that cater to all interests.
Enjoy unique festivals such as “Nebuta Matsuri,” historic sites, breathtaking nature, and leisure activities all year round. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks or participating in local traditions, Aomori provides an enriching experience for every visitor.
Fun Facts About Aomori
- Famous for its apples, and is the highest producer of apples in Japan
- Aomori is one of the largest producers of agricultural products and seafood in Japan.
- The #1 city famous for its snowfall and is the most snow-filled prefecture in Japan
- The 18 mountains in Aomori are covered in snow and ice during winter, and the trees are called “snow monsters”.
- Mount Osorezan is considered to be one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Japan. The name of the place means “Mt. Fear” in Japanese, and its nickname is “the Gateway to Hell”.
What to Do in Aomori
Lake Towada
Part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Lake Towada is the largest caldera lake on Honshu. Known for its autumn colours and Oirase Stream, an easy hiking trail leads to the most scenic passage of the stream.
Mount Osorezan
The Shimokita Peninsula’s main attraction is Osorezan, the Fear Mountain. One of the three most sacred places in Japan, the name comes from the scenery and sulphur smell resembling descriptions of Buddhist hell and paradise.
Furukawa Fish Market
The Furukawa Fish Market is a public fish market located in central Aomori. Visitors can create their own seafood donburi, also known as nokkedon, from the local seafood sold at the market.
Hirosaki Castle
Built in 1611, Hirosaki Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Japan. During spring, the park around the castle fills with cherry trees, making it one of the best cherry blossom spots. It also features Japan’s oldest Yoshino cherry tree.
Shirakami Sanchi
Shirakami Sanchi is an extensive mountain range between Aomori and Akita prefectures. Its various hiking trails lead through forests to waterfalls, mountain peaks, and lakes.
Aomori Museum of Art
The Aomori Museum of Art boasts sleek architecture and a unique, modern art collection. Explore Aomori culture, heritage, and design at this museum.
Nebuta Matsuri
This summer festival is held in Aomori City. The highlight of the festival is the parade of enormous lantern floats accompanied by large taiko drums, musicians, and dancers.
What to Eat in Aomori
Miso Curry Milk Ramen
A unique ramen with a miso-based soup seasoned with milk and curry, giving it a sweet and spicy taste with a creamy texture.
Apples
Often called the best apples in the world, Aomori apples are renowned for their sweetness and juiciness.
Kenoshiru
Kenoshiru originates from the word Kayushiru, which means porridge in Japanese. It is a miso soup cooked with various root vegetables, including carrot, daikon radish, and burdock.
Hachinohe Senbei-Jiru
A country-style dish wherein wheat-flour crackers of Nanbu Senbei are deconstructed into pieces and added to a soy broth consisting of fish, meat, vegetables, and mushrooms.
Aomori Ginger-Miso Oden
A dish where traditional oden, using boiled daikon radish, konjac, and eggs, is mixed with ginger and miso sauce.
Towada Barayaki
A specialty dish of thin cow ribs grilled and marinated with sweet and spicy soy sauce, served with many sliced onions atop an iron hot plate.
Kaiyaki Miso
A homestyle dish where a beaten egg, miso, stock, and other ingredients of choice are cooked inside a scallop shell.
Horse Meat “Baniku”
Horse meat dishes in Aomori are similar to a mix of beef and elk.
Igamenchi
A dish of minced bits of squid mixed with chopped vegetables, combined together in oil, and then deep-fried.
Ichigo-ni
A soup dish made from sea urchin and abalone; named for how the sea urchins in the broth resemble wild strawberries. It is typically served during holidays such as New Year and in celebrations.
Where to Stay in Aomori
Yadoya Tsubaki
Situated in Aomori, within 19 km of the Sannai-Maruyama site and 33 km of Hakkoda Ski Area, Yadoya Tsubaki offers accommodation with a terrace and free private parking. This 2-star ryokan features a 24-hour front desk and a concierge service. The air-conditioned rooms provide a sea view and come with a wardrobe and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking in the area. Sukayu Onsen is 38 km from Yadoya Tsubaki, and the nearest airport is Aomori Airport, 27 km away.
Kaisenkaku
Located in the Asamushi Onsen district of Aomori, Kaisenkaku is 19 km from the Sannai-Maruyama site and 2 km from Asamushi Aquarium. The property offers a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy a buffet, American, or Asian breakfast, and the property’s restaurant specialises in Japanese cuisine. The ryokan also features a hot spring bath and activities like cycling.
Aomori Center Hotel
Set within 5 km of the Sannai-Maruyama site and 22 km of Hakkoda Ski Area, Aomori Center Hotel offers rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom. The hotel features a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and take advantage of the hot spring bath and sauna.
Unique things to do in Aomori
Kyodai Apple Pie at Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival
The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival is held every spring, featuring an event where a huge apple pie with a diameter of 2 metres is baked.
Nebuta Matsuri
The Nebuta Matsuri, held annually in August, is one of the greatest festivals in the Tohoku region. It features ‘Nebuta’ floats in the shapes of dolls and other objects paraded down the streets.
Dive into the Riches of Aomori
Aomori’s unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty makes it a destination unlike any other. From its snow-covered mountains and sacred sites to its vibrant festivals and delicious local cuisine, Aomori offers an array of activities and sights that promise to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re trekking through the scenic Shirakami Sanchi, exploring historic Hirosaki Castle, or indulging in the freshest seafood at Furukawa Fish Market, Aomori’s charm and hospitality will captivate you.
Planning a visit to Aomori ensures an adventure filled with memorable experiences and breathtaking scenery. Each season brings its own unique attractions, from cherry blossoms in spring to the Nebuta Matsuri in summer, the stunning autumn colours, and the snow-covered landscapes in winter. Aomori invites you to discover its hidden gems, savour its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its rich traditions and vibrant lifestyle.
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