Discover the hidden charms of Aomori Prefecture! A travel guide to historic sightseeing spots and exquisite gourmet food.

A scenic trip to Aomori Prefecture! Kasumi’s favorite spots among the 47 prefectures she experienced

The beginning of a trip fascinated by the beauty of Aomori Prefecture

Introduction: Traveling in Japan and feeling the local characteristics

I, Kasumi, have traveled to all 47 prefectures of Japan. I have felt many charms such as the culture, scenery, and food culture of each place. But Aomori Prefecture has a special place in my heart. Located at the tip of Japan, this prefecture has a unique culture and spectacular scenery, and is loved by many tourists.

Geography of Aomori Prefecture and its charm

Aomori Prefecture is located at the tip of Honshu, the northernmost tip of Japan. The area is known for its refreshing breezes in the summer and heavy snowfall in the winter. One of the great attractions of Aomori Prefecture is that you can enjoy the scenery of each season. My first visit was at the end of summer. It was the time to welcome the beginning of autumn leaves. I was fascinated by the beauty of autumn leaves and wanted to convey its charm.

Spots where you can enjoy a superb view: Hirosaki Castle

There are many sightseeing spots in Aomori Prefecture, but the first place I visited was Hirosaki Castle. This place is crowded with many tourists as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. I visited in late summer, missing the cherry blossom season, but the lush trees and historic buildings were so beautiful that I lost track of time.

Also, the area around Hirosaki Castle is dotted with local cafes and shops, and one of the attractions is that you can feel the lifestyle of the locals. Especially in the area called “Aomori Cafe Street”, there are many unique cafes where you can enjoy sweets and drinks made with local fruits.

Aomori Food Culture: The Appeal of Apples

Aomori Prefecture is also famous as a production area of “apples” with the highest production volume in all of Japan. According to 2019 data, more than 50% of the apple production in Japan is said to be produced in Aomori Prefecture. From this figure, you can feel the deliciousness of apples in Aomori Prefecture and the efforts to produce them.

“Aomori Apple Farm” where you can enjoy apple picking and apple dishes is one of my recommended spots. You can taste fresh apples on the spot and experience making apple juice and jam.

Deeply know the culture and history of Aomori Prefecture

Aomori History and Traditions: The Nebuta Festival

When it comes to the history of Aomori Prefecture, the Nebuta Festival cannot be left out. This festival is famous nationwide as a summer tradition in Aomori Prefecture, and I was overwhelmed by its splendor and enthusiasm.

Large Nebuta floats parade through the town, and the dance to the rhythm of the bells and drums is a mesmerizing spectacle. The Nebuta Festival is said to have originally started as a festival to ward off evil spirits, and that tradition has been passed down to the present day.

Handicrafts of Aomori Prefecture: Tsugaru Lacquerware

The Tsugaru region is also known for producing traditional Tsugaru lacquerware. This lacquerware is characterized by beautiful colors and unique patterns, and I bought several of them as souvenirs.

At “Tsugaru Lacquerware Studio” in Aomori City, you can see how craftsmen actually make lacquerware by hand. Hands-on classes are also held, and it is possible to make your own original lacquerware.

Aomori Seafood: Atka mackerel and squid

Aomori Prefecture faces the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, so you can enjoy fresh seafood. “Atka mackerel” and “squid” are especially known as representative seafood of Aomori.

I thoroughly enjoyed the morning-caught seafood at the Aomori Port Market. There is also a restaurant inside the market that serves dishes made with fresh seafood, so you can enjoy a delicious meal with the locals.

Discover new charms of Aomori Prefecture

Future Tourist Destination: Aomori Asamushi Ocean Museum

“Aomori Asamushi Kaiyokan” is attracting attention as a recent tourist destination. This facility is crowded with families and students who visit as a facility where they can learn about and experience the abundant marine life of Aomori Prefecture. In particular, direct contact with living things in the contact pool and exhibits on the ecology of marine life are contents that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Ecotourism: Experience the Nature of Tashiro Marsh

Aomori Prefecture has a beautiful natural environment, and among them, “Tashiro Marsh” is attracting attention as a spot for ecotourism. Here you can walk through the wetlands with a professional guide and learn about rare flora and fauna and their ecology. Through this experience, I once again felt the importance of coexisting with nature and protecting the environment.

A new gourmet in Aomori: Aoimori Beer

In recent years, Aomori Beer, a craft beer made with local ingredients, has been gaining popularity in Aomori Prefecture. I also tried this beer and was fascinated by its unique taste and aroma. It is also served in local restaurants and bars and is highly rated by tourists and locals alike.

Aomori Prefecture not only has a long history, culture, and natural environment, but also new sightseeing spots, gourmet foods, and activities are increasing. By knowing these attractions, you will be able to enjoy the region of Aomori even more deeply. I, Kasumi, will continue to pursue the charms of Aomori Prefecture and convey them to everyone. Please visit Aomori Prefecture and experience its charms.

Historical building chosen by Kasumi

Aomori Prefecture has many buildings where you can feel the history and culture of Japan. This time, we would like to introduce 5 of them that are especially recommended with “kasumi points”.

Hirosaki Castle (Hirosaki City)

Kasumi Point: Hirosaki Castle was built in the early Edo period and is designated as a national special historic site. The beauty of each season is attractive, and the cherry blossoms in spring are especially spectacular.

Commentary and Impressions: The castle tower of Hirosaki Castle is one of the most well-preserved castles in Japan, and you can feel its history. There is also a history museum inside the castle, where you can learn more about the history of the area.

Tsugaru feudal lord’s grave (Hirosaki City)

Kasumi Point: The Tomb of the Tsugaru Clan Lord is the resting place of the successive lords of the Tsugaru family. The tombstones and tombs are beautifully designed.

Commentary and Impressions: It is a place where you can remember the history and achievements of the Tsugaru family.

Goshogawara Municipal Former Fujiwara Nishi Elementary School (Goshogawara City)

Kasumi Point: The wooden school building remains in its original form. You can feel the goodness of the school architecture in the early Showa era.

Commentary and Impressions: Once you step into this old elementary school with its historical background, you can feel the atmosphere of the school building at that time.

Central Public Hall (Hachinohe City)

Kasumi Point: Western-style architecture from the early Showa era is attractive. You can feel the retro atmosphere and the warmth of wood.

Commentary and Impressions: The building itself is like a work of art, and you can get a glimpse of the life and culture of the people at that time by entering inside.

Suwa Shrine (Aomori City)

Kasumi Point: The main shrine of this shrine is designated as a national important cultural property. Unique carvings and decorations are wonderful.

Commentary and Impressions: As you stroll through the quiet precincts, you can feel the historical architectural techniques and the depth of the beliefs of the time.

These are the “Historical Buildings Kasumi chose”. There are many other historical places and buildings in Aomori Prefecture, so please visit them and feel their charm.