Aomori and Goshogawara, located in northern Japan, offer a diverse array of attractions, from stunning natural landscapes and historical sites to contemporary art and architecture. Here is your essential guide to ten must-visit spots in these regions, ideal for foreign tourists looking to explore the depth and breadth of Japanese culture.
Mount Hakkoda
- Address: Hakkoda, Aomori, Aomori Prefecture, Japan
- Business Hours: Best visited during daylight hours; cable car operates 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM (March to early November), 9:00 AM – 3:40 PM (Mid-November to February)
- Closed Days: Cable car operation is weather-dependent
- Admission Fee: ¥2,200 for a round trip on the cable car
- Website URL: Hakkoda Ropeway
The Hakkoda Mountains are a rugged mountain range known for their volcanic landscape and dense forests, offering spectacular opportunities for hiking, hot springs, and skiing in winter. The area is famed for its dramatic snow-covered scenery and the tragic historical significance of the 1902 military expedition disaster.
Sannai-Maruyama Site
- Address: Maruyama, Aomori, Aomori Prefecture 038-0031, Japan
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (～6:00PM in ＧＷ、6/1～9/30）
- Closed Days: December 29 to January 1
- Admission Fee: Free; museum entry is ¥410 for adults
- Website URL: Sannai-Maruyama Site
The Sannai-Maruyama site is one of the largest and most significant Jomon period archaeological sites in Japan. It features reconstructed pit dwellings, raised-floor buildings, and a large central tower, providing a fascinating insight into the prehistoric Jomon culture.
Sukayu Onsen
- Address: 50 Sukayuzawa, Minamiarakawayama, Aomori, Aomori 030-0111, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24 hours (for staying guests); day trip bathing from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: Open daily
- Admission Fee: ¥1,000 for day bathers
- Website URL: Sukayu Onsen
Sukayu Onsen is famous for its “Sen-nin Buro,” or thousand-person bath, a large communal bath made of aromatic cypress wood. This historic hot spring has been healing visitors with its acidic waters for over 300 years, set within a tranquil forested landscape.
Aomori Museum of Art
- Address: 185 Chikano, Yasuta, Aomori, Aomori 038-0021, Japan
- Business Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: 2nd and 4th Monday of every month, Year-end and New Year holidays
- Admission Fee: Varies by exhibition; ¥900 for general admission
- Website URL: Aomori Museum of Art
The Aomori Museum of Art is designed to reflect the region’s natural features, showcasing both international and local art including works by Yoshitomo Nara and the ancient Jomon period artifacts. The museum’s architecture and its integration into the surrounding landscape make it a must-visit for art lovers.
Aomori Bay Bridge
- Address: Yasukata, Aomori, Aomori Prefecture, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: N/A
Aomori Bay Bridge is a striking cable-stayed bridge that offers panoramic views of Aomori Bay and the city skyline. The bridge lights up beautifully at night, creating a picturesque scene that can be enjoyed from various vantage points around the city.
A-FACTORY
- Address: 1-4-2 Yanakawa, Aomori, Aomori 038-0012, Japan
- Business Hours: Shops; 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Restraunts; 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Days: There may be temporary closures
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: A-FACTORY
A-FACTORY is a shopping and dining venue located near Aomori Station. This stylish facility focuses on local products and features a cider brewery where visitors can taste different types of freshly brewed apple cider made with Aomori apples, alongside other regional specialties.
Shayokan
- Address: 412-1 Asahiyama, Kanagi-cho, Goshogawara-shi, Aomori 037-0202
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: December 29th
- Admission Fee: ¥600 for adults
- Website URL: Shayokan
Shayokan is the former residence of Dazai Osamu, one of Japan’s most celebrated novelists. The house has been preserved as a museum where visitors can explore Dazai’s life and works, set against the backdrop of his native Aomori, providing deeper context to his literary contributions.
Tachineputa no Yakata
- Address: 506-10 Omachi, Goshogawara City, Aomori Prefecture 037-0063
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM for the exhibition
- Closed Days: January 1
- Admission Fee: ¥650 for adults
- Website URL: Tachineputa no Yakata
Tachineputa no Yakata is a museum dedicated to the Tachineputa, gigantic floats featured in Goshogawara’s summer festival. The museum displays several towering floats year-round, offering a close-up look at their intricate craftsmanship and vibrant designs, as well as the festive culture of northern Japan.
Lake Jusan
- Address: Tsugaru, Aomori Prefecture, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: Lake Jusan
Lake Jusan is a serene, slightly brackish lake known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. It is a popular spot for bird watching, particularly for migratory birds in the spring and autumn. The peaceful environment makes it an ideal location for canoeing and fishing.
Ashino Park
- Address: Ashino, Goshogawara, Aomori 037-0401, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: Ashino Park
Ashino Park is a scenic locale known for its lush greenery, tranquil lake, and the historical narrow-gauge railway that runs through it. The park is particularly beautiful in cherry blossom season, drawing visitors for flower viewing and picnics under the blooming trees.
These spots provide a rich tapestry of experiences, from enjoying natural hot springs and exploring historical sites to immersing in modern art and shopping for local goods. Aomori and Goshogawara offer a diverse range of attractions that cater to all interests, ensuring a memorable visit to this unique part of Japan. Be sure to check the latest information from the official sources or websites provided before planning your visit.
コメント