Things To Do
in Aomori
Aomori, located in northern Japan, is known for its beautiful natural landscapes including the stunning Hakkoda Mountains and Lake Towada. The city is famous for its vibrant Nebuta Festival held in August, featuring huge illuminated floats. Aomori is also a popular destination for seafood lovers, with its abundance of fresh seafood including delicious scallops and tuna.
Visitors to Aomori can also explore historical sites such as the Sannai-Maruyama archaeological site, providing insights into Japan's ancient Jomon period.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the famous Aomori Nebuta Museum. Learn about the vibrant Nebuta festival and enjoy the stunning displays.
Head to the Aomori Prefectural Museum to explore the local history and culture. Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.
Enjoy a traditional Aomori dinner at a local izakaya. Savor fresh seafood dishes while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Begin your morning at the beautiful Lake Towada. Take a peaceful walk along the lakeside trails and enjoy the stunning views.
Visit the Oirase Gorge for a scenic nature hike. The picturesque waterfalls and lush greenery will captivate your senses.
Dine at a local ryokan, experiencing a kaiseki meal. The multiple courses showcase seasonal ingredients in beautifully crafted dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including mountains, lakes, and coastline.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and customs.
- Fresh seafood and local produce, particularly apples.
- Famous for its hot springs (onsen) and relaxation opportunities.
- Fewer tourists compared to other Japanese cities, providing a more authentic experience.
- Cold winters with heavy snowfall, which may be challenging for some.
- Limited public transportation options compared to major cities.
- Economic struggles in some areas, which can affect local services.
- Fewer international flight connections, making travel more difficult.
- Some areas may be less accessible for non-Japanese speakers due to language barriers.
Best Activities in Aomori
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes, forests, and volcanic terrain of the Hakkoda Mountains with various hiking trails and stunning views.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking around the scenic Lake Towada, renowned for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque coastline and countryside of the Tsugaru Peninsula, offering scenic views and charming rural landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aomori with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aomori
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views, especially during autumn foliage and winter snowfall.
Known for its picturesque waterfalls, vibrant foliage in autumn, and tranquil scenery.
A historic site with beautiful cherry blossom trees and a scenic moat.
Food in Aomori
Aomori Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional soup made from locally sourced ingredients, typically featuring fish, vegetables, and miso. It is a hearty and flavorsome dish with a deep umami taste.
Must-Try!
A hot pot dish made with whale meat, vegetables, and tofu. It's a regional delicacy that reflects Aomori's long history of whaling.
A unique curry dish that incorporates Aomori's famous apples, providing a blend of sweet and savory flavors. It's a must-try for visitors seeking a distinctive local twist on a classic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aomori better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of fresh seafood such as squid, scallops, and Aomori's renowned tuna. Visitors can also enjoy street food stalls offering grilled seafood skewers and local snacks.
Located in Aomori city, this cultural and arts center is an excellent spot to sample a variety of local street foods during festivals, including yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and grilled squid.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aomori, Japan, it is important to show respect towards elders by using polite language and manners, and to defer to their decisions.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Aomori, Japan, and it is important to use respectful language and gestures when interacting with others.
It is important to observe local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes, and to be mindful of cultural traditions and practices.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aomori with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aomori
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Aomori, Japan. In fact, it is generally considered rude to tip in most situations, as it can be interpreted as questioning the quality of service provided.
In Aomori, Japan, cash is the most common form of payment, and credit card acceptance may not be as widespread as in other parts of the country. It is important to carry enough cash when traveling in Aomori, especially when visiting more rural areas or smaller establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aomori.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Aomori for cherry blossom viewing in Hirosaki and enjoying the Apple Blossom Festival.
Ideal for visiting Aomori during the Nebuta Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous festivals, and for enjoying outdoor activities due to the pleasant weather.
Great time to witness the beautiful foliage in Aomori, particularly at spots such as the Oirase Gorge and the Hakkoda Mountains.
Perfect for experiencing the stunning snow festival, Shirakami Sanchi's snow-covered landscape, and various winter sports activities.
Aomori at Night
Hiking in Aomori
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful, scenic walking trail that follows the Oirase River, featuring waterfalls, lush forests, and picturesque views, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
A popular hiking destination known for its rugged beauty and diverse flora and fauna. The Hakkoda Mountain Range offers trails of varying difficulty, including routes to the summit.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakami Sanchi features ancient beech forests with numerous hiking trails that offer stunning views and insights into the region's biodiversity.
A coastal trail that offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan, with opportunities to experience local wildlife and unique rock formations along the shoreline.
While primarily known for its beach, there are pathways and trails nearby that allow for casual hikes along the coastline, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy both sand and mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aomori through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aomori by plane.
Aomori Airport is the nearest airport to Aomori city, offering domestic flights as well as some international connections.
Located approximately 150 kilometers from Aomori, Sendai Airport serves international flights and is a major hub for the Tohoku region.
Tokyo Haneda Airport is about 450 kilometers from Aomori and is one of the two major airports serving Tokyo, featuring numerous international flights.
Located around 500 kilometers from Aomori, Narita is another major airport serving the Tokyo area with a large number of international routes.
New Chitose Airport is about 600 kilometers from Aomori and is the main airport serving Hokkaido, with international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Aomori, comprising the majority of the population.
An indigenous people of Japan, with historical roots in the Aomori region.
Includes residents from various Asian countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Aomori.
A small group of foreign nationals from Western countries, including teachers and business professionals.
Individuals of mixed ethnic backgrounds, combining Japanese heritage with other nationalities.
The Soul of Aomori
Discover the essence of Aomori through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Aomori, with numerous local teams and a strong following among fans.
Football has gained popularity in Aomori, with local clubs and youth programs encouraging young players to participate.
Bicycle racing, particularly keirin cycling, is a popular sport in Aomori, featuring professional events that attract large crowds.
Sports such as sumo and judo are practiced and celebrated in Aomori, reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
Ice hockey has a growing presence in Aomori, with local teams competing in regional leagues and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aomori.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Aomori's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in tourist-friendly areas offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and fruit-based desserts.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find options like rice-based dishes, sashimi, and grilled skewers at various restaurants and food stalls. It is recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.