Things To Do
in Aomori

Aomori, Japan, located at the northern tip of Honshu, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for its apple orchards, Aomori is also famous for the Nebuta Matsuri festival, where vibrant floats parade through the streets every summer. The region offers breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Hakkoda Mountains and scenic coastlines along the Tsugaru Strait.

As a gateway to the northernmost regions of Japan, Aomori provides a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Aomori City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Aomori Museum of Art, where you can admire contemporary works and local art. Don't forget to check out the famous 'Aomori-ken' statue outside.

afternoon
:

Head to the Aomori Gyosai Center (Fish Market) for a delicious seafood lunch and experience local flavors. Afterward, visit the Hirosaki Castle, surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

evening
:

Wrap up your day at the Aomori Bay Bridge, where you can enjoy a stroll and take in the stunning views of the sunset over the bay.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike in the Hakkoda Mountains, experiencing the beauty of nature and possibly spotting some wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sannai-Maruyama Site, an archaeological site that showcases Jomon period remains, and learn about ancient Japanese history.

evening
:

End your trip with a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, where you can savor seasonal dishes in a serene setting.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍏Local Apples (kg)$5
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$3
🚉Train Ticket (local)$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and traditional festivals.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood and apples.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Heavy snowfall can disrupt travel in winter.
  • Some areas may have language barriers for English speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "駅はどこですか?" - Where is the station?

Places to Visit in Aomori

Visit one of these nice places.

Hirosaki Castle

A historic castle surrounded by beautiful gardens, especially stunning during cherry blossom season.

Aomori Bay

Offers picturesque views of the sunset over the bay, ideal for evening photography.

Hakkoda Mountains

Known for its breathtaking scenery, especially during autumn when leaves change color.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aomori

Aomori is a culinary delight, offering fresh seafood, locally grown apples, and traditional Japanese dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Aomori Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Aomori Apples

Renowned for their sweetness and crisp texture, Aomori apples are a must-try.

Must-Try!

Miso Katsu

A local twist on the classic, featuring deep-fried pork cutlets topped with a rich miso sauce.

Seafood Donburi

A rice bowl topped with fresh sashimi and seafood, showcasing the local catch.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aomori Gyosai Center

A bustling fish market where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Aomori Apple Market

A vibrant market dedicated to Aomori's famous apples, offering snacks and treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aomori experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, averaging temperatures below freezing, while summers are mild to warm with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Spring brings cherry blossom blooms, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Rain is common throughout the year, particularly in June and July.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always bow when greeting and thanking, as it is a sign of respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional inns.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and quiet areas to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aomori is generally a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, visitors should exercise caution during winter due to icy roads and heavy snowfall. It’s advisable to follow local advice regarding weather conditions and stay informed about any potential natural disasters, such as earthquakes.

Tipping in Aomori

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is already included in the price.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom in parks like Hirosaki, making it a beautiful time for sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for festivals like the Nebuta Matsuri, showcasing vibrant floats and traditional dance.

Autumn

Stunning fall foliage in the Hakkoda Mountains attracts hikers and photographers.

Winter

Heavy snowfall transforms the region into a winter wonderland, ideal for skiing and snow activities.

Nightlife Guide

Aomori at Night

Aomori's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities but offers cozy izakayas (Japanese pubs) and bars. Visitors can enjoy local sake and craft beers while mingling with locals. The Aomori Bay area has a few lively spots with live music and entertainment, especially during festivals.

Hiking in Aomori

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hakkoda Trail

A well-known trail offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, suitable for various skill levels.

Shirakami-Sanchi

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient beech forests and stunning hiking routes with rich biodiversity.

Airports

How to reach Aomori by plane.

Aomori Airport

Located about 10 km from Aomori City, this airport offers flights to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aomori City is relatively walkable, especially around the city center where attractions, restaurants, and shops are concentrated. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly crossings are available. However, public transportation is recommended for accessing more distant attractions, especially those in rural areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Aomori's population consists of Japanese citizens, with a rich cultural heritage and strong community ties.

Tourists

Aomori attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in nature, culture, and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Aomori has a strong baseball culture, with local teams and schools fostering talent.

Snow Sports

With its heavy snowfall, skiing and snowboarding are popular during winter months, especially in the Hakkoda region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aomori is generally light, with well-maintained roads. Public transportation options include buses and trains, which are reliable and connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. In the city, biking is also a popular option for locals and tourists alike.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aomori.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in kaiseki cuisine.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to communicate dietary needs directly with restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Aomori has several hospitals and clinics providing quality healthcare. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119. International visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs, as some facilities may require payment upfront.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide