Things To Do
in Goshogawara

Goshogawara is a charming city located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is famous for the Goshogawara Tachineputa Festival, where massive illuminated floats are paraded through the streets. The city also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a friendly atmosphere and a blend of traditional and modern experiences, Goshogawara is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Goshogawara Neputa Village, where you can learn about the traditional Neputa festival and see beautiful floats up close.

afternoon
:

Head to the Goshogawara City Museum to delve into the local history and culture, followed by lunch at a nearby café offering regional dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local izakaya, then take a stroll through the city center to experience its night lights and local charm.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Exploration
morning
:

Begin with a hike at Mount Iwaki, known for its scenic trails and breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Lake Towada for a peaceful afternoon of kayaking or simply enjoying the serene landscape.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, followed by a visit to a local bar for some traditional Japanese sake tasting.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$8
Coffee$3
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel per night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences, especially during festivals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English-speaking services may pose challenges.
  • Public transport options can be less frequent.
  • Less nightlife variety compared to larger cities.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "お元気ですか?" - How are you?
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "美味しいです" - It's delicious

Places to Visit in Goshogawara

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Iwaki

A stunning backdrop for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Goshogawara Tachineputa Festival

Capture the vibrant floats and festivities during this famous local event.

Lake Towada

A picturesque lake known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful foliage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Goshogawara

Goshogawara's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional and modern flavors, showcasing the best of Aomori's local produce and seafood.

Goshogawara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ika Nitsuke

Braised squid cooked in a sweet soy sauce, a local delicacy.

Must-Try!

Aomori Apples

Sweet and crisp apples that are famous for their quality.

Miso Ramen

A hearty ramen dish made with a rich miso broth, often garnished with local vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Goshogawara Morning Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh vegetables, seafood, and local snacks.

Street Stalls during Festivals

Enjoy various street foods such as yakitori and takoyaki during local festivals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Goshogawara experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid, with highs around 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for traditions

Always show respect for local customs, especially during festivals and religious sites.

Quietness in public transport

Maintain a low volume when using public transportation to respect fellow passengers.

Removing shoes

Always remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Goshogawara is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Goshogawara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

Tipping is generally not practiced in Japan; excellent service is expected without additional gratuities.

Payment methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is still widely used, so it's good to have yen on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming cherry blossoms, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures perfect for festivals and exploring nature, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, great for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy, perfect for winter sports and enjoying hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Goshogawara at Night

Goshogawara's nightlife is laid-back and charming, with various izakayas, bars, and karaoke joints. Locals enjoy unwinding after work with drinks and small plates of food. The city comes alive during the Goshogawara Tachineputa Festival, where the streets are filled with food stalls and festivities, making it a vibrant time to experience local culture.

Hiking in Goshogawara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trails at Mount Iwaki

Multiple trails offer varying levels of difficulty, with breathtaking views from the summit.

Towada-Hachimantai National Park

A short drive away, this park features numerous trails through stunning landscapes, including lakes and forests.

Airports

How to reach Goshogawara by plane.

Aomori Airport

Located about 30 km from Goshogawara, Aomori Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Goshogawara is relatively walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The city center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available at major intersections.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

This group often participates in community activities and local festivals, contributing to the vibrant local culture.

Retirees

Many retirees enjoy the peaceful environment and natural beauty of Goshogawara, often engaging in outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Goshogawara, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with youth leagues and community teams participating in various competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Goshogawara is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation is available, including buses that connect to major attractions, but may have limited schedules, particularly on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Goshogawara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While Japanese cuisine has many fish-based dishes, there are vegetarian options available, especially in larger restaurants.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice dishes and certain noodle soups can be suitable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Goshogawara is accessible, with several local clinics and hospitals providing quality medical care. Emergency services are available, and most hospitals have English-speaking staff. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international travel.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide