Things To Do
in Hachinohe

Hachinohe is a vibrant coastal city located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history, stunning scenery, and delicious seafood. The city serves as a gateway to the beautiful Sanriku Coast, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to experience traditional Japanese culture. Hachinohe is also famous for its unique festivals and local crafts, which celebrate the region's heritage.

With its friendly atmosphere and a blend of urban and rural charm, Hachinohe offers a delightful experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Hachinohe
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hachinohe City Museum, where you can learn about the local history and culture of the region.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at the Hachinohe Seafood Market, sampling fresh sashimi and grilled seafood dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the scenic Hachinohe Bay.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a traditional izakaya, where you can enjoy a variety of local dishes and drinks.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the beautiful Ashigezaki Coast for a morning hike, enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean and rocky cliffs.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at the Hachinohe Onsen, where you can soak in natural hot springs with views of the sea.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Hachinohe's famous yakitori, followed by a stroll through the lively streets of downtown Hachinohe.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$8
🍵Cup of tea$2
🍻Local beer$5
🏨Hotel night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious seafood and unique local cuisine.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Winter weather may not be suitable for all travelers.
  • "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello
  • "ありがとう (Arigatou)" - Thank you
  • "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "はい (Hai)" - Yes
  • "いいえ (Iie)" - No

Places to Visit in Hachinohe

Visit one of these nice places.

Hachinohe Bay

The picturesque bay offers stunning sunrise and sunset views, perfect for capturing the beauty of the sea.

Ashigezaki Coast

A dramatic coastline with rugged cliffs and clear waters, providing breathtaking landscapes and unique rock formations.

Hachinohe Castle Ruins

Historic ruins that offer a glimpse into the past, set against a backdrop of cherry blossoms in spring, making for beautiful photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hachinohe

Hachinohe is a culinary paradise, especially for seafood lovers, offering a variety of fresh and delicious local dishes that reflect its coastal heritage.

Hachinohe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hachinohe Senbei Jiru

A traditional soup made with rice crackers, vegetables, and fish, known for its hearty and comforting flavor.

Must-Try!

Kaisendon

A seafood rice bowl topped with an assortment of fresh sashimi and seafood, showcasing the catch of the day.

Grilled Anko (Monkfish)

A local delicacy, this grilled fish is known for its rich flavor and is often served with a special sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hachinohe Morning Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and street food vendors offering delicious snacks.

Yokocho Alley

A charming alley filled with food stalls and small eateries serving yakitori, grilled seafood, and other local treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hachinohe experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting and a sign of respect. Always bow slightly when greeting someone.

Removing shoes

In traditional settings, such as homes and some restaurants, it is customary to remove shoes before entering.

Quietness in public

Maintaining a low volume in public spaces is appreciated to respect others' peace and quiet.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hachinohe is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay alert in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency numbers are 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical assistance. Natural disasters like earthquakes can occur, so familiarize yourself with safety procedures.

Tipping in Hachinohe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and good service is generally included in the price. Instead, showing appreciation through polite words is preferred.

Payment methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas. It's advisable to carry yen for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings cherry blossoms to Hachinohe, creating stunning landscapes. The temperatures are mild, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer features warm temperatures and vibrant festivals, with opportunities for beach activities and fresh seafood.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, especially around parks and hiking trails, with cooler temperatures ideal for exploration.

Winter

Winter can be cold with occasional snowfall, but it's a great time to enjoy hot springs and winter festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Hachinohe at Night

Hachinohe offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. The city comes alive after dark, with locals and visitors enjoying food and drinks in the cozy izakayas, where you can sample various local dishes and drinks. There are also a few nightclubs that provide music and dancing for those looking for a more energetic atmosphere. Yokocho Alley is a popular spot for bar-hopping, filled with charming small bars offering unique experiences.

Hiking in Hachinohe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Hakkoda Trails

These trails offer various hiking options ranging from easy to challenging, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Seiryu Trail

A scenic trail along the coastline, ideal for casual hikes while enjoying the sound of the waves and picturesque landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Hachinohe by plane.

Hachinohe Airport

Located approximately 20 km from the city center, Hachinohe Airport offers domestic flights and connects to major cities like Tokyo and Sapporo.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hachinohe is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. The city has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions outside the city center may require public transportation or biking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population is primarily Japanese, with a strong sense of community and traditional values.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations come to Hachinohe for its cultural experiences, seafood, and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Hachinohe, with local teams and schools fostering a strong baseball culture.

Sumo

Sumo wrestling holds cultural significance in Japan, and while not as prevalent, local tournaments and events are celebrated.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hachinohe is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation is available, including buses that connect various parts of the city. Trains can be used for longer distances, making it easy to travel to nearby towns and cities. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes in some areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hachinohe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While seafood is predominant, some restaurants offer vegetarian options, including vegetable tempura and rice dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but dishes like sashimi and grilled meats can often be enjoyed without gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hachinohe is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and travelers. Emergency services are reliable, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide