Things To Do
in Misawa

Misawa is a vibrant city located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. The city is home to the Misawa Air Base, which brings a unique blend of Japanese and American cultures. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from historical sites to beautiful parks.

With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse activities, Misawa offers a delightful experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Misawa
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Misawa City Museum to learn about local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to Lake Ogawara for a relaxing afternoon of picnicking and enjoying the beautiful lake views.

evening
:

End your day at the local izakaya to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and socialize with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the stunning Misawa Seaside Park, where you can enjoy nature walks and beautiful coastal views.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene at the Misawa Art Museum, showcasing contemporary and traditional Japanese art.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Misawa Night Market, sampling street food and local crafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
🥡Takeout Meal$10
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Welcoming and friendly locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Some areas may be less accessible without a car.
  • Weather can be extreme in winter.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Misawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Ogawara

A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for capturing stunning sunset views.

Misawa Seaside Park

Offers beautiful coastal landscapes, walking paths, and flower gardens that make for great photo opportunities.

Misawa Air Base

The base features unique architecture and cultural exchanges, providing interesting backdrops for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Misawa

Misawa offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage and local ingredients.

Misawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Miso Ramen

A hearty noodle soup made with a rich miso-based broth, often topped with sliced pork, green onions, and seaweed.

Must-Try!

Gyutan

Grilled beef tongue, a specialty of the region, typically served with rice and a tangy dipping sauce.

Shiozake

Salt-grilled salmon, a local favorite, enjoyed for its simplicity and flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Misawa Night Market

A lively market featuring a variety of street food stalls, where you can try local specialties like yakitori and takoyaki.

Local Farmers' Market

A great place to find fresh produce, homemade goods, and regional delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Misawa 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 and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging around -3°C (27°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

Japanese culture values personal space, so avoid standing too close to others.

Remove shoes indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.

Polite greetings

Use polite language and bow slightly when greeting others as a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Misawa is generally considered a safe city for both locals and tourists. Violent crime is rare, but petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. It's important to stay aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings. In case of emergencies, know the local emergency numbers and the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Misawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as rude; excellent service is expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments; consider carrying yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy cherry blossoms in full bloom, particularly in parks and along streets, with mild temperatures.

Summer

Expect warm weather perfect for outdoor activities and festivals; however, it can be humid.

Autumn

Witness stunning fall foliage, especially around the mountains and parks, with cooler temperatures.

Winter

Experience snowy landscapes and winter sports; temperatures can drop significantly, so dress warmly.

Nightlife Guide

Misawa at Night

Misawa has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly around the Misawa Night Market and various izakayas. Visitors can enjoy a variety of bars, pubs, and restaurants that cater to both locals and foreigners. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places offer live music or karaoke, making it a fun experience for socializing and entertainment.

Hiking in Misawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hakkoda Mountains

Located a short drive from Misawa, the Hakkoda Mountains offer stunning trails with varying difficulty levels and breathtaking views.

Kamikita Natural Park

This park features several hiking trails that wind through beautiful forests and along rivers, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Misawa by plane.

Misawa Airport

Located just a short drive from the city center, Misawa Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Misawa is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where most shops and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are available, and many attractions are within a short walking distance. However, some attractions outside of the city center may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Japanese Residents

The majority of the population consists of Japanese residents who provide the cultural backbone of the city.

American Military Personnel

Due to the presence of Misawa Air Base, there is a significant American military community that contributes to the city's diverse culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, with local teams and games attracting many fans.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base, with local leagues and schools actively participating in the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Misawa is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes buses that connect major areas, but many locals prefer using cars for convenience. Biking is also a popular option for getting around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Misawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine includes a lot of seafood, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in urban areas.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited, so it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Misawa is of good quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are accessible, and many medical professionals understand basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide