Things To Do
in Towada
Towada is a picturesque town located in Aomori Prefecture in Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the stunning Towada Lake and Oirase Gorge. The town is also famous for its traditional arts and crafts, such as Tsugaru lacquerware and handicrafts made from local materials.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boat tours while immersing themselves in the peaceful atmosphere of Towada.
- "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: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Towada Ko, the stunning lake. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront and take in the panoramic views.
Head to the Towada Art Center to explore contemporary art exhibits. Afterward, grab lunch at a local restaurant serving fresh seafood dishes.
Relax at a traditional ryokan where you can soak in an onsen. End your day with a delicious kaiseki dinner prepared by skilled chefs.
Take an early hike to the Oirase Gorge, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and lush forests. Breathe in the fresh air as you immerse yourself in nature.
Enjoy a packed lunch by one of the many picturesque spots along the gorge. After hiking, visit the nearby Shinji Lake for some quiet reflection.
Return to Towada for a casual dinner at a izakaya. Sample local cuisine and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including Lake Towada and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and local cuisine.
- Abundance of outdoor activities, such as hiking, boating, and winter sports.
- Less crowded than other tourist destinations, offering a more tranquil experience.
- Opportunities to enjoy hot springs (onsen) and relax in nature.
- Limited access to major urban amenities and services.
- Public transportation options may be sparse, making it challenging to explore the region.
- Weather can be harsh in winter, potentially deterring visitors not accustomed to snow.
- Some attractions may have seasonal closures, limiting accessibility at certain times of the year.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Japanese speakers, complicating communication.
Best Activities in Towada
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking, boating, camping, and sightseeing around the lake
Hiking along the gorge trail with waterfalls and beautiful scenery
Hiking, cycling, and exploring nature in the national park
Tours
Uncover the best of Towada with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Towada
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the caldera lake and surrounding natural beauty. It's a popular spot for photography and enjoying the scenery.
Known for its picturesque walking trails along the Oirase River, offering beautiful views of waterfalls, lush forests, and cascading streams.
Features modern architecture and a unique observation deck that provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Food in Towada
Towada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with vegetables, meat, and miso, providing a warming and nourishing meal. Can be found at traditional restaurants and izakayas across Towada.
Must-Try!
A local specialty featuring sliced beef or pork and vegetables grilled with a sweet and savory sauce. Look for this dish at izakayas and local eateries.
Thin, chewy udon noodles served in a flavorful broth, often topped with green onions and tempura. Available at specialized noodle shops and restaurants in Towada.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Towada better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample a variety of local produce, snacks, and street food. Look for freshly prepared rice cakes, grilled seafood, and seasonal fruits.
This market offers a wide array of street food options, including yakisoba (fried noodles), takoyaki (octopus balls), and imagawayaki (sweet filled pancakes).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Towada, it is important to show respect to elders through polite language and actions, such as bowing and using honorific titles.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home, traditional ryokans, and some businesses in Towada as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Towada values quiet and reserved behavior, so it's important to maintain a calm and composed demeanor, especially in public spaces and communal areas.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Towada with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Towada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Towada. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service-based establishments.
In Towada, Japan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. While major credit cards are becoming increasingly accepted, it's still advisable to carry enough cash for smaller establishments and local businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Towada.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms in Towada and enjoy the beautiful scenery of fresh greenery.
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and enjoying the vibrant summer festivals.
Great time to witness the stunning fall foliage around Towada Lake and participate in various autumn events.
Perfect for enjoying winter sports, snow festivals, and the enchanting snow-covered landscapes.
Towada at Night
Hiking in Towada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area featuring beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and a picturesque river, perfect for both short walks and extended hikes.
Includes a variety of trails with stunning views of mountains, lakes, and rich wildlife, ideal for adventurers and nature lovers.
A tranquil hike around the stunning Lake Towada, showcasing panoramic views of the water and surrounding landscapes.
Offers diverse trails ranging from easy to challenging, famous for its alpine scenery and beautiful autumn foliage.
A moderately challenging hike that provides breathtaking views from the summit, along with opportunities to see volcanic activity.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Towada through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Towada by plane.
Located approximately 120 km southwest of Towada, Akita Airport serves domestic flights and some international flights.
Situated about 30 km northeast of Towada, Aomori Airport handles domestic flights and international services primarily to other Asian destinations.
About 150 km south of Towada, Sendai Airport is the main airport serving the Tohoku region, with both domestic and international flights.
Located in Tokyo, approximately 500 km from Towada, Haneda is one of the busiest international airports in the world, offering flights to numerous global destinations.
Also in Tokyo, about 550 km from Towada, Narita Airport is another major gateway for international travelers, connecting Japan to the rest of the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Towada, comprising the majority of the population, with a rich cultural heritage and history.
An indigenous group of Japan with a small presence in the region, known for their unique culture and traditions.
A diverse group of individuals from various countries, including those working or studying in Towada.
A significant demographic in Towada, reflecting the aging population trend observed in many parts of Japan.
Young adults and students, representing a smaller portion of the demographic compared to the elderly.
The Soul of Towada
Discover the essence of Towada through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, and Towada hosts community teams and schools that participate in local leagues.
Soccer is widely followed and played in Towada, with local clubs and occasional youth programs promoting the sport.
Basketball has a strong presence in schools and community centers in Towada, with tournaments and teams that engage many young athletes.
Tennis is a recreational favorite in Towada, with public courts available and clubs forming to foster interest and competition.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced in Towada, often through local dojos and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Towada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Towada offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often showcasing the region's seasonal vegetables and tofu-based specialties.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find options such as rice-based dishes, fresh seafood, and specialized gluten-free noodle shops to accommodate their dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Towada with these cultural adventures.
