Things To Do
in Towada

Towada, Japan, is a picturesque city nestled in the northern part of Honshu, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the breathtaking Towada Lake, surrounded by lush forests and mountains, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also famous for its historic sites, including traditional Japanese architecture and museums that showcase the local art.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of serene landscapes and vibrant local culture, providing a unique experience in this charming region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Towada's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Towada Lake, where you can take a scenic boat tour to soak in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

afternoon
:

Head to the Towada Art Center to explore contemporary art exhibitions and installations that reflect the local culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, experiencing the exquisite flavors of Japanese cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Exploration and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Towada Shrine, set in a tranquil forest, and participate in a Shinto ceremony if available.

afternoon
:

Explore the Oirase Gorge, taking a leisurely hike along the river to admire the stunning waterfalls and autumn leaves if visiting in fall.

evening
:

Relax at one of the local onsen (hot springs) for a rejuvenating experience after a day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍵Cup of Tea$3
🍱Bento Box$10
🚌Local Bus Ticket$2
🏨Night at a Ryokan$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and traditional experiences.
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh ingredients.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transportation may have fewer options in remote areas.
  • "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
  • "お元気ですか (Ogenki desu ka)" - How are you?
  • "はい (Hai)" - Yes

Places to Visit in Towada

Visit one of these nice places.

Towada Lake

Capture breathtaking views of the lake, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light reflects beautifully on the water.

Oirase Gorge

A stunning natural landscape with lush greenery and flowing waterfalls that provide endless opportunities for photography.

Towada Shrine

The serene atmosphere and traditional architecture make this shrine an ideal spot for capturing cultural and historical photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Towada

Towada offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the region's fresh ingredients and traditional flavors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Towada Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Towada Beef

A premium beef variety known for its rich flavor and tenderness, often served grilled or as part of a hot pot.

Must-Try!

Yuba (Tofu Skin)

A delicate and nutritious product made from soy milk, often enjoyed in sashimi style or in soups.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Towada Market

A vibrant market where you can sample local produce, seafood, and snacks, perfect for a quick bite.

Yaki Imo (Grilled Sweet Potato) Stalls

Street vendors offering deliciously roasted sweet potatoes, a popular snack during the colder months.

Climate Guide

Weather

Towada experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) sees mild temperatures and blooming flowers, while summer (June to August) can be warm and humid with temperatures averaging around 25°C. Autumn (September to November) offers cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. Winter (December to February) can be cold with significant snowfall, especially in the mountains, making it a prime time for winter sports.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Japanese culture values personal space; avoid standing too close to others and maintain a respectful distance.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or traditional accommodations to adhere to local customs.

Quietness in Public Transport

Maintain a quiet demeanor when using public transport; talking loudly is considered impolite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Towada is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, travelers should remain cautious of slippery surfaces in winter and ensure they have appropriate footwear when hiking. It’s advisable to stay informed about weather conditions, especially in winter, to avoid any hazards.

Tipping in Towada

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; excellent service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with cherry blossoms blooming in late March to early April, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Summer

Summers can be warm and humid, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities at Towada Lake and Oirase Gorge.

Autumn

Autumn brings stunning fall foliage, especially in October, with vibrant colors adorning the landscape, ideal for hikes and photography.

Winter

Winters can be cold with snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports and enjoying hot springs to warm up.

Nightlife Guide

Towada at Night

Towada's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities, with a few izakayas (Japanese pubs) and bars offering a cozy atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy local sake and beer while mingling with locals. The nightlife is more focused on relaxation and socializing rather than high-energy clubs, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Towada

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Hakkoda Trail

A challenging hike that offers stunning panoramic views from the summit, especially rewarding in the autumn months.

Akita Komagatake Trail

A scenic trail featuring diverse flora and fauna, perfect for a day hike with varying levels of difficulty.

Airports

How to reach Towada by plane.

Aomori Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Towada, Aomori Airport serves domestic flights and offers connections to major cities in Japan.

Getting Around

Walkability

Towada is a relatively walkable city, especially around the central area where many attractions are located. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some attractions may require public transport or a short drive to reach, particularly those outside the main city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Japanese, with a strong sense of community and cultural pride, often participating in local festivals and traditions.

Tourists

Towada attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly nature enthusiasts and those interested in Japanese culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, with many locals supporting local teams and attending games during the season.

Skiing

Skiing is popular in the winter months, with nearby resorts attracting both locals and tourists for winter sports.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Towada is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect the city with surrounding areas, but schedules may be less frequent outside of peak hours. Visitors should plan their transport accordingly, especially when heading to natural attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Towada.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in ryokans.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice and certain vegetable dishes can be suitable; it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Towada is generally good, with several clinics and a local hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and many healthcare professionals speak basic English. 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