Things To Do
in Aomori
Aomori sits at the northern tip of Honshu, facing the Sea of Japan with a rugged coastline and green, forested hills. The city blends festival heritage, seafood flavors, and easy access to dramatic nature in nearby mountains and gorges. Apple orchards color markets and cafés, underscoring a crisp, seasonal cuisine and a calm, walkable urban center.
Seasonal festivals, snowbound landscapes, and coastal scenery make Aomori a gateway to northern Japan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in Aomori by visiting the Aomori Museum of Art, where you can admire its striking architecture and unique art collections, including works by local artists. After immersing yourself in the world of art, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Aomori Waterfront, enjoying the serene views of Aomori Bay. Finish your morning with a visit to the famous Aomori Nebuta Festival Museum, where you can learn about the vibrant floats and their cultural significance.
In the afternoon, head to the historic Aomori Harbor and embark on a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands and enjoy the picturesque coastal scenery. After the boat ride, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the fresh catches from the region. Post-lunch, visit the Sannai-Maruyama Site, an archaeological site that showcases ancient Jomon period ruins, providing a fascinating glimpse into Japan's prehistoric culture.
As the sun sets, return to the Aomori city center and experience the lively atmosphere at the Aomori Gyosai Center, where you can shop for fresh local produce and crafts. Enjoy dinner at one of the many izakayas, sampling local specialties like Aomori's renowned scallops and Japanese sake. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the tranquil views of the illuminated city skyline.
Begin your day with a trip to the stunning Hakkoda Mountains, taking a cable car ride to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the landscape. Enjoy a light breakfast at the mountain café, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of nature. Afterward, explore the various hiking trails that meander through the lush forests and vibrant alpine flowers.
In the afternoon, venture to Lake Towada, where you can rent a kayak to paddle across the serene waters, surrounded by stunning scenery. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, stopping to admire the unique volcanic formations and picturesque viewpoints. Don't miss the opportunity to try local snacks from nearby vendors, like fresh apple products or sweet potato treats.
As dusk falls, find a cozy spot by the lake to watch the sunset, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Enjoy a picnic dinner with local delicacies, creating a perfect end to a day in nature. Afterward, return to Aomori city and relax at a local onsen, soaking in the soothing hot springs and reflecting on your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Mid-range restaurant dish | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transportation (per day pass) | $5-10 |
| 🧺Souvenirs and apples | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and access to nearby national parks
- Rich festival culture and delicious apples and seafood
- Some areas can be quiet outside peak festival season
- Limited English in more rural spots; plan ahead and carry a translation app
- "こんにちは" - Hello / Good day
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Aomori
Visit one of these nice places.
Vivid festival floats on display; dramatic close-ups and night-lit silhouettes around the float sculptures.
Waterfront views with reflections of the city lights, especially at dusk from the harbor promenade.
Lush forest, mossy banks, and cascading waterfalls along a clear stream path; best in soft morning light.
Historic castle with moats and stone walls; renowned for autumn colors and atmospheric grounds.
Food in Aomori
Aomori Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Desserts and sweets featuring Aomori apples, common in cafés and markets, including pies, tarts, and fresh juice.
Must-Try!
Donburi and sashimi featuring local catches such as squid, salmon, and shellfish, especially prevalent around the port markets.
Local ciders and non-alcoholic apple drinks popular in markets and on-menu in casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A market and dining complex in Aomori City offering local produce, apples, and regional foods, plus craft beverages and tastings.
Markets by the bay where you can sample fresh seafood, pickles, and seasonal bites from local vendors.
Street food stalls around festival hubs during Nebuta season, offering quick bites and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite bow or nod; remove shoes in homes and some traditional spaces; speak quietly on trains and in public venues; line up and wait patiently; handle money with both hands when presenting payment.
Safety
Tipping in Aomori
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and is often not expected; exceptional service is included in the price, with good service appreciated but not required to be tipped.
Cash is widely accepted, and major credit cards are increasingly common in cities and larger shops. Some rural venues may prefer cash; digital payments and IC cards are becoming more common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and mild temperatures make city walks pleasant; expect shower chances and occasional winds off the sea.
Warm days with comfortable evenings; festival season (Nebuta) brings crowds but vibrant energy and street food.
Colorful foliage around parks and temples; cooler air and clear skies ideal for photography and hiking.
Cold, snowy landscapes with opportunities for snow sports in the Hakkoda area; plan for warm layers and possible travel delays.
Aomori at Night
Hiking in Aomori
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range of trails with alpine scenery and snow activities in winter; accessibility varies by season.
Forest river gorge with several waterfall viewpoints; short and longer treks available.
UNESCO-listed beech forests; diverse hiking routes across the Siberian-beech ecosystem and wild landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Aomori by plane.
Major regional gateway near Aomori City with flights to Tokyo and other domestic destinations; convenient for quick access from the city.
Nearby regional airport serving Misawa and the northern Shimokita area; options for domestic travel and some international connections.
Another regional option in the region offering domestic routes and convenient access to coastal towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Japanese with an aging population in many areas; strong sense of community and longstanding regional traditions.
Active in city life, universities and schools bring a youthful presence in central areas.
Tourists attracted by festivals, apples, and nature; incremental international visitors in peak travel seasons.
People drawn to hiking, skiing, and coastal exploring in and around Towada-Hachimantai region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the Hakkoda area attract visitors during snowy months.
Local community sports and university teams are popular interests in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aomori.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but seafood-focused cuisine can be dominant; seek dishes featuring tofu, vegetables, rice, and seaweed, and inform staff in advance for accommodations.