Let's appreciate the natural beauty that is as beautiful as a painting.
As the mornings and evenings become increasingly chilly, autumn arrives in Aomori, the first place on Honshu to do so.
Visiting unspoiled nature or being moved by soul-stirring art.
Discover unforgettable memories in a world bathed in vibrant, warm colors.
"Autumn leaves at Hirosaki Park"
Every year from late October to early November, the "Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival" is held. Approximately 1,000 maple trees and 2,600 cherry trees come into vibrant color. Many people visit to see the reflection of the trees on the surface of the moat surrounding Hirosaki Park. In addition to flower art and a citizens' chrysanthemum exhibition at the Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden, a special autumn leaves illumination event is also held at the same time.
Nakano Momiji-yama in Kuroishi City is said to have originated in 1802 when Tsugaru Yasuchika, the lord of the Hirosaki domain, transplanted over 100 varieties of maple saplings from Kyoto. The sight of the over 200-year-old maple trees, along with Nakano Shrine (one of the three Fudo temples of Tsugaru), Fudo Waterfall, and Fudo Bridge, illuminated in a fantastical way, evokes a sense of Japanese beauty.
Tsutanuma, located within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, is a marsh formed approximately 300,000 years ago by the eruption of Mount Akakura. A walk along the "Marsh-Circling Trail," which can be completed in about an hour, allows you to fully appreciate its mystical natural beauty. Early morning is highly recommended, as the sight of the trees and the surface of the water turning a fiery red as the morning sun shines upon them is a breathtaking spectacle that you should see at least once in your lifetime.
Based on the concept of "passing on memories," a brick warehouse built during the Meiji era was renovated and reopened as an art museum in 2020. The museum building houses art exhibitions from Japan and abroad, as well as a community gallery. The cafe and shop building offers authentic cuisine along with apple cider and craft beer.
Tsugaru Vidro, a traditional craft from Tsugaru, is glasswork made using the time-honored free-blowing technique. These glass products, adorned with vibrant colors, are popular both domestically and internationally. A workshop experience is also highly recommended.
"Osamu Dazai Memorial Museum"
The Osamu Dazai Memorial Museum, "Shayokan," is the birthplace of novelist Osamu Dazai, located in Goshogawara City. Built in 1907, this wooden building is a magnificent mansion with 11 rooms on the first floor and 8 rooms on the second floor. Designated an Important Cultural Property in 2004, it offers a glimpse into the architectural style and lifestyle of the time. The early handwritten manuscripts and personal belongings displayed in the exhibition rooms are well worth seeing.
"A-FACTORY"
Located right in front of Aomori Station, "A-FACTORY" is a food market and restaurant complex offering a wide variety of delicious local products. The cider brewery, where you can observe the production process through a glass window, showcases their commitment to using only Aomori-grown apples. Tastings are available, so you can find your favorite brand.
"Tapkop Creative Village"
Tapukopu Creative Village offers a glimpse into the former rural life of Tago Town. Five thatched-roof houses, built over 100 years ago, have been relocated here, and visitors can experience activities such as konjac making, handmade rice cracker making, and soba noodle making in each house (reservations required for these activities). Enjoy the scenery surrounded by nature.
At the Aomori Prefectural Asamushi Aquarium in Aomori City, you can experience extracting real pearls from Akoya oysters. How about creating your own one-of-a-kind pearl, each with its own unique color and size?
Autumn satisfies our appetites.
"Kaiyaki Miso," served in a scallop shell, is a local dish beloved by the residents. Scallops and seasonal ingredients are simmered in a flavorful broth with beaten egg and miso, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice or as a snack with drinks.
Located near Fukuura Fishing Port, not far from Hotokegaura, is Nuidou Shokudo, famous for its Kabuki Donburi (rice bowl). It's popular for its generous portions of seasonal seafood such as squid, salmon roe, abalone, and sea urchin, all at a reasonable price. The ingredients change depending on the season when the seafood is available.
"Fukaura Tuna Steak Bowl"
Fukaura Town boasts the highest catch of wild bluefin tuna in the prefecture. They're now offering "Fukaura Tuna Steak Bowl" as a new local specialty. This steak bowl, where you grill the steak yourself, is incredibly satisfying. Be sure to find other flavors you like as well!
