2026 Towada Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in April)

Destination: Lake Towada, Aomori Highlights Lake Towada is Japan's third deepest alpine lake, with crystal-clear, gem-like blue waters that resemble a sapphire nestled in the mountains. You can take a sightseeing cruise to explore the lake and admire the pristine forests and steep cliffs along the shore. Alternatively, visit the Rest House Observatory to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire lake. The Oirase Stream, located along the lakeside, is lined with moss and ferns, offering a magical hiking experience reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli film. Transportation Tips 1. Public Transport: Take the JR Ou Line from Aomori Station to Hachinohe Station, then transfer to the Towada Sightseeing Railway to Towada Lake Station. 2. Driving: Navigate to the Towada Lake Visitor Center and enjoy the rural scenery of northern Aomori along the way. Personal Tips 1. Summer is the best season to visit, with cool and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking. 2. Try the local specialty, rainbow trout dishes, at lakeside restaurants. 3. The lakeside can be windy, so bring a light jacket.

Aomori, located at the northernmost part of Honshu Island, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including the Oirase Stream, Lake Towada, high-quality apples, and the famous Nebuta Festival. It is a year-round destination, especially during autumn (October) for the vibrant foliage and winter for its heavy snowfall. Must-see highlights in Aomori: Nature and Scenery: Hiking along the Oirase Stream, cruising on Lake Towada, and taking the Hakkoda Mountain ropeway to enjoy the snow. Culture and Festivals: Admire giant lanterns at the Nebuta Warasse Museum and visit Hirosaki Castle, a popular cherry blossom viewing spot. Food and Lifestyle: Savor "Nokkedon" seafood rice bowls at Furukawa Market and try apple pie. History: Explore the Sannai-Maruyama Archaeological Site. Transportation: Shinkansen: Travel from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori Station in approximately 3-3.5 hours. Using the JR East Pass (Tohoku Area) is the most cost-effective option. Recommended Seasons: Spring (April-May): Cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle. Summer (August): Aomori Nebuta Matsuri Festival. Autumn (October): Autumn foliage at Oirase Stream. Winter (January-February): Snow and Snow Monsters on Hakkoda Mountain.

❄️Heavy snow in December transformed Aomori into a fairytale. The moment I arrived in Aomori, it was that kind of romance where you're gently embraced by snow. The air was quiet, chilly, and filled with the excitement only travel can bring. ⸻ 🏔️ Lake Towada: A blue mirror submerged in winter In winter, Lake Towada seems to have had its 'mute button' pressed by ice and snow. Snowflakes fell on the lake, so lightly as if afraid to wake anyone. Any snapshot becomes a northern ink painting. 🚶‍♀️I walked slowly along the lake, and the snow under my feet made a 'crunching' sound, That sound was so therapeutic, like winter's exclusive ASMR. 🎐 The winter wind was a bit biting, but as long as you looked up and saw the vast snow-covered mountains and forests— You'll understand why some say: Winter at Lake Towada is a must-have life experience. ⸻ 🖼️ Aomori Museum of Art: Encountering the warmth of art amidst white The architecture of the Aomori Museum of Art always melts my heart. The exterior walls are pure white, and the snow adds a filter, making it look like a 'white box' in winter from a distance. The moment I stepped inside, I suddenly felt: Outside is winter, inside is the world's gentleness. 📸 Must-take photos: · The Aomori Dog is truly adorable and therapeutic · The blue, white, and minimalist exhibition halls look sophisticated no matter how you photograph them · The window view from the museum cafe: sipping a hot drink while watching the snow fall is a small, simple joy in life ⸻ ☕ Winter in Aomori is all about walking slowly, seeing slowly Without rushing the itinerary, I let the snow slow down time for me. The tranquility of Lake Towada, the whiteness of the museum, together with the December wind, softened all the emotions of the journey. ⸻ 📍Small Tips · Aomori in December is really cold! Make sure to bring heat packs + thermal socks + gloves. · Lake Towada is quiet but incredibly beautiful in winter; photography lovers will go crazy. · Museum tickets can be bought in advance; there aren't many people in winter, but the experience is more comfortable. ⸻ 📷 If you also love winter romance, then Aomori will truly steal your heart. Leave this journey in the snow, and leave a little warmth for you.

This newly opened hotel in Aomori, Japan is getting rave reviews! Take advantage of the low season in November before prices go up, or book 1-2 months in advance for New Year's or Spring Festival stays. Ladies, don’t miss out! ❗Newly opened❗New facilities❗Spacious❗Sea view❗Only 300 per person❗ 📍First of all, the location is amazing! It’s directly connected to JR Aomori Station, with seamless access from the Shinkansen, so no worries about rain or snow! ⛩It’s very convenient for hiking at Oirase Stream in Aomori or visiting Hirota Shrine and Aomori Prefectural Museum of Art in the city. There’s a bus stop right downstairs! 🏬Just across the street are the Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse and A-Factory apple factory, making souvenir shopping super easy~ The 4th floor connects directly to LOVINA Mall, so shopping anytime is super convenient. You can just carry your shopping bags back to the hotel! 🛏A hotel opened just last year really feels different! From the lobby to the rooms, everything exudes refinement. The mattress is just the right firmness, so you wake up with no back pain at all. The best part is the room view—the entire city and the deep blue Tsugaru Strait spread out right before your eyes, giving you an endless sea view! The rooms are also very spacious. Compared to Kyoto and Tokyo, you really feel much more comfortable here! You can easily open two 24-inch suitcases! ♨There’s a free public hot spring on the 6th floor, and it’s never crowded. The Blue Lounge offers free apple juice and snacks, so you can enjoy the night view while sipping apple juice—super relaxing! 🍖A big shoutout to their food! The steak at dinner is so tender it melts in your mouth. Breakfast the next day is even better—soft poached eggs Benedict, smoked salmon sandwiches, fluffy omelets... even breakfast feels like it’s from a high-end restaurant. These details really touch the heart! Next time I come to Aomori, this place is definitely my top choice!

#tokyospots The staffs were very helpful from the moment you board the shuttle van to the check in experience. English version of ryokan guide is available. The onsen was excellent. The tranquility of this ryokan is soothing. Tsutanuma is just 15 minutes walk away too. The course dinner and buffer breakfast were amazing too and champion the local ingredients. Highly recommended for those who wishes to relax and unwind and have a nice onsen soak.overall is awesome to be there

Address: 〒034-0301 Aomori Prefecture, Towada City, Okuse Tochikubo 231 Price: 6000 yen per person per night with two meals in October The hotel is located right next to the Oirase Stream, with no other hotels nearby, making it an exclusive spot to enjoy the beautiful scenery. A free shuttle bus from Hachinohe to the hotel is available, but reservations are required in advance. There is also a shuttle bus to the Oirase Stream walking trail, so even without renting a car, transportation is not an issue. The hotel's breakfast and dinner are mainly buffet-style, with exquisite dishes made from high-quality ingredients. Overall, I give it a high rating. The rooms are also quite spacious.

During my stay at the Hoshino Oirase Keiryu Hotel in Aomori, I opted for the one-night, two-meal package. Dining at the "Apple Kitchen" was such a delightful experience! You can enjoy three different flavors of apple juice to your heart's content, along with freshly sliced apples as snacks. The entire restaurant is filled with elements representing Aomori, with apple-themed surprises even in the decorations 🍏🍎 The hotel itself is stunning, featuring hot springs, DIY activities, and a cozy spot by large windows where you can attend lectures or simply admire the serene stream views. The shop also offers delicious apple chips at the same reasonable prices as in the city 🛍️ Take your time here to slow down and savor the perfect combination of nature, hot springs, and gourmet food for an unforgettable travel experience.

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 #十和田市当代艺术館 A refreshing modern art museum that you can visit while traveling in Aomori. It is more of a venue than an exhibition hall. The art creation covers the periphery and park green space. With the lovely installation art decoration, the Towada City Art Museum is eye-catching! Looking from different angles, you will find different surprises. This is the uniqueness of the Towada City Art Museum. Like Yoshitomo Nara's YOROSHIKU GIRL, the lifelike giant woman Standing Woman, and the Flower Horse with flowers of the four seasons painted on its body, each exhibit looks very childlike and modern when photographed. Towada Museum of Contemporary Art 🕰️Business hours: 0900-1700 💰Average consumption per person: ¥1800 📍Address: 10-9 Nishi2bancho, Towada, Aomori 034-0082 Japan #Aomori #Towada #Towada City Museum of Contemporary Art

Towadakohan Sakura, a new type of hot spring inn, offers a fully self-service experience. Guests receive an authentication code via email and complete the check-in process using a tablet on-site. This setup is perfect for introverts who value privacy. However, guests need to make their own beds and heat up the pre-prepared dinner themselves! Located right next to the ferry terminal at Lake Towada, the inn offers rooms with picturesque views of the lake, which was the main reason we chose to stay here. The spacious and comfortable Japanese-style rooms feature warm wooden tones and soft lighting, creating a cozy, home-like atmosphere. Each room is equipped with its own water dispenser, which is very convenient. Cooking your own sukiyaki or hot pot adds a fun, homely touch to the experience. Unfortunately, there are no nearby supermarkets to buy extra ingredients. Thankfully, breakfast is self-serve, so there's no need to wake up early to prepare it yourself. During the off-season, a double room costs around 7,000 TWD per night, including breakfast and dinner. Considering the prime lakeside location with stunning views, it's well worth it. Plus, there's a large hot spring bath available for guests to enjoy, making the stay even more relaxing.

Hey everyone! Still worried about the crowds at popular tourist spots? Aomori, a hidden gem, is definitely worth a visit! Located at the northernmost tip of Honshu, Japan, it has four distinct seasons, each with its own unique charm. Spring cherry blossoms, summer Nebuta Festival, autumn leaves, and winter snowscapes—there's something for everyone. ✈️Getting There: · By plane: Aomori Prefecture has two airports: Aomori Airport and Misawa Airport. Major cities in Japan have direct flights, and it only takes 1 hr 20 mins from Tokyo. · By Shinkansen: The JR Tohoku Shinkansen connects Tokyo and Aomori City. From Tokyo Station to Shin-Aomori Station, the travel time is 2 hrs 58 mins - 3 hrs 30 mins. The JR Hokkaido Shinkansen runs from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Shin-Aomori Station, taking 1 hr. · By ferry: From Hakodate, Hokkaido, to Aomori, there are the Tsugaru Strait Ferry and the Seikan Ferry, taking 3 hrs 40 mins - 4 hrs. · By highway bus: The Konan Bus runs from "Ueno Station Area" in Tokyo to "Aomori Station," taking 10 hrs 20 mins. 🏨Accommodation Recommendations: · Aomori Onsen-ya: Ranked first in Japan's hot spring rankings for 10 consecutive years, "Komaki Onsen" boasts superb water quality. Bathing here is incredibly relaxing. There's also authentic cuisine, goldfish festivals, and traditional festival performances. · Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel: A luxurious paradise for hotel lovers. During the autumn foliage season, a stroll along the stream is incredibly therapeutic. There's also the Stream Base, Apple Restaurant, and craft workshops. 📸Must-See Spots: · Aomori Museum of Art: Exhibits works by artists related to Aomori Prefecture, such as Yoshitomo Nara. A must-visit for art lovers, and the building's design is perfect for photos. · Sannai-Maruyama Site: A World Cultural Heritage site, located next to the Aomori Museum of Art. Experience the charm of ancient Aomori. · Hirosaki Park: The best cherry blossom viewing spot in Tohoku, Japan. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and there's the Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival in autumn. The nighttime illuminations are stunning. · Mount Hakkoda: A winter ski resort, also known for its spectacular "snow monsters." · Oirase Stream: Known as the "most beautiful stream in the world." Hiking here during the autumn foliage season is like stepping into a fairy tale. · Tsugaru Stove Train: A winter-limited, retro train that takes you through a snowy landscape. There are nostalgic coal stoves inside the train, and you can even grill squid. · Fujisaki Swan Lake: A winter habitat for swans, with Mount Iwaki as a backdrop. Swans frolic against a backdrop of snowy fields—it's breathtakingly beautiful. · Gono Line: A railway line connecting Aomori and Akita, running along the coast with stunning scenery. 🍱Food Recommendations: · Aomori Apples: Large and sweet, they can be enjoyed in many ways: fresh, as apple pie, or as apple cider. · Kaisen-don: Aomori is by the sea, so the seafood is incredibly fresh. Seafood bowls are generous and diverse, each bite is a delight. · Hirosaki Ramen: Rich soup, firm noodles, topped with chashu pork and vegetables—it's incredibly warming. Pack your bags and come experience the unique charm of Aomori! 💕 Don't forget to like and save this post~

I'm glad I actually went. I've compiled a list of hotels to stay at on special days! Every place was so wonderful and amazing...! If you have plans to go there in the future, please use this as a reference ① Takefue ▶︎ 5725-1 Manganji, Minamioguni-cho, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture ② Ryokan Yoshidaya ▶︎ 379 Iwayakawauchi-ko, Ureshino-cho, Ureshino-shi, Saga Prefecture ③ The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto ▶︎ 543 Hokota-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Kamogawa Nijo Ohashi ④ Miyakojima Kurimajima Seawood Hotel ▶︎ 484-7 Shimoji Kurima, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture ⑤ Belnatio ▶︎ Tamagawa, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture ⑥ The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa ▶︎ 1343-1 Kise, Okinawa Prefecture ⑦ Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel ▶︎ 231 Okuse Tochikubo, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture If you are going there in the future, please check it out🐵 #travel #hotel #recommendedhotel #resorthotel #okinawa #hotelreview

Aomori: Unlock the magic of Tohoku, Japan At the northernmost tip of Honshu, Japan, Aomori is like a hidden gem in the north, low-key yet charming, exuding a unique charm that attracts countless travelers to embark on a deep dialogue with nature and culture. In spring, Aomori awakens in the embrace of cherry blossoms. Hirosaki Park, a world-renowned cherry blossom viewing spot, becomes a pink dreamland. Over 4,800 cherry trees bloom freely, their petals clustering like clouds and mist. A gentle breeze scatters the petals like rain, and people beneath the trees either spread picnic blankets to enjoy the leisurely springtime or stroll around, capturing the fleeting beauty with their cameras. In summer, Aomori transforms into a perfect summer retreat. Lake Towada, clear as a mirror, reflects the lush mountains and drifting white clouds. A boat ride on the lake, with a gentle breeze caressing your cheeks, brings a refreshing coolness, immersing you in the picturesque scenery. Oirase Stream offers another tranquil setting, with babbling water, moss-covered rocks, and lush vegetation. Walking along the stream, the fresh air carries the fragrance of plants, and the sound of birds and water creates a paradise-like atmosphere. When autumn arrives, Aomori becomes a colorful palette. In the mountains, red maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees intertwine, painting a vibrant autumn picture. The banks of Oirase Stream are ablaze with colors, and walking along the path, the rustling leaves and babbling water create a symphony of autumn, a feast for the senses. In winter, Mount Hakkoda is covered in snow, becoming a paradise for snow lovers. Skiing down the snow-covered slopes, the wind whistling in your ears, you experience the thrill of speed and passion. As night falls, soaking in a warm hot spring, surrounded by steam and snowflakes, you feel enveloped in warmth, your fatigue melting away, enjoying the winter comfort. Aomori not only boasts beautiful scenery throughout the seasons but also has a rich cultural heritage. The Nebuta Festival in August is the grandest event in Aomori. The streets are filled with colorful giant dolls and ornate floats, creating a lively parade. People in traditional costumes shout slogans, carrying the floats, while the sound of drums and songs convey the Aomori people's love for life and hope for the future. This festival is not only a visual and auditory feast but also a vivid display of Aomori's culture. Aomori, a city deeply favored by nature, has unique charm in every season and touching stories in every corner. It is a perfect blend of nature and culture, whether you seek tranquility in nature or are eager to explore local culture, Aomori can meet your expectations. Come to Aomori, embark on a romantic encounter with the seasons, and create unforgettable travel memories.

This guide will help you explore Aomori! Transportation Guide 1.  External transportation: From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen for about 3 hours to reach Aomori 🚄; from Sapporo, Hokkaido, the Super Hokuto Limited Express or the Hokkaido Shinkansen takes about 5 hours. If you choose to fly ✈️, the flight time from Haneda Airport to Aomori Airport is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. 2.  Internal transportation: Public transportation in Aomori Prefecture is mainly by JR buses, which connect major attractions and cities 🚌. For example, from Aomori Station to Oirase Stream or Lake Towada, you can take the JR Tohoku Bus (みずうみ号/おいらせ号). Attraction Recommendations 1.  Central and Southern Areas: · Oirase Stream: A year-round hiking destination 🚶 with picturesque scenery along the way, featuring several waterfalls and viewing platforms 🌊. · Lake Towada: A caldera lake with different scenery in each season, especially the autumn leaves 🍁 and winter snow ❄️. · Mt. Hakkoda: A winter skiing destination 🎿 with spectacular ice trees; in summer, you can go hiking 🏔️. 2.  Tsugaru Area: · Hirosaki Castle: An Edo period building, especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season 🌸. · Nebuta House WA·RASSE: Displays the lanterns and history of the Aomori Nebuta Festival 🎇. · Gono Line: A sightseeing train line 🚃 with beautiful scenery along the way, especially during the autumn foliage season 🍁. 3.  Sanpachi Area: · Osorezan: A World Natural Heritage site, a Buddhist sacred site with the theme of "hell" and "paradise" ⛩️. · Shimokita Peninsula Hotokegaura: Strange rock formations and clear sea water 🌊, perfect for coastal walks and photography 📷. Food Recommendations 1.  Seafood: Aomori is one of Japan's largest tuna producing areas, so tuna dishes are a must-try 🐟. In addition, there are fresh sea urchins, salmon roe, and other seafood rice bowls 🍱. 2.  Apple Desserts: Aomori is famous for its apples 🍎, and apple pies, apple ice cream, and other desserts are not to be missed 🍦. 3.  Local specialties: Try Aomori's unique "けの汁 hot pot," a soup pot dish made with local ingredients 🍲. Accommodation Recommendations 1.  Aomori City: Asamushi Sakura Kanko Hotel, Aomori Daiwa Roynet Hotel, etc., with convenient transportation 🚇 and close to shopping areas 🛍️. 2.  Hirosaki City: Dormy Inn Hirosaki, ART Hirosaki City Hotel, etc., suitable for cherry blossom viewing 🌸 or participating in the Nebuta Festival 🎊. 3.  Near attractions: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, located in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, offers a variety of outdoor activities 🏕️ and specialty cuisine 🍱. Aomori Prefecture attracts countless visitors with its unique natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine 🎉. Whether you are a nature lover, a cultural explorer, or a foodie, you will find your own travel experience here. Come to Aomori and start an unforgettable journey 🚀!

📌 🇯🇵 Japan / Aomori . A truly satisfying inn with the concept of "slow mountain stream life". I want to stay here again when I go to #OiraseGeorge 🌱✨ ⁡ The restaurant is #AomoriAppleKitchen A buffet restaurant 🍎 featuring original apple-shaped lighting made by Aomori craft "BUNACO" and an apple-shaped object made by "Tsugaru Vidro". The menu features a generous amount of apples, and you'll be amazed at how apples are used! It was fun with surprises and discoveries✨ The food was also the best🤤🍎✨ · ◼︎Facility name: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel ◼︎Address: 231 Tochikubo, Okuase, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture ◼︎Access: 90 minutes by car from JR Hachinohe Station or Aomori Station ◼︎Check-in: 15:00~/Check-out: ~12:00 ◼︎Number of rooms: 187 ◼︎Accommodation fee: 1 night with 2 meals, 24,000 yen per person for 2 people per room (tax included) · Price when using buffet restaurant · . #HoshinoResorts #hoshinoresorts #OiraseKeiryuHotel #Aomori #Aomori #travel #tripAccommodationReport

New Autumn Spot by Lake Towada: The 'Towada Lake Himenasu-no-Sato' Exhibition Room is ideally located right by the prefectural road leading to the shores of Lake Towada. It offers free parking and a complex rest area with dining and exhibition facilities. In addition to showcasing the geography and ecological features of Lake Towada, it also provides a special introduction to the local fish farming process, making it both educational and entertaining. Inside the facility, there is a souvenir shop and a restaurant selling local products from Kosaka Town and Aomori District, such as wine, honey, and garlic. The restaurant offers local delicacies from Kosaka Town, including Kosaka Town fried pork cutlet ramen, Hinai chicken oyakodon, and lake blue soft serve ice cream. The exhibition room features not only static displays but also the Himenasu Theater, which screens the Himenasu Theater show every 30 minutes, allowing visitors to better understand the charm of the town. At the entrance stands a bronze statue of an elderly couple, telling the love story of the owner, Tei-no-Sada. It's a great place to stop by for a rest while enjoying the beautiful view of Lake Towada. #JapanTohokuFreeTravel #TohokuAutumnFoliage #LakeTowada

#2024Travel Review After enjoying the autumn leaves in the Oirase Stream, we chose to start from the popular rest stop #Ishinoto on the second day. We originally wanted to go upstream to #云EI Falls, but we didn’t expect that there were so many tourists and a bunch of tour buses were scary, so we hurriedly changed the direction. Go in the opposite direction towards the #Sanchao River. Although the path is more primitive, the scenery is better and the crowds are much less. The Oirase Stream is famous for its beautiful green mountains and rapid cloud waterfalls. It is 14 kilometers long from Mount Yakiyama to Konoguchi. It is recommended to walk in sections to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery of the stream to yourself. ✓Yakiyama-Ishinoto Starting from the Oirase Keikikan, it passes through Shimeike, Kise, Fudoiwa, and Sanrano Ryu to Ishinoto Rest House. The total length is about 5.6 kilometers and the journey takes about 2 hours. This section of the trail is more difficult to walk. Although it is more primitive, the red leaves bloom later, which makes it more beautiful. ✓Ishinoto-Kumei Waterfall Large tour buses can be parked at Ishinoto Rest House. Generally, tour groups start walking from here and walk all the way to Kumoi Falls. The total length is about 2.7 kilometers and the journey takes about 60 minutes. The road conditions are the best, but the crowds are also the largest. The scenic spots along the way include Mamen Rock, Ashura Falls, Showa Pond and Yunjing Falls. ✓Yunjing Waterfall-Chozi Waterfall This section is also a good experience. There are many waterfalls to see along the way, such as Yunjing Waterfall, Shuanglong Waterfall, Baibu Waterfall, Yanguan Waterfall, Yulian Waterfall, Baixi Waterfall, Jiudaan Waterfall, etc., as well as the most spectacular Choshi Falls. The waterfall is about 4 kilometers long and the journey takes about 95 minutes. #Japan Northeast Free Travel #Northeast Maple Viewing #Oirase Stream

#2024Travel Review Go to the most beautiful part of Oirase Stream #Choshi Falls! On this self-driving trip to enjoy the maples in the Northeast, after passing Lake Towada, I finally came to the legendary Northeastern scenic spot #Oirase Stream. Since I stayed at Hoshino for two nights, I was not in a hurry to finish the Oirase Stream in one go. Let’s start with “Choshi Falls” which is closest to the mouth of Towada Lake! Choshi Falls is the largest and most spectacular of the Oirase Gorge waterfalls. The waterfall is 7 meters high and 20 meters wide. The pouring waterfall splashes a lot of water, which is quite shocking! And the closer you get to Lake Towada, the maple leaf rice is in full bloom. With the golden and red maple leaves, the gurgling stream and the magnificent waterfall, it is really an excellent place to take pictures! There are many tourists in Oirase Stream. If you don’t want to be crowded, it is recommended to walk from Choshi Falls to Shinoguchi, or back to Yunten Falls. There are much fewer crowds and the quality of tourism is better. #JapanNortheast Free Travel #Northeastern Maple Viewing #Oirase Stream #choshi Falls #Towada Lake #Aomori #Hoshino Oirase Stream Hotel

Tohoku Autumn Foliage Self-Drive Trip brought us to the highlight of this journey, Oirase Stream. Unfortunately, the autumn leaves were almost at their end, and despite the sparse foliage, the crowds were still overwhelming, significantly affecting the quality of the trip. Fortunately, on the way to Tsuta Onsen the next day, we accidentally discovered a nearly deserted autumn foliage spot, Tsuta River Erosion Control Park. Located right across from Oirase Hoshino, at the confluence of Tsuta River and Oirase Stream, the park stretches along the Tsuta River bank to Tsuta Onsen. The Tsuta River area has few tourists, mostly those heading to Tsuta Onsen and Mount Hakkoda, with hardly anyone stopping by. Little did we know, the scenery along the way is no less stunning than Oirase Stream, with the autumn leaves in full bloom, complemented by small waterfalls over the erosion control dams, adding a touch of pristine natural beauty. Highly recommended for those looking to avoid the crowds. A stroll towards Tsuta River will definitely keep your camera busy!

#2024Travel Review Driving from Sendai to Oirase Gorge, you will definitely arrive at Lake Towada first. This crater lake is located at the junction of Aomori and Akita. It is beautiful, clean and a little mysterious. Visiting in different seasons and times will show different appearances, which is quite charming. The azure blue of the water and the sky, the crystal clear purity, are the first impression that Lake Towada gives people. It is also the third deepest lake in Japan, several times larger than Sun Moon Lake. If you want to experience the beauty of Lake Towada, in addition to driving around the lake, you can also choose to take a boat trip on the lake. There are docks at both Kyūya and Konoguchi where you can take a boat. It takes about 40 minutes to go around and the scenery is infinitely beautiful. When we first arrived at Lake Towada, the sun was shining brightly, and the sky and lake surface merged into the same color as the sea and sky. It was blue and clear, and the road was golden. A few days later, when we returned to Lake Towada, the temperature dropped sharply the night before, and the sky was hazy and windy. Not only did the pier stop sailing, There is snow on both sides of the road, and the scenery is very different. It was a worthwhile trip to experience the different styles of Lake Towada at the same time. #Japan Northeast Free Travel #Northeastern Maple Viewing #Towada Lake #Oirase Stream #Aomori #Akita #2024 Travel Review

🎠This art museum, designed by renowned architect Ryue Nishizawa (one of his representative works: 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa), is an artwork in itself. The white cubic buildings of various sizes are scattered around, connected by transparent corridors that link each independent exhibition space. This clever design integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, blending art with everyday life. Through large glass windows, the exhibits and street scenes reflect each other, blurring the lines between art and life. 🎠The museum houses works by many internationally renowned artists, such as Yoshitomo Nara and Yayoi Kusama. Each piece occupies its own room, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate beauty of the art up close. These works are full of childlike fun and imagination, resonating with both adults and children alike. 🎠The outdoor spaces around the museum are also adorned with numerous art installations, allowing visitors to stroll through nature and feel the charm of art. From the pumpkin in the plaza to the pillows on the sidewalk, the entire city is our art museum! 🎠I particularly love 'Standing Woman'. Upon entering the exhibition hall, you feel an overwhelming sense of pressure, but upon closer inspection, the detailed craftsmanship and sharp gaze convey the artist's unique ingenuity! 🎠Exhibit No. 20, 'wEdificio' (which can be translated as 'wBuilding'?), cleverly uses mirrors to make the viewers themselves a part of the exhibition instantly. You can also get creative and make funny poses! It would be even more fun with a group of friends😆

The Oirase Stream is a stunning 14km long stream located in Aomori Prefecture. It originates from Lake Towada and is a place where you can take a deep breath and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The moss-covered rocks and bridges evoke a sense of nostalgia, and the dynamic flow of the stream creates an illusion that the forest is moving. I've visited during the lush green season, but no matter when you visit, the breathtaking scenery of each season will leave you in awe. There are plenty of parking lots, rest areas, and toilets along the stream, making it easy to plan for a walk or hike. 📍 Location: Oirase Stream, Oirase, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture

Absolutely Stunning👏 Truly a Spectacle【Tsutanuma】 From the spacious observation deck, you can overlook the graceful autumn leaves. If there's no wind, the reflection on the lake's surface makes it even more beautiful⭐️ Park your car at Tsuta Onsen♨️ parking lot and walk for about 10 minutes. The promenade along the way is also beautiful, and you can feel the negative ions throughout your body✨ During the autumn foliage season in October, there are entry restrictions. From 5:00 to 7:30 in the morning, when the leaves turn bright red with the sunrise, reservations are required. You can make a reservation on the Towada City website. The fee is 2000 yen per person. From 7:30 to 16:00, no reservation is needed. You can enter if the parking lot is available. The parking fee, which also serves as an environmental conservation cooperation fee, is 2000 yen🚗 Restrooms are located next to the parking lot. During the autumn foliage season, the road in front tends to be congested, so it's recommended to visit with ample time💡 📍Location: (Parking lot) 1-12 Okuse Tsuta, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture

[Restaurant and guesthouse Keigetsu] You can see the Oirase River from the window of the 6-tatami Japanese-style room✨ For dinner, we had Towada's local cuisine, such as sweet and spicy grilled beef belly, fried rainbow trout that you can eat from head to tail, and wild vegetable dishes. It was very filling⭐️ The toilet and bath are shared. In the fall, there are many stink bugs, and they give off a unique smell when crushed, so we just stick them with duct tape to get rid of them. There were quite a few of them, and I got good at catching stink bugs😂 The restaurant also serves lunch. 📍Address: 64-263 Horyou Yakeyama, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture 💰Price per person: 8,000 yen for one night and two meals #Towada #Oirase Stream #Aomori #Aomori Trip #0 Yen Trip November

#GINKGO #100 Ways to Travel In addition to red leaves in autumn in Northeast Japan, yellow leaves are also indispensable #gingko. During this free trip to Northeast Japan, I visited several scenic spots where ginkgos are in full bloom. I share them as follows: #Kakunodate is known as Oku's Little Kyoto, especially the street in the samurai house. The maple leaves and ginkgo trees bloom at the same time, dyeing the entire thatched house of the samurai house in a golden red. It is really beautiful! #Morioka Castle Ruins Morioka Castle, located close to the river and located high up, is full of cherry blossoms, maples, and ginkgo trees. With the remains of the city wall as the background, the golden ginkgo trees stand tall and straight, giving it a unique sense of history. # aomori Ginkgo is a street tree in Aomori. Ginkgo trees are planted on both sides of the main road extending to the harbor next to A-Factory, but the intervals are a bit wide. Each blooming ginkgo has a lonely beauty. #中野山 Although it is a well-known maple viewing spot, there are still huge ginkgo trees along the maple viewing platform. Especially at the maple viewing platform, there are whole yellow leaves, overwhelmingly dyeing the entire mountain forest yellow, which is quite healing. #OiraseStream The most popular natural attraction in Northeast Japan, the gurgling stream, the red and yellow colors of autumn, and the sunlight shining through the gaps between the maple leaves and ginkgo trees, are as beautiful as a painting. There are many kinds of trees in Oirase Stream, including red leaves, ginkgo, cedar and other color-changing deciduous trees. Once the seasons change, it is even more beautiful and it is extremely pleasant to walk along it. #日本 Northeast Free Travel #gingko #红叶 #100 ways to travel

#100 Ways to Travel #Oirase Gorge Museum Located at the entrance of the Oirase Gorge, it is a tourist facility that integrates gorge information display, shopping, cafes, and nature guide services. It is also a stop for shuttle buses, making it a great place to rest after a long walk. There is a small natural ecology display in the museum, which uses photos and scenes to tell you about the natural landscape of the Oirase Gorge. It even marks the areas where wild brown bears are found, as well as species of other wild animals and plants, and is quite educational. Of course, the rest area must have a shop to buy souvenirs and a cafe to eat desserts. Aomori is indeed the origin of apples. There are three flavors of apple pie and apple juice. They all look delicious and you don’t know where to start! There is also a Yongshui Pavilion next to it, which is a landscape restaurant. It is difficult to park along the Oirase Gorge, but there are plenty of parking spaces at the Stream Museum, so you can use this as a starting point and walk along the Oirase Gorge. #JapanTohokuFreeTravel #Oirase Gorge #100TravelWays

#Snow-watching #100 ways to travel The most interesting thing about traveling is often not everything that was planned in advance. Sometimes unexpected emergencies are often the most impressive memories. This time I went to Oirase Gorge in Japan to view the autumn leaves, it actually snowed. I was so lucky! Early in the morning, rain mixed with snow fell, and we immediately decided to head towards #茑温泉. The higher we drove, the more snow accumulated on the roadside, and then heavy snow and rain fell! Tsuta Hot Spring is covered in white snow, and it instantly turns into an ice and snow cottage from a fairy tale, so dreamy! The snow-white mountains, snow-white woods, snow-white roads, everything seems so unreal. Although the snow scenery is beautiful, driving is a little dangerous. Fortunately, the sun came out soon and the snow and rain stopped. The foot of the mountain and the riverside are still covered with red maple leaves. It was worth the trip to see two beautiful scenery at once. #JapanTohokuFreeTravel #Oirase Gorge #Tsutanuma #SnowViewing #100TravelWays

Explore the breathtaking scenery of Oirase Gorge in Tohoku, Japan, and stay at the stunning Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel! Located right by the river, it's a favorite among Taiwanese tourists, offering a relaxing stay with breakfast and dinner included, making it hard to leave. As soon as you step into the Hoshino lobby, you'll be amazed by Taro Okamoto's bronze bell installation art, 'Forest Fairy Tale,' complemented by the view of green trees and red leaves outside the window. The West Wing features a corresponding installation, 'River God,' and guests can enjoy unlimited apple juice and coffee. The public open-air bath at Hoshino Resorts offers an excellent view of the stream and autumn leaves, allowing you to soak while enjoying the scenery. Book the most basic room type, which includes breakfast and dinner, for less than NT$5000 per person! It might be because it's the end of the maple leaf season that you can find such a bargain. Dinner is a buffet at the Apple Restaurant, with various apple desserts and unlimited apple juice. Honestly, the food isn't Hoshino's strong suit, but the restaurant's decor is impressive. Hoshino's strength lies in its various experiences, offering many hands-on activities interacting with nature and the stream. There are also shuttle or guided tours of Oirase Gorge, catering to guests of all ages. It's definitely worth staying for a night to experience the beauty of Oirase Gorge firsthand.

A resort hotel nestled along the Oirase Gorge Enjoy a space where majestic nature and art harmonize, surrounded by mountains and streams. ① The main lobby near the entrance features a large glass window that reflects the Oirase forest like a grand painting, and a large fireplace called 'Forest Myth' by Taro Okamoto. ② As you proceed further into the hotel, you'll find another large fireplace called 'River God' by Taro Okamoto near the Keiryu BASE lobby. Both are truly impressive! Dining options include: ④⑤⑥ 'Aomori Apple Kitchen' A buffet restaurant full of the charm of Aomori apples. ⑦ French restaurant 'Sonore' French cuisine utilizing the sounds of the stream and seasonal ingredients (reservation required). ⑧⑨ 'Keiryu Terrace' From May to October, enjoy a special breakfast on the terrace overlooking the stream (reservation required). ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦ Spot Information 📍 Enjoy a variety of activities to fully experience nature Moss ball making experience, Oirase lamp making experience, Keiryu guided walk... 📍 There is a free shuttle bus connecting the hotel and the midstream area of Oirase Gorge.