Aomori Unveiled: Culture of Mountain and Sea at Japan’s Northern Edge

Why not begin your journey from Aomori Airport or Shin-Aomori Station by heading into the serene forests of Hakkōda and Oirase?

As you walk beneath dappled sunlight and listen to the murmuring of mountain streams, you may find yourself gently slipping away from the routines of daily life.

At sunset, unwind at a hot spring inn nestled in nature, where you can savour a seasonal dinner crafted from the region’s finest ingredients.

Consider visiting cultural landmarks such as Hirosaki Castle or the Sannai-Maruyama Archaeological Site. As you wander through a castle town that transforms with the seasons, or reflect on the ancient lives once lived here, a quiet moment of connection may naturally become part of your journey.

In the evening, pause at Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge or along the shores of Lake Jūsan. In the fading light, you can savour a gentle stillness carried by the wind and water.

As one option for the journey, we suggest crossing the Tsugaru Strait to explore the Shimokita Peninsula. Along the way, you can stop to admire the dramatic rock formations of Hotokegaura and take in the tranquil beauty of the rustic fishing town of Ōma. Here, time flows gently, shaped by daily life and the quiet strength of nature.

For your overnight stay, we recommend Ōma Shukubō Fugen-in, a temple lodging offering a fully private experience. Nestled within a vast 3,000-tsubo (about 10,000-square-meter) temple ground, the main hall—crafted entirely from Aomori Hiba wood—provides a serene setting for deeply restorative temple experiences, including Buddha statue polishing (kanmoku), sutra tracing (shabutsu), seated meditation (zazen), and prayer rituals (gokitō).

Dinner features a sumptuous selection of local cuisine, including the famed Ōma tuna, all enjoyed over relaxed conversation with the head monk—accompanied by all-you-can-drink beverages. This is an evening to fully embrace the essence of “slow temple life”, a gentle experience that nourishes both body and soul.

After enjoying a peaceful morning meal of traditional Japanese Buddhist vegetarian cuisine known as Shojin Ryori, carefully prepared from seasonal, plant-based ingredients, we recommend heading toward the sacred site of Mount Osore (Osorezan). Standing amidst the volcanic, desolate landscape offers a unique and profound experience that can only be felt by simply being there.

Afterwards, you may travel to Hachinohe, where you can unwind by visiting local cafes and craft galleries. These spaces offer a quiet blend of everyday life and art, providing a perfect opportunity to relax and refresh your mind.

On this day, we can incorporate experiences that connect you with craftsmanship and local life as part of the journey’s “white space.” Choose from activities such as painting traditional Tsugaru Kokeshi dolls, indigo dyeing, working on a local farm, or preparing regional dishes—each tailored to the traveller’s interests. While the day may be quiet, it’s likely to bring memorable encounters that linger long after.

One option is to visit the morning market in Hachinohe, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the locals. The fresh ingredients and vibrant sounds of the market will add colour to your travel experience.

In the afternoon, take a walk through the serene nature of Kabushima Island, where seagulls dance, or stroll through the meadows of Tanesashi Coast for a tranquil connection with the outdoors. You might find yourself spending a quiet day, listening closely to the sound of the wind.

On the final day, consider leaving the schedule open to visit cafes, galleries, or small craft shops in Aomori or Hachinohe. This will allow you to savour the quiet moments of your journey. As you make your way to the airport or station, a final cup of coffee, a piece of fabric, or a book could provide a “humble encounter” that gently wraps up your memories of the trip.