Exploring Hirosaki Apple Park’s Apple Orchards and Activities
Step into a world where the air smells like apples and every season tells its own story. Hirosaki Apple Park, nestled at the base of Mt. Iwaki in Japan’s apple heartland, is where tradition, nature, and hands-on fun come together. From blossom-chasing in spring to apple-picking in autumn, this orchard oasis serves up experiences as fresh as its fruit. Whether you are here for the cider, the scenery, or the seasonal festivals, one thing’s for sure—this is not your average apple farm.
Hirosaki Apple Park is part orchard, part open-air museum, and part community playground. Spanning 5.2 hectares in the Shimizutomita area, the park is a tribute to the deep-rooted apple cultivation culture that has shaped Hirosaki for over a century. Home to around 2,300 trees representing more than 80 apple varieties, it’s essentially a living archive of Japan’s apple-growing heritage.
Read on to discover the activities and festivals you won’t want to miss.
Apple Picking at Hirosaki Apple Park
From early August to mid-November, guests can stroll through the orchard and pick apples straight from the tree. Staff provide tools, tips, and recommendations on which rows are ripe for the picking. Outside of harvest season, the orchard paths remain open for scenic strolls and Instagram-worthy shots, with Mt. Iwaki as your stunning backdrop.
Explore the Apple House & Kimori Cider Factory
Step inside the Apple House, a charming hub where Aomori’s apple culture is celebrated in every detail. Shelves are lined with more than 1,200 apple-themed products, ranging from juices, jams, and snacks to cosmetics, crafts, and souvenirs.
Take a break at the cosy café, where local flavours shine in unexpected ways. Try a steaming bowl of apple curry, cool off with an apple sundae, or sip a refreshing glass of apple cider.
Just a few steps away, the Kimori Cider Factory invites you to discover how apples are transformed into sparkling perfection. Here, you can sample a variety of ciders, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, crafted from locally grown fruit. Learn about the fermentation process and the subtle art of blending apple varieties to create that perfect pour.
Former Osanai Family Residence & Folktale Programs
A reconstructed Tsugaru-style farmhouse on site offers a glimpse into local life in the early 20th century, complete with antique farming tools and weaving equipment. From April to November, weekends feature live storytelling in the Tsugaru dialect, led by local elders dedicated to preserving their oral heritage.
Source: Amazing AOMORI
Apple Blossom Festival
Just as the cherry blossoms begin to fade, the apple trees burst into bloom, signaling the arrival of a new season in Hirosaki. The Apple Blossom Festival, held in early May, invites visitors to celebrate this floral transition with guided walks through the orchard, where soft pink and white petals create a dreamlike landscape. Along the way, guests can sample fresh apples at tasting booths, enjoy seasonal bento and snacks packed with local flavours, and soak in the atmosphere with live performances from regional musicians and dance troupes.
Source: Amazing AOMORI
Apple Harvest Festival
As the orchards reach their peak in November, Hirosaki Apple Park comes alive with the vibrant energy of the Apple Harvest Festival. Visitors can savour the season’s freshest flavours with apple tastings straight from the trees, while regional food stalls serve up comforting autumn bites that showcase local ingredients. The park is filled with family-friendly fun, featuring games and folk music performances that bring the festivities to life. Meanwhile, craft markets brim with handmade goods, including apple-themed souvenirs, making it the perfect time to embrace the harvest spirit and take home a piece of Tsugaru charm.
Hirosaki Apple Park isn’t just a destination—it’s a playground for the senses. A must-visit spot in Aomori, it offers a rich introduction to Japan’s apple-growing heritage. With seasonal events, hands-on experiences, and a stunning natural backdrop, the park blends culture and family-friendly fun in a way that’s both memorable and uniquely local.
Don’t forget to check out our other travel guides here for more amazing destinations in Japan!