Nestled at the foot of Mount Iwaki, Hirosaki is a historic castle town in Aomori Prefecture that offers a very different experience during the summer months. Explore the cool, ancient beech forests of Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, experience the excitement of the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, and enjoy some of Aomori’s freshest seasonal seafood. Whether you’re looking for nature, culture, or local cuisine, summer in Hirosaki has something for everyone.

Hirosaki is easily accessible from Tokyo. Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori before transferring to a local train, with the journey taking around three and a half hours. Alternatively, fly from Haneda Airport to Aomori Airport in approximately 70 minutes, followed by a 40-minute drive into the city.

At the heart of the city stands Hirosaki Castle, home to one of Japan’s few remaining original castle keeps. Rising behind it is Mount Iwaki, the highest peak in Aomori Prefecture at 1,624 metres. Often referred to as the “Tsugaru Fuji” for its resemblance to Mount Fuji, the mountain is one of the region’s best-known landmarks.

Summer is also one of the best times to enjoy Aomori’s seafood. Surrounded by the Sea of Japan, the Tsugaru Strait, and the Pacific Ocean, the prefecture is known for its fresh seafood, including scallops and sea urchin from Mutsu Bay, as well as seasonal fish caught in the Tsugaru Strait.

Through our close partnerships with local communities across Japan, Japan Navi Journey is able to introduce experiences that are rarely found in a typical itinerary. From walking through UNESCO-listed forests and joining one of Japan’s most vibrant summer festivals to enjoying seasonal seafood and trying local crafts, here’s your guide to experiencing the very best of summer in Hirosaki and the Tsugaru region.

Experience Shirakami-Sanchi’s Ancient Forests and Local Craftsmanship

Around 30 minutes by car from central Hirosaki lies Nishimeya Village, the gateway to Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Leaving the city behind, you will find yourself surrounded by ancient beech forests, clear streams, and peaceful mountain scenery. It is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience a different side of Hirosaki during the summer months.

Walk Through the Ancient Beech Forest to Anmon Falls

Shirakami-Sanchi is home to one of the world’s largest untouched beech forests and was recognised as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 1993. Stretching across Aomori and Akita prefectures, this protected forest is home to towering beech trees that help sustain the area’s rivers, waterfalls, and rich ecosystem.

One of the most popular attractions is Anmon Falls, a series of three beautiful waterfalls connected by a scenic walking trail. Starting from Aqua Green Village ANMON, the route follows a riverside path through the forest, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Even during midsummer, the forest remains pleasantly cool thanks to the shade of the beech trees and the flowing streams, making it one of the most enjoyable places to explore during the warmer months.

As parts of the trail can be uneven and slippery, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Guided tours are also available, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the area’s unique landscape, wildlife, and native plant life. Japan Navi Journey can help arrange these guided experiences as part of your itinerary.

Explore Lake Tsugaru-Shirakami by Amphibious Bus or Canoe

If you prefer a more leisurely way to experience Shirakami-Sanchi’s natural beauty, head to Lake Tsugaru-Shirakami, a reservoir created by the completion of Tsugaru Dam in 2016.

Surrounded by parks and observation points, the lake offers peaceful views of the surrounding beech forests and mountains, making it an ideal place to slow down and enjoy the scenery.

One of the area’s most unique attractions is the Tsugaru-Shirakami-go, the first amphibious bus introduced in the Tohoku region. After travelling through the village by road, the bus drives directly into the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy the landscape from both land and water. Services generally operate between April and October each year.

For those who want to get even closer to nature, canoeing and boat tours are also available, offering a different perspective of Shirakami-Sanchi’s forests and waterways.

Try Making Bunaco in Nishimeya Village

The forests of Shirakami-Sanchi have also inspired one of the region’s best-known traditional crafts — Bunaco, a unique woodcraft made by winding thin strips of locally sourced Aomori beech into elegant curved shapes.

Bunaco products include bowls, lampshades, trays, and other handcrafted items. In Nishimeya Village, visitors can even take part in workshops to create their own Bunaco piece to bring home as a unique souvenir.

More than just a craft experience, Bunaco reflects the region’s commitment to using its natural resources responsibly. After exploring Shirakami-Sanchi, taking part in a Bunaco workshop is a great way to learn more about one of the region’s most distinctive traditional crafts.

Celebrate the Hirosaki Neputa Festival and Summer Flavours

After exploring the ancient forests of Shirakami-Sanchi, return to Hirosaki to discover another side of the city. Summer brings the streets to life with the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, while the surrounding seas provide an abundance of fresh seasonal seafood. It’s the perfect combination of local culture and cuisine.

See the Hirosaki Neputa Festival (Held annually from 1 to 7 August)

No summer visit to Hirosaki would be complete without seeing the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, held every year from 1 to 7 August. With a history spanning more than 300 years, the festival is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and is one of the region’s most anticipated annual events.

Unlike the large figure-shaped nebuta floats found in Aomori City, Hirosaki is known for its distinctive fan-shaped neputa floats. Each float features bold warrior paintings on the front and beautifully detailed illustrations on the reverse. Illuminated from within after sunset, they create a spectacular sight as they make their way through the city streets.

Accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of drums, flutes, and the traditional chant of “Yā-yā-dō,” around 70 floats of various sizes parade through Hirosaki, creating an unforgettable spectacle. If you’re visiting Aomori during early August, it is well worth experiencing the different styles of the region’s famous Neputa and Nebuta festivals.

As accommodation fills up quickly during the festival period, it is recommended to book well in advance.

Enjoy the Fresh Seafood of the Tsugaru Region

Another highlight of summer in Hirosaki is its fresh seasonal seafood.

Although Hirosaki is an inland castle town, its location within Aomori Prefecture means fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, the Tsugaru Strait, and the Pacific Ocean is readily available. During summer, visitors can enjoy local specialities such as scallops and sea urchin from Mutsu Bay, alongside a variety of seasonal fish caught in the Tsugaru Strait.

Whether you’re dining at a traditional Japanese restaurant or a local seafood eatery, summer is one of the best seasons to enjoy the region’s freshest flavours.

Try Traditional Craft Experiences in Hirosaki

Beyond its festivals and cuisine, Hirosaki is also home to a variety of traditional craft experiences that offer a deeper insight into the region’s culture.

Visitors can try natural indigo dyeing, using locally grown Tsugaru indigo to create their own one-of-a-kind textile, or experience Tsugaru-nuri, a traditional lacquerware craft with a history of more than 300 years, by decorating a pair of chopsticks to take home.

These hands-on workshops provide a memorable way to experience Hirosaki’s craftsmanship while creating a personalised souvenir from your trip.

Japan Navi Journey can also help arrange these workshops as part of your personalised itinerary.

Explore More of the Tsugaru Region

If you’re spending a little longer in Hirosaki, consider exploring more of the surrounding Tsugaru region. Here are a few nearby destinations worth adding to your itinerary.

See the Towering Floats at the Goshogawara Tachineputa Festival

Around one hour by car from Hirosaki, Goshogawara City is home to the Goshogawara Tachineputa Festival, another of Aomori’s most famous summer festivals.

Held in early August, the festival is best known for its enormous Tachineputa floats, some of which stand more than 20 metres tall. Unlike Hirosaki’s fan-shaped Neputa floats, these towering structures create an entirely different festival experience.

If your schedule allows, you can also visit Aomori City’s Nebuta Festival, giving you the opportunity to experience the three distinctive Neputa and Nebuta festivals of the Tsugaru region during a single trip.

Discover the Beauty of Aoike (Blue Pond) and the Juniko Lakes

For those looking to spend more time in nature, head west to Fukaura Town, home to the Juniko Lakes and the famous Aoike (Blue Pond).

Known for its striking cobalt-blue water, Aoike is one of Aomori Prefecture’s most photographed natural attractions. The surrounding walking trails allow visitors to explore the forests and lakes at a relaxed pace, while the nearby coastline offers beautiful views of the Sea of Japan.

Fukaura is also well known for its fresh seafood, making it an excellent stop for lunch before continuing your journey.

Take in the Views at Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge

Another worthwhile stop is Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge in Tsuruta Town, one of Japan’s longest wooden triple-arched bridges.

Set against the backdrop of Mount Iwaki, the bridge offers beautiful views throughout the year. During summer, the surrounding greenery and reflections on the lake create a peaceful setting that is popular with photographers and nature lovers alike.

As these attractions are spread across the Tsugaru region, travelling by luxury private transport offers one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to explore them while making the most of your time.

Plan Your Trip with Japan Navi Journey

Summer is one of the best times to visit Hirosaki, from exploring the ancient forests of Shirakami-Sanchi and joining the Hirosaki Neputa Festival to enjoying fresh seasonal seafood and traditional craft experiences. With many attractions located across the wider Tsugaru region, planning your itinerary in advance will help you make the most of your visit.

Working closely with local tourism organisations and partners, Japan Navi Journey can help you create a personalised itinerary showcasing the very best of Hirosaki and the surrounding Tsugaru region.

Travelling by luxury private transport allows you to explore comfortably and at your own pace without the constraints of public transport. Whether you’re heading to Shirakami-Sanchi, exploring nearby towns, or attending the Neputa Festival, we will help you enjoy a seamless and stress-free journey. Foreign-language guides can also be arranged, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history, culture, and traditions throughout your trip.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or as part of a larger group, every itinerary can be tailored to suit your interests, travel style, and schedule.

If you’re planning a summer trip to Japan, Hirosaki offers much more than its famous castle. From UNESCO-listed forests and vibrant festivals to fresh seafood and hands-on cultural experiences, it is a destination that showcases another side of Japan.

Contact Japan Navi Journey today to start planning your personalised itinerary, complete with luxury private transport, carefully selected accommodation, and unforgettable local experiences.