Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima
Experience a breathtaking display of nature and history at Takamatsu Park (高松公園), a premier destination in Morioka celebrated as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. Centered around the scenic Takamatsu Pond, which was originally constructed as a reservoir during the Edo period to protect Morioka Castle, the park transforms into a soft pink […]
Takamatsu Park: Morioka’s Most Beautiful Lakeside Park Read More »
What are some of the best things to do in Morioka? Discover a hidden sanctuary of history and spirituality at Sakurayama Shrine (櫻山神社), a tranquil “power spot” nestled at the base of the Morioka Castle Ruins Park. Established in 1749, this sacred site is the spiritual heart of Morioka, dedicated to the four generations of
Sakurayama Shrine: Morioka’s Sacred Rock & Longevity Turtle Read More »
Dive into the maritime heart of northern Japan in Hachinohe (八戸), a vibrant port city in Aomori Prefecture where ancient history and a thriving “market culture” collide. Known as Japan’s seafood capital, Hachinohe is famous for its legendary Tatehana Wharf Sunday Morning Market, the largest in the country, and the bustling Hasshoku Center, where you
Exploring Hachinohe: The Top Morning Market & Coastal Trails Read More »
Experience the ultimate bounty of northern Japan at Hasshoku Center (八食センター), Hachinohe’s vibrant indoor marketplace, where local agriculture and the freshest Pacific catch take centre stage. The bustling hub is world-famous for Shichirin-mura, a unique dining area where you can grill the fresh ingredients purchased from the market yourself over traditional charcoal braziers. Beyond the
Hasshoku Center Hachinohe: The Kitchen of Hachinohe Read More »
Discover a realm where volcanic power meets serene sapphire waters at Lake Towada (Towadako in Japanese, 十和田湖), the largest caldera lake on Japan’s main island of Honshu. Straddling the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures, this “mystic lake” is the heart of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, famous for its crystal-clear depths and dramatic forested cliffs. Whether
Lake Towada Guide: The Top 15 Must-See Attractions & Tips Read More »
Deep in the ancient cedar groves of the Yasumiya district lies Towada Shrine (十和田神社), a mystical “power spot” that has drawn pilgrims to the shores of Lake Towada for over 1,200 years. This sacred sanctuary, once a major center of mountain asceticism (Shugendo), is dedicated to the legendary prince Yamato Takeru and steeped in local
Towada Shrine Guide: The Mystic Dragon Temple of Lake Towada Read More »
As the bustling gateway to Lake Towada, Yasumiya (休屋) is the primary hub for travelers seeking a blend of cultural history and lakeside adventure. Located on the southwestern shore, this charming village serves as the region’s main transportation center and is home to the area’s most iconic landmarks, including the symbolic Statue of Maidens and
Yasumiya Guide: The Heart of Lake Towada Sightseeing Read More »
Where to stay at Lake Towada? Experience the perfect blend of budget-friendly comfort and authentic Japanese hospitality at Towadako Backpackers (十和田湖バックパッカーズ), a cozy lakeside retreat in the heart of the Yasumiya district. Just a 5-minute walk from the shores of Lake Towada and the JR Bus terminal, this family-run hostel is a favorite among hikers,
Towadako Backpackers: Best Budget Stay at Lake Towada Read More »
The eastern part of Lake Towada is known as the Utarube Area (宇樽部), many knows about this part of Lake Towada because of the Nenokuchi (子ノ口) watergate that regulates the amount of water that flows to Oirase Gorge. It serves as the vital link between the tranquil waters of Japan’s largest caldera lake and the
Top Things to Do Around Nenokuchi: Cruises, Hiking & Cycling Read More »
Experience a step back in time at Sukayu Onsen (酸ケ湯温泉), a legendary hot spring retreat nestled at an altitude of 900 meters in Aomori’s Hakkoda Mountains. Established over 300 years ago, this historic inn is world-famous for its massive 1,000-Person Bath (Sennin Buro,ヒバ千人風呂), a rare 248-square-meter mixed-gender bathhouse crafted entirely from aromatic hiba cypress. As
Sukayu Onsen Guide: Japan’s Iconic 1,000-Person Mixed Bath Read More »
