Places to Visit | Vegetarian's Japan Guide

Aomori’s Top 3 Ponds: Jigokunuma, Suirennuma & Tsuta Nananuma

January 17, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Explore the breathtaking volcanic beauty of Aomori’s Hakkoda Mountains with a visit to Jigokunuma Pond, Suirennuma Pond, and the mystical Tsuta Nananuma (Seven Ponds of Tsuta). This trio of aquatic wonders showcases the diverse landscapes of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, from the steaming, sulfur-rich “Hell Pond” of Jigokunuma near Sukayu Onsen to the high-altitude marshlands and […]

Aomori’s Top 3 Ponds: Jigokunuma, Suirennuma & Tsuta Nananuma Read More »

Tsuta Nananuma Guide: Exploring Aomori’s 7 Mystical Ponds

January 15, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Nestled in the pristine beech forests of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, the Tsuta Nananuma (Seven Ponds of Tsuta) offer a mystical landscape just steps from the historic Tsuta Onsen Ryokan. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, this cluster of serene waters is a sanctuary for rare birds and a premier destination for those seeking the quiet beauty

Tsuta Nananuma Guide: Exploring Aomori’s 7 Mystical Ponds Read More »

Tsuta Onsen: The Ultimate Base for Tsutanuma & Oirase Gorge

January 15, 2026 / Accommodation, Aomori Prefecture, Onsen/Hot Spring, Tōhoku Region

Retreat into the heart of Towada-Hachimantai National Park at Tsuta Onsen Ryokan (蔦温泉旅館), a historic sanctuary with a legacy spanning over a thousand years. This hidden gem of Aomori is world-renowned for its rare free-flowing hot springs, where thermal waters bubble directly up through the beechwood floorboards of the bathtubs, untouched by the air. The

Tsuta Onsen: The Ultimate Base for Tsutanuma & Oirase Gorge Read More »

Fujita-Memorial-Garden-Western-House-Hirosaki-Aomori-Japan

Fujita Memorial Garden: Landscapes & Aomori’s Best Apple Pie

January 13, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Japanese Garden, Recommended café, Tōhoku Region

Discover the serene beauty of Fujita Memorial Garden (藤田記念庭園), the second-largest Japanese-style garden in the Tohoku region. Originally built in 1919 as the villa for local businessman Kenichi Fujita, this 21,800-square-meter landscape is a masterpiece of Taisho-era design, seamlessly blending Eastern and Western influences. The garden is divided into two distinct levels: a highland area

Fujita Memorial Garden: Landscapes & Aomori’s Best Apple Pie Read More »

Hiking Togakushi Shrine: The 5 Shrines and Iconic Cedar Path

January 11, 2026 / Chūbu Region, Hidden Gems, Nagano Prefecture, Temples & Shrines, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Deep in the forested highlands of Nagano, Togakushi Shrine (Togakushi Jinja, 戸隠神社) is a sacred destination where ancient Japanese mythology meets breathtaking natural beauty. Comprising five distinct shrines, Hokosha, Hinomikosha, Chusha, Kuzuryusha, and Okusha, this spiritual complex is legendary for its association with the “Amano-Iwato” myth, where the sun goddess Amaterasu was lured from a

Hiking Togakushi Shrine: The 5 Shrines and Iconic Cedar Path Read More »

Hirosaki-Apple-Park-And-Mt.-Iwaki-Hirosaki-Aomori-Japan

Apple Picking at Hirosaki Apple Park: Tips & Seasonal Events

January 11, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Cultural Experiences & Activities, Hidden Gems, Sweets, Tōhoku Region

Immerse yourself in Japan’s premier fruit-growing culture at Hirosaki Apple Park (弘前市りんご公園), a 9.7-hectare “apple wonderland” nestled at the base of the majestic Mt. Iwaki. Home to over 2,300 trees and 80 distinct varieties, this park is the ultimate destination for apple picking in Aomori, with harvest experiences available from early August through mid-November. Beyond

Apple Picking at Hirosaki Apple Park: Tips & Seasonal Events Read More »

Hirosaki Castle & Park: Japan’s Top Cherry Blossom Spot

January 11, 2026 / 100 Landscapes of Japan, Anime Pilgrimage, Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Castles with Original Castle Keep, Cherry Blossom, Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Top 100 Japanese Castles

As the crown jewel of Aomori’s cultural landscape, Hirosaki Castle (弘前城) and the surrounding Hirosaki Park (弘前公園) offer one of Japan’s most iconic historical experiences. Built in 1611 by the Tsugaru Clan, the castle remains one of only twelve “original survivors” in the country, standing as a rare testament to Edo-period architecture. While the park

Hirosaki Castle & Park: Japan’s Top Cherry Blossom Spot Read More »

The Complete Guide to the Stunning Hakkoda Mountains

January 15, 2026 / 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Skiing/Snowboarding, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Hiking in the Hakkōda Mountains (八甲田山) offers an unparalleled adventure through the volcanic heart of Aomori. From the easy, 30-minute Hakkoda Gourd Line boardwalk at the ropeway summit to the rugged, full-day trek across the Odake peak toward the steaming Sukayu Onsen, this range caters to every level of explorer. Whether you are traversing lush

The Complete Guide to the Stunning Hakkoda Mountains Read More »

Hakkoda Ropeway Guide: Views, Skiing, and Hiking in Aomori

January 15, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Skiing/Snowboarding, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region

Planning a trip to Aomori? Look no further than the Hakkōda Ropeway (八甲田ロープウェー), your gateway to the stunning Hakkoda Mountains. This iconic aerial lift offers passengers breathtaking, panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, Aomori City, and even distant Hokkaidō on a clear day. Whether you’re seeking to marvel at vibrant autumn foliage, trek through alpine

Hakkoda Ropeway Guide: Views, Skiing, and Hiking in Aomori Read More »

Hakkoda & Oirase Gorge: Ponds, Waterfalls, and Secret Onsens

January 15, 2026 / 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, 100 Hidden Scenic Spots, Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line, a premier scenic route connecting the majestic Hakkoda Ropeway to the emerald waters of Lake Towada. This guide takes you through the heart of Aomori’s wilderness, starting with the towering Hakkoda Snow Corridor and the steaming volcanic depths of Jigoku-numa. Experience the healing waters of

Hakkoda & Oirase Gorge: Ponds, Waterfalls, and Secret Onsens Read More »