Snow Scenery | Vegetarian's Japan Guide

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

January 19, 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 […]

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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

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The Complete Guide to the Stunning Hakkoda Mountains

January 19, 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

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

January 21, 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

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

January 21, 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

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Oirase Gorge: Japan’s Best Waterfalls & River Walk

January 23, 2026 / 100 Hidden Scenic Spots, 100 Landscapes of Japan, Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Cycling, National Places of Scenery Beauty, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of Oirase Gorge (Oirase Keiryū, 奥入瀬渓流), a 14-kilometer stretch of crystal-clear mountain streams and moss-covered rock formations in Aomori Prefecture. Located within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, this breathtaking valley is renowned as one of Japan’s most scenic destinations, especially during the vibrant autumn foliage season and the lush “fresh

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When to Visit Hirosaki: Cherry Blossoms, Festivals & More

January 3, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Cherry Blossom, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region

When is the best time to visit Hirosaki? While this Aomori gem is world-famous for its late-April cherry blossoms, every season offers a distinct reason to explore. From the spectacular “Sakura Carpet” at Hirosaki Castle and the summer energy of the Neputa Festival to the crisp autumn apple harvests and the magical Winter Snow Lantern

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Mt. Moriyoshi: The Stunning Nature & the Akita Snow Monsters

December 29, 2025 / 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, Akita Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Rising majestically in the heart of Akita Prefecture, Mt. Moriyoshi (森吉山) is among the top three locations in Japan for finding the “Snow Monsters” (Juhyo) that form as a result of the unique weather phenomenon. While Zao (蔵王山) is well-known, Mt. Moriyoshi offers a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience for viewing these frozen volcanic trees. Accessible

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Lake Towada Guide: The Top 15 Must-See Attractions & Tips

January 24, 2026 / 100 Landscapes of Japan, Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

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

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Kurama and Kibune: The Hidden Gems in the Mountains of Kyoto

October 5, 2025 / Autumn Foliage, Kansai Region, Kyoto Prefecture, Snow Scenery, Temples & Shrines, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

If you are ever looking for a naturally cool and refreshing spot in Kyoto, then read on! Mt Kurama and Kibune, located in the northernmost part of Kyoto City, are where the locals head to when they want to escape the summer heat. Why? Because the best way to spend a summer day in Kyoto

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