Aomori and Akita are two prefectures located in the northern part of the Tohoku region of Japan and are famous for beautiful scenery and tradition. No matter whether you are interested in Aomori attractions such as Towada Lake or Akita attractions such as the samurai town of Kakunodate, these places deliver great experiences. They both boast of history, natural scenery, and food to satisfy those tourists who want an original Japanese experience. Although scared by Namahage folklore, there is always a program for everyone from the Nebuta Festival. If you are intending to visit the northern part of Japan, then you will find it useful to read this article in order to find out what to do in Aomori and Akita.
Top Things to Do in Aomori
Explore the Beauty of Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge
This site is one of the most visited attractions in the Aomori Prefecture, and it is a stunning crater lake. It is located in the middle of a large forest area and is the most beautiful in the autumn when the trees turn to red and gold. Tourists can go for a boat ride to view the surroundings or do nature walks nearby the shores. Adjacent to it, there is Oirase Gorge that provides the tourists with an opportunity to see waterfalls and aged rocks covered with moss. The 14-kilometer hike along the stream is possible, and the photos taken during the walk are absolutely stunning. If visiting the place during the spring season for the cherry blossoms or in the autumn season for the autumn leaves, two places that must be visited are Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge.
Visit the Famous Nebuta Museum and Festival
The Nebuta Festival of Aomori is one of the most famous summer festivals of Japan that consists of large floats and dance performances. However, if you cannot attend during the festival in August, you can get a glimpse of the experience at the Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE. Former Nebuta floats are displayed at the museum, and the detailed work done on the floats can better be seen. Special attractions allow you to perform as the festival’s taiko drums and get to know more about the history of this type of art.
Discover the Historic Sannai-Maruyama Site
This valley gives an insight into the primitive age of Japan, as there are well-preserved archaeological signs of pit dwellings, storage pits, and huge wooden buildings. It has reconstructed houses, and through the interactive exhibits, the early Japanese settlers way of life is shown. There are facilities like the on-site museum, where pottery, tools, and ornaments of the Jomon people are showcased, which gives the idea of their quality work.
Enjoy Local Seafood at Aomori’s Furukawa Fish Market
Seafood is a major item on the menu in Aomori, and Furukawa Fish Market is the right place to taste it. The atmosphere of this market is rather intense, and guests of the restaurant can try the unique dish called “Nokkedon,” which is rice with seafood chosen by the guests themselves. These include tuna, scallops, salmon roe, squid, and sea urchin that can be sourced locally. There are also stalls for dried fish, miso soup, and other items that are uniquely found in Japan.
Must-See Akita Attractions
Witness the Beauty of Kakunodate Samurai District
Kakunodate is a historic town situated in Akita and is also famously known as the “Little Kyoto” due to the preserved samurai houses. This district contains houses that were occupied by samurais during the Edo period, and some of the houses are even available for visitation. Just strolling along the streets surrounded by cherry trees and buildings made of wood, one would be transported back to the old days. In spring, the entire area of Kakunodate is filled with beautiful and fragrant cherry blossoms and is one of the best places for hanami in Akita.
Experience the Unique Namahage Culture in Oga
Namahage Festival is a peculiar custom in Akita’s Oga Peninsula in which demon-like characters go from house to house to scold children for idling and to teach them virtues. The interesting folklore about Namahage can be learned at the Namahage Museum, which has life-sized masks, costumes, and even touch screen shows. Namahage is performed at the Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum, and the visitors can watch the spectacle as actors dressed in these costumes perform the ritual.
Relax in the Famous Nyuto Onsen Hot Springs
If you are in need of some quiet and serene hot spring experience, then Nyuto Onsen, situated in the mountainous regions of Akita, is the place to be. Nyuto Onsen is a hot spring resort famous for traditional Japanese ryokan inns and outdoor baths. All the onsen have hot waters that are said to have therapeutic qualities due to the presence of minerals that are in the waters. Tsurunoyu, the most famous bathhouse, features milky-white waters and a scenic outdoor setting. All guests are also privileged to a rich Japanese experience while they relax in waters that are believed to have healing powers.
Visit Lake Tazawa and Dakigaeri Gorge
Lake Tazawa is located in Japan and is known to be the deepest lake in Japan and has mountains on its sides. The water of the lake is bright cobalt blue and greatly contrasts with the greenery in the background or the snow when it is winter. There are temples situated along the lakeshore where people can visit; one can even take a boat ride, and there are bicycles for hire to those who wish to cycle around the area. Dakigaeri Gorge is near where tourists can enjoy hiking and the view of autumn leaves.
Conclusion
Both Aomori and Akita are historical and cultural cities, which are located in the north of Japan, and therefore represent a perfect travel destination. These areas are the Nebuta Festival and Nyuto Onsen. While planning to go for sightseeing in the Aomori prefecture or searching for the beautiful places in and around Akita, tourists are sure to get something that will suit all the seasons. This is due to the fact that there are efficient means of transport and due to the various activities that are offered in the region. Discover the stunning landscapes and amazing heritage of these two wonderful Japanese prefectures: start your journey now!
