2025 Towada Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

This guide will help you explore Aomori! Transportation Guide 1. External transportation: From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen for about 3 hours to reach Aomori 🚄; from Sapporo, Hokkaido, the Super Hokuto Limited Express or the Hokkaido Shinkansen takes about 5 hours. If you choose to fly ✈️, the flight time from Haneda Airport to Aomori Airport is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. 2. Internal transportation: Public transportation in Aomori Prefecture is mainly by JR buses, which connect major attractions and cities 🚌. For example, from Aomori Station to Oirase Stream or Lake Towada, you can take the JR Tohoku Bus (みずうみ号/おいらせ号). Attraction Recommendations 1. Central and Southern Areas: - Oirase Stream: A year-round hiking destination 🚶 with picturesque scenery along the way, featuring several waterfalls and viewing platforms 🌊. - Lake Towada: A caldera lake with different scenery in each season, especially the autumn leaves 🍁 and winter snow ❄️. - Mt. Hakkoda: A winter skiing destination 🎿 with spectacular ice trees; in summer, you can go hiking 🏔️. 2. Tsugaru Area: - Hirosaki Castle: An Edo period building, especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season 🌸. - Nebuta House WA·RASSE: Displays the lanterns and history of the Aomori Nebuta Festival 🎇. - Gono Line: A sightseeing train line 🚃 with beautiful scenery along the way, especially during the autumn foliage season 🍁. 3. Sanpachi Area: - Osorezan: A World Natural Heritage site, a Buddhist sacred site with the theme of "hell" and "paradise" ⛩️. - Shimokita Peninsula Hotokegaura: Strange rock formations and clear sea water 🌊, perfect for coastal walks and photography 📷. Food Recommendations 1. Seafood: Aomori is one of Japan's largest tuna producing areas, so tuna dishes are a must-try 🐟. In addition, there are fresh sea urchins, salmon roe, and other seafood rice bowls 🍱. 2. Apple Desserts: Aomori is famous for its apples 🍎, and apple pies, apple ice cream, and other desserts are not to be missed 🍦. 3. Local specialties: Try Aomori's unique "けの汁 hot pot," a soup pot dish made with local ingredients 🍲. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Aomori City: Asamushi Sakura Kanko Hotel, Aomori Daiwa Roynet Hotel, etc., with convenient transportation 🚇 and close to shopping areas 🛍️. 2. Hirosaki City: Dormy Inn Hirosaki, ART Hirosaki City Hotel, etc., suitable for cherry blossom viewing 🌸 or participating in the Nebuta Festival 🎊. 3. Near attractions: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, located in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, offers a variety of outdoor activities 🏕️ and specialty cuisine 🍱. Aomori Prefecture attracts countless visitors with its unique natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine 🎉. Whether you are a nature lover, a cultural explorer, or a foodie, you will find your own travel experience here. Come to Aomori and start an unforgettable journey 🚀!

#2024Travel Review A new base for early autumn on the shores of Lake Towada: "Lake Towada Hime-no-Sato" exhibition room. The location is excellent. It is right next to the prefectural road that cuts into the shore of Lake Towada. There is a free parking lot and a dining and exhibition complex rest area. In addition to displaying Lake Towada It also introduces the local geography and ecological features, and also introduces the local fish breeding process, which is quite educational and entertaining. There is a souvenir shop and restaurant inside the museum, selling local products from Kosaka Town and Aomori County, such as wine, honey and garlic. The restaurant provides local delicacies of Kosaka Town: Kosaka Town fried pork cutlet ramen, Hinai chicken parent-child donburi, Lake Blue soft ice cream, etc. In addition to the static exhibitions in the exhibition room, there is also the Himenasu Theater, which plays the Himenasu Theater every 30 minutes, allowing visitors to better understand the charm of the town. The bronze statue of an old couple standing at the entrance is the love story of the owner. It's a good place to stop and take a rest while looking at the beautiful Towada Lake. #Japan Northeast Free Travel #Northeast Maple Viewing #Towada Lake

#2024Travel Review After enjoying the autumn leaves in the Oirase Stream, we chose to start from the popular rest stop #Ishinoto on the second day. We originally wanted to go upstream to #云EI Falls, but we didn’t expect that there were so many tourists and a bunch of tour buses were scary, so we hurriedly changed the direction. Go in the opposite direction towards the #Sanchao River. Although the path is more primitive, the scenery is better and the crowds are much less. The Oirase Stream is famous for its beautiful green mountains and rapid cloud waterfalls. It is 14 kilometers long from Mount Yakiyama to Konoguchi. It is recommended to walk in sections to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery of the stream to yourself. ✓Yakiyama-Ishinoto Starting from the Oirase Keikikan, it passes through Shimeike, Kise, Fudoiwa, and Sanrano Ryu to Ishinoto Rest House. The total length is about 5.6 kilometers and the journey takes about 2 hours. This section of the trail is more difficult to walk. Although it is more primitive, the red leaves bloom later, which makes it more beautiful. ✓Ishinoto-Kumei Waterfall Large tour buses can be parked at Ishinoto Rest House. Generally, tour groups start walking from here and walk all the way to Kumoi Falls. The total length is about 2.7 kilometers and the journey takes about 60 minutes. The road conditions are the best, but the crowds are also the largest. The scenic spots along the way include Mamen Rock, Ashura Falls, Showa Pond and Yunjing Falls. ✓Yunjing Waterfall-Chozi Waterfall This section is also a good experience. There are many waterfalls to see along the way, such as Yunjing Waterfall, Shuanglong Waterfall, Baibu Waterfall, Yanguan Waterfall, Yulian Waterfall, Baixi Waterfall, Jiudaan Waterfall, etc., as well as the most spectacular Choshi Falls. The waterfall is about 4 kilometers long and the journey takes about 95 minutes. #Japan Northeast Free Travel #Northeast Maple Viewing #Oirase Stream

#2024Travel Review Go to the most beautiful part of Oirase Stream #Choshi Falls! On this self-driving trip to enjoy the maples in the Northeast, after passing Lake Towada, I finally came to the legendary Northeastern scenic spot #Oirase Stream. Since I stayed at Hoshino for two nights, I was not in a hurry to finish the Oirase Stream in one go. Let’s start with “Choshi Falls” which is closest to the mouth of Towada Lake! Choshi Falls is the largest and most spectacular of the Oirase Gorge waterfalls. The waterfall is 7 meters high and 20 meters wide. The pouring waterfall splashes a lot of water, which is quite shocking! And the closer you get to Lake Towada, the maple leaf rice is in full bloom. With the golden and red maple leaves, the gurgling stream and the magnificent waterfall, it is really an excellent place to take pictures! There are many tourists in Oirase Stream. If you don’t want to be crowded, it is recommended to walk from Choshi Falls to Shinoguchi, or back to Yunten Falls. There are much fewer crowds and the quality of tourism is better. #JapanNortheast Free Travel #Northeastern Maple Viewing #Oirase Stream #choshi Falls #Towada Lake #Aomori #Hoshino Oirase Stream Hotel

#2024Travel Review On the Northeast maple viewing self-driving trip, we came to the highlight of this itinerary #OiraseStream. Unfortunately, the red leaves are coming to an end. Although they are sparse, the crowds are still unabated, and the quality of tourism is greatly reduced. Fortunately, on the way to Tsuta Hot Spring the next day, I unexpectedly discovered a secret place of red leaves with almost no one at it. It is opposite the Oirase Hoshino Park, at the confluence of the Tsuta River and the Oirase River, along the Tsuta River. The area from the bank of Kawakawa River to Tsutagawa Hot Spring is the hinterland of Sunagawa Park. There are very few tourists along the Tsutagawa River. Most of them go to Tsuta Hot Spring and Hakkoda Mountain, so few people stay. However, the scenery along the way is no less than that of Oirase River, and the red leaves are in full bloom. Take a ride on the small sand dam waterfall to get more. It is divided into original natural features. It is highly recommended that if you want to avoid the crowds, you can take a walk in the direction of Tsutawa River, which will definitely make your camera stop taking pictures! #JapanNortheast Free Travel #Northeastern Maple Viewing #茑川 #Oirase Stream #Aomori #Towada City #火山

#2024Travel Review Driving from Sendai to Oirase Gorge, you will definitely arrive at Lake Towada first. This crater lake is located at the junction of Aomori and Akita. It is beautiful, clean and a little mysterious. Visiting in different seasons and times will show different appearances, which is quite charming. The azure blue of the water and the sky, the crystal clear purity, are the first impression that Lake Towada gives people. It is also the third deepest lake in Japan, several times larger than Sun Moon Lake. If you want to experience the beauty of Lake Towada, in addition to driving around the lake, you can also choose to take a boat trip on the lake. There are docks at both Kyūya and Konoguchi where you can take a boat. It takes about 40 minutes to go around and the scenery is infinitely beautiful. When we first arrived at Lake Towada, the sun was shining brightly, and the sky and lake surface merged into the same color as the sea and sky. It was blue and clear, and the road was golden. A few days later, when we returned to Lake Towada, the temperature dropped sharply the night before, and the sky was hazy and windy. Not only did the pier stop sailing, There is snow on both sides of the road, and the scenery is very different. It was a worthwhile trip to experience the different styles of Lake Towada at the same time. #Japan Northeast Free Travel #Northeastern Maple Viewing #Towada Lake #Oirase Stream #Aomori #Akita #2024 Travel Review

#Art Gallery #Parent-child travel recommendation #Kusama Yayoi #NARA Yoshitomo #100 ways to travel 🎠This art museum designed by the famous architect Ryue Nishizawa (one of his representative works: Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Art), the building itself is a work of art. White cube buildings of different sizes are scattered around, and transparent corridors connect each independent exhibition space, cleverly combining indoor and outdoor spaces and integrating art into life. Through the large glass windows, the exhibits and the street view complement each other, blurring the boundaries between art and life. 🎠The art museum collects works by many internationally renowned artists, such as Yoshitomo Nara, Yayoi Kusama, etc. Each work has its own room, allowing visitors to appreciate the delicate beauty of art up close. These works are full of childlike interest and imagination, and both adults and children can find resonance in them. 🎠Many art installations are also installed in the outdoor spaces around the art museum, allowing visitors to walk in nature and feel the charm of art. Including pumpkins in the square and pillows on the sidewalk, the entire city is our art gallery! 🎠I particularly like Standing Woman. I felt a huge sense of oppression when I first entered the exhibition hall, but after a closer look, I can feel the artist's unique craftsmanship with his handling of details and sharp eyes! 🎠 wEdificio No. 20 (can it be translated as w building?), using the clever arrangement of mirrors, the visitors themselves instantly become part of the exhibition, and can also use their creativity to make many funny actions? ! It should be more fun if you come with a group of friends 😆

Michelin Green Guide Two Stars [Oirase Stream] Oirase Stream is a 14km long stream💡 The source is Lake Towada. You'll want to take a deep breath in the beautiful natural scenery💓 The moss-covered rocks and bridges are nostalgic, and the dynamic flow makes you feel like the forest is moving✨ I've come here in the lush green season, but no matter when you visit, you'll be impressed by the beautiful scenery of the four seasons🎶 There are plenty of parking lots, rest areas, and toilets along the stream, so you can plan your trip according to your purpose, such as a walk or hike♪ 📍Location: Oirase River, Oirase, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture #Oirase Stream #Towada #Aomori #Aomori Trip #0 Yen Trip November

Amazing 👏 Truly a spectacular view [Tsuta Numa] You can see the graceful autumn leaves from the wide observation deck. If there is no wind, the leaves are reflected on the lake surface, making it even more beautiful⭐️ Park your car in the parking lot of Tsuta Onsen♨️ and walk for about 10 minutes. The promenade along the way is also beautiful, and you can feel the negative ions all over your body✨ There are admission restrictions during the autumn leaves season in October. Advance reservations are required from 5am to 7:30am, when the leaves turn bright red with the sunrise. Reservations can be made on the Towada City website. 2,000 yen per person. No reservations are required from 7:30am to 4pm. You can enter if the parking lot is available. Parking fee is 2,000 yen, which also serves as an environmental conservation contribution🚗 Toilets are located next to the parking lot. During the autumn foliage season, the road in front of the park gets congested, so we recommend that you visit with plenty of time 💡 📍Location: (Parking lot) 1-12 Okuse Tsuta, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture #TsutaNuma #Towada #Aomori #AomoriTrip #0yenTripNovember

#GINKGO #100 Ways to Travel In addition to red leaves in autumn in Northeast Japan, yellow leaves are also indispensable #gingko. During this free trip to Northeast Japan, I visited several scenic spots where ginkgos are in full bloom. I share them as follows: #Kakunodate is known as Oku's Little Kyoto, especially the street in the samurai house. The maple leaves and ginkgo trees bloom at the same time, dyeing the entire thatched house of the samurai house in a golden red. It is really beautiful! #Morioka Castle Ruins Morioka Castle, located close to the river and located high up, is full of cherry blossoms, maples, and ginkgo trees. With the remains of the city wall as the background, the golden ginkgo trees stand tall and straight, giving it a unique sense of history. # aomori Ginkgo is a street tree in Aomori. Ginkgo trees are planted on both sides of the main road extending to the harbor next to A-Factory, but the intervals are a bit wide. Each blooming ginkgo has a lonely beauty. #中野山 Although it is a well-known maple viewing spot, there are still huge ginkgo trees along the maple viewing platform. Especially at the maple viewing platform, there are whole yellow leaves, overwhelmingly dyeing the entire mountain forest yellow, which is quite healing. #OiraseStream The most popular natural attraction in Northeast Japan, the gurgling stream, the red and yellow colors of autumn, and the sunlight shining through the gaps between the maple leaves and ginkgo trees, are as beautiful as a painting. There are many kinds of trees in Oirase Stream, including red leaves, ginkgo, cedar and other color-changing deciduous trees. Once the seasons change, it is even more beautiful and it is extremely pleasant to walk along it. #日本 Northeast Free Travel #gingko #红叶 #100 ways to travel

#Snow-watching #100 ways to travel The most interesting thing about traveling is often not everything that was planned in advance. Sometimes unexpected emergencies are often the most impressive memories. This time I went to Oirase Gorge in Japan to view the autumn leaves, it actually snowed. I was so lucky! Early in the morning, rain mixed with snow fell, and we immediately decided to head towards #茑温泉. The higher we drove, the more snow accumulated on the roadside, and then heavy snow and rain fell! Tsuta Hot Spring is covered in white snow, and it instantly turns into an ice and snow cottage from a fairy tale, so dreamy! The snow-white mountains, snow-white woods, snow-white roads, everything seems so unreal. Although the snow scenery is beautiful, driving is a little dangerous. Fortunately, the sun came out soon and the snow and rain stopped. The foot of the mountain and the riverside are still covered with red maple leaves. It was worth the trip to see two beautiful scenery at once. #JapanTohokuFreeTravel #Oirase Gorge #Tsutanuma #SnowViewing #100TravelWays

#resort #100 ways to travel When traveling to the beautiful scenery of Northeastern Japan #Oirase Gorge, of course you have to stay at the beautiful resort #Hoshino Oirase Gorge Hotel! It is located in the first row next to the Oirase Stream and has a river view. It is also a favorite among Taiwanese tourists. The most chilled one-stop, two-food option will make you forget to leave. As soon as I stepped into Hoshino Hall, I was struck by the installation art of Taro Okamoto's "Forest Fairy Tale" bronze giant clock. Coupled with the scenery of green trees and red leaves outside the window, it is really beautiful! The West Building has a corresponding giant clock "River God", and you can drink apple juice and coffee during your stay. The public open-air hot spring pool at Hoshino Resorts has an excellent view of the stream and red leaves. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery while taking a bath. So for accommodation, book the most basic room type. One room, two meals including breakfast and dinner. The cost per person is less than NT$5,000! It may be at the end of the maple leaf season that there are bargains to be found. Dinner was a buffet at the Apple Restaurant, with a variety of apple desserts and all-you-can-drink apple juice. Frankly speaking, food is really not Hoshino's strong point, but the restaurant decoration style is very impressive. Various experiences are also Hoshino's strengths. There are many hand-made experiences that interact with nature and streams, and there are also Oirase stream connection or guided tours. It can really satisfy guests of all ages and is well worth staying. Last night, I experienced the beauty of Oirase Stream firsthand. #奥尔怿流 #OHoshino Oirase Stream Hotel #Resort #Japan Tohoku Free Travel #Aomori #Towada Lake #100 Ways to Travel

Aomori - the mysterious land of northeastern Japan🍁 A small Japanese city full of natural beauty and regional culture. It's a big loss if you don't come to Aomori when you come to Japan!! . 🌸 Cherry Blossom and History Date ✅ Hirosaki Park: Go to Hirosaki Park in the morning, where there are more than 2,600 cherry blossom trees. When spring comes, the entire park becomes a pink ocean, super dreamy! Moreover, there is the historic Hirosaki Castle, which is a national important cultural property in Japan. ✅ Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival: If you come in winter, don't forget to participate in the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival, which attracts a large number of tourists every year. . 📸 Natural Scenery and Art Tour ✅ Oirase Stream: Go to Oirase Stream in the morning, which is one of the most beautiful streams in Japan. The scenery is different in the four seasons and is very charming. Summer is full of greenery, and autumn is a paradise for maple leaves. ✅ Aomori Prefectural Art Museum: Go to the Aomori Prefectural Art Museum in the afternoon, where works by well-known Japanese and international artists including Yoshitomo Nara are displayed. It is a must-visit place for art lovers. . ♨️ Hot Spring and Food Healing* ✅ Hakkoda Mountain: Choose to go to Hakkoda Mountain in the morning, take a cable car directly to the top of the mountain, you can enjoy the natural beauty along the way without dead ends, and you have the opportunity to see spectacular tree ice in winter. ✅ Lake Towada: Go to Lake Towada in the afternoon. This is a place to enjoy maple leaves in autumn. It is especially romantic to enjoy the red maple from the lake by cruise ship. . 🏨 Accommodation recommendation: Choose a hot spring hotel near the natural landscape, such as the Oirase Stream Hotel of the Hoshino Group, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature. . 🚌 Traffic tips Depart from Tokyo, you can take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen directly to Aomori, or you can choose to fly to Aomori Airport. . 🍱 Food recommendation Don't forget to try local seafood dishes, as well as various desserts made from apples. Aomori is the largest apple producing area in Japan. . ⚠️ Tips Check the weather before going out, don't let the rain sweep your interest. In addition, if you come in winter, remember to bring the warmest clothes, because the winter in Aomori is really cold.

💞Recommended Reasons: 💎 Located in Towada, Aomori, Japan, Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel is hailed as the most healing hotel in Japan. Nestled near the Oirase Keiryu stream, it is surrounded by enchanting scenery and abundant natural landscapes throughout the year, offering picturesque views from every angle. 💎 The highest-grade brand hotel under the Hoshino Resorts Group 🏖️ Atmosphere/Facilities: 💎 The hotel exudes a natural forest style while maintaining an elegant and refined design. The lobby features an art installation named 'Forest Myth' created by artist Taro Okamoto. 💎 The lobby offers unlimited complimentary drinks and snacks in the afternoon, with a wide selection of juices and sparkling wines to choose from. 🥂 💎 The restaurant is a buffet-style establishment with a wide variety of dishes, including Japanese cuisine, seafood from Aomori, Western-style steaks, and freshly baked apple pie desserts that are simply irresistible. 😍 💎 The hot spring area is divided into indoor and outdoor sections. It is highly recommended to experience the outdoor bath during winter, as soaking in the hot spring while snowflakes gently fall at night is a true delight. 😎 💎 In spring, there is a service to enjoy breakfast by the Oirase Keiryu stream, which requires an additional reservation. 💰 Average Cost: $7800-$12000 TWD per person 📍 Address: Tochikubo-231 Okuse, Towada, Aomori 034-0301, Japan

Five-day tour of Northeast Japan | Don't waste a single minute of your JR PASS① ||| It was a spur-of-the-moment decision to go to Northeast Japan with friends. The first thing to do is to buy the JR PASS Tohoku 5-day ticket (except for foreign tourists, foreign residents in Japan can buy it with just their passport). For each trip on the Shinkansen, you can use this coupon to exchange for a designated seat at the machine or window. Unlimited exchanges (should be). We exchanged for a train in advance but missed it, so we directly exchanged for the next train at the machine without any problem. This step is worth noting: please please keep this JR PASS safe, because once it is lost, there is no way to retrieve it except to buy a new one. (My friend lost it on the second day and had to buy a new one, which was very sad.) Next, let me share our five-day-four-night itinerary: ❄️DAY1: Tokyo → Sendai → Morioka First, I went to the Northeast to check out the statue of Lu Xun, and next to the statue was the Lu Xun Museum, where they had his report card from back then, haha! After leaving the university, I searched for a highly rated restaurant nearby and had a lunch of beef tongue prepared in two ways, grilled and stewed, for just over 1,000 yen, which was very satisfying. Then I took a bus to the area near the Da Guan Yin temple, where you can actually go inside and see over 100 small Buddha statues. After that, I had a sweet soybean dessert near Sendai Station and ordered a soybean milkshake to take on the Shinkansen. In the evening, I chose to stay in Morioka, where the hotels near the station were very cheap and they even gave me a 2,000 yen voucher. I went to a restaurant that served Morioka cold noodles and ordered a set meal of cold noodles and grilled meat, which just happened to use up the voucher. ❄️DAY2 Morioka → Hachinohe → Aomoriya Actually, I wanted to go to the Tenshotei Art Museum that day, but I overslept and didn't have time, so I could only leave regrets. I went straight to the Hachinohe Shokudo Center seafood market when I arrived in Hachinohe. There is a special bus for 100 yen at the bus stop, which takes about ten minutes. Then you can buy seafood in the market and rent a grill to cook and eat by yourself. The rental fee for the grill is 400 yen per person, and it comes with basic soy sauce and salt. Eat on time and take the bus back to Hachinohe Station (remember to plan the time to stay in the market, as the bus runs once an hour). I booked the Aomoriya hotel, which has its own courtyard. It's beautiful when it snows, and there is a sleep demon lamp. You can take a half-hour walk around and come back to the starting point, where there is a footbath to soak in. Back at the hotel, you can continue to soak in the hot spring and drink apple juice. I made an appointment in advance for the Sleep Demon Festival performance, which costs 1500 yen per person. ❄️DAY3 Aomoriya → Aomori → Akita Take a bus from Aomori Station to Aomori Prefectural Museum of Art. Although we only had a brief visit due to time constraints, I really enjoyed the atmosphere and many cute details of this museum. When we returned to the station to take the Gonō Line, we found out that the starting section was suspended due to heavy snow. A bit confused, we asked the station staff who told us to take another bus to a certain station and then catch the Gonō Line from there. We had reserved a private compartment on the Gonō Line in advance, and although the weather was bad that day, there was a unique beauty to it. We slowly enjoyed the sea view all the way to Akita. We had planned to eat the famous Akita dish "Kiritanpo Nabe", but because I was lazy and didn't make a reservation, we couldn't eat at the designated restaurant.

This is the Oirase Keiryu located near Towada Lake, Aomori prefecture. There are buses that takes approximately three hours to reach from Aomori city. The stream flows along the floor of the Oirase Gorge, winding among the lush trees. It is Famous for the autumn view when the leaves turn red~ There are over a dozen waterfalls along the stream. It is said that the hiking trail is easy to follow. However, I did not try as we had driven there~ I loved how fresh the air was and it’s really lovely to be surrounded by nature 👍🏼 #aomori

Tulum's niche new wild luxury hotel meets the glass sea |||🏣La Valise Tulum 🌴Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km 8+300, Tulum Beach, 77780 Tulum - Located in the south of Tulum, the hotel has 22 suites. The architecture and decoration style combines modern design with traditional Mexican elements. It has a unique palm leaf roof (palapa) and open-air shower facilities. All suites are equipped with a private pool or a plunge pool, and provide unique movable beds, allowing guests to seamlessly switch between indoors and outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean Sea or the jungle. - 🍽️Food La Valise Restaurant: Serving all-day Mexican fusion cuisine using local ingredients to suit all tastes. NÜ Restaurant: Located on-site, serving innovative Mexican cuisine using fresh, sustainable ingredients, named one of the best restaurants in the Yucatan Peninsula by Travel + Leisure The hotel has a spa that offers a range of treatments, such as bee venom facials and scrub body wraps. Yoga classes and meditative breathing exercises are also available. Guests can also take part in adventure activities organized by the hotel, such as diving in cenotes, exploring Mayan ruins, and sailing on a luxury yacht. - Nearby attractions 🏛️Tulum Ruins: About 10 minutes’ drive from the hotel, it is one of the best-preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico. 🌳Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to rich flora and fauna and beautiful beaches. 🛍️Downtown Tulum: About 15 minutes away by car, it has many restaurants, shops and art galleries. Hoshinoya Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel

Due to a significant train delay, I decided to stay overnight in Towada. After checking in, I took a stroll to the nearby Towada Modern Art Museum. Although it's called an art museum, it actually integrates urban landscaping. While walking, I discovered a Yayoi Kusama piece installed in the plaza. From the introduction, I learned that due to the declining population in Towada, the city began collaborating with artists in 2008 to transform Towada into a city of art. Upon entering the exhibition hall, I was struck by a four-meter-tall standing woman sculpture. Her melancholic expression and the gaze she returned captivated me deeply. Korean artist Seo Do-ho's work, Cause and Effect, is a nine-meter-tall giant resin sculpture with a gradient of transparent, orange, and red, resembling an alien invasion. It magnificently portrays the cycle of life and death. My favorite piece is Yoshitomo Nara's YOROSHIKU girl. With simple lines, it magically conveys emotions of rebellion, anger, smile, and sadness. If you visit Oirase Gorge or Lake Towada, spare a few hours to appreciate the beautiful works left by artists in this small town. 📍Address: 〒034-0082 Aomori Prefecture, Towada City, Nishi-Nibancho 10-9

👍Reasons to Recommend: 1️⃣Hidden Gem: As one of the world's top 10 travel destinations, Aomori is hidden 3 hours away from Tokyo, allowing you to avoid the crowds and enjoy a unique travel experience. 2️⃣Rich Scenery: You can enjoy mountains, rivers, lakes, seas, and cultural landscapes, from shrines and coasts to streams and crater lakes, as well as historical and cultural attractions in the city. 3️⃣Local Cuisine: There are various apple products, seafood rice bowls, and authentic local cuisine that you can enjoy while listening to Tsugaru shamisen performances. 📍Attraction Address: Aomori Prefecture, Japan, covering Hachinohe, Towada, Aomori City, Hirosaki, and other places. 🚗Transportation: 1️⃣Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hachinohe, then transfer to the JR to various attractions, or take a bus or sightseeing bus. 2️⃣If you are traveling from Hachinohe to Tanesashi Coast Station, you can take the JR; to the hotel, you can take the Hoshino free bus (reservation required 2 days in advance). 👣Travel Route: 1️⃣Day 1: Tokyo - Hachinohe, visit Kabushima Shrine and Tanesashi Coast, stay at Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel. 2️⃣Day 2: Towada, visit Oirase Gorge, Lake Towada, and Towada Shrine. 3️⃣Day 3: Aomori City, visit the area around Aomori Station, such as Nebuta House, A-FACTORY, Furukawa Fish Market, and ASPAM. 4️⃣Day 4: Hirosaki, visit Hirosaki Station - Hirosaki Museum of Contemporary Art - Saishoin Five-Storied Pagoda - Former Hirosaki City Library - Hirosaki Castle - Aomori Bank Memorial Hall - Hirosaki Station. 🍗Food Recommendations: 1️⃣Apple pie and apple-flavored ice cream at A-FACTORY. 2️⃣Furukawa Fish Market's seafood rice bowl "Nokke-don." 3️⃣Local cuisine at Takakyu. 4️⃣Local izakaya food at Tsugaru Joppari Isariya Sakaba. 👍Must-Visit Attractions: 1️⃣Kabushima Shrine: A natural monument for black-tailed gulls, with flowers and gulls in May. 2️⃣Tanesashi Coast: A beautiful beach with natural lawns extending to the rocky beach and waves. 3️⃣Oirase Gorge: A 200-meter drop with many waterfalls. 4️⃣Lake Towada: A high mountain crater lake with different scenery in each season. 🎫Tickets: 1️⃣Nebuta House: JPY 620 for adults. 2️⃣ASPAM Observatory: JPY 400 for adults. 3️⃣Hirosaki Museum of Contemporary Art: Exhibition fees (depending on the exhibition). 💖Other Tips: 1️⃣Check the opening hours and closing days of each attraction in advance, such as Furukawa Fish Market, which is closed on Tuesdays. 2️⃣Book the Hoshino free bus and accommodation in advance. 3️⃣In Hirosaki, you can choose to walk or take the sightseeing bus for JPY 500 per day.

Aomori: Unlock the magic of Tohoku, Japan At the northernmost tip of Honshu, Japan, Aomori is like a hidden gem in the north, low-key yet charming, exuding a unique charm that attracts countless travelers to embark on a deep dialogue with nature and culture. In spring, Aomori awakens in the embrace of cherry blossoms. Hirosaki Park, a world-renowned cherry blossom viewing spot, becomes a pink dreamland. Over 4,800 cherry trees bloom freely, their petals clustering like clouds and mist. A gentle breeze scatters the petals like rain, and people beneath the trees either spread picnic blankets to enjoy the leisurely springtime or stroll around, capturing the fleeting beauty with their cameras. In summer, Aomori transforms into a perfect summer retreat. Lake Towada, clear as a mirror, reflects the lush mountains and drifting white clouds. A boat ride on the lake, with a gentle breeze caressing your cheeks, brings a refreshing coolness, immersing you in the picturesque scenery. Oirase Stream offers another tranquil setting, with babbling water, moss-covered rocks, and lush vegetation. Walking along the stream, the fresh air carries the fragrance of plants, and the sound of birds and water creates a paradise-like atmosphere. When autumn arrives, Aomori becomes a colorful palette. In the mountains, red maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees intertwine, painting a vibrant autumn picture. The banks of Oirase Stream are ablaze with colors, and walking along the path, the rustling leaves and babbling water create a symphony of autumn, a feast for the senses. In winter, Mount Hakkoda is covered in snow, becoming a paradise for snow lovers. Skiing down the snow-covered slopes, the wind whistling in your ears, you experience the thrill of speed and passion. As night falls, soaking in a warm hot spring, surrounded by steam and snowflakes, you feel enveloped in warmth, your fatigue melting away, enjoying the winter comfort. Aomori not only boasts beautiful scenery throughout the seasons but also has a rich cultural heritage. The Nebuta Festival in August is the grandest event in Aomori. The streets are filled with colorful giant dolls and ornate floats, creating a lively parade. People in traditional costumes shout slogans, carrying the floats, while the sound of drums and songs convey the Aomori people's love for life and hope for the future. This festival is not only a visual and auditory feast but also a vivid display of Aomori's culture. Aomori, a city deeply favored by nature, has unique charm in every season and touching stories in every corner. It is a perfect blend of nature and culture, whether you seek tranquility in nature or are eager to explore local culture, Aomori can meet your expectations. Come to Aomori, embark on a romantic encounter with the seasons, and create unforgettable travel memories.

Aomori: A Dreamy Date in Northern Japan At the northernmost tip of Honshu Island, Aomori is like a pearl in the wilderness, exuding a unique charm and inviting people to explore this land favored by nature. When the first warm breeze of spring blows, Aomori is awakened by the cherry blossoms. Hirosaki Park turns into a pink dreamland, with more than 4,800 cherry trees stretching their branches and blooming. When the wind blows, the petals fall like pink snowflakes, instantly covering the ground with a carpet of flowers. Under the trees, people either laugh and picnic or quietly enjoy the short but splendid spring scenery, intoxicated by the romantic cherry blossom snow. In summer, Aomori is a great place to escape the heat. Lake Towada is as clear as a mirror, with the blue water reflecting the lush mountains and white clouds. A boat ride on the lake, with a gentle breeze blowing, brings a refreshing coolness that makes you feel relaxed and happy. The Oirase Stream, which is connected to the lake, flows gently, with green moss and lush vegetation along the stream. Walking along the stream, the fresh air is filled with the fragrance of plants, and the only sounds are the chirping of birds and the gurgling of water, as if you have entered a paradise. Autumn in Aomori is like a colorful oil painting. The maple leaves turn red, and the ginkgo trees are covered in bright yellow, creating a colorful scene in the mountains. Walking along the Oirase Stream trail, the fallen leaves rustle underfoot, and the sound of the stream creates a symphony of autumn. The distant mountains are dyed with autumn colors, like a poem or a painting, making you feel intoxicated. In winter, Mount Hakkoda is covered in snow, becoming a paradise for snow lovers. The white powder snow covers the mountains, and you can ski down from the top, with the wind whistling in your ears, enjoying the speed and passion. When night falls, soak in the warm hot springs, watching the snowflakes fall, feeling warm all over, and the fatigue disappears instantly. Aomori not only has beautiful scenery in all seasons but also has a unique cultural atmosphere. The Nebuta Festival in August is the most important festival in the area. Giant colorful dolls parade through the streets, creating a lively atmosphere. People wear traditional costumes, carry floats, and dance to the beat of the drums and the enthusiastic shouts, showcasing the unique cultural charm of Aomori and bringing the festival atmosphere to a climax. Whether you love natural scenery or are interested in exploring history and culture, Aomori can meet your expectations. Come to Aomori for a romantic date with the four seasons, and leave unforgettable travel memories on this charming land.

Aomori: A Year-Round Wonderland of Beauty and Warmth Located at the northern tip of Honshu Island, Aomori is like a pearl in the wilderness, exuding an irresistible charm. With its stunning natural scenery and unique cultural atmosphere, Aomori is a treasure trove for travel enthusiasts. In spring, Aomori is awakened by romantic cherry blossoms. In Hirosaki Park, over 4,800 cherry trees bloom in full splendor, creating a sea of flowers. As the breeze blows, pink petals fall like rain, enchanting visitors who take photos or enjoy picnics under the trees. In summer, Lake Towada and the Oirase Stream offer a refreshing escape. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Towada reflect the blue sky and lush mountains. A boat ride on the lake offers a panoramic view of the stunning scenery, while the gentle breeze dispels the summer heat. The Oirase Stream flows gently, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and verdant trees. A stroll along the stream immerses you in the tranquility of nature. In autumn, Aomori transforms into a vibrant oil painting. The mountains are ablaze with red maple leaves, and the ginkgo trees are adorned in golden hues. The Oirase Stream is flanked by colorful foliage. Walking along the stream, the sound of fallen leaves crunching underfoot and the babbling water create a symphony of autumn. In winter, Mount Hakkoda becomes a snowy wonderland. The snow-covered mountains are a paradise for skiing enthusiasts, offering thrilling rides down the slopes. Aomori's culture is equally captivating. The Nebuta Festival in August is the most celebrated event, featuring colorful giant dolls, lively floats, and people in traditional costumes singing and dancing, showcasing Aomori's unique cultural charm. Visit Aomori to find solace and inspiration in the changing seasons.

Head to Aomori and Experience the Romance of the Four Seasons Located at the northernmost tip of Honshu Island, Aomori Prefecture is a dream destination for travel enthusiasts, known for its pure nature and rich cultural heritage. In spring, the cherry blossoms in Hirosaki Park bloom in full splendor, with over 4,800 cherry trees transforming the park into a pink wonderland. The falling cherry blossoms resemble snow, creating a breathtaking sight. In summer, Lake Towada resembles a dazzling blue sapphire, with its clear waters reflecting the lush mountains surrounding it. A boat tour offers a refreshing breeze and a delightful experience. In autumn, the banks of the Oirase Stream are adorned with vibrant foliage, with fiery red maple leaves creating a stunning display. A walk along the trails allows you to listen to the symphony of flowing water and rustling leaves. In winter, Mount Hakkoda is covered in thick snow, becoming a natural ski paradise where you can enjoy the thrill of speed and excitement on the slopes. In addition to the seasonal beauty, Aomori is also home to the grand Nebuta Festival, featuring colorful giant dolls and lively float parades that showcase the unique local culture. Visit Aomori to immerse yourself in the charm of the changing seasons and create unforgettable travel memories.

Explore Aomori: Discover the Dreamy Corners of Tohoku, Japan At the northeastern tip of Honshu Island in Japan, Aomori Prefecture is like a gem carved by time, exuding a unique and charming glow. With its distinct four seasons and unique regional culture, it has become an ideal destination for travelers. In spring, Aomori is a pink dreamlike poem. Hirosaki Park welcomes the highlight of cherry blossom season, with over 4,800 cherry trees decorating the entire park into a pink ocean. As the wind blows, petals fall like snowflakes, and people under the trees enjoy picnics and laughter, immersed in this dreamlike scene. In summer, Lake Towada and Oirase Stream become summer resorts. The lake's water is clear and blue, like a giant sapphire embedded in the earth. Taking a boat ride on the lake, the surrounding green mountains and trees are reflected in the water, as if you are in a painting. Connected to it is Oirase Stream, with babbling water and lush vegetation along the stream. Walking along it, the fresh air and natural tranquility make you feel relaxed and comfortable. In autumn, Aomori puts on a colorful coat. In the mountains and forests, maple leaves gradually turn red, and ginkgo trees turn golden. The area around Oirase Stream is even more colorful, with layers of forests dyed in different colors. Walking along the trail, the fallen leaves rustle underfoot, and the intoxicating autumn scenery unfolds before your eyes. In winter, Mount Hakkoda turns into a silver-white world, with powder snow covering the mountains. It is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts, where you can experience the thrill of speed and passion as you race down the slopes, enjoying the fun of winter. Culturally, Aomori's Nebuta Festival is famous far and wide. Every August, colorful giant dolls parade through the streets, creating a lively atmosphere that fully showcases the local cultural charm. Come to Aomori and experience the dual shock of nature and culture as the seasons change.

I stayed at the Oirase Keiryu Hotel in Aomori, operated by Hoshino Resorts 🤍 The room type I stayed in was a Keiryu Room, where you can enjoy a view of the stream from the room 🫛 The twin beds were fluffy and comfortable, and the room had a luxurious feel with its elevated design 🕊️ The entire back wall was made of glass, offering a spectacular view, and the sofa was perfect for relaxing ✨ There were in-house clothes provided, and mineral water was available in tumblers 🙌🏻 〒034-0301 Aomori Prefecture, Towada City, Okuse Tochikubo 231 Check-in 15:00 - Check-out 12:00

Oirase Gorge, located around Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, is a 14-kilometer-long stream trail that winds through dense forests and babbling waters. It is hailed as one of the most beautiful streams in Japan. During this visit, I was completely immersed in the embrace of nature, feeling the tranquility and vitality of the stream. First Impressions of Oirase: Nature's Initial Impact That morning, I set out from the Hoshino Oirase Keiryu Hotel and walked into this natural sanctuary. As soon as I stepped onto the stream trail, I was greeted by the cool mountain breeze and the rich scent of the forest. The clear stream meandered along the trail, and the sound of the water played like a symphony in my ears, as if I had entered a paradise. On either side of the trail were dense woods, with tall trees whose branches and leaves intertwined to form a natural green tunnel. Sunlight filtered through the gaps in the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground and the stream, creating a scene as beautiful as a painting. Highlights Along the Way: The Symphony of Streams and Waterfalls As I strolled along the trail, the most breathtaking sights were the various waterfalls of different sizes in the stream. Each waterfall had its own unique charm, with the most famous being the Choshi Otaki Waterfall. This waterfall, with its abundant water flow, cascaded from a height, creating a mist that brought a refreshing sensation. Standing before the waterfall, the powerful sound of the water filled my ears, making me feel the might of nature. Another favorite spot of mine was the Ashura no Nagare, a section of the stream where the water flowed rapidly, crashing against the rocks and creating layers of spray. Despite the turbulent water, the surrounding scenery was exceptionally serene, forming a perfect balance of motion and stillness. The Beauty of the Seasons: A Verdant Paradise in Summer I chose to visit Oirase Gorge in the summer, when the scenery was lush and vibrant, full of life. The moss-covered stones and tree trunks along the stream looked like they were blanketed with a soft carpet. Even in the height of summer, the temperature by the stream remained cool and pleasant, making it an ideal spot to escape the heat. I've heard that Oirase Gorge is even more magnificent in the fall, with the entire forest turning into warm hues of red, orange, and gold, creating a stunning contrast with the clear stream. Just imagining it is enough to make one yearn for it. 💞Recommended Reason: The Touching Harmony with Nature I spent an entire day at Oirase Gorge, measuring this natural canvas with my own feet. There was no city noise here, only the sound of flowing water and birdsong, with each step bringing a sense of peace and release to the soul. If you love nature and enjoy being surrounded by greenery, Oirase Gorge is a destination you cannot miss. Whether you're seeking inner peace or experiencing the purity of life, this place will fulfill all your imaginations of nature.

🔥 Recommended Points A beautiful lake with high transparency!! While it's great to view it from the surroundings, we highly recommend experiencing it through a sightseeing boat or canoe! 📝 Travel Record I joined a sightseeing tour on a boat instead of a canoe. I was moved by the beauty that seemed unreal! The clear water and the pleasant breeze. My eyes were constantly delighted. This is the best memory of my trip to Aomori. -------------------------------------------- 📍 Lake Towada 〒018-5501 Towada City, Okuse, Aomori Prefecture, Towadako-han

🔥 Recommended Points A natural paradise with beautiful streams and waterfalls! Enjoyable hiking trails for everyone. 📝 Travel Record Strolling along the stream while soaking up the negative ions. The lush greenery and the sound of waterfalls were soothing and refreshing. There were quite a few tourists parking on the road, but please use the parking lot! -------------------------------------------- 📍 Oirase Gorge 034-0301 Okuse, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture