1-Day Aomori Tour, Hirosaki Castle and Takayama Inari Shrine

Aomori , Japan

1-Day Aomori Tour, Hirosaki Castle and Takayama Inari Shrine

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the Tohoku region's Aomori Prefecture with a visit to Hirosaki Castle, one of Japan's important cultural properties; Takayama Inari Shrine, known for the stunning sight of rows of vermilion torii gates; and experience the impressive Neputa festival floats on this 1-day tour in Aomori. An unforgettable trip awaits.
With your comfort in mind, a hired car will be used to visit each destination. Feel free to relax while relishing the scenery from the windows while traveling. There will be an accompanying National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter throughout the entire itinerary for customers to be able to appreciate all the beautiful sights, things to do, and culture.
Revel in a rich experience while getting to know the local region's climate and culture. The tour is also recommended for repeat visitors to Japan. Fully enjoy the remarkable charms of Aomori Prefecture in the region of Tohoku.

Available options

1-Day Aomori Tour, Hirosaki Castle and Takayama Inari Shrine

What's included

National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter fee

Lunch

Transportation costs

Admission fees

Detailed itinerary

Located in Hirosaki Park, Hirosaki Castle features Japan's northernmost extant main keep, and is a designated important cultural property. With approximately 2,600 cherry trees of 52 varieties, Hirosaki Park is considered one of Japan's top 3 cherry blossom spots, but it also flaunts beautiful colors in autumn with about a thousand maple trees and the fall foliage of the cherry trees. In winter, look forward to scenery unlike any other as the roofs of the castle, normally of a greenish blue hue, are draped in snow.

You can here experience the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan, all year round. Enjoy seeing not only the impressive Neputa festival floats, but also Tsugaru's traditional crafts and a garden with Oishi Bugaku-ryu style of landscaping that is a Registered Monument of Japan.

Enjoy Japanese-style lunch. "Kenoshiru,” which is made by chopping radishes and carrots into small pieces and simmering them in Tsugaru Miso, and ‘Miso Grilled Shell Scallops’ of scallops from Mutsu Bay, You can enjoy local dishes representing Tsugaru in Aomori Prefecture with rice cooked in the restaurant's kamado. Vegetarian meals are available and must be requested at the time of booking.

While Kyoto has the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine famous for its thousands of torii gates called Senbon Torii, Aomori has its own Takayama Inari Shrine. Countless vermilion torii gates are lined up, creating a mysterious, otherworldly space. It is said that the shrine is home to gods bringing blessings for bountiful harvests, maritime safety, and business prosperity.

What's not included

Fees other than those listed in Includes

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The order of activities and arrival times may differ on the day depending on reasons such as road conditions and congestion at destinations.

Depending on the number of tour participants, transportation to be used may be changed to a hired car, taxi, etc. Seats may not be designated.

Children up to 5 years old may join free of charge, but will not be provided with vehicle seats and lunch. If vehicle seats or lunch are required, please make a booking under the child rate.

As suitcases, etc. cannot be brought during the tour, please have them delivered in advance, or leave them in a locker or at your hotel before participating.

Snowfall is expected in winter. Wearing snow boots or other shoes that protect against snow is recommended.

Vegetarian meals are available for lunch and must be requested at the time of booking. If requests are not provided in advance, same-day changes cannot be accepted.

Allergy-friendly meals, gluten-free meals, etc. are not available.

Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour.

Tour's total duration is 9 hours, although the total duration listed in the itinerary is 4 hours 10 minutes. The remaining hours are allotted for travel time.

Meeting point

Please meet in front of JR East Travel Service Center inside the Aomori Station building by 7:50am. The tour departs at 8:00am. Your English-speaking guide will be waiting for you, holding a sign with the 'Sunrise Tours' logo.

Important notes

• If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.
• In case bookings have been made separately, you may be assigned to be on separate tour buses/minivans.

About Aomori

Aomori, the capital of Aomori Prefecture, is known for its vibrant festivals, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese charm and modern attractions, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse

This museum showcases the history and art of the famous Nebuta Festival, featuring impressive floating festival floats and interactive exhibits.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (¥800-¥1,500)

Aomori Bay Area

A scenic area with beautiful views of the bay, parks, and walking trails. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Asamushi Onsen

A historic hot spring resort with a rich history dating back to the Heian period. The area is known for its relaxing onsen (hot spring) baths and traditional ryokan (inns).

Religious Half day to overnight Moderate to Expensive (¥1,000-¥10,000 depending on activities and accommodations)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Aomori Ramen (Asamushi Ramen)

A local ramen variety with a miso-based broth and corn, butter, and chicken as key ingredients. It's known for its rich, creamy flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Gindara (Black Cod)

Aomori is famous for its high-quality black cod, often grilled and served with a sweet soy-based sauce.

Dinner Gluten-free if sauce is adjusted

Popular Activities

Hiking in Shirakami-Sanchi Skiing in the winter Soaking in onsen (hot springs) Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and historical sites Experiencing local festivals Boating in Aomori Bay Skiing and snowboarding

Best Time to Visit

Late spring to early autumn (May to October)

This is the best time to visit Aomori for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city hosts its famous Nebuta Festival in August, attracting many visitors.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Aomori is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Getting there

By air

Aomori Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Aomori Station

By bus

Aomori Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Aomori. Buses are reliable and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Aomori Aomori Bay Area

Day trips

Hirosaki

30 km from Aomori • Half day to full day

Hirosaki is a charming city known for its beautiful Hirosaki Castle, cherry blossoms, and traditional festivals. It's a great day trip for history and culture enthusiasts.

Shirakami-Sanchi

100 km from Aomori • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient beech forests and stunning natural beauty. It's a great destination for hiking and nature lovers.

Festivals

Nebuta Festival • Early to mid-August Aomori Winter Festival • February

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Try the local specialties, such as Aomori ramen and black cod, for an authentic culinary experience.
Visit the Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse to learn about the festival's history and create your own Nebuta.
Pack layers, as the weather can vary significantly, especially in the winter.
Consider staying in a traditional ryokan for a unique and memorable experience.