31 Tourist Attractions Around Mount Hakkoda in Aomori Prefecture | Full of Charm, From Popular Spots to Hidden Gems

The area around Mount Hakkoda in Aomori Prefecture is full of recommended tourist spots, including scenic driving routes, natural attractions, hot springs, and historical museums. Starting from Aomori Airport or JR Shin-Aomori Station, you can explore the popular Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line driving route, which represents Aomori, connecting Mount Hakkoda to Lake Towada. Here, we introduce 31 must-see attractions along this route.

In spring, enjoy the “Snow Corridor”; in summer, the lush greenery and blooming alpine plants; in autumn, the mountains ablaze with colorful foliage; and in winter, the spectacular ice formations and skiing. The charm of this area lies in its seasonal delights. No matter when you visit, you’ll discover a new side of Hakkoda, allowing you to refresh your senses while surrounded by nature’s stunning landscapes.

1. Mount Hakkoda

Mount Hakkoda Autumn Foliage The name Mount Hakkoda does not refer to a single mountain but is a collective name for 18 peaks, including the main peak Mount Odake at an elevation of 1,585 meters. The mountains of Hakkoda have conical or trapezoidal shapes, with each mountain beautifully spreading its skirts. As a result, there are many rivers, and the upper reaches are dotted with beautiful waterfalls and valleys. A characteristic feature is the abundance of fumarole remains and hot springs, remnants of volcanic activity.

Up to around 1,000 meters in elevation, beech trees dominate, while higher up, you’ll find conifers like the Aomori fir. Beyond 1,400 meters, the area becomes alpine, with dwarf trees such as the Japanese rowan and Miyama alder.

Mount Hakkoda Snow Corridor The most attractive aspect of Hakkoda sightseeing is its breathtaking views. From the "Snow Corridor" in spring to the fresh greenery of summer, the autumn foliage, and the rime ice in winter, you can enjoy the rare seasonal landscapes, making it a prime spot for tourism.

Aomori Mount Hakkoda Kinnashidaira For those who want to easily experience Hakkoda’s natural beauty, the Hakkoda Ropeway is a great option. Around the summit station of the Hakkoda Ropeway, there’s the Hakkoda Gold Line, a wetland area where even beginners can enjoy hiking while taking in alpine plants and autumn foliage.

From here, you can also enjoy easy trekking or mountaineering. The Kinnashidaira Paradise Line is recommended for beginners, offering a 2.5-hour trek from the Hakkoda Ropeway Summit Station to the Sukayu Hot Spring. For those seeking more of a challenge, the Odake Mountaineering Course, which traverses Akakura-dake, Ido-dake, and Mount Odake to Sukayu Hot Spring, takes about 4 hours.

2. Hakkoda Ropeway

Hakkoda Ropeway Winter Rime Ice The charm of the Hakkoda area lies in its magnificent nature. Most of it is designated as Towada National Park, and the area from Lake Towada to Mount Hakkoda is particularly noted for its striking seasonal changes.

The Hakkoda Ropeway provides access to natural tourist attractions in the Hakkoda area and offers spectacular views during the ride. It connects the mountain base station, located at about 670 meters elevation, with the summit station at about 1,320 meters, covering a vertical distance of about 650 meters and a total length of 2,500 meters in around 10 minutes.

Hakkoda Ropeway Autumn Foliage Below, you can see trees in all their seasonal colors. Whether it’s the autumn foliage or winter rime ice, Hakkoda is full of charm depending on the season. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Hakkoda mountain range, Tsugaru Fuji, the Tsugaru Plain, Aomori City, the Tsugaru Peninsula, Mutsu Bay, and even the Shimokita Peninsula.

The summit area around Tamoyachidake is a treasure trove of alpine plants, with numerous ponds and marshes scattered throughout. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy Hakkoda’s stunning scenery while taking a leisurely walk.

3. Jogakura Bridge

The Jogakura Bridge in Hakkoda is Japan's largest overhead arch bridge. With a total length of about 360 meters and an arch span of about 255 meters, this bridge was built to connect the previously impassable Jogakura Gorge in Hakkoda. Today, it is one of Aomori's premier driving routes through Hakkoda and is popular with tourists visiting the area.

The bridge rises about 122 meters above the riverbed. Below the bridge are the sheer cliffs of Jogakura Gorge, and in the distance, you can see the Hakkoda mountain range, Aomori City, and even Mount Iwaki, making it a stunning scenic spot in Hakkoda. If you want to see the beautiful autumn foliage in Hakkoda, mid-October is recommended.

The beech, oak, maple, and Japanese white birch trees dyed in beautiful autumn colors are breathtaking. Jogakura Gorge is also one of the most scenic spots within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, so it’s worth visiting even outside of the autumn foliage season. Access is about 85 minutes by rental car from Aomori Station. Autumn and winter visits can be especially cold, so be sure to dress warmly. Both ends of the bridge have parking lots and restrooms, making it a convenient stop during a drive through Hakkoda.

4. Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line

Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line The Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line is the name given to National Route 103 and 102, which connect Aomori City, Mount Hakkoda, Oirase Gorge, and Lake Towada. This scenic driving route allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hakkoda, including the northernmost mountain range on Honshu, Mount Hakkoda, and the stunning Oirase Gorge.

The recommended route is the southern side of Hakkoda. Since you drive through a forested area with numerous hairpin curves, you can enjoy the fresh greenery in summer and the autumn foliage in fall, experiencing the changing seasons of Hakkoda. In particular, the areas around Sukayu Hot Spring and Sarukura Hot Spring are perfect for enjoying the autumn colors while driving.

Another characteristic of the Hakkoda route is that it passes by several of Aomori’s famous hot springs and tourist spots. If you plan to stop by places like the Hakkoda Ropeway, Hakkoda Resort Hotel, or Kayano Highland, be sure to take advantage of this scenic driving route for your sightseeing.

One thing to note is that the Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line has a winter closure period. Due to the heavy snowfall, the route is usually closed from late November to early spring. Around late March to early April, as signs of spring start to appear in Hakkoda, a Hakkoda Walk event is held just before the Gold Line reopens, where you can walk through the snow corridor, which can reach up to 10 meters high. It’s a unique experience to witness Hakkoda’s heavy snowfall firsthand.

5. Tashirotai Marshland

Mount Hakkoda, with its numerous wetlands, is also famous as a treasure trove of wetland plants. One of the most recommended spots is Tashirotai Marshland, the largest marshland in Hakkoda, located in the back of Hakkoda. With excellent visibility, visitors can enjoy a dynamic natural panorama filled with a variety of blooming flowers.

Centered around marsh plants like Numagaya (a type of sedge) and Yachiyanagi (dwarf willows), there is a rich variety of wetland plants to enjoy throughout the year. From June to July, visitors can see fluffy white cotton grass, as well as Himeshakunage and Rengetsubaki flowers. In summer, the marshland is blanketed with Nikko-kisuge lilies and Kinkouka (bog asphodel), transforming the entire area into a sea of golden color. Signs of autumn come early, and by August, white Umebachiso flowers begin to bloom. By late September to mid-October, the beautifully colored Hakkoda mountain range becomes a spectacular sight to behold.

The entire marshland can be walked around in about 60 minutes. A wooden boardwalk approximately 1,500 meters long is well-maintained, making it a safe destination even for those who are not accustomed to trekking. However, some areas may be muddy, so it’s recommended to wear shoes that can get wet.

Close to Tashirotai Marshland is the popular Hakkoda Onsen hot spring, which is also recommended for a relaxing soak after sightseeing. The combination of the beautiful wetland scenery and a refreshing hot spring bath makes for a truly memorable experience.

6. Gudari Marsh

Southwest of Tashirotai Marshland, after walking through grasslands for a while, you will come across Gudari Marsh, a spring-fed clear stream. It is known as a hidden gem among the locals, recognized for its beauty. The marsh is home to a species of aquatic plant called Baikamo, which blooms with white flowers in the summer. It is also said to be home to rare planaria.

Although the path is not well-maintained and can be somewhat hard to find, its growing beauty has been attracting more visitors in recent years. Be cautious, as the area before descending to Gudari Marsh has rough footing. Visitors can bring a water bottle and collect some of the spring water to take home.

7. Jigoku Numa (Hell Pond)

Jigoku Numa is a tourist spot in Hakkoda, formed from a hot spring that bubbles up from a former explosion crater. With hot springs exceeding 90 degrees Celsius, steam rises year-round. Occasionally, you can see bubbles on the surface, and there are numerous Entry Beyond This Point Prohibited signs, indicating the dangerous nature of the area. True to its name, the pond looks hellish, yet it is a remarkably beautiful tourist spot in Hakkoda.

Jigoku Numa offers a serene atmosphere, with the contrasting backdrop of Mount Odake towering behind it. Autumn foliage begins in early October, adding even more beauty to the scene despite the pond’s ominous name.

It’s about a 5-minute walk from Sukayu Hot Spring in the direction of Lake Towada. There is a promenade from Sukayu Hot Spring, and the pond is easy to find as it faces a large road. If you’re staying at Sukayu Hot Spring or enjoy desolate landscapes, this is a highly recommended spot. Near Jigoku Numa is the Hakkoda Branch of Tohoku University Botanical Garden, which is free to enter, making it another enjoyable sightseeing option.

8. Kayano Highland

Kayano Highland, located at the northern foothills of Mount Hakkoda, is a highland area spread out at an elevation of around 500 meters. It offers a panoramic view of the Hakkoda mountains, including Mount Tamoyachidake (where the Hakkoda Ropeway summit station is located) and Maedake in northern Hakkoda.

In early summer, the highland is covered in lush green grass, creating a refreshing, open atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for picnicking and hiking, making it a favorite relaxation spot for the citizens of Aomori. It’s also an excellent place for autumn sightseeing, where you can enjoy the vibrant autumn colors of Mount Hakkoda up close.

At the entrance to the highland, Kayano Tea House offers free Sanbai Tea, known for its longevity benefits. It’s available for free at various rest stops, making it a perfect refreshment during a hiking break.

9. Suiren Numa (Water Lily Swamp)

Suiren Numa is a group of marshes located on the southern side of Mount Hakkoda. The name Suiren Numa comes from the fact that water lilies (Ezo Hitsuji-gusa) naturally grow here. The marshes are situated at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, and from spring to autumn, you can see the beautiful alpine plants of Hakkoda. The sight of alpine plants blooming en masse with the Hakkoda Mountains in the background is especially impressive. In early June, Mizubasho (Japanese skunk cabbage) blooms, followed by cotton grass in early summer and water lilies in summer.

For those who wish to see the beauty of the water’s surface, visiting in early June is recommended. The water is still cold, making the lake surface as smooth as a mirror. The blooming Mizubasho and the snow-capped Hakkoda peaks combine to create a breathtaking view. The autumn foliage also peaks in early October, making it another ideal time to visit.

Suiren Numa is located along the Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line (National Route 103). There are signs along the road to guide you. On the way, you can also stop by Kasanagidake Pass, which is another famous spot for autumn foliage in Hakkoda.

It is also recommended to visit during the Snow Corridor period in early April, after the winter road closures are lifted. Even after Route 103 reopens in April, Suiren Numa remains covered in more than 6 meters of snow. You can climb the snow corridor using the ropes set up there and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful snow walls, making it one of the top scenic spots in Hakkoda.

10. Tsutanuma (Tsuta Seven Lakes)

Tsuta Seven Lakes is a collective name for seven mystical lakes that offer enchanting scenery throughout the seasons. The lakes include the largest, Tsutanuma, as well as Kagaminuma, Tsukinuma, Naganuma, Suganuma, Hyotanuma, and Akonuma, which is slightly farther away. A walking trail called Numameguri Path is available around six of the lakes (excluding Akonuma), allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely 90-minute walk around the lakeshores.

Tsuta Seven Lakes is a popular spot for photography, with trees extending over the lakes, dead trees standing in the water, sunken logs, aquatic plants, and floating islands, offering various scenic views while walking along the shores.

Among these, Tsutanuma is especially popular, even featured by JR East Japan. The lake surface is as smooth as a mirror, surrounded by a primeval beech forest known as the Towada Jukai. In autumn, both the forest and the lake surface turn a vivid red, making it one of the most stunning sightseeing spots in the Aomori-Oirase area. The best time for autumn foliage is from mid-October to late October, and the lake surface turns even more crimson during sunrise.

Tsuta Wild Bird Forest is a well-maintained forest known for its birdwatching. If you enjoy birdwatching or hiking, this is a must-visit spot. The trail can be accessed about 10 minutes from the parking lot of the Tsuta Onsen Ryokan.

11. Tohoku University Botanical Garden, Hakkoda Branch

Tohoku University Botanical Garden, Hakkoda Branch, is a perfect sightseeing spot from early summer to autumn. As a botanical garden managed by Tohoku University, it houses around 600 species of alpine plants. The garden has an observation trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete, allowing visitors to explore at a leisurely pace while learning about the plants, which are all labeled. It feels like a Hakkoda Outdoor Plant Encyclopedia.

The best season for flowers is from June to August, with late June offering a particularly beautiful sight of fluffy cotton grass in bloom, providing a stunning Hakkoda landscape. The opportunity to see rare alpine plants in the wetland areas is a major attraction for tourists.

The garden is about a 40-minute drive from the Kuroishi IC on the Tohoku Expressway, and it’s a 5-minute walk from Sukayu Hot Spring in the direction of Lake Towada. Admission is free, making it an easy stop during your stay at one of the Hakkoda inns. Nearby is another tourist spot, Jigoku Numa, so be sure to visit that as well.

12. Sukayu Onsen

The Hakkoda-Towada area, nurtured by the rich natural beauty of the mountains, is renowned for its many hot spring sources. Sukayu Onsen is a hot spring inn located on the western foothills of Hakkoda Odake.

As the name suggests, its water quality is an acidic sulfur spring, known for its wide range of health benefits, including relief from rheumatism, neuralgia, and asthma. Situated at an altitude of approximately 900 meters, near the boundary between the beech and Aomori fir zones, it offers a scenic hot spring experience surrounded by the ever-changing beauty of Hakkoda’s natural landscapes throughout the seasons.

Sukayu Onsen is famous for its “Hiba Sennin Buro” (Hiba Thousand-Person Bath). This expansive bath, crafted from Aomori Hiba (one of Japan’s three great forests), is an impressive 160 tatami mats in size, providing an exceptional sense of openness. The bath area is divided into four types of baths sourced from different springs: Atsu-no-Yu (hot bath), Hie-no-Yu (cool bath), Shiburokubu-no-Yu (moderate bath), and Yutaki (waterfall bath).

The Sennin Buro is primarily a mixed-gender bath, but women can feel more comfortable by purchasing a “Yuami” bathing garment at the adjoining souvenir shop. Additionally, there are women-only hours from 8:00 to 9:00 in both the morning and afternoon. For women who feel hesitant, even with the bathing garment, these designated hours are recommended for a more relaxed experience.

13. Hakkoda Onsen

Nugudamari no Sato Hakkoda Onsen is a hidden hot spring in the Hakkoda area.

Ramune no Yu is a natural carbonated acidic sulfur spring with a strong antibacterial effect. The carbon dioxide promotes blood circulation, and the bubbles that form on your skin while soaking make it a fun experience. "Ryujin no Yu" is a neutral, cloudy bath rich in sodium, calcium sulfur, and carbonated bicarbonate. "Miruku no Yu" is a milky white beauty bath with acidic, carbon dioxide-containing sulfur, calcium, ammonium sulfate, and chloride. The outdoor bath "Hakkoda Motoyu" features a spring with acidic, sulfur-containing calcium, aluminum sulfate, and chloride, with "yuno-hana" (mineral deposits) floating in it. Each bath has its own unique qualities, making them popular.

True to its reputation as a hidden hot spring, the surroundings are filled with the great nature of Hakkoda. The bath at Ryujin no Yu uses wood that is over 200 years old, giving the atmosphere of being lost in the Hakkoda forest, a charm unique to this onsen. In particular, soaking in the bath while gazing at Mount Hakkoda in the early morning is an extraordinary experience. Although the onsen opened in 1964, the bathing facilities have been renovated, and the guest rooms, equipped with washlet toilets, offer a comfortable stay.

14. Jogakura Onsen

Hotel Jogakura is located about 3 minutes east by car from Jogakura Bridge. Renovated in 2010, the building has a Nordic-style design. Surrounded by a primeval beech forest, it is a resort-style onsen.

The main attraction of this hotel is its open-air bath, which is available year-round. While many outdoor baths in Hakkoda close during winter, Hotel Jogakura is the only hotel in the Hakkoda area where you can enjoy an open-air bath all year long. The interior is decorated with beautiful furnishings and artworks, creating a unique atmosphere that feels like a mountain resort hotel abroad. As a luxury resort in the Hakkoda area, it never fails to meet tourists' expectations.

The hotel is about a 50-minute drive from Aomori Airport and about 40 minutes from the Aomori IC. It also offers free shuttle services from Aomori Station and Aomori Airport.

15. Motoyu Sarukura Onsen

Motoyu Sarukura Onsen boasts five abundant natural hot springs, offering 100% natural spring water. Three of these springs supply hot water to Yakeyama Onsen on the shores of Lake Towada. Located on the southern slope of Mount Hakkoda, deeper into the mountains than Sukayu Onsen, this mountain lodge-style inn is perfect for a rustic retreat.

The baths include a small outdoor hot spring, a spacious indoor bath, private baths, and a hot spring sauna. The outdoor bath is nestled in nature, ideal for those who want to enjoy a wild bathing experience. It's a great place to unwind after exploring Aomori. With its convenient location as a base for hiking in the southern Hakkoda Mountains, it also offers local, seasonal dishes such as grilled fish paired with bone sake.

16. Yachi Onsen & Yachi Marshland

Yachi Onsen, with a history spanning 400 years, is counted as one of Japan’s three hidden hot springs. This solitary inn in the mountains boasts a charmingly old wooden building, creating a perfect traditional atmosphere. Known as a place for therapeutic bathing, Yachi Onsen offers two types of spring waters with distinct benefits.

The waters at Yachi Onsen include the 42°C cloudy Upper Spring and the 38°C "Lower Spring," known as the sacred spring. A unique feature of Yachi Onsen is that the water gushes directly from the ground beneath the bath, creating a bubbling sensation beneath your feet.

In addition to overnight stays, the onsen offers reasonably priced day-use bathing, available from 10:00 to 17:00, making it a convenient stop for sightseeing. Although the baths are busier during the day, guests staying overnight can enjoy a quieter soak after 6:00 p.m. A wooden path leading to Yachi Marshland is located right in front of the inn, making it a convenient base for nature exploration. The marshland is especially beautiful in spring when Mizubasho (skunk cabbage) blooms in clusters, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning scenery while sightseeing.

Yachi Marshland is a precious area where most of the wetland plants found in the Hakkoda region can be observed. While entering the marshland directly is prohibited, the panoramic views of Hakkoda from the observation deck and boardwalk in front of Yachi Onsen are magnificent. The boardwalk offers easy routes such as a 15-minute loop around Yakushi Pond, or longer courses of about 2 km.

The best time to enjoy the view from the boardwalk is when Mizubasho blooms around Yakushi Pond. You can also observe other wetland plants and animals, so enjoy exploring Hakkoda while you’re here. The "spring-fed pond" on the boardwalk is right in front of Yachi Onsen, so be sure to stop by if you're visiting this hidden gem of Aomori’s Hakkoda region.

17. Tsuta Onsen

Tsuta Onsen Ryokan, founded in 1909 (Meiji 41), is an old hot spring inn. Referred to as a Thousand-Year Hidden Hot Spring, its history dates back to the Heian period. Nestled in a lush beech forest in the Hakkoda Mountains, it offers a quiet and peaceful retreat with a charming retro atmosphere, making it popular with tourists who appreciate nostalgia.

The main attraction of Tsuta Onsen is its foot-soaking natural hot spring, where the bath is positioned directly over the hot spring source, allowing you to feel the bubbles rising from the bottom of the tub. The concept of the inn is Forest Time, and though the space is small, it’s enveloped in the scent of wood, creating a rustic ambiance that enhances the exceptional quality of the hot water. A unique feature is the tank inside the bathhouse, where you can see river fish from the Hakkoda area swimming.

Travel writer Keigetsu Omachi also loved Tsuta Onsen, spending his final years here. Tsuta Onsen is conveniently located near the Tsuta Seven Lakes walking trail, making it a great base for Hakkoda sightseeing.

18. Hakkoda Hotel

Hakkoda Hotel is a luxury resort located on the southern slope of Mount Hakkoda. Known for being one of the largest Western-style wooden structures in Japan, it is constructed extensively with Aomori Hiba wood, one of Japan's three finest timbers. The fragrant aroma of Aomori Hiba wood provides an excellent relaxation and aromatherapy effect, making the hot springs an exceptional experience.

The large communal bath features large windows offering panoramic views of the untouched beech forests and other natural landscapes of Hakkoda. Only hotel guests can use the bath, as day-use bathing is not available. The hot spring water is acidic, containing iron, aluminum sulfate, and chloride. Guests can also enjoy the baths at the sister hotel, Sukayu Onsen, with a shuttle bus service available.

The Hakkoda Hotel, surrounded by forest, is designed like a log house, and rooms are available in maisonette and special suite types. The hotel offers a tranquil retreat where you can relax in a serene room while enjoying the seasonal landscapes of Hakkoda, from fresh greenery to autumn foliage. With its exceptional combination of hot springs, food, and natural surroundings, it is a top-notch resort experience.

19. Michinoku Fukazawa Onsen

Michinoku Fukazawa Onsen is recommended for hot spring connoisseurs. Unlike grand hotels or inns, this is a modest and rustic onsen inn. It is family-run, giving it a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The simplicity of the inn accentuates the quality of its hot spring water.

There are two types of indoor baths: hot and lukewarm. The abundance of hot spring water is evident, with water constantly overflowing from the baths. There is also an open-air bath, a rock bath surrounded by the greenery of beech and birch trees. The men's and women's baths are uniquely separated by just a single bamboo screen. Unlike other hot springs in Hakkoda, this one hasn’t been commercialized, which is part of its charm. It’s a place where you can enjoy a close connection with the local community. Day-use bathing is also available, so be sure to stop by if you are in the area.

20. Manju Fukashi

Manjufukashi is not a typical hot spring where you soak in water, but a unique spot where you can enjoy the warmth of a hot spring while remaining fully clothed. It is also known as Childbirth Hot Spring or Rejuvenation Hot Spring.

Visitors sit on a wooden box where hot spring steam flows, warming their bodies from the bottom up. A small hut nearby releases large amounts of steam. The space can accommodate around 10 people, allowing visitors to enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water and the warmth of the steam together.

Manjufukashi is about a 10-minute walk from Sukayu Onsen, located just across from Jigoku Numa. It’s also near Tohoku University’s Hakkoda Botanical Garden, so it’s a great stop if you’re exploring the Hakkoda area.

21. Hakkoda Mountain Snow March Disaster Museum

The Hakkoda-Towada area is steeped in Aomori’s tradition, history, and culture. The Hakkoda Mountain Snow March Distress Memorial Museum showcases the largest tragedy in mountaineering history, the Hakkoda Mountain Snow March Distress Incident, through factual exhibits and explanations. The building is Renaissance-style, modeled after the barracks of the Fifth Infantry Regiment Headquarters. Inside, displays cover the background of the incident, the equipment and clothing of the time, and the stories of the soldiers who survived, all shown through panels and videos. It offers a deep insight into the tragic event that occurred about 100 years ago.

Next to the museum is the Kōbata Army Cemetery, where you can see the gravestones of the soldiers who perished in the snow march. The area around the museum is maintained like a park, with the city’s historic and natural monument, Tairyomatsu, and Somei-Yoshino cherry trees planted nearby. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, as if to mark the end of winter for the soldiers.

When you think of Mount Hakkoda, many may recall the movie Mount Hakkoda, starring famous actors like Ken Takakura and Kinya Kitaoji. Although the movie mixes fiction with the real snow march incident, it is said that the actors endured severe frostbite during the harsh filming in the freezing cold of Hakkoda.

22. Statue in Memory of the Snow March Disaster

The Snow March Distress Memorial Statue is located on a small hill that can be reached after a short climb from the parking lot along Route 40.

This statue is a bronze figure related to the snow march disaster on Mount Hakkoda. Of the 210 soldiers who participated in the snow march in January 1902 (Meiji 35), only 11 survived. The statue depicts Fusanosuke Goto, who became a landmark for rescuers when he was found standing in a near-death state during the blizzard. Erected at the site of the disaster, this statue serves as a reminder of the tragic events of that time. After visiting the statue, you can also stop by the nearby museum to pay respects to the fallen soldiers.

23. Hakkoda International Ski Area

Hakkoda International Ski Area is one of Japan's premier mountain ski resorts. Starting from the summit of Mount Tamoyachidake, where the Hakkoda Ropeway’s summit park station is located, the resort offers five courses. Skiers can enjoy Hakkoda's natural slopes, with the 5-kilometer-long "Forest Course" being especially popular among intermediate and advanced skiers.

With the ropeway providing easy access, the resort is known for its stunning views, including the beautiful rime ice formations, beech forests, and distant views of the Tsugaru and Shimokita Peninsulas. The ski season is long, running from mid-December to mid-May, and the resort is only about a 40-minute drive from Aomori City, making it highly accessible. There are also accommodations with hot springs nearby, allowing visitors to fully enjoy Hakkoda’s winter sports experience.

24. Oirase Gorge

Oirase Gorge is a 14-kilometer-long stream flowing from Lake Towada, covered in deep natural forest. Designated as a national natural monument and a special scenic spot, the beautiful stream winds through moss-covered rocks, creating a picturesque scene. It is one of Aomori’s most famous tourist destinations. The cliffs on either side of the stream are made of welded tuff formed from pumice and volcanic ash, and their grandeur, combined with the fresh greenery or autumn foliage, creates a spectacular landscape.

There is a walking path along the gorge, making it ideal for exploring on foot and experiencing the power of nature. It’s recommended to focus on key areas rather than walking the entire 14 kilometers.

Oirase Gorge is divided into three areas: the 5-kilometer Lower Area from Yakeyama to Sanran no Nagare, the 2.5-kilometer Middle Area from Sanran no Nagare to Kumoi Falls, and the 7.5-kilometer Upper Area from Kumoi Falls to Nenokuchi. For first-time visitors, the Middle Area, which includes famous spots like the "Ashura no Nagare," is highly recommended.

25. Choshi Otaki

Choshi Otaki is a large waterfall located in the upper area of Oirase Gorge. Since fish cannot swim upstream beyond this waterfall, it is also called Uodome no Taki (Fish Stop Waterfall). It is an impressive waterfall, about 20 meters wide and with a drop of about 7 meters, with a powerful flow that creates a majestic spray of water.
The best time to visit is during the season when snowmelt swells the water flow in spring. Although there are several waterfalls in the upper area, Choshi Otaki is the only one that flows directly into Oirase Gorge. There is a parking lot near the waterfall, making it an easy spot to visit. Stairs next to the waterfall allow you to view it from both the top and the bottom.
The waterfall is also beautiful during the autumn foliage season, and in winter, visitors can see the frozen waterfall, attracting many tourists throughout the year. If you have time, take a walk downstream along the path and enjoy more waterfalls with greater drops along the way.

26. Oirase Stream Museum

Oirase Stream Museum is a convenient starting point for exploring Oirase Stream. It offers various tourist services such as light meals, souvenirs, guide maps, and even bicycle rentals for trekking or cycling. It also serves as a rest stop for those driving through the area.
Inside the museum, there are models and exhibits about Oirase, providing a great opportunity to learn about the region. A model of the area surrounding

Lake Towada is available, allowing visitors to simulate the views from various observation points. The museum highlights key attractions like waterfalls, making it a helpful resource for planning your trip.

Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities such as making cute moss balls or crafting "hyotan" (gourd) lamps using gourds from Oirase. These make for wonderful souvenirs of your Oirase adventure.

27. Hakkoda Rest Farm

Hakkoda Rest Farm is a city-view multi-purpose farm in the Hakkoda area. It features a grassy multipurpose plaza with a permanent dome for rainy days, making it an ideal spot for picnics, camping, or barbecues while enjoying the refreshing nature.

The animal park offers opportunities to interact with ponies and sheep, and there are attractions such as a mini-golf course and a remote-control car track. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure that the whole family can enjoy in Hakkoda, this is a great option.

If you get hungry, head to Makiba Restaurant in the rest house. Here you can savor Hakkoda Beef, a rare specialty from Aomori, delicious gelato, and authentic stone-baked pizza. As the restaurant specializes in barbecue, it’s a great alternative to bringing your own equipment.

28. Lake Towada

Lake Towada, one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Aomori, is a double caldera lake formed around 200,000 years ago. It has a surface area of about 61 square kilometers, a circumference of 46 kilometers, making it Japan's 12th largest lake. With a maximum depth of about 327 meters, it is the third deepest lake in the country. The lake sits at an elevation of around 400 meters, and the Oirase Stream flows out from it.

The lake's beautiful deep blue surface, designated as a national natural conservation area, offers breathtaking scenery. In addition to the view from various observation points, the best way to appreciate the scenery is from a sightseeing boat that departs from Nenokuchi and Yasumiya. On the boat, you can see the deepest part of the lake called Nakanoumi, the Kokonoeura area with stones arranged like a Japanese garden, and the Goshikiraiwa (Five-colored Rock).

The best times to visit are from May to June for fresh greenery and from early to late October for autumn foliage.

29. Kankodai (Lake View Terrace)

Kankodai is a recommended observation point for sightseeing at Lake Towada. Located along National Route 103, between Utarube and Yasumiya, it offers a stunning view of Nakanoumi (the middle lake), framed by the Oomikura and Nakayama Peninsulas.

The main highlight is the view of the two peninsulas reflected on Nakanoumi. Situated on a cliff at an elevation of 583 meters, it allows visitors to see the thousand-meter cliff of the Oomikura Peninsula and the Goshikiraiwa, as well as the ridges of the Nakayama Peninsula, all changing with the seasons. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a family of sorrows (Japanese wild goats) in this nature-filled location.

30. Shimeitei Observation Deck

Shimeitei Observation Deck is located near the border between Towada City in Aomori Prefecture and Kosaka Town in Akita Prefecture. Situated at an altitude of about 630 meters, it offers a view of Lake Towada from the south side, providing a panoramic view of the Nishiko (West Lake), Nakayama Peninsula, and Oomikura Peninsula.

Since there are relatively fewer tourists visiting Lake Towada from the Aomori side, this spot is perfect for those who want to quietly enjoy the beauty of the lake. The Nishiko, seen from this vantage point, is heart-shaped, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts. There is also a stone monument next to the observation deck, erected in 1927 to commemorate Lake Towada being selected as one of the "New Eight Scenic Wonders of Japan" in the lakes and marshes category.

31. Ohanabe Mountain Observation Deck

Ohanabe Mountain Observation Deck is a sightseeing spot where you can view Lake Towada from the north side. Standing at an altitude of about 1,011 meters, it is one of the highest observation decks around Lake Towada. The deck offers a clear view of the Nakanoumi Lake between the Oomikura Peninsula and Nakayama Peninsula. On clear days, you can also see spectacular views of Mount Iwate, Hachimantai, and Tsugaru Fuji (Mount Iwaki).

To reach the observation deck, follow National Route 102 from Konokuchi towards Hirosaki. After climbing a steep slope called Nanamagari, you'll find a large parking lot that can accommodate about 100 cars. It is an easy-to-access observation deck located close to the national road.

◎ Summary of Tourist Spots Around Mount Hakkoda

When you think of Aomori Prefecture, the Nebuta Festival might come to mind first, but for those looking to enjoy nature and hot springs, there’s no better place than the Hakkoda area. Even if you’re concerned about winter driving conditions, you can rely on the Gold Line, which connects Aomori City to Lake Towada, making access safe and enjoyable. While taking in the snowy landscapes during a scenic drive, you can fully explore the many attractions around Hakkoda.

As the northernmost prefecture of Honshu, Aomori offers delicious seafood and mountain produce. With abundant hot spring resorts and natural attractions, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of experiences.