Top 6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Ōwani Onsen! Explore the Hidden Gems of Tsugaru’s Inner Sanctum

Located southeast of Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture, Ōwani Onsen has long been cherished as the hidden retreat of the Tsugaru region. Its origins date back to the Kenkyū era (1190–1198), and it is said that even the feudal lords of the Tsugaru clan stopped by during their journeys for sankin-kōtai in the Edo period. With a history spanning over 800 years, the renowned Ōwani Onsen serves as a hub for hot spring therapy, skiing, and Tsugaru tourism, attracting numerous visitors. This article introduces six must-visit tourist spots around Ōwani Onsen, making it a helpful guide for anyone traveling to Aomori Prefecture.

1. Chausuyama Park

Chausuyama Park in Ōwani is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant azaleas. The park features approximately 15,000 azalea plants of around 30 varieties covering its slopes. In May, when the azaleas bloom, the park transforms into a vivid spectacle of red, white, pink, and purple, signaling the arrival of early summer.
At the top of the park is an observation deck offering scenic views of Ōwani Onsen, known for its picturesque charm. Although the climb can be a bit challenging, the thought of relaxing in the hot springs afterward makes it a rewarding experience. In addition to azaleas, the park boasts about 300 species of plants, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful flowers and greenery throughout the seasons.

2. Ōwani Onsen Ski Resort

The Ōwani Onsen Ski Resort is a long-standing favorite among visitors, offering a nostalgic ski experience in the hot spring town. With a rich history, the ski resort has served as the venue for events like national athletic meets and university skiing competitions. Located just a 5-minute drive from Ōwani Onsen Station and the town center, it is easily accessible.
Despite the perception that hot spring ski resorts are often small, Ōwani Onsen Ski Resort features courses for all skill levels, including beginner-friendly family slopes, advanced trails, and long forest courses. With wide and long slopes, skiers of all ages and abilities can enjoy the resort.
The resort also offers value-packed combination plans that include lodging and ski passes, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the ultimate hot spring and skiing combo. Additionally, lift ticket holders can receive discounts at day-use hot spring facilities, making it convenient even for those who opt for a short visit rather than an overnight stay.

3. Ōwani Town Regional Exchange Center "Wanicome"

If you're looking for local specialties from Ōwani Onsen, visit the Ōwani Town Regional Exchange Center "Wanicome," conveniently located just a short walk from Ōwani Onsen Station.
At Wanicome, you can find a variety of regional products unique to Ōwani Onsen, such as the locally grown "Ōwani Onsen Moyashi" (bean sprouts), Tsugaru apples and apple juice, traditional crafts like Tsugaru lacquerware, and Ōwani kokeshi dolls. It's the perfect spot for picking up souvenirs from Ōwani Onsen. Notably, "Ōwani Onsen Moyashi" is a rare bean sprout variety with roots dating back to the Edo period, growing up to 30 cm long. Cultivated using hot spring water in the area’s naturally warm soil, this crop is produced by only a few farmers and was once on the brink of extinction.
Wanicome also features a large day-use hot spring facility, ideal for those looking to relax in spacious baths. Private family baths are also popular and can be reserved by phone on the same day.

4. Daien-ji Temple

Known affectionately as "The Great Sun Buddha of Ōwani," Daien-ji Temple is located in the heart of Ōwani Onsen. This temple originated from Kōhaku-ji, which was established in 1650 by Tsugaru Nobuyoshi, the third lord of the Tsugaru clan, who was particularly fond of Ōwani's hot springs.
While strolling through the town, you can’t miss the striking red-painted buildings of Daien-ji Temple, which leave a vivid impression. Interestingly, the temple’s main hall houses not a statue of Dainichi Nyorai (Great Sun Buddha) as one might expect, but a seated statue of Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha). The reason for this remains unclear, but the Amida Nyorai statue is a masterpiece believed to have been sculpted by a Kyoto artisan during the Kamakura period. It is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is one of Aomori Prefecture's most renowned Buddhist statues. If you’re visiting Ōwani Onsen, make sure to stop by and admire this cultural treasure.

5. Stone Tower

At the southernmost tip of Ōwani Onsen, deep in the mountains near the border with Akita Prefecture, stands the "Stone Tower," a massive rock formation. Measuring 24 meters in height and 74 meters in circumference, this monolithic stone has been a site of pilgrimage for the people of Tsugaru since the Edo period.
Locally, there is an old saying: "You can’t boast unless you’ve seen the Stone Tower." Building on this tradition, the annual "World’s Tallest Tales Contest" (Bankoku Horafuki Taikai) has become a much-anticipated event in June. Participants who visit the Stone Tower receive a "Tall Tale License" (Ōbora Fukimenkyo-sho) and can compete in a storytelling competition where they boast and embellish to their heart’s content. The audience bursts into laughter as outlandish stories unfold, while being treated to a local specialty, Ōwani Onsen moyashi soup—a challenge to enjoy amidst the hilarity.
Reaching the Stone Tower involves driving up the Nigai River from Ōwani Onsen, followed by a 45-minute hike from the red torii marking the trailhead. A bit of effort, but the experience is worth it!

6. Hirosaki Castle

A trip to the Tsugaru region wouldn’t be complete without visiting Hirosaki Castle, one of Japan’s 12 remaining original castles. Easily accessible by the Kōnan Railway or the JR Ōu Main Line, Hirosaki is famous for its castle, which attracts visitors year-round—even outside cherry blossom season.
A classic view of Hirosaki Castle is from below the red-railed Shunyo Bridge, but this iconic shot isn’t currently possible. Due to ongoing restoration work on the stone walls of the castle keep, the structure has been temporarily relocated to the center of the main bailey. This unique placement, where the three-story keep stands quaintly on flat ground, is a rare sight and has a certain charm.
The castle keep is expected to return to its original position around 2025. Until then, visitors can enjoy this unusual view of the historic structure, an opportunity available only now!

Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Ōwani Onsen

Ōwani Town, located in Aomori Prefecture near the Akita border, is surrounded by abundant nature and offers unique events and attractions. With two railway lines and a highway, the area is easily accessible, making it a convenient base for exploring the Tsugaru region. Enjoy the rich history of Ōwani’s hot springs and embark on an unforgettable journey through northeastern Tohoku.