A Journey Through Honshū’s Northernmost Land: 7 Recommended Tourist Spots in the Shimokita Peninsula

Located at the very northern tip of Honshū, the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture is a unique tourist area filled with attractions that can only be found here. From mystical sites like Kōzōzan (a sacred mountain) to storybook-like landscapes such as the rapeseed fields of Yokohama-cho and the cliffs of Shiriya-zaki, there is so much to see. Enjoy delicious tuna, relax in hot springs, play with monkeys and horses, and marvel at the best night views in Aomori… The charms of this area are so abundant that you can hardly see it all in just one day. Here are 7 recommended tourist spots in the Shimokita Peninsula, a land full of appeal.

1. Kōzōzan Spiritual Site

Kōzōzan is one of the premier tourist attractions of the Shimokita Peninsula and is counted as one of Japan’s three major sacred mountains, along with Mt. Hiei in Shiga Prefecture and Mt. Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture. It is said that over 1,000 years ago, in 862 AD, Ennin, the head of the Tendai sect who was training in Tang China, followed a divine vision in his sleep and journeyed to the Shimokita Peninsula to found this spiritual site.

When you hear “Kōzōzan,” many may also think of it in relation to Itako (traditional spirit mediums), who are not present all year but gather from all over Japan during the biannual grand festivals held in summer and autumn. During these festivals, a famous event called “Itako’s Incantation” is performed, drawing many tourists each year.

Although Kōzōzan is bustling with visitors during the festivals, it normally exudes a mysterious, sacred atmosphere. Surrounded by the mountains of the Shimokita Peninsula, you can fully experience its unique, otherworldly ambience through all your senses—a quality that makes it one of the region’s most popular attractions.

Within the grounds, numerous large rock formations and various Jizō statues of all sizes are scattered around, adding to its mysterious aura. As you pass through the rugged rock areas, you will be rewarded with views of the beautiful emerald-green Usori Lake and the pristine Gokuraku Hama beach, captivating many tourists.

Kōzōzan is not only unique to the Shimokita Peninsula but also offers an unparalleled experience nationwide. When visiting the Shimokita Peninsula, why not take the opportunity to experience the rare and mystical atmosphere of Kōzōzan?

2. Shiriya-zaki

Shiriya-zaki is a cape located at the northeastern tip of the Shimokita Peninsula. Here, expansive views of the sky, sea, and plains stretch out before you. At the tip of the cape stands the striking white Shiriya-zaki Lighthouse, one of the brightest lighthouses in Japan. This brick lighthouse has been illuminating the seas for over 120 years along the Tsugaru Strait.

On the way to the cape, you may also notice horses known as “Kandachime” (a breed known for its resilience in Aomori’s cold weather). Once their numbers had dwindled, but thanks to protective policies, their numbers are slowly recovering. Around May, you can often see foals alongside their mothers.

3. Ōma-zaki

Ōma-zaki, at the northern tip of the Shimokita Peninsula, is widely known as the northernmost town of Honshū. The northern tip of Ōma-zaki is only 17.5 km from Hokkaido. On clear days, you can even enjoy panoramic views of buildings in Hakodate, a popular tourist destination in Hokkaido.

And when visiting Ōma, you must not miss the “Ōma Maguro” (tuna), known as the “Black Diamond” of the Tsugaru Strait. Caught by pole fishing about 5 km off the coast in the waters near the Shimokita Peninsula, Ōma Maguro is one of Japan’s top brand-name tunas, popular with tourists. Restaurants offering sushi and seafood bowls abound, and at the Ōma Fishing Port unloading area—open to tourists—you might even catch a glimpse of a gigantic tuna being hoisted by a crane.

Furthermore, Ōma Town hosts two tuna festivals each year, drawing tourists nationwide. During the “Blue Marine Festival” held in August, which marks the start of the tuna fishing season on the Shimokita Peninsula, freshly gutted tuna is disassembled and distributed as sashimi for free. Boat races and fireworks also take place, so enjoy the summer of the Shimokita Peninsula while feasting on delicious tuna.

In mid-October, an ultra-tuna festival is held where, right before your eyes, seasonal fatty tuna is filleted and sold at bargain prices. This is highly recommended for those who want to savor the delicious, in-season Ōma Maguro.

4. Wakinosawa Monkey Park

The Shimokita Peninsula, being the northernmost habitat of Japanese macaques, is the northern limit for wild Japanese macaques. Although wild macaques are widely spread across the peninsula, whether you encounter them is a matter of chance. However, at Wakinosawa Monkey Park—one of the top attractions in the area—you can reliably see about 50 Japanese macaques up close.

Additionally, the Shimokita Peninsula is also the northern limit for the Japanese serow, a designated Special Natural Monument. Although they typically inhabit inaccessible coastal rock formations or steep mountain cliffs, you might occasionally see them in Atagoyama Park, famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms, during the cherry blossom festival. With any luck, you might even spot a serow or macaque peeking out among the blooming cherry trees.

5. Yokohama-cho

Yokohama-cho is a coastal tourist area in the central part of the Shimokita Peninsula, famous for having one of the largest rape (canola) fields in Japan. Covering an area of 150 hectares—equivalent to about 30 Tokyo Domes—the field is filled with bright yellow canola blossoms in mid-May. The contrast of the blue sky against the yellow flowers, combined with the lush green mountains of the Shimokita Peninsula and white windmills, creates a picturesque scene reminiscent of a painting.

During the canola season, a two-day "Canola Festival" is held in mid-May. One of the highlights is the Canola Marathon, which attracts about 1,000 runners from across the region and is a popular event that even tourists can easily join. In addition, local specialties from Yokohama-cho and the Shimokita Peninsula are also sold during the festival, so don’t miss out.

The crown jewel of the Yokohama-cho canola fields is the giant canola maze. The vast field transforms into a huge maze. The maze is open every day during the blooming period, so if you visit the Shimokita Peninsula in May, be sure to experience it. From a viewing platform within the maze, you can overlook the entire field.

6. Yagen Onsen

Located about 6 km north of Kōzōzan, Yagen Onsen is a hot spring set amidst the primeval forests of Mutsu City in Aomori Prefecture. It is said to be an alkaline simple hot spring discovered by wounded samurai who fled during the Osaka Summer Campaign.

About 5 minutes by car from Yagen Onsen to the upstream of the Ōhata River is “Oku-Yagen Onsen Kappa no Yu,” an open-air bath. Surrounded by trees along a mountain stream, this lovely outdoor bath is free to use from around 7:00 to 19:00 every day except Wednesdays, on a two-hour alternating schedule for men and women. It is recommended to time your visit with the gender rotation if you’re with family. Note that it closes during the winter.

Nearby, “Fuufu Kappa no Yu” is available for a fee, offering separate outdoor baths for men and women and a free foot bath. Yagen Gorge is also recommended as a spot for forest bathing and autumn foliage viewing. Walking along the nature-filled trail will refresh both body and mind.

Located about 2 km upstream along the Ōhata River from Yagen Onsen is "Oku-Yagen Onsen." This onsen is an umbrella term for both "Kappa Onsen" and "Fuufu Kappa no Yu," and it is especially popular with tourists among the many hot springs on the Shimokita Peninsula.

According to legend, when Ennin—who founded Kōzōzan in 872—got lost and suffered a severe injury, a kappa appeared out of nowhere and led him to this onsen. When he awoke the next morning, his injuries had completely healed. Kappa Onsen is a free open-air bath, so anyone can enjoy it without any cost.

Next to Kappa Onsen is Fuufu Kappa no Yu, which is a paid onsen; however, a free foot bath is available adjacent to it, allowing visitors to enjoy the healing waters of Yagen Onsen even during a short break while touring the Shimokita Peninsula.

7. Kamafuseyama

Kamafuseyama, located in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture, is the highest peak of the Shimokita Peninsula along Mutsu Bay. With an elevation of about 879 meters, the mountain towers to the north of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Ōminato Base.

Kamafuseyama is known for its clusters of Shiranearoi, a flower with a light purple hue, which bloom from June to July, making it a perfect season to enjoy hiking and nature. A short walk from the main viewing platform takes you to the summit, from where you can see Hakkōda Mountains to the south and even view Hokkaido across the Tsugaru Strait to the north.

Kamafuseyama is also famous for its romantic night views. The Kamafuseyama Observatory near the summit offers a breathtaking panorama, where the lights of buildings along Mutsu Bay resemble the delicate wings of a swallowtail butterfly. With a parking lot available, you can enjoy a scenic drive along the panoramic route overlooking the landscapes of Aomori.

In winter, when the Kamafuseyama Observatory is closed, the mountain transforms into one of the largest ski resorts on the Shimokita Peninsula. From the slopes, you can glide down with the townscape of the Shimokita Peninsula and Mutsu Bay at your feet, an experience filled with excitement. The ski resort is also equipped with night skiing facilities so you can enjoy Aomori’s best night views while skiing.

◎ Summary

The Shimokita Peninsula, the northernmost tip of Honshū, offers a collection of unique and fascinating tourist attractions that you won’t find anywhere else—from the northern limits of macaques and serows, to capes with horses, sacred mountains, and exquisite tuna. Each spot has its own history, and the interconnection of these histories makes the region even more exciting.

Furthermore, with the area showing different faces in each season, there are many ways to enjoy it—whether your focus is on nature, food, or hot springs. Immerse yourself in the charm of Honshū’s northernmost region and enjoy everything it has to offer!