4 Popular Date Spots in Aomori! Spend a Dramatic Day Together!

Aomori Prefecture, located at the northernmost tip of Honshu and blessed with rich natural surroundings of sea and mountains, is surprisingly easy to access. By Shinkansen, it only takes a little over three hours from Tokyo. This time, we introduce recommended date spots in Aomori Prefecture—perfect for a slightly more mature date.
From the night view at Aomori’s landmark “ASPAM,” to hands-on activities at “Asamushi Aquarium,” to Hirosaki Castle and Hirosaki Park, and even Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge—we’ve carefully selected four spots. Beyond the usual choices like theme parks, zoos, movie theaters, and large shopping malls, these romantic, refreshing, and nature-rich destinations allow you and your partner to enjoy beautiful scenery together.

1. Asamushi Aquarium

First, let us introduce a favorite date spot among Aomori locals—Asamushi Aquarium. About 15 minutes by car on Route 4 from the Aomori East Interchange, you can enjoy a pleasant drive along Aomori Bay—located at the very northern tip of Honshu—until you arrive at the aquarium, which opened in 1983. The highlight here is the dolphin show! In fact, Asamushi Aquarium is the only place in the Tohoku region where you can enjoy a dolphin show. Watching dolphins swim in perfect harmony and leap powerfully into the air is sure to excite any couple.
Inside the aquarium is a large tunnel tank where you can see stingrays and schools of fish swimming overhead. For events, themed tanks appear—such as the Valentine’s Tank for Valentine’s Day or the White Day Tank for White Day. Another major charm is the variety of hands-on experiences offered: behind-the-scenes tours, shaking hands with dolphins, touring the training pool with dolphin trainers, and many more. It’s an ideal place for couples to enjoy a special interactive date.

2. Lake Towada

A popular sightseeing destination, Lake Towada is home to one of the best scenic spots in Japan—Oirase Gorge, designated a national natural monument and located within Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Oirase Gorge is a picturesque 14 km river flowing out of Lake Towada, famous as one of northern Honshu’s most beautiful scenic areas. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverside trail, listening to the gentle sounds of flowing water beneath dappled sunlight—an ideal moment to share with someone special.
Lake Towada’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding natural scenery in a stunning way. You can take a sightseeing boat for panoramic views or even enjoy canoeing. In spring, fresh greenery brightens the mountains; in autumn, the vibrant foliage is breathtaking; and in winter, the landscape transforms into a pure white panorama. During winter events, snow huts (kamakura) appear and fireworks light up the sky. A date at Lake Towada offers memorable seasonal scenery—perfect for a romantic day like no other.

3. ASPAM – Aomori Tourism and Local Product Center

“ASPAM,” as its name suggests, is a facility that comprehensively showcases Aomori’s industries, sightseeing attractions, and specialty products—with one of the largest selections in the prefecture. Located about 15 minutes by car from Shin-Aomori Station, the building is easily recognizable by its triangular shape. The most date-worthy spot here is the observatory on the 13th floor.
On clear days, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view that includes the Aomori Bay Bridge, the Shimokita Peninsula, the Tsugaru Peninsula, and even Hokkaido. Since the observatory is open until 10 p.m., you can appreciate the sparkling night view like scattered jewels. Various events are also held inside the facility, such as live Tsugaru shamisen performances and workshops for Nebuta Festival music—one of Japan’s most famous festivals. It’s the perfect date spot for couples who want to learn more about Aomori.

4. Hirosaki Park

About 2 km west of Hirosaki Station stands the beloved Hirosaki Castle, popular among history lovers and castle fans. Selected as one of the “Japan’s Top 100 Castles,” it is one of Aomori’s most treasured sightseeing spots. The surrounding Hirosaki Park, developed around Hirosaki Castle, contains turrets, gates, and eight bridges, including the large Cedar Bridge and Shungyo Bridge—once used to block enemy invasions and later built for citizens. Strolling across these bridges together makes for a charming date activity.
Hirosaki Park is also one of the “Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan,” with over 2,600 cherry trees that reach full bloom in mid-April. The enormous weeping cherry planted in 1914, the Kasumi cherry planted in 1715, and the oldest Somei Yoshino tree in Japan—donated in 1882—are must-see blossoms. Transport yourselves to another era and enjoy an elegant castle date.

◎ Summary

Surrounded on more than 180 degrees by the sea, Aomori Prefecture is filled with wonderful sightseeing spots. For busy working adults, spending a relaxing day with someone you love in a peaceful environment is truly healing. In recent years, historical dramas and the rise of “history-loving women” have increased opportunities for younger generations to appreciate history. Exploring castle ruins and experiencing local culture also makes for meaningful and enjoyable dates.
Aomori is full of destinations to choose from. Your fun date journey begins the moment the two of you start discussing where to go next.

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4 Popular Date Spots in Aomori! Spend a Dramatic Day Together!