Hirosaki Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local experiences in Hirosaki, Japan. Plan your trip with our travel guide now!


Introduction to Hirosaki

Hirosaki is a Japanese city situated in Aomori Prefecture on the northern end of Honshu Island. A popular tourist destination, Hirosaki is well-known for its breathtaking cherry blossom trees and apple orchards. In this tour guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, places to visit, local food and drink, and insider tips for making the most out of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Hirosaki

Here’s a list of must-visit attractions that should be included in your Hirosaki itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hirosaki Castle: Built in 1611, this iconic castle has a three-story tower and offers picturesque scenery during the cherry blossom season.
  • Saisho-in Temple: This is a Buddhist temple that offers a peaceful environment to meditate and relax.
  • Iwakiyama Shrine: This is the oldest shrine in Hirosaki, with a history that dates back over 1,300 years.

Natural Attractions of Hirosaki: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hirosaki Park: This park offers stunning views of cherry blossom trees and natural beauty.
  • Mount Iwake: A popular hiking spot, Mount Iwake offers breathtaking views of Hirosaki and the surrounding countryside.
  • Oirase Gorge: Located about an hour away from Hirosaki, this stunning natural site offers scenic views of crystal clear waters, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hirosaki

Experience Hirosaki’s natural beauty by exploring its hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Hirosaki Castle Walking Trail: This trail circles around Hirosaki Castle and offers panoramic views of the park and the city.
  • Mount Iwake Hiking Trail: This challenging four-hour hike leads to the summit of Mount Iwake.
  • Cherry Blossom Cycling Route: This picturesque cycling route takes you through Hirosaki’s cherry blossom-lined streets and past numerous attractions.

Best Things to Do in Hirosaki: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, Hirosaki has plenty of things to do for all travelers. Try some of these activities to get the most out of your trip:

  • Take a stroll through Hirosaki Park to see the cherry blossom trees during springtime.
  • Experience Japanese tea ceremony at Saisho-in Temple.
  • Watch traditional Hirosaki drum performances at Kamenoko Tawara.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hirosaki

Make the most of your week in Hirosaki with this suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Hirosaki Castle and the adjacent park
Day 2 Rent a bicycle and cycle around the city’s scenic streets
Day 3 Hike up Mount Iwake and enjoy the panoramic views
Day 4 Visit local museums and cultural attractions
Day 5 Take a day trip to Oirase Gorge
Day 6 Enjoy traditional Japanese experiences such as tea ceremonies and drum performances
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local cuisine before heading back home

Food and Drink Scene of Hirosaki

Hirosaki is known for its delicious apples, sake, and traditional cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tsugaru-jamisen: A local dish made of grilled chicken on skewers and marinated in soy sauce, sake, and sugar.
  • Koma-temari sushi: This is a famous local sushi dish made with rice balls topped with fresh seafood or meat.
  • Apple pie: Made with fresh Hirosaki apples, this sweet dessert will leave a lasting impression on you.

Local Beverages

  • Tsugaru sake: Made from locally grown rice, this alcoholic drink is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
  • Mixing 50:50 cider: A popular drink combo made by mixing apple cider with soda.

Where to Stay in Hirosaki: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some accommodation options for your Hirosaki trip:

  • Hirosaki Plaza Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with clean, comfortable rooms and an excellent location.
  • Hirosaki Prince Hotel: A luxurious hotel located near Hirosaki Park with top-notch amenities and beautiful gardens.
  • Guesthouse Hirosaki: A popular hostel with a friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices.

What to Buy in Hirosaki: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Hirosaki home with you by buying these local souvenirs:

  • Apple products: Locally grown Hirosaki apples come in many forms such as cider, juice, and sweets.
  • Nebuta masks: These masks are part of the Aomori Nebuta Festival and are a symbol of Hirosaki’s cultural heritage.
  • Tsugaru lacquerware: Made from locally sourced materials, these lacquerware items are adorned with intricate designs and patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of Hirosaki

Hirosaki’s culture is deeply rooted in its traditions and history. Here are some cultural customs to keep in mind during your stay:

  • Shoes off at entrances: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a traditional Japanese ryokan.
  • Bowing: Bowing is a sign of respect in Japan, so remember to bow slightly when meeting new people or thanking someone.
  • Respectful behavior: Polite and respectful behavior is highly valued in Japanese culture, so be mindful of your actions and words.

Best Time to Visit Hirosaki

The best time to visit Hirosaki is during cherry blossom season, which runs from late April to early May. However, Hirosaki is also beautiful during other seasons. In winter, the city turns into a winter wonderland, while autumn is the time for foliage viewing, with the colors changing from green to red and yellow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hirosaki

Do:

  • Respect Japanese customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine, including traditional dishes and sake.
  • Take off your shoes at the entrance of a Japanese-style accommodation.

Don’t:

  • Talk loudly in public places, as this is considered rude.
  • Wear shoes inside a Japanese-style accommodation like a ryokan.
  • Tip at restaurants, as this is not customary in Japan.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hirosaki

Hirosaki is a relatively safe city with low crime rates. However, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Hirosaki

Hirosaki has excellent medical facilities, including English-speaking doctors in some hospitals. Make sure you have travel health insurance before traveling and bring any necessary medication with you.

Getting to Hirosaki: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some ways to get to Hirosaki:

Airports Near Hirosaki

Aomori Airport is the nearest airport to Hirosaki and is approximately 30 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Hirosaki

Hirosaki is well-connected to nearby cities by buses. The JR Bus and the Konan Bus are two major bus companies that operate in the area.

Other Options

Hiring a taxi is also an option for travelers who want a more private and comfortable mode of transportation.

How to Get Around in Hirosaki

Hirosaki is a small city, and most attractions are within walking distance. If you need to travel longer distances, the following transportation options are available:

  • Bus: Hirosaki City Bus operates throughout the city, and the fares are relatively cheap.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Hirosaki, but they can be expensive.
  • Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is an efficient way to travel around Hirosaki while enjoying the city’s beautiful scenery.

Where to Go Next from Hirosaki: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Hirosaki:

  • Aomori: This prefecture, known for its festivals and seafood, is just one hour away by bus from Hirosaki.
  • Towada-Hachimantai National Park: Situated about two hours from Hirosaki, this stunning national park boasts beautiful forests, waterfalls, and natural hot springs.
  • Lake Towada: Located within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, this crater lake is a picturesque spot for autumn foliage viewing.

Conclusion

Hirosaki has so much to offer travelers. With its stunning cherry blossoms, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a must-visit destination in Japan. This tour guide will help you plan your trip and ensure you experience the best of what Hirosaki has to offer.

Lanterns on a Neputa float Lanterns on a Neputa float Tenshukaku, Hirosaki Castle Tenshukaku, Hirosaki Castle Five-story pagoda, Saishōin Five-story pagoda, Saishōin