Aomori

Located at the southernmost tip of the Tohoku region, Aomori is surrounded on three sides by the sea: the Sea of Japan to the west, the Pacific Ocean to the east, and the Tsugaru Straits to the north. The Asamushi area is a hot spring resort facing the sea, also known as the "Atami of Tohoku," and the sunset over Mutsu Bay is spectacular. The unexplored Butsugaura and the scenic spot of Oma with its oddly shaped rocks and wish-fulfilling rock formations are also not to be missed. On the other hand, there are many activity and sightseeing spots where visitors can experience the abundant greenery of famous mountains such as Shirakami Sanchi, Hakkouda, Hachimantai, Iwate, and Zao mountain ranges, the Oirase mountain stream, and the cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle. The Nebuta Festival, held every August, enhances the short summer season in Tohoku and attracts more than 2 million visitors each year.