Located at the northernmost tip of Aomori Prefecture, the Shimokita Peninsula is attractive for its untouched nature, delicious food culture, and warm-hearted people. This time, we will introduce a "2-day, 1-night model route to fully enjoy the Shimokita Peninsula," carefully selected by Watanabe Ritaro Shoten. On this route, you can enjoy nature, history, and local flavors.
table of contents
- Japan's Three Greatest Sacred Sites [Osorezan]
- The scallop catch is the largest in Japan!
- A mysterious and unexplored area with strangely shaped rock formations [Hotokegaura] etc.
Day 1: A journey into the nature and history of Mutsu City
Morning: Visit Mount Osore
Osorezan, synonymous with the Shimokita Peninsula, is a special place known as one of Japan's three major sacred sites, alongside Mount Hiei and Mount Koya. The scenery of Jigokudani and the hot spring ponds with their sulfurous scent offer an extraordinary experience that can't be found anywhere else. There are also day-trip hot springs such as Lakeside Hot Springs within the grounds of Osorezan, which are sure to soothe both body and mind.
(Photo) Lake Usori is yellow and green in color due to sulfur
Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood in Mutsu city
After sightseeing at Osorezan, return to Mutsu city and enjoy fresh seafood. For a sashimi lunch in Mutsu city, we recommend Hidezushi!! You can enjoy Oma tuna, sea urchins and scallops freshly caught off the coast of Shimokita.
Hidezushi website ( https://www.at-ml.jp/70170/ )
Afternoon: Visit to the Ominato Naval Collection
At the Ominato Naval Collection in Mutsu City, you can learn about the city's history as a former naval base. Why not experience the history of the region through the valuable materials and exhibits that can only be found in a naval port city?
Evening: Select local sake at Watanabe Ritaro Shoten
To wrap up your sightseeing, please stop by Watanabe Ritaro Shoten. Our store carries a wide selection of Aomori local sake and souvenirs unique to Mutsu City. Our staff will carefully select the perfect bottle for you.
Click here for the Watanabe Ritaro Shoten website
Evening: Relax at Mutsu Grand Hotel
We recommend staying at the Mutsu Grand Hotel on the first night. It is fully equipped with a hot spring called "Bijin no Yu" and is a great place to relax and unwind after your trip. The view of Mt. Kamafusa from the window is fantastic. Enjoy dinner made with local ingredients. (Mutsu Grand Hotel: Website here )
Day 2: Enjoy nature
Morning: Enjoy the spectacular view of Hotokegaura
On the second day, head northwest from Mutsu City to Hotokegaura. Hotokegaura, famous as one of the most scenic spots in Aomori Prefecture, is a fantastical place with a group of huge, strangely shaped rocks. It is also recommended to take a sightseeing boat and view it from the sea.
Lunch: Enjoy the local cuisine of Sai Village
After sightseeing at Hotokegaura, enjoy lunch in the nearby village of Sai. Fill up on the local specialty "ichigo-ni" (strawberry stew) and fresh seafood at a restaurant.
Afternoon: A trip to see Shiriyazaki Lighthouse and the Kantachi horses
The final stop on the trip is Shiriyazaki Lighthouse, located at the easternmost point of the Shimokita Peninsula. The contrast between the pure white lighthouse and the rough sea is stunning. In addition, wild horses called "Kandachiuma" live around the lighthouse, and you can see them grazing freely up close.
Evening: Return to Mutsu city and head home
Once you're done sightseeing at Cape Shiriyazaki, you'll head back to Mutsu City. Before heading home, you might want to stop by Watanabe Ritaro Shoten again to buy some souvenirs.
summary
The Shimokita Peninsula is a special area packed with natural beauty, history, and local culture. Use this sample route as a reference to plan a two-day, one-night trip. At Watanabe Ritaro Shoten, we have a selection of local sake and specialty products to add color to your travel memories, and we look forward to welcoming you!