|
|
Juniko Lakes (Fukaura Town)
The lakes of Juniko were formed three centuries ago when a valley in Tsugaru
Quasi-National Park was stopped up by a volcanic eruption. Many of these ponds
and lakes are quite mysterious, like the inky blue Aoike. Take in scenery from
Japan’s distant past with broken beeches sticking up forlornly from the
waters of these lakes.
Access: 15 mins by car from Juniko Sta
Information: Fukaura Tourism Division 0173-77-2111
|
|
|
Oirase Gorge (Towada City)
A single, exquisite stream flows out of Lake Towadako, unfurling a myriad of
ever-changing facets along a course through moss-covered boulders and serene
birch forest. Sometimes fierce, sometimes calm, always pure and beautiful, Oirase's
waters are fed by a number of equally unique and marvelous waterfalls.
Access: 2 hrs by car from Aomori Sta.
Information: Towadako Comprehensive Information Center 0176-75-2425
|
|
|
Shirakami Sanchi and Anmon no Taki Falls (Nishimeya
Vil.)
One of the world's largest birch forests, the Shirakami Sanchi is a treasure
trove of flora and fauna straddling the Aomori-Akita border. The area was inscribed
as a UNSECO World Heritage property in Dec, 1993. Enjoy any one or more of the
nature observation, beech forest, and Anmon no Taki Falls courses wending through
this untouched natural paradise.
Access: 1 hr by car from Hirosaki Sta.
Information: Buna no Sato Shirakamikan 0172-85-3011
|
|
|
Yagen Gorge (Mutsu City)
Yagen's beauty is oft compared to that of its more famous cousin, Oirase. Compare
for yourself with a leisurely, 4-km walk through the cool birch, cypress, and
maple forest lining both banks of Yagen's sparkling stream. To truly appreciate
the best this gorge has to offer, come see the new green of spring or the blazing
foliage of fall. After your stroll, enjoy Yagen and Oku Yagen Hot Springs; both
are right here in the gorge.
Access: 20 mins by bus from Shimokita Kotsu Ohata Sta.
Information: Ohata Tourism Assoc. 0175-34-3500
|
|
|
Tsuta Nananuma Ponds (Towada City)
The indigo waters of the seven ponds collectively known as Tsuta Nananuma are
settled down near Mt. Hakkoda's ocean of several hundred-year-old virgin birches.
The hot spring here, Tsuta, provides a starting point for the one-hour nature
research path maintained here.
Access: 2 hrs by car from Aomori Sta.
Information: Towada Division of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism 0176-72-2311
|
|
|
Mt. Hakkoda (Aomori City)
Trails providing everything from casual strolls to serious hiking are accessible
from the Hakkoda Ropeway station at the peak of Tamoyachidake. Around the base
of the mountain are numerous hot springs awaiting tired hikers.
Access: 45 mins by car from Aomori Sta.
Information: Hakkoda Ropeway 017-738-0343
|
|
|
Ajigasawa Mini Shirakami (Ajigasawa Town)
This 52-ha plot is part of the Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage property. With
two walking paths, one of 2.2 km and one of 1.1 km, this is a great place to
take in the wondrous virgin forest of the area's 300-year-old birches.
Access: 1 hr 30 mins by car from Owani-Hirosaki IC
Information: Mini Shirakami Comprehensive Information Facility Kuromorikan 0173-79-2009
|
|
