Route 40°
North Latitude------7
Autumn colors
and Apple Route

Apples(Aomori City)

Broad-leaved tree forests made up mainly of beech trees have supported the wildlife of northern Tohoku since ancient times. The pure water that nurtures life flows through the forests, which undergo a sudden and dramatic transformation in autumn, creating a sea of rich colors. The diverse natural scenery that characterizes northern Tohoku flourishes in the abundant forest surrounding the Shirakami Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Apple Road (Hirosaki City)
This road, running from Route 7 (near the Owani-Hirosaki interchange) to Mt. Iwaki, is surrounded by apple orchards, providing the perfect scenery for a drive, especially during harvest time. (From the end of September to the beginning of November)

The Ammon Falls (Nishimeya Village)
Within the World Heritage Site, Shirakami Mountain Range there are three waterfalls. These are well-known scenic spots. Many tourists visit here from spring through autumn to enjoy the hour-long hiking course between the falls. (From the middle to the end of October)

Tazawako Heights (Senboku City)
Lake Tazawa is located slightly below this plateau, which stretches out among the Komagatake Mountains. It is a resort area with hot springs, a ski resort, and luxury hotels. (From the middle to the end of October)

The Shirakami Mountain Area: A UNESCO World Heritage Site (Fujisato Town, Akita Prefecture; Ajigasawa Town, Fukaura Town, Nishimeya Village, Aomori Prefecture)
A mountain area which displays a great diversity of scenes with every change in the seasons. The primeval forest of beech trees is the largest of its kind in the world. A treasury of precious fauna and flora. (From the middle to the end of October)

The Oirase Mountain Stream (Towada City)
This is the only clear stream flowing out of Lake Towada. The 14 km-long stream flows through various landscapes and is famous throughout Japan as a great spot to enjoy autumn colors and waterfalls. (From the middle to the end of October)

Hachimantai (Kazuno City , Hachimantai City)
The area is rich in volcanic topography, so hot springs are abundant. It is known for the primeval forest, upper swamps, and alpine plants. There is a road to the summit and a hiking path. (From the end of September to the middle of October)

Sotoyama Heights (Morioka City)
Created by construction of a dam, Lake Gando offers fishing and ice fishing for small fish called wakasagi. A campground has also been established. The nearby highland region, including Sotoyama Heights and Hayasaka Heights, is representative of the Kitakami Mountains. The region has been designated as a Prefectural Park.

Morioka Castle Remains (Morioka City)
The remains of a castle that was completed in the Edo period. Now only the stone walls and ponds remain. It is located in the center of Morioka City and now serves as the site of Iwate Park.

Dakigaeri Valley (Senboku City)
A Valley which stretches along the Tamagawa River, whose water surface is bright blue and beautiful. There are lots of scenic spots for waterfalls, dams, suspension bridges and so on. It is also known for its autumnal colors. (Until the end of October.)

Viewing Autumn Foliage
The temperature in northern Tohoku differs greatly from season to season, and the stark climatic contrasts provide picturesque landscapes year-round. Late autumn, when the leaves turn yellow and red, is the most colorful season of year. The term koyo in Japanese refers to the leaves' change in color. Many people visit the mountains and meadows to enjoy the vibrant landscapes.

The Shirakami Mountain Range: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
This forest of thick and tall deciduous beech trees holds enough water to be called a "natural dam." This area, referred to as the Shirakami Mountainous District, spreads out over Aomori and Akita Prefectures. Covered with primeval forest, this region is home to a range of flora and fauna. In 1993, 17,000 hectares out of the area's 130,000 hectares were registered as a Natural Heritage Site under the World Heritage Treaty.

The Apple Kingdom
Apples are very popular in Japan. Over 600 varieties are produced. Northern Tohoku is famous as an apple-producing district, and Aomori Prefecture is proud to have the largest yield in the country. Many events are held to celebrate this important crop, including the Apple Marathon, a civic marathon where athletes run through apple orchards; and the Apple Party, an event featuring apple cuisine.

Life Sketch

Orchards

The fruits common in Tohoku are those which prosper in cooler climates, such as apples, cherries, and grapes. Many orchards allow people to observe fruit on the tree before it is shipped to grocery stores. Tourists can also speak with producers and pick their own fruit for a small fee.