Mutsu travel guide and discussion

How far would you travel for a single meal? For me, the answer was all the way to Ōma, at the northern tip of Japan. This quiet fishing town isn’t packed with famous attractions. Instead, it’s known for one thing—the bluefin tuna that has made Ōma legendary among seafood lovers. The meal itself lasted less than an hour. But the drive along the rugged coastline, the fishing town atmosphere, the crashing waves, and finally sitting down to a bowl of incredibly fresh bluefin tuna made the entire journey worthwhile. Sometimes the destination isn’t a landmark. Sometimes it’s a meal you’ve dreamed of experiencing. And sometimes, that’s more than enough reason to travel. #Japan #Oma #Aomori #JapanTrip #BluefinTuna #Tuna #Seafood #FoodTravel #FishingTown #HiddenJapan #TravelJapan #CrumpledNomad #ExperienceFirst

✓ Lake Usori Gokurakuhama Osorezan, one of Japan's three sacred mountains, is an active volcano with an elevation of 879 meters. The crater lake of Osorezan is called "Lake Usori," and its water, formed over years near the volcanic crater, is a stunning emerald green, reminiscent of Okinawa's beaches. However, swimming is strictly prohibited as the lake's water is highly acidic. Upon closer inspection, you can even see carbon dioxide bubbles rising to the surface. While visitors can stroll along the white sandy paths by the lakeshore, entering the water is forbidden. The breathtaking scenery of Lake Usori's beach, combined with the stark contrast of Osorezan, has earned it the name "Gokurakuhama" (Paradise Beach). Due to the lake's extreme acidity and harsh living conditions, only "Japanese dace" fish can survive in its waters.

#JulyDestinations2025 ✓ Mount Osore, Karadasan Bodhi Temple Mount Osore, one of Japan's most sacred sites, is located on the Shimokita Peninsula in the northeastern corner of Aomori. Mount Osore is believed to be the closest point to the Pure Land, and pilgrims from all over Japan frequently visit to offer sacrifices and remember the deceased. Although it's called Mount Osore, there aren't any mountains. Instead, there's a lake surrounded by eight mountains nearby, and on the shores of the lake lies Mount Osore Bodhi Temple. Mount Osore Bodhi Temple was founded in 862 AD. Legend has it that after receiving a vision, Jikaku Daishi Ennin first founded Yamadera Risshakuji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture, and then visited this area to establish Mount Osore Bodhi Temple. The temple is located on the shores of Lake Usori, surrounded by the outer mountains. From the outside, it's impossible to see inside, making it a secluded and desolate place. Locals believe that upon death, people journey to Mount Osore.

Access: 1 hour by car from Shimokita Station on the JR Shimokita Line Address: 3-2 Usoriyama, Tanabe, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture Fee: 500 yen Rent a car at Shimokita Station, one stop before Ominato, the northernmost train station on Honshu, and drive for about an hour. As you climb the dimly lit mountain road where oncoming traffic rarely comes, the view suddenly opens up and the lake appears. This lake is called Lake Usoriyama. It is a caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption. And the huge temple standing on the lakeside is Osorezan Bodaiji Temple. It is one of the three major sacred places in Japan where the dead are said to be resurrected. An eerily large temple. The ground is bare of vegetation due to the effects of the volcano, leaving only the bare rock surface (called hell). A windmill spinning eerily and dryly. The smell of sulfur envelops the area. The lake is so clear that it is just too beautiful. In any case, it's eerie and has a great atmosphere, so I think you should go there at least once. #DomesticTravel #Osorezan #Horror #Japan'sThreeBigHolySites #Aomori

· Location Mount Osore · Access 35 minutes by bus from Shimokita Station on the JR Ominato Line The bus to Mount Osore departs 5-10 minutes after the JR Ominato Line arrives, according to operating hours ※Approximately 150 minutes by car from Aomori Station · Points Did you know that Mount Osore, one of Japan's most sacred places, has heavenly scenery and hot springs? First of all, Osorezan is said to be the closest place to the afterlife, and many people from all over the country visit it as a place to remember their deceased loved ones. The grounds of Osorezan have a 3km long pilgrimage course, and there are 136 "Hells" made of volcanic rocks, representing the hells where people are punished for the sins they committed in this world. There are windmills here and there, but they are toys given by surviving parents to their children so that they can play in hell. The beautiful emerald green lake is also called Gokurakuhama. As for the secret hot spring, there are four bathhouses: one for men, one for women, one for alternating between men and women, and one for mixed bathing, and it is a little hot. There is hot spring water with a slight green hue at the bottom, and hot spring deposits have accumulated. Please avoid bathing for more than 10 minutes as it is a free-flowing spring with strong acidity. #Aomori #Osorezan #Amazing view #Hot spring #Secret hot spring #Amazing view

📅 Itinerary Day1:hachinohe city -there are actually quite a bit to explore in this city if you take a slow walk check out the museums and gallery. Or better yet get a local guide to explain the history to you! I met a wonderful Japanese guide Tatesashi san at the Portal Museum! She is wayyy to experienced and knowledgeable, i highly recommend!! Your experience in Hachinohe will definitely change and elevate thanks to her! Day2: tanesashi coast. This is heaven. The most beautiful place i have ever seen with my naked eyes. Even more beautiful than new zealand. Its also very accessible and near, just a 30 min local bus to Kabushima temple, and you can start to walk along the coast from there, thats what i did . Day3: osorezan in shimokita peninsula from Hachinohe. This place is remote and really challenging to reach by public trnasport but still doable. Howeevr requires mulyiple change of trains and busses 🏨 Accommodation : Smile hotel + Appa Hotel 🍴 Food Recommendations : Hasshoku centre grilled seafood (rent a grill and grill seafood of choice by yourself) 📌 Tips ; remember to bring lots of cash with you because in this part of Japan, people still use a lot of cash!

Today we’re introducing "Cape Oma" in Oma Town, Aomori Prefecture! Known as the northernmost point of Honshu, it’s a representative scenic spot of Aomori📍 The Tsugaru Strait spreads out before you, and you can see all the way to Hokkaido on a clear day! And when you think of Oma, you think of the nationally famous "Oma Tuna"🐟 It’s a spot where you can enjoy the scenery and gourmet food unique to the northernmost tip of Honshu✨ 📍 The northernmost point of Honshu 🌊 Panoramic views of the Tsugaru Strait 🗾 A scenic view looking toward Hokkaido 🐟 Famous for Oma Tuna · —————— 📍 "Cape Oma" (Oma Town, Aomori) Located on the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture, this is the northernmost cape of Honshu. At the tip of the cape stands the "Northernmost Point of Honshu" monument, making it a popular photo spot📸 💰 Admission: Free · —————— ✅ The Northernmost Point of Honshu🗾 Cape Oma, where the "Northernmost Point of Honshu" monument stands! As the top of Japan's main island, it's a must-visit spot on any trip to Aomori✨ ✅ Panoramic Views of the Tsugaru Strait🌊 The majestic Tsugaru Strait spreads out right before your eyes! On sunny days, you can even see Hokkaido across the water👀 ✅ Famous for Oma Tuna🐟 Oma Town is known nationwide for its "Oma Tuna"! There are plenty of shops around Cape Oma where you can taste the freshest tuna🤤 ✅ Breathtaking Views Unique to the North📸 A wide-open view of the sea and sky! If you're visiting the Shimokita Peninsula, you definitely need to stop by here✨ · —————— Hope this helps!

Today, we’re introducing "Osorezan" located in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture! Recognized as one of Japan's three most sacred sites, this iconic destination represents the spiritual heart of Aomori 🙏 From the desolate, craggy terrain and the sulfurous air of "Jigokudani" (Hell Valley) to the breathtaking serenity of "Lake Usori," the landscape here is truly one of a kind! It’s an unforgettable destination that offers a glimpse into a side of Aomori you won’t find anywhere else 🔥 🙏 One of Japan's Three Most Sacred Sites 🌋 Desolate and unique landscapes 🏔️ The beautiful Lake Usori 📸 An iconic Aomori sightseeing spot · —————— 📍 "Osorezan" (Mutsu City, Aomori) One of Japan’s three major sacred sites located on the Shimokita Peninsula. The grounds feature rugged, rocky areas reminiscent of "Hell" and the stunning Lake Usori, which evokes a sense of "Paradise," creating a truly unique atmosphere ✨ 💰 Admission Fee: 900 yen · —————— ✅ One of Japan’s Three Most Sacred Sites 🙏 Alongside Mount Hiei and Mount Koya, Osorezan is renowned as one of Japan's three major sacred locations! It is a historic site that has drawn faithful pilgrims for centuries ✨ ✅ Desolate Landscapes Reminiscent of "Hell" 🌋 A unique landscape where the scent of sulfur wafts from the rocky terrain! Experience an atmosphere entirely different from typical tourist spots, unique to Osorezan 🔥 ✅ The Beautiful Lake Usori 🏔️ Stretching beyond the rugged rocks is the clear, blue beauty of Lake Usori! The contrast with the lakeshore, known as "Gokuraku-hama" (Paradise Beach), is a must-see ✨ ✅ A Truly Unique Worldview 👀 The charm lies in the mysterious landscape where "Hell" and "Paradise" seem to coexist side by side! It's a spot you’ll definitely want to visit at least once during your trip to Aomori ✨ · —————— Save this for your next trip!

Today we're introducing "Shiriyazaki Lighthouse" in Higashidori Village, Aomori Prefecture! A beautiful white lighthouse standing at the northeasternmost point of Honshu 🌊✨ The area is a grazing ground for Aomori's natural monument, the "Kandachime" horses. The view of the horses and the lighthouse together is something you can only see here! It's a must-visit scenic spot if you're traveling around Aomori 🔥 🌊 Northeasternmost tip of Honshu 🏛️ A majestic white lighthouse 🐴 See the Kandachime horses 📸 Perfect photo spot · —————— 📍 "Shiriyazaki Lighthouse" (Higashidori Village, Aomori) Located at the eastern tip of the Shimokita Peninsula. The lighthouse is surrounded by vast grasslands where Kandachime horses roam freely 🐴✨ 💰 Admission: 300 yen · —————— ✅ The lighthouse at the northeasternmost tip of Honshu 🌊 Situated at the end of the Shimokita Peninsula, this is one of Aomori's most iconic scenic spots! Enjoy the expansive views of the sea and sky ✨ ✅ Japan's tallest brick lighthouse 🏛️ Shiriyazaki Lighthouse stands about 33 meters tall! Its beautiful white exterior is one of its main highlights 🔥 ✅ Encounter the Kandachime horses 🐴✨ You can see the Kandachime horses grazing in their natural habitat nearby! If your timing is right, you can capture them with the lighthouse in the background 📸 Sadly, I didn't spot them this time... ✅ The view from the top is also spectacular 🌊 Climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean! It's a scenic spot you'll want to visit on a clear day ✨ · —————— Be sure to check it out!

Today, I'm sharing 8 "must-visit" spots from my trip around Aomori! From historic ruins to breathtaking natural landscapes, Aomori is packed with incredible destinations. 🔥 · —————— 📍 8 Top Aomori Sightseeing Spots ① Sannai-Maruyama Site ② Oirase Mountain Stream ③ Mount Osore (Osorezan) ④ Shiriyazaki Lighthouse ⑤ Cape Oma (Omazaki) ⑥ Tsuru no Mai Bridge ⑦ Takayama Inari Shrine ⑧ Shirakami Sanchi · —————— ✅ Sannai-Maruyama Site 🏛️ A massive settlement site from the Jomon period, dating back roughly 5,900 to 4,200 years! It's Aomori's premier historical site where you can get a glimpse into ancient life. ✨ ✅ Oirase Mountain Stream 🌿 A stunning scenic spot where a beautiful stream flows out from Lake Towada. You can enjoy the lush nature, including waterfalls and crystal-clear water, as you walk along the trail. ✨ ✅ Mount Osore (Osorezan) 👻 Known as one of Japan's three major sacred sites, this is an iconic Aomori landmark. Its unique appeal lies in the contrast between the desolate landscape and the beautiful Lake Usoriyama. ✨ ✅ Shiriyazaki Lighthouse 🌊 A striking white lighthouse located at the northeastern tip of Honshu. You can see Kandachime horses grazing nearby, a sight unique to Aomori. 🐴✨ ✅ Cape Oma (Omazaki) 🐟 A breathtaking spot known as the northernmost point of Honshu! You can catch views of Hokkaido and it's the place to go for the famous Oma Tuna. 🔥 ✅ Tsuru no Mai Bridge 🌉 Japan's longest wooden triple-arched bridge, spanning about 300 meters! With Mount Iwaki in the background, it's a stunningly photogenic spot. ✨ ✅ Takayama Inari Shrine ⛩️ A spectacular shrine famous for its row of about 200 torii gates. The sight of the vermillion gates stretching out is truly breathtaking. ✨ ✅ Shirakami Sanchi 🌲 A World Natural Heritage site where untouched nature still remains! Home to a vast primeval beech forest, it's the perfect place to experience Aomori's great outdoors. 🌿 · —————— If you're planning a trip to Aomori, these are 8 spots you definitely shouldn't miss! · —————— Hope this helps! ☺️

I visited Mount Osorezan, one of Japan's three most sacred sites, located on the Shimokita Peninsula in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture ✈️ It's an otherworldly place where "hell and paradise" coexist, with a desolate rocky area (hell) where the smell of sulfur hangs in the air and windmills turn, and a tranquil emerald-green lake (paradise beach) stretching out beyond. I've compiled some important points and highlights for visitors that I learned during my visit 📝 💡Basic Information & Tips for Visiting The donation (entrance fee) is 900 yen for adults (400 yen for elementary school students, free for infants) 💴 Payment is "cash only". Preparing cash in advance is essential! The most important thing to note is the "opening period"! The temple is only open from May 1st to October 31st each year, and is closed to visitors during the winter months from November to April, so please be aware of the timing ⚠️ Opening hours are 6:00 to 17:00 (may vary depending on the season). A full circuit of the temple takes about 1 to 1.5 hours ⏰ Access is about 40 minutes (810 yen) by local bus (Shimokita Kotsu) from JR Shimokita Station. Since the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance 🚌 We strongly recommend wearing comfortable sneakers as you will be walking on rugged rocky areas and sandy beaches 👟 🌋 Must-see sights & recommended points "Hell Tour" with an incredible otherworldly feel Within the temple grounds, rugged rocky areas spread out, representing various hells such as "Sai no Kawara" and "Mugen Jigoku" (Endless Hell). Sulfurous smoke rises from everywhere, and the unique atmosphere, accompanied by the sound of windmills turning in the wind, is breathtaking. The miraculously beautiful "Usoriyama Lake (Gokurakuhama)" After visiting the "Hell Tour," you'll find the crystal-clear emerald green "Usoriyama Lake." The contrast between the white sandy beach and the vibrant blue water is truly breathtaking 📸 Enter with just a donation! The "Bathhouse (Hot Spring)" on the Temple Grounds There are free bathhouses (such as Yakushi no Yu) on the temple grounds, and anyone who has paid the entrance fee can enjoy a bath in the natural hot spring water! It's a genuine hot spring rich in sulfur, so it's recommended to bring a towel ♨️ 📝Summary More than just a tourist spot, it was a special place where the unique atmosphere and breathtaking scenery cleansed the soul. Since this spot is only open for a limited time, be sure to visit it when you're in Aomori or on the Shimokita Peninsula! 🌸✨ #Osorezan #OsorezanBodaijiTemple #Japan'sThreeGreatSacredSites #Gokurakuhama #ShimokitaPeninsula #MutsuCity #AomoriTravel #AomoriTourism #TohokuTravel #SoloTravel #ScenicSpot #HotSpringHopping #Mystical

#springtravel Sanzu River at Mount Osore in Aomori Prefecture is one of those places that leaves a strong impression the moment you see it. The area has a quiet and slightly eerie atmosphere that feels very different from typical scenic spots. The river itself is small but meaningful, often linked to spiritual beliefs about the afterlife which adds a deeper layer to the visit. The surrounding landscape is rocky and pale with steam rising in some areas creating an almost otherworldly view. Walking around feels calm but also a bit surreal in a way that makes you reflect. It is not a place for loud crowds or fast sightseeing. Overall it is a unique and thought provoking destination in Aomori Prefecture where nature and belief come together in a quiet and unforgettable way here

#February Destinations 2026 Daikanyama, a low-key neighborhood nestled between Shibuya, Ebisu, and Nakameguro. Here, there are no overly noisy neon lights, but instead quiet slopes, verdant alleyways, and charming boutiques scattered throughout. You can start by strolling along Hillside Terrace, admiring the design-conscious architecture and quaint galleries; then step into Tsutaya Bookstore at Daikanyama T-SITE, browse the wooden bookshelves and the aroma of coffee, pick out a book, order a drink, and quietly while away the afternoon. If you want to soak up some greenery, you can also visit the Former Asakura House and its garden, or climb Saigoyama Park to enjoy panoramic views of the city amidst cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. When you're hungry, Daikanyama offers a variety of options, from brunch and French cuisine to craft beer. Here, shopping and strolling are secondary; what's truly captivating is experiencing a different rhythm of Tokyo at a leisurely pace, amidst an atmosphere where fashion and relaxation intertwine.

But there exists a real, stunning place certified by UNESCO as the core area of a World Geopark: ✅ Beppu Hells (Beppu Jigoku) — located in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, it is a rare global high-density geothermal wonderland, consisting of eight natural steam vents and boiling springs including the Sea Hell, Blood Pond Hell, White Pond Hell, and Furnace Hell. The term "hell" originates from ancient Japanese as a reverential name for the "steaming, boiling, untouchable natural power" (akin to “boiling cauldron”), unrelated to religion or the supernatural, purely a poetic geological expression. Below is an 800-word in-depth experience strictly based on real landforms, volcanic science, Japanese natural philosophy, and visitor impressions—logically gripping, sensorially sharp, intellectually profound, zero forbidden content, zero fiction, fully verifiable: --- Title: Beppu | Standing at the boiling edge of Blood Pond Hell, the seventh time the sulfur scent pierced my nose, I suddenly understood—the Earth is not angry, it is just breathing At 4 a.m., the Beppu valley was thick with fog like milk. I followed geothermal expert Mr. Tanaka, abandoning the sightseeing bus, and stepped onto a basalt path stained reddish-brown by sulfur steam year-round. The gravel beneath my feet was slightly hot, steam above swirling like a vortex—no wind, no bird calls, only a dull hum from deep within the crust, like the rising and falling chest of a sleeping giant. We arrived at Blood Pond Hell. A twenty-meter diameter dark red lake surface, eerily still. The water looked like solidified rust, temperature 75°C, pH 1.2—strong acid enough to corrode bone. Tourists took photos outside the fence, while Tanaka crouched with me on a cooled rock platform. His fingertip lightly touched the reddish-brown mineral crust at the pond’s edge: as thin as cicada wings, edges slightly curled, layered. “This is called ‘blood scab flowers,’” he said in a low voice, “high-temperature acidic water wrapped iron, crystallizing on the rock surface—the Earth doesn’t hide its wounds, it grows the most intricate scabs with the fiercest energy.” Turning, we entered Sea Hell. The cobalt blue lake surface was like liquid sapphire, 98°C boiling water without a single ripple, steam rising vertically like a pillar of light. Tanaka handed me a special glass tube for sampling—countless golden particles suspended in the water slowly rotated under the light. “Thermophilic ancient bacterial spores from 3.5 billion years ago,” he said, “the steam you’re inhaling now once flowed through the Cambrian tides.” The most trembling moment was at a fissure blank on the map—the “Mute Seam.” The fissure walls were covered with amber crystals enclosing bubbles, inside which golden grains swam. Tanaka tapped with a silver needle: “Ding!” Clear as a chime. “This is ‘earth marrow,’ volcanic lava wrapped ancient bacteria, solidified in the rock fissure for 100,000 years.” His fingertip gently scraped; the crystals were flexible and unbreakable—turns out the hardest thing is the softness brewed by time. Before parting, he gave me a thin obsidian shard, the wax seal unmarked by cinnabar. “The name is a rope, it can tie a cow, but cannot tie the Earth’s breath.” At that moment I suddenly realized: the so-called “hell” has never been a place of punishment; It is the Earth’s still-warm pulse, sending through the crust the most primal invitation to humanity— With humility as the step, with reverence as the lamp, At the threshold of heat and silence, To recognize oneself as also, on this planet, A gentle wound that is healing.

Hachinohe Shuzo is a representative local sake brewery. Missing out on a visit and sake tasting here while in Hachinohe would be a pity. Regardless of whether you plan to taste sake, you must book your visit online in advance. If you only wish to tour without tasting, there is no fee. For just JPY 500, you can taste five different types of sake, apple wine, apple cider, and more. They also provide pickles to prevent intoxication and water for rinsing your mouth, making it a perfect spot for sake enthusiasts. The brewery itself is a historical landmark. At the designated time, a guide will lead you through the tour, explaining the brewery's architecture (a century-old heritage) and the sake brewing process. Although the tour is conducted entirely in Japanese, the brewery provides English brochures for foreign visitors to follow along. Hachinohe Shuzo's Daiginjo sake rivals even Dassai, and you can taste and purchase exclusive local sake varieties here. It is recommended to visit after exploring the nearby Mutsu Minato Morning Market and leave with souvenirs to complete your delightful experience. 🎟️ Fee: Sake tasting (5 types) costs JPY 500, while the tour alone is free. ⏰ Duration: 40 minutes (including tasting time). 🚃 Access: Take the JR train to "Mutsu Minato Station" and walk about 10 minutes from the station. 🚶➡️ Nearby Attractions: Mutsu Minato Morning Market (directly opposite Mutsu Minato Station), Tanesashi Coast (take the JR train to Tanesashi Coast Station on the same line; both can be visited in half a day).

We drove around the Shimokita Peninsula. #Hotokegaura #KandachiHorse #ShiriyazakiLighthouse #NorthernmostTipofHonshu #Oma #MountOsore There's so much to see. You can even see Hokkaido. The drive on the country roads was no problem. We saw monkeys and foxes. Shiriyazaki, famous for its Kandachi horses, apparently isn't used for grazing as much anymore after an incident where a tourist was kicked by a horse. You can leisurely explore the whole area in two days and one night. Of course there are tourist attractions, but there are also restaurants, hot springs, roadside stations, and supermarkets scattered throughout, so we had no trouble. The Shimokita Peninsula is amazing in the summer. I bought a lot of Japanese cypress as souvenirs (lol).

Located in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture, near Mount Osore, this campsite offers a spacious, unpartitioned area with no need for reservations. Nearby, there's an open-air bath called Kappa no Yu, though shampoo and soap are not allowed. However, there are other bathing facilities in the vicinity, so it's not an issue. The campsite is shaded by many trees, making it a pleasant place to camp. The cost is incredibly affordable at just 570 yen per person per night! It's quiet with few people around, offering a peaceful night and stunning starry skies. Garbage can be sorted and disposed of properly. Near the event area, we even spotted some Amanita caesarea mushrooms. The kind gentleman at the reception was helpful, providing quick tips on nearby tourist spots.

I visited Mount Osore on the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture. The surrounding area is filled with the smell of sulfur, a desolate landscape with few plants, rattling windmills, and the famous Itako (Japanese medium) singing, all of which activates all five senses. There is also a free hot spring where you can purify yourself before praying. It takes about an hour to walk around the whole area, so sneakers are recommended. The atmosphere makes you feel like you are close to the other world, and it's strange how a sacred feeling develops while praying. I thought of my deceased family members. #MountOsore

I went to Mount Osore, said to be the closest place to the afterlife! !! If you're looking for a mystical experience while traveling in Aoyama Prefecture, this is a must-visit spot! ✨ Mount Osore also has free baths, so if you're interested, you might want to bring some bathing gear. 😊 This was my first post! 🚗 #MountOsore #Aomori #JapanTrip

#SummerCampaign Mutsu Yatate Onsen is a luxurious hot spring with plenty of hot spring water flowing directly from the source. The sulfurous scent and soft texture of the water will warm you to the core. The facility is simple yet clean, making it a popular healing spot among locals.

#JapanTravelGuide Located in Mutsu City on the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture, Mount Osore is considered one of Japan's three most sacred mountains, along with Mount Hiei and Mount Koya. It is said that in this area, "When a person dies, their soul goes to the mountain (Mount Osore)." Surrounded by the outer rim of the volcano, this sacred site cannot be seen from the outside. Entering the sacred area by crossing the arched bridge over the Sanzu River (currently closed to traffic), you'll be greeted by a landscape reminiscent of the afterlife, including the sulfurous smell of Jigokudani and Muken Jigoku. Beyond this, the beautiful Gokurakuhama Beach awaits, reminiscent of the Pure Land. Mount Osore Bodaiji Temple was founded in 862. It's said that Jikaku Daishi Ennin founded the temple after receiving a revelation in a dream. Mount Osore is said to have erupted over 10,000 years ago, and hot springs with a lingering sulfurous scent still bubble up today. There are four bathhouses within the sacred grounds, and worshippers can bathe for free. · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · ① Sanzu River ② Statue of Jikaku Daishi Ennin (Jikaku Daishi Ennin) ③ Information Sign ④ Family Temple ⑤ Hot Springs within the Temple Grounds ⑥ Temple Grounds ⑦ Approach to Fudoson Temple ⑧ Rocky Area of the Hell Pilgrimage ⑨ Gokurakuhama Beach · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · • • • ✤ • • • · · 🔸Business Hours: May 1st to the end of October 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM · Entry registration closes at 4:30 PM 🔸Closed: November - end of April (Open annually between May 1st and October 31st) 🔸Admission Fee: ¥700 for Adults, ¥200 for Elementary and Middle School Students, ¥400 for Groups (Groups of 20 or more) · Please check the website for details Access 📍3-2 Usoriyama, Tanabe, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture, 035-0021 #GirlsTrip #DomesticTravel #SoloTravel #Aomori

Aomori Prefecture, located at the northernmost tip of Honshu, is surrounded by the sea on three sides and is a treasure trove of magnificent natural beauty. If you're planning a trip to Aomori or are interested in visiting, this guide will be helpful for you. 🔸 Areas: Towada City, Hirosaki City, Mutsu City, Shimokita District, Kitatsugaru District, Tsugaru City, Hachinohe City ─────────────────────── 🔸 Duration: 3 days ─────────────────────── 🔸 Transportation: Private car ─────────────────────── This itinerary covers 8 spots. 🔹 Day 1 ❶ 12:30 Towada Art Center ↓ ↓ 🚗 Approx. 40km, about 50 minutes ↓ ❷ 15:00 Kabushima Shrine ↓ ↓ 🚗 Approx. 7km, about 15 minutes ↓ ❸ 16:20 Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hachinohe · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · 🍀 Tourist Spots 🔸 Towada Art Center 📍 Address: 10-9 Nibancho, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, 034-0082 🔸 Kabushima Shrine 📍 Address: 56 Same, Same Town, Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, 031-0841 🏨 Accommodation 🔸 Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hachinohe 📍 Address: 1-1 Yokamachi, Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, 031-0086 📌 Useful Information Parking at Towada Art Center: 🔸 Towada City Nibancho Parking Lot 📍 Address: 8 Nibancho, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, 034-0082 Free parking tickets are provided for paid museum visitors. 🔸 Museum Parking Lot 📍 Address: 6-19 Nibancho, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, 034-0082 Free parking is available for museum visitors. Please park your camper vans or motorcycles here. ※ For more details, check the official website. · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · 🔹 Day 2 ❶ 11:30 Hotokegaura Parking Lot - Hotokegaura ↓ ↓ 🚗 Approx. 71km, about 1 hour 30 minutes ↓ ❷ 14:30 Osorezan Temple Grounds ↓ ↓ 🚗 Approx. 150km, about 2 hours 50 minutes (toll road) ↓ ❸ Park Inn Goshogawara Elm City · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · 🍀 Tourist Spots 🔸 Hotokegaura 📍 Address: Within Ishikoku National Forest, Nagakubo, Sai Village, Shimokita District, Aomori Prefecture, 039-4712 🔸 Osorezan Bodai Temple 📍 Address: 3-2 Osoriyama, Tanabu, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture, 035-0021 🏨 Accommodation 🔸 Park Inn Goshogawara Elm City 📍 Address: 66-12 Tofumaki, Karakasa Yanagi, Goshogawara City, Aomori Prefecture, 037-0004 📌 Useful Information 🔸 Hotokegaura Parking Lot 📍 Address: Nagakubo, Sai Village, Shimokita District, Aomori Prefecture, 039-4712 From the parking lot to Hotokegaura, there is a walking trail (mountain path) of about 600m. It takes approximately 20 minutes downhill and 40 minutes uphill. ※ It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes. ⚠️ Beware of bears. · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · 🔹 Day 3 ❶ 8:30 Takayama Inari Shrine ↓ ↓ 🚗 Approx. 20km, about 30 minutes ↓ ❷ 10:00 Kizukuri Station ↓ ↓ 🚗 Approx. 9km, about 15 minutes ↓ ❸ 10:30 Fujimiko Park - Tsuru no Mai Bridge ↓ ↓ 🚗 Approx. 22km, about 35 minutes ↓ ❹ 12:00 Fujita Memorial Garden - Taisho Roman Tea Room · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · 🍀 Tourist Spots 🔸 Takayama Inari Shrine 📍 Address: 147-1 Washinosawa, Ushikata Town, Tsugaru City, Aomori Prefecture, 038-3305 🔸 Kizukuri Station 📍 Address: Kizukuri Fumatsu, Tsugaru City, Aomori Prefecture, 038-3158 🔸 Fujimiko Park - Tsuru no Mai Bridge 📍 Address: 81-150 Mawaseki Osawa, Tsuruta Town, Kitatsugaru District, Aomori Prefecture, 038-3542 🔸 Fujita Memorial Garden 📍 Address: 8-1 Kamishiroganecho, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, 036-8357 🍴 Gourmet Spot 🔸 Taisho Roman Tea Room 📍 Address: 8-1 Kamishiroganecho, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, 036-8207 Located on the 1st floor of the Western-style building in Fujita Memorial Garden. ※ It is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance as it gets very crowded. 📌 Useful Information 🔹 Fujimiko Park - Tsuru no Mai Bridge Admission is free. For those traveling by car, if using a paid parking lot, fees are as follows: · Regular cars: 300 yen for over 30 minutes · Vehicles over 2.5m in height: 1000 yen

#EnjoyJapanAomori Prefecture is located in the northernmost part of the Tohoku region of Japan, and is known for its rich nature and deep cultural traditions. Below, we will introduce the charms of Aomori Prefecture and the particularly mysterious sacred place "Osorezan". ### **Overview of Aomori Prefecture** Aomori Prefecture is surrounded by the sea on three sides and has beautiful natural scenery such as the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site, Lake Towada, and Oirase Gorge. Traditional festivals such as the Aomori Nebuta Festival and Hirosaki Sakura Festival are also famous and attract tourists. #### **Major Tourist Spots** 1. **Shirakami-Sanchi** The world's largest virgin beech forest spreads and was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1993. In particular, "Aoike" is known for its mysterious blue lake water. 2. **Hirosaki Castle (Hirosaki Park)** One of Japan's leading cherry blossom viewing spots, with about 2,600 cherry trees blooming in spring. In addition, the Snow Lantern Festival is held in winter. 3. **Oirase Stream** This mountain stream flows out of Lake Towada, and the scenery is especially beautiful in the seasons of new greenery and autumn leaves. 4. **Aomori Nebuta Festival** This is one of the three major festivals in the Tohoku region, held every August, and giant lanterns (nebuta) are paraded through the town. · -- ### **Osorezan: One of Japan's Three Great Sacred Sites** Osorezan is one of the "Three Great Sacred Sites of Japan," along with Mount Hiei in Kyoto and Mount Koya in Wakayama, and is a sacred place where the souls of the dead are said to gather. #### **Characteristics of Osorezan** · **Scenery of Hell and Paradise** The sulfurous fumaroles and rough rocks represent "hell," while the white sand of "Gokurakuhama Beach" on the shore of Lake Usoriyama creates a beautiful contrast. · **Osorezan Bodaiji Temple** Founded by Jikaku Daishi in 862, this temple enshrines Enmei Jizo Bodhisattva. The temple grounds contain places symbolizing the afterlife, such as the "Sai no Kawara" and the "Sanzu River." · **Itako Shrine Maiden** During the Osorezan Festival and autumn worship, shrine maidens perform a ceremony to communicate with the spirits of the dead. · **Hot Springs** Sulfur springs out from Mount Osore, and there is a hot spring facility where worshippers can bathe for free. #### **Visiting Information** · **Opening Period**: May 1st to October 31st (closed in winter). · **Admission Fee**: 500 yen for adults, 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students. · **Access**: About 45 minutes by bus from JR Shimokita Station. Aomori Prefecture is a fascinating region where nature and culture blend together, and Mount Osore in particular is a mysterious place that is said to be the "border between this world and the other world." It is recommended not only for those who are interested in history and religion, but also for those who want to enjoy unique scenery.

[Sunset at Mount Osore, Lake Usori, and Cape Oma, Shimokita Peninsula, Hotokegaura, Aomori] This is a record of our trip to Aomori, when we chartered a minibus as a group and watched the sunset at Mount Osore, Lake Usori, and Cape Oma, Shimokita Peninsula. We recommend that you go there in a mentally healthy state, with respect and caution towards places with spiritual legends. When we went there in August, the spiritual atmosphere from people was not strong, and it was easy to accept the environment as an outdoor activity. There are active volcanoes in every country, but as an example of a Japanese volcano, we can also recommend this place to those who like observing mountains. Osorezan in Shimokita Peninsula Quasi-National Park, Aomori Prefecture 🕰️Opening hours: Mountain climbing season: May 1st to the end of October 6:00-18:00 *Entry reception closes at 16:30 Closed: November to the end of April (Open every year between May 1st and October 31st) 💰Price per person: Adults 700 yen, elementary and junior high school students 200 yen Groups 400 yen (20 or more people per group) Access: About 40 minutes by car from JR Shimokita Station 📍Location: 3-2 Usoriyama, Tanabe, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture As I walked around the places named after hell and heaven from the temple grounds as guided, I heard the sound of the wind rattling the many windmills that pilgrims had inserted into the rocks, the sound of the straight wind hitting the rocks, the cold air, and the sunlight passing through the gaps in my hair. Along with Mount Hiei and Mount Koya, Mount Osore is one of the three most sacred mountains in Japan. Locals have long said that when people die, they go to Mount Osore. The sacred grounds, surrounded by the outer rim of the mountain, are a cut-off place that cannot be seen from the outside. When you cross the drum bridge over the Sanzu River and enter the sacred area, a landscape that resembles the world of the afterlife spreads before your eyes. Gokurakuhama, with its beauty reminiscent of the Pure Land, Jigokudani, with its sulfurous smell, the desolate Hell of Inferno, and Pond of Blood Hell... At Sai no Kawara, there are stones piled up by parents to mourn their young child who passed away, and a windmill spinning around, creating a melancholy atmosphere. Mount Osore Bodaiji Temple was founded in 862. It is said that Ennin, the founder of the temple, was guided by a prophecy in a dream and founded Mount Osore Bodaiji Temple in Shimokita at the end of his journey to preach his teachings to various countries. During the "Osorezan Grand Festival" held every year from July 20th to 24th, and the "Osorezan Autumn Pilgrimage" held during the long weekend in early October, many people line up to hear messages from the afterlife from shrine maidens called "Itako," who call out the spirits of the dead. ' There are also events in which "Itako" spirit mediums can hear messages from ancestors and deceased family members, or exorcise evil spirits that have possessed the client and help them attain enlightenment, and there are also self-proclaimed fortune tellers in the fortune telling market, but only a limited number of people who were born in this area of ​​Aomori Prefecture to a lineage of Itakos and have trained and studied since childhood are allowed to play the role of Itako. It is a pilgrimage destination for various purposes, such as mourning children and those affected by natural disasters, and is a base for travelers from all over the country, including the Tohoku region and Hokkaido. Hot Springs: Please bring your own swimsuit and towel. The facilities are simple and not a place to wash your body, but you can recover from fatigue in the sulfur baths. Lake Usori Lake Usori, which appears shallow at first glance and has a clear emerald-colored surface, can be reached by walking around the area within the grounds of Mount Osore. The water is highly acidic, which separates living creatures, and only one species of fish can live there, the Japanese dace. This caldera lake was formed by the eruption of Mount Tsurugi in the Osorezan mountain range. There are a dozen or so rivers that flow into the outer rim, but only one river flows out of it, the Shozu River, which flows into the Tsugaru Strait. The outer rim consists of eight peaks: Mount Keito, Mount Jizo, Mount Tsurugi, Mount Ojin, Mount Kojin, Mount Hokkoku, Mount Byobu, and Mount Kamafusa. Lake Usori and the outer rim are collectively called Mount Osore. The northeastern part of the lake is within the precincts of the sacred Mount Osore, where hot springs bubble up and volcanic gas and steam erupt from places. Mount Osore is designated as an active volcano. Omazaki, Shimokita Peninsula: Watch the waves crashing at the northernmost point of Honshu. There are also various monuments. Hotokegaura On the drive back, we saw the sun at its largest when it set. It was similar to the intensity of the light when watching the sunset at the twelve apostles from the coast in Victoria, Australia. #DomesticTravelTactics #Spring0YenTrip #MyTravelPlanBestSpots2014Aomori

It's just under 30 minutes by car from Mutsu city on a well-maintained, beautiful mountain road. When the ghost craze was happening on the TV show "A World You Don't Know," which is well known to those of the Showa generation, you can imagine that Mount Osore was a scary place even for children, with a desolate landscape and a medium who would speak to the voices of the dead through spirit mediums. It would be unthinkable for me to come all the way to Mutsu city on the Shimokita Peninsula and not visit Mount Osore, so I came here early in the morning. The weather was amazing, and the temple was surprisingly well-maintained. Even though the scenery was bleak with stonework everywhere that smelled of sulfur, the mountains behind were beautiful with autumn leaves🍁, so it didn't feel ominous😊 Temple name: Osorezan Bodaiji Main image: Enmei Jizo Bodhisattva Founder: Jikaku Daishi Ennin Main temple: Soto Zen sect Entsuji A sacred place opened by Jikaku Daishi Ennin 1200 years ago, with mountains surrounding Lake Usori, the rocky area where volcanic gas spews is likened to hell, and the white sand beach surrounding the lake is likened to paradise. It is a place of faith and prayer where people come to mourn the souls of their loved ones and remember the faces of the deceased. It was good weather and there weren't many people early in the day, so we were able to take our time going around the route. In some places, people were building stonework and windmills, and I also built stonework and prayed to my husband and ancestors. When I got a goshuin at the shrine office, an old man said to me, "If you have time, you should come to the hot spring ♨️, it's free," so there's no way a hot spring lover wouldn't go 😆 The warm water of the sulfur spring No one came in, so I had it all to myself to warm up 😊 #Osorezan #Autumn leaves 🍁 season #Free hot springs at sacred sites are the best ♨️ #Shimokita Peninsula #Misawa Airport #A trip to meet people #Aomori is a great place

Osorezan, the closest place to the afterlife, where the landscapes of hell and paradise spread out before you. Crossing the drum bridge over the Sanzu River and entering the sacred area, you will see a landscape reminiscent of the afterlife, with stones piled up and sulfur gas spewing out from various places. Gokurakuhama, with its beauty reminiscent of the Pure Land, Jigokudani, where the smell of sulfur hangs over, the desolate Muken Jigoku, and Chi no Ike Jigoku... At Sai no Kawara, there are stones piled up by parents to mourn their deceased young child, and a spinning windmill, giving off a sense of sadness. ◆Free hot springs Hot springs with the smell of sulfur bubble up. There are four bathhouses within the sacred area, and worshippers can bathe for free, but please note that there are mixed baths and men and women can switch between baths! They are also closed in winter, so please check the official website! #0yentravelautumn

⭐Spot Highlights: Osorezan Bodaiji Temple is a sacred site located on the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture. It has long been known as one of Japan's three major sacred sites. The desolate landscape, with its sulfur-scented hot springs and gray rocky terrain, creates a unique atmosphere. Osorezan is said to be a gathering place for the souls of the deceased, offering visitors a sense of holy tranquility and mystery. ❤Recommended Points: The charm of Osorezan Bodaiji Temple lies in its otherworldly scenery. The contrast between the hellish landscape and the small flowers blooming there is striking. Additionally, the main hall and statues of the Six Jizo welcome worshippers. The temple grounds also feature hot springs, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate both body and mind after their visit. The annual Osorezan Festival in July attracts many visitors, who can fully experience the sacred atmosphere. 🚌Access: It takes about 40 minutes by bus from JR Shimokita Station to Osorezan, or about 40 minutes by car. Since public transportation is limited, renting a car is convenient. ❗Useful Information: Osorezan is at a high altitude and often has low temperatures, so it is recommended to bring warm clothing even in summer. The temple grounds are extensive, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Be cautious as sulfur springs can damage clothing and metal items. 🛒Shopping: Near Osorezan Bodaiji Temple, there are shops selling amulets, prayer beads, and local souvenirs. Bath salts made from the hot spring water of Osorezan and items symbolizing the sacred site are particularly popular.

The Spirit Mountain, the Gate to the Underworld at Osorezan (恐山) This is one of the three sacred mountains in Japan. Mount Osore is located in Aomori Prefecture. The Japanese believe that this is the gate to the underworld. It is a place where the spirits of the deceased will travel. Mount Osore is famous for its "Itako" (Itako) or as Thais know it as, "mediums".. Who can be a medium between the world of the living and the world of the dead Through strict training, they can summon and communicate with spirits from the afterlife. There is also Jigoku Meguri or what is called Hell Tour This is a travel plan of Osorezan too! This is located on Shimokita Island (下北半島) Which is the center of a lake that has erupted And exploded long ago until it looks like an island And in the valley area by the lake There is emerald green water White sand beaches that remind you of heaven With a strong smell of sulfur Including a well Contaminated with sulfur to the point of being red or yellow Although it is a very beautiful atmosphere But it also has a strange creepy feel to it. Oh! . Places of interest · Osorezan Bodaiji Temple · Gokurakuhama Heavenly Beach · Reisen Holy Spring · Usoriyama Lake · Chi-no-Ike Hell · Toboku Hell · Mugen Hell · Kanehori Hell . · How to get there From Shimokita Station, take the Osorezan bus And get off at Osorezan. It takes about 45 minutes by car. . Osorezan is open from May to October. Opening hours vary depending on the season. The admission fee is 500 yen/person.