Aomori
The most northern prefecture on Japan’s main island (Honshu), apparently known for its summer festival but I went for the skiing (look up Hakkoda snow monsters) and their apples. 60% of Japan’s apples come from here! I got two bottles of apple juice from a vending machine in the airport and both were delicious. The seafood is also a reason to go, but I did not get to try it myself… more on this below.
I flew into the cozy Aomori airport from Tokyo, and then took a bus to Hirosaki city. Other than that, I took taxis (one through a ride share app, one reserved) to get to my ski destinations but it was rather expensive because of the distances I traveled. Typically, people rent cars but I was not about to drive solo amidst all the snow.
Unfortunately, I had a fever and didn’t get to actually see the few sites in Hirosaki I had planned as I was passing through to my first ski destination. Still, listing them here in case you would like to check them out! I hope to go back someday. Details on the ski resorts I went to are under the Ski section.
Hotels
Recommended
Sure :)
Notes
A 4-star hotel that was a very short walk from the bus terminal, which I was grateful for with my luggage and the snow! Convenience store can be accessed on the 1st floor without leaving the building.
Restaurants
Recommended
If time allows
Notes
Wanted to try regional cuisine and it’s about a 15 minute walk from the hotel. But I spent my one night sleeping as as much as possible to try and kick my cold. :(
Scenic
Name
Hirosaki Castle
Recommended
If time allows
Notes
A 30-minute walk from the hotel (in the snow) but one could also take a bus or taxi. :) Had hoped to see the many cherry trees covered in snow!
Botanical park on the castle grounds that supposedly had winter lights in the evening.
If time allows
A short walk north of the castle, if I happened to have enough daylight upon arriving.
If time allows