Hirosaki Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque Aomori region of Japan lies the enchanting city of Hirosaki. This charming destination is renowned for its rich historical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. From its captivating cherry blossoms to its majestic castles, Hirosaki offers a truly immersive experience for travelers seeking to explore the beauty of Japan.

One of the city's most iconic attractions is the Hirosaki Castle, a magnificent feudal castle that dates back to the early 17th century. Surrounded by lush greenery and a moat, this architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to Japan's rich samurai history. Visitors can stroll through the castle grounds, marvel at the intricate design, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

For nature enthusiasts, Hirosaki is a paradise waiting to be discovered. The city is famous for its Sakura Matsuri, a cherry blossom festival that takes place in the spring. During this time, the Hirosaki Park bursts into a sea of delicate pink petals, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the park's picturesque paths, enjoy hanami (flower viewing) picnics, and immerse themselves in the ethereal beauty of the blooming cherry blossoms.

Beyond its natural and historical wonders, Hirosaki also offers a vibrant cultural scene. The Neputa Festival, held annually in August, is a must-see event that showcases traditional Japanese art and folklore. Colorful floats adorned with intricate hand-painted lanterns are paraded through the streets, accompanied by lively music and traditional dance performances. This festival is a feast for the senses, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of Japanese culture.

As you explore the streets of Hirosaki, be sure to indulge in the city's culinary delights. Hirosaki is known for its fresh and delicious local produce, including mouthwatering apples and mouthwatering Tsugaru-jam. Sample traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, ramen, and tempura, or try local specialties like Kuroishi Nezumi Soba, a savory buckwheat noodle dish.

Local name: 弘前市 Population: 170.8 thous. (2019)Area: 202.39 mi²Elevation: 128 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 40°36'6"N, 140°28'34"E

Location

AomoriJapan

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Hirosaki Top Attractions

Hirosaki Attractions - What to See and Explore

Hirosaki offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Hirosaki Castle, Ōmori Katsuyama Site, Hirosaki City Museum, Hirosaki University. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Scenic castle set among cherry trees
Hirosaki Castle
Nestled in the northern reaches of Japan's main island, Hirosaki Castle stands as a proud testament to the region's feudal past. Located in the city of Hirosaki in Aomori Prefecture, this historic structure is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history or...
Archaeological site
Ōmori Katsuyama Site
The Ōmori Katsuyama Site is an archaeological site in the city of Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, in the Tōhoku region of northern Japan that contains the ruins of a late Jōmon period settlement dating to approximately 2,000–1,500 BC. The remains were designated a National Historic Site in 2012 by the Japanese government.
Museum
Hirosaki City Museum
Hirosaki City Museum opened in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, Japan in 1977. It lies within Hirosaki Park, in the former grounds of Hirosaki Castle.

Universities and schools
Hirosaki University
Hirosaki University is a Japanese national university in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, Japan. Established in 1949, it comprises five faculties: Faculty of the Humanities, Faculty of Education History, Hirosaki University Medical School History, Faculty of Science and Technology, and Faculty of Agriculture and Life Science.
Forts and castles
Horikoshi Castle
Horikoshi Castle was a Muromachi period Japanese castle located in what is now the city of Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, in the Tōhoku region of far northern Japan. It is protected by the central government as a National Historic Site, collectively with Hirosaki Castle and Tanesato Castle as the "Tsugaru clan Castle Sites".
Temple
Hirosaki Tōshō-gū
Hirosaki Tōshō-gū was a Shinto shrine located in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, Japan.
Universities and schools
Hirosaki Gakuin University
Hirosaki Gakuin University is a private university at Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, Japan. The predecessor of the school was founded in 1886, and it was chartered as a university in 1971.
Universities and schools
Tohoku Women's College
Tohoku Women's College is a private women's college in the city of Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, Japan, established in 1969. The predecessor of the school was founded in 1923.
40°36'41"N • 140°28'8"E
Jin zhi fanneputa cun
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Universities and schools
Hirosaki University of Health and Welfare
Hirosaki University of Health and Welfare is a private university in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, Japan, established in 2002. The school operates as both a four-year and as a two-year junior college, specializing in nursing and medical social welfare.

Day trips

Hirosaki – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Hirosaki, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Nipro Hachiko Dome (Odate), Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse (Aomori), Aoimori Park (Aomori).

22 milesS
Arenas and stadiums, Baseball field, Sport venue
Nipro Hachiko Dome, Odate
The Nipro Hachiko Dome is a large wooden stadium in Ōdate, Akita, in northern Japan. The stadium covers an area of 12,915 m2. It was completed in June 1997 and is made from 25,000 Akita cypress trees which are covered with a special double Teflon-coated membrane.
21 milesNE
Museum, Architecture, Art museum
Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse, Aomori
The Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse is a city-owned museum near Aomori Station in the city of Aomori in northern Japan. It displays a revolving exhibit of four Nebuta floats from the most recent Aomori Nebuta Matsuri summer festival, alongside media related to the festival. The museum opened in January 2011.
21 milesNE
Park
Aoimori Park, Aomori
Aoimori Park is a 1.8-hectare urban park in the central district of Aomori Prefecture's capital city, Aomori in northern Japan. Acting as an urban green space in the city's dense administrative district, it features various themed landscapes. It has been maintained by the prefectural government of Aomori since its opening in 1985.
21 milesNE
Museum
Aomori City Forestry Museum, Aomori
The Aomori City Forestry Museum is a natural history museum located in the city of Aomori in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. The museum focuses primarily on the forest ecosystems of Aomori Prefecture and the history of the lumber industry in the prefecture, though other unrelated exhibits are also maintained.
21 milesN
Historical place, Museum, History museum
Osamu Dazai Memorial Museum, Goshogawara
The Osamu Dazai Memorial Museum, also commonly referred to as Shayōkan, is a writer's home museum located in the Kanagi area of Goshogawara in Aomori Prefecture, Japan.

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Best Time To Visit Hirosaki

Learn when is the best time to travel to Hirosaki weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Hirosaki?

The top attractions to visit in Hirosaki are:

What is the best time to visit Hirosaki?

April and May are the busiest months in this location. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.