A day trip to Aomori in Tohoku, Japan | Takayama Inari Shrine, Shirakami Sanji Blue Pond, Senjojiki Coast (departing from Aomori)
- A day trip departing from Aomori Station: Easily explore Aomori's must-see attractions.
- Visit popular attractions and stroll along the winding red torii gate walkways.
- Enjoy the natural scenery of the Blue Pond and forests in the Shirakami Mountains, a World Natural Heritage site.
- The Senjojiki coast offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan.
- A day trip combining shrines, world heritage sites, forest retreats, and coastal scenery.
Package Options
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
Takayama Inari Shrine | Thousand Torii Gates: Located on the Tsugaru Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture, Takayama Inari Shrine is famous for its winding, undulating thousand torii gates, and has become a rapidly rising popular hidden gem in the Tohoku region in recent years. The shrine enshrines Inari, the god of ini, symbolizing good fortune, prosperous business, and bountiful harvests. Strolling along the red torii gate path, you can enjoy the Japanese garden, lakeside scenery, and tranquil shrine atmosphere. It offers different views in each season, showcasing unique charm whether you're admiring flowers, greenery, autumn leaves, or snow, making it a must-visit destination for independent travelers to Aomori and for those exploring the Tohoku region in depth.
Shirakami Mountain Range Stroll (Blue Pond, Boiling Pot Pond, Beech Forest) | A World Natural Heritage Site The Shirakami Mountain Range, a World Natural Heritage site, boasts the largest primary beech forest in East Asia. This tour will explore the iconic Twelve Lakes area, admiring the dreamlike blue of Blue Pond, refracted by light and minerals, and the crystal-clear waters of Boiling Pot Pond. Stroll along forest trails and experience the healing atmosphere of pristine nature and rich ecosystem. Combining a World Heritage site, secluded lakes, and forest strolls, this is a classic route for experiencing the natural charm and ecotourism of Aomori.
Senjojiki Coast | Located in Fukaura Town, Aomori Prefecture, the Senjojiki Coast is one of the most representative natural landscapes along the Sea of Japan coast. Formed by an earthquake, it features a vast, flat rock formation that, from a distance, resembles a thousand tatami mats, hence its name. Strolling along the coastal path, one can enjoy close-up views of the magnificent Sea of Japan and the natural panorama created by the interplay of strangely shaped rocks and the waves.
Explore popular attractions: Takayama Inari Shrine
Famous for its "Senbon Torii" (thousands of torii gates) winding between Japanese gardens and hillsides, the bright red torii gates extend layer by layer along the terrain, resembling a giant red dragon weaving through the greenery. It is a very representative hidden gem in Aomori.
Unlike the straight and dense torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, the torii gates of Takayama Inari Shrine are combined with ponds, arched bridges, gardens and mountains, making them especially beautiful when viewed from above.
Visit the World Heritage Site "Shirakami Mountains" and experience the healing power of the forest and the beauty of the natural landscape.
Stroll along the lush forest trails and explore the most representative of the twelve lakes, "Blue Pond".
Blue Pond boasts a mysterious cobalt blue lake, as beautiful as a jewel.
Stroll to "Boiling Pot Pond" and admire the dreamlike lake nurtured by the clear springs of Mount Shirakami.
Next, you can visit the tranquil lake "Shigoro Pond" hidden in the Twelve Lakes Forest, where lush green trees surround the lake and the calm water reflects the surrounding scenery.
Aomori Senjojiki: Enjoy the vast rock shelters and uniquely shaped rock formations created by the uplift of the earth's crust.
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel departure point and destination: Aomori and Akita
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: Asahi/Ryukan
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Minimum group size: 15
Team Leader: 1 (assigned based on number of participants)
[Travel Planning/Implementation]
Operating Company Name: LION TRAVEL JAPAN Co., Ltd.
Address: 7th Floor, Toranomon Central Building, 1-7-1 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Tourism Authority Registered Travel Agent No. 1892
Name of travel agency: Japan Travel Agents Association (General Incorporated Company), Regular Member
Reminders
A minimum of 15 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Depending on the road conditions on the day, the departure time and route for each tourist destination may be adjusted. Please understand that no refunds will be given for itinerary changes or attraction cancellations caused by force majeure factors such as traffic and weather.
Vehicle type: Vehicles will be assigned based on the number of participants. For smaller groups, a driver will also serve as the accompanying person to provide full-trip tour services. No additional tour leader will be assigned, and a Japanese-speaking driver will be used. Communication will be conducted via translation devices. Please be aware of this.
Due to limited space in the luggage compartments, please indicate in the remarks column if you are carrying large luggage. Thank you for your cooperation.
The tour leader will not contact passengers the day before departure. Please arrive at the designated meeting point at the specified time on the day of departure and look for the LION TRAVEL sign to check in.
Please arrive at the designated meeting point on time. If a passenger fails to arrive at the agreed meeting point on time, it will be considered as a voluntary abandonment of the trip, and no refund or compensation will be available. Please be aware of this.
The planned tour itinerary and duration of stay are for reference only and may be subject to adjustment due to changes in traffic conditions, local activities, restaurant reservations, and opening hours of attractions and facilities on the day. We apologize for any inconvenience.
The flowering period may vary slightly depending on weather conditions. Once the tour is organized, departure will proceed as scheduled regardless of the flowering situation. Please be aware of this.
The photos shown on this product page are for illustrative purposes only. Please understand that the actual conditions at tourist sites may differ due to factors such as weather.
This hike is quite long, so please consider carefully before signing up. Also, there are relatively few shops at the attractions, so we recommend bringing some light snacks.
FAQ
1. What type of belief system is associated with Kōzan Inari Shrine?
Kōzan Inari Shrine is part of Japan's Inari belief system, primarily dedicated to the Inari Okami, who is revered for ensuring abundant harvests, commercial prosperity, and family safety. Foxes are considered messengers of the Inari deity, which is why fox statues are commonly found at the shrine. It belongs to Japan's Shinto system and serves as a place to pray for a prosperous and peaceful life, rather than being an 'yin temple' (陰廟). It is a highly respected shrine among Japanese people.
2. What deity is primarily enshrined at Kōzan Inari Shrine, and what are the rituals or etiquette for visiting?
Kōzan Inari Shrine primarily enshrines the Inari Okami, who governs agricultural abundance and commercial prosperity. When visiting, visitors generally follow the basic Shinto shrine etiquette of 'two bows, two claps, one bow.' Before entering the shrine grounds, you will pass through the magnificent Senbon Torii (a thousand vermillion gates), symbolizing offerings to the deities. It is recommended to purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya (water pavilion) before worshiping, as a sign of respect to the gods.
3. What is the transportation method to Kōzan Inari Shrine for the day trip itinerary?
For this Aomori day trip, after departing from Aomori Station, all transportation to Kōzan Inari Shrine will be provided by dedicated vehicles. Tourists do not need to plan public transportation routes or transfers, allowing for easy access and a comfortable, hassle-free journey.
4. What is the best season to visit the Shirakami-Sanchi Aoike Pond and Senjojiki Coast on the Aomori day trip?
The Shirakami-Sanchi Aoike Pond offers unique charm throughout the year, but to see the clearest, most vibrant blue water, the late spring to early autumn period (around May to October) with ample sunshine is generally recommended. During this time, there is plenty of light, making the pond's color more vivid. The Senjojiki Coast can be enjoyed year-round for its magnificent views of the Sea of Japan, especially captivating at sunset. If you wish to avoid the colder winter weather, the spring, summer, and autumn seasons would be more comfortable choices.
5. How long is the planned stay at Shirakami-Sanchi Aoike Pond during the Aomori day trip?
During the Aomori day trip, sufficient time is usually allocated for visiting the Shirakami-Sanchi Aoike Pond, allowing travelers to leisurely stroll along the lakeside paths and admire its unique blue waters and surrounding forest scenery. The specific duration of the stay will be flexibly adjusted based on the day's itinerary and road conditions. Generally, about 30 to 60 minutes can be expected, ensuring you have ample time for photos.
6. What is the unique geological formation of the Senjojiki Coast on the day trip, and what are its notable sights?
The Senjojiki Coast is a massive rock plateau formed by seismic uplift millions of years ago, subsequently eroded by the sea over time. These flat, expansive rock formations extend into the sea, resembling thousands of tatami mats laid out, hence its name. It's an excellent spot to admire the magnificent scenery of the Sea of Japan, particularly at dusk when the sunset paints the sea surface in golden hues, creating an unforgettable view. Additionally, various coastal erosion features and sea caves can be observed along the coast.
7. What are the convenient transportation options from Aomori city to the day trip meeting point at Aomori Station?
Aomori Station is conveniently located in the center of Aomori city. From most hotels within Aomori city, you can take a city bus directly to Aomori Station or a taxi, which usually takes a short time. If your accommodation is close to the station, walking is also a good option. It is advisable to plan your route and time to the station in advance to ensure you arrive at the meeting point on time and start your journey with pleasure.
8. How long does it take to travel to Aomori Station by Shinkansen from major Japanese cities?
The travel time by Shinkansen to Aomori Station from major Japanese cities varies depending on the departure point. For example, from Tokyo Station, it takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to reach Aomori Station directly via the Tohoku Shinkansen (Hayabusa or Hayate services). From Sendai, it takes about 1.5 hours. From the direction of Hakodate in Hokkaido, you can take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori Station and then transfer to a local train to Aomori Station. It is recommended to check the latest Shinkansen schedules and timetables in advance to match the day trip's departure time.
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