Hello folks.
Did you ever think you want to immerse yourself in the majestic nature in Japan around Aomori?
If so, Fukaura-cho, the west of Aomori prefecture, is the best place for you.
What sets Fukaura-cho are the following features:
- Furofushi-onsen with a phenomenal sunset
- Shirakami moutain, the UNESCO world heritage, shows you amazing mystical sacred nature
- The awe-inspiring Senjojiki: A flat expanse reminiscent of tatami mats, a marvel to behold
Furofushi-onsen stands as the envy of all Japanese!
So, let’s start the journey!
Overview of the trip itinerary in Fukaura-cho
Here is a rough schedule.
- 09:30 Aomori airport
- 10:30 Break at Goshogawara
- 12:00 Lunch Hiramezuke-donburi in Ajigasawa
- 12:30 Senjojiki
- 14:00 Shirakami mountain
- 15:00 Furofushi onsen check in
09:30 Aomori Airport
Soon after I arrived at Aomori Airport and took a breath, I quickly realized something.
The air was crisp and filled with the sweet scent of apples*.
It was the first time I had truly felt the difference in air quality, and I was deeply moved.
If you rent a car in Aomori, I highly recommend rolling down the windows to catch a whiff of the apples.
*Aomori is the number one producer of apples in Japan.
10:30 Break in Goshogawara
After just a one-hour drive, I decided to stop by Goshogawara.
I parked my car at Goshogawara station, which emanates a local and rustic vibe.
I looked up and found a top-rated coffee shop with a classic Japanese coffee shop feel, Coffee SHIJIN.
The interior looks retro-modern and the coffee tastes authentic.
Goshogawara is well known for Neputa, the traditional Japanese lantern festival.
So I decided to visit Tachi-Neputa-no-Yakata, the Neputa Museum.
At the museum, you can learn about Neputa history and floats, in addition to Neputa Festival itself.
The Neputa floats towered over 5 meters in height, and I was overwhelmed by their vibrant colors and beauty.
12:00 Lunch Hiramezuke-donburi in Ajigasawa
Aomori is renowned for its production of hirame, or flounder, known for its exceptional freshness.
I was eagerly looking forward to tasting this hirame, as it’s difficult to find such freshness in Tokyo.
I chose Takiwa, a highly-rated fish market and the restaurant.
The taste is plain but fresh with a satisfying texture. I was fully content.
12:30 Senjojiki
On the way to Fukaura-cho, there are still plenty of great nature spots to visit.
“Senjojiki” is a natural coastal terrace in Japan.
I felt like I was walking on the surface of the exceptionally clear sea, which gave me a strange sensation.
14:00 Shirakami mountain
Finally I stepped into Fukaura-cho.
My first destination of the city is Shirakami moutain, the Japan’s first natural world heritage site.
It is recommended to parking lot at KYORORO, the local specialty center, as it is only 5-minute walk to the famous Blue Pond.
Here is Blue Pond.
The lake bottom is visible, creating a mysterious yet clear blue surface reminiscent of spilled ink.
The beauty of the pond is simply breathtaking.
Near the mountain exit, I discovered the beauty of a small stream.
In addition, I found the spot where I can drink Aomori’s natural spring water.
The board says “this water has been selected as one of the hundred famous clear waters in Japan”.
The water lived up to its name, cold and tasting exceptionally delicious.
15:00 Furofushi onsen check in
About 20-minute drive from Shiakami mountain, I finally arrived at today’s accommodation: Furofushi-onsen.
Furofushi means “immortality” in Japanese.
If you bathe in this onsen, it is said that you would live forever 😉
- https://www.furofushi.com/
- 15-1 Nishitsugaru District, Fukaura, Henashi, Shimokiyotaki, Aomori 038-2327
Furofushi Onsen renowned for its seaside outdoor baths offering stunning views of the sunset.
Also it is a famous onsen that every Japanese person has likely seen in pictures.
After the check in, I entered he room, which is simple and super clean.
I first tried the indoor bath, but it was too hot, and I couldn’t stay in for long.
It must have been around 45 degrees Celsius.
Finally I got out and took a outside bath.
In order to secure the best position to view the sunset, people start reserving spots in the onsen from the late afternoon.
I started bathing an hour before sunset and secured a spot at the edge of the infinity onsen.
It is time. An amazingly breathtaking view.
After relaxing in the hot springs, we enjoyed a delicious seafood dinner and had a restful night’s sleep.
Aomori is so full of charm that I’ll be sharing it with you over several installments!
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