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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Goshogawara.
Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Aomori Prefecture lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Goshogawara, a city steeped in tradition and culture, offers a myriad of activities that are sure to excite and delight.
From soaking in hot springs to wandering through ancient temples, Goshogawara beckons visitors to experience the beauty of its landscape and the warmth of its people.
Get ready for an adventure unlike any other, as we uncover the top things to do in Goshogawara.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Goshogawara:
1. Tachineputa No Yakata
A museum dedicated to the Tachineputa Festival held in Goshogawara city.
What to see or do: See the amazing displays of giant Tachineputa floats, learn about the history and cultural significance of the festival.
Don’t miss: The stunning decorations and intricate details on each Tachineputa float, including tapestries made from hand-painted washi paper.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the Tachineputa Festival which runs from August 4 to 8 every year, and be sure to catch the nightly parade of illuminated floats.
Also, try the local speciality food called “Tsugaru-jamisen” while you’re in town – a type of dried fish that is roasted and seasoned to perfection.
2. Goshogawara City Museum
Goshogawara City Museum is a small museum located in the city of Goshogawara in Aomori Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum contains exhibits on the history and culture of the Goshogawara region, including traditional festivals, crafts, and agricultural practices.
Visitors can also browse a collection of artifacts from the Jomon and Yayoi periods, as well as artworks by local artists.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the museum’s famous Nebuta Festival float, which is displayed year-round in a dedicated exhibition room.
The Nebuta Festival is one of the largest and most famous summer festivals in Japan, and attracts thousands of visitors to Goshogawara each year.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is a great place to learn about the local culture and history before attending the Nebuta Festival in August.
3. Kogin Memorial Hall
Kogin Memorial Hall is a museum in Goshogawara, Japan that showcases the traditional embroidery technique of the Tsugaru region called Kogin.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history of Kogin embroidery and view a collection of beautiful embroidered garments, accessories, and home decor items.
There are interactive exhibits that allow visitors to try their hand at Kogin embroidery.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the display of the traditional Tsugaru wedding costume, which features intricate Kogin embroidery.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors can purchase Kogin embroidery kits and supplies in the museum gift shop.
4. Kuroishi Onsen
Kuroishi Onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring located in the city of Goshogawara in Aomori Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can soak in the therapeutic mineral-rich waters of the hot springs and enjoy the stunning natural scenery of the surrounding area.
The onsen also features a variety of facilities, including different indoor and outdoor baths and saunas.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the unique experience of taking a dip in the Jigoku no Yu (Hell Hot Spring), which is said to have healing properties and is sourced from deep underground.
Insider travel tips: – It’s recommended to book a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that offers onsen facilities for a complete onsen experience.
5. Tachineputa Art Festival
Tachineputa Art Festival is an annual event held in Goshogawara, Japan, featuring parades of gigantic floats made of washi paper and bamboo.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the colorful parade of giant floats, which are shaped like warriors, historical figures, and mythical creatures. There are also traditional Japanese performances such as taiko drumming, dancing, and singing.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the festival is the nighttime parade, where the floats are illuminated with lanterns, creating a spectacular sight. Another must-see is the fireworks display that lights up the sky over Goshogawara.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot to watch the parade. Wear comfortable shoes because the festival involves a lot of walking.
Bring cash for food and souvenirs as not all vendors accept credit cards.
6. Nakadomari Historical Village
Nakadomari Historical Village is a traditional village located in Goshogawara, Japan, which showcases traditional Japanese life and architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the village’s narrow streets and admire the architecture of the traditional thatched-roof houses and storehouses. There are also cultural demonstrations, such as spinning thread and making soba noodles, that visitors can participate in.
Don’t miss: The Nakadomari Museum of Folklore is a must-visit, which features exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the village.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the winter months to see the traditional snow houses or kamakura, built by the locals.
7. Ashino Park
Ashino Park is a sprawling park located in Goshogawara city, Japan.
What to see or do: The park is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom in abundance during the spring season. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the scenic view of the surrounding mountains.
There are several walking trails to explore, and the park’s pond offers a peaceful spot to relax.
Don’t miss: The park’s most iconic attraction is the Tsugaru Vidro Glass Studio. Here, visitors can watch skilled artisans creating beautiful glass-made objects while learning about the history and culture of this craft.
Insider travel tips: Timing is everything when it comes to catching the cherry blossoms in their full glory. Plan your visit to coincide with the blooming season, which usually peaks in late April or early May.
The park gets crowded during this time, so arrive early to avoid the rush. The park’s entrance fee is free, but the glass-making workshop requires a small fee.
8. Tsugaru Traditional Crafts Museum
An impressive museum showcasing the rich history and traditional crafts of Tsugaru region in Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits of various traditional crafts such as Tsugaru Kokeshi dolls, wooden carvings, textiles, and lacquerware.
Don’t miss: The live demonstration of how the crafts are made. You can also try your hand at making your own Kokeshi doll or participate in a traditional weaving workshop.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers English brochures and audio guides for non-Japanese speakers.
9. Michi-no-Eki Goshogawara
Michi-no-Eki Goshogawara is a roadside station located in the city of Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: At Michi-no-Eki Goshogawara, visitors can find fresh local produce, souvenirs, and handicrafts. The station also features a restaurant that serves local dishes and a footbath to relax in.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Michi-no-Eki Goshogawara is the Tsugaru Traditional Crafts Center, where visitors can see and experience traditional local crafts like Tsugaru Kokeshi dolls, Tsugaru lacquerware, and Tsugaru shamisen musical instruments.
Insider travel tips: Don’t miss the chance to try the local specialty dish, “Kuma no Gyu,” which is grilled black bear meat.
Also, the station hosts a monthly farmers market on the 5th of every month, where you can find even more locally grown produce and goods.
10. Saishoin Ogi
Saishoin Ogi is a Buddhist temple located in Goshogawara, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire the beautiful architecture of the main hall and surrounding buildings. Inside the main hall, visitors can participate in Buddhist rituals and take a moment to reflect and meditate.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Saishoin Ogi is the stunning garden surrounding the temple.
The garden boasts a pond and a variety of trees and flowers, making it a peaceful and picturesque spot for visitors to enjoy.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should be sure to check the temple’s schedule for any special events or ceremonies that they can experience during their visit.
It’s also recommended to wear comfortable shoes since there are some steps and uneven surfaces on the temple grounds.
Finally, visitors should be respectful of the temple’s customs and traditions, removing their shoes before entering the main hall and refraining from taking photos during ceremonies.
11. Fujimi Lake Park
Fujimi Lake Park is a beautiful natural park in Goshogawara, Aomori, Japan.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains reflected in the calm waters of the lake.
Insider travel tips:
12. Tsugaru Samurai Residences Exhibition Hall
Tsugaru Samurai Residences Exhibition Hall is a historical attraction in Goshogawara that showcases the traditional residences that were once inhabited by samurais.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the restored samurai residences, which include the Kunohe Family Residence and the Ishikawa Family Residence. The exhibition hall provides an interesting glimpse into the life and culture of samurais during the Edo period.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the traditional Japanese garden and the artifacts on display, such as swords, armor, and household items that belonged to the samurai families.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to book a guided tour with an English-speaking guide in advance to make the most of the experience.
The attraction is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
13. Takayama-inari Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Goshogawara City, Aomori, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a scenic walk through the forest to reach the main shrine, admire the vibrant red torii gates spread throughout the area, and soak up the serene atmosphere of the shrine’s surroundings.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of the shrine from the nearby observation deck, as well as the majestic statue of the fox god Inari that guards the shrine’s entrance.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Consider bringing a small offering to present at the shrine, and be sure to keep noise levels low out of respect for the shrine’s tranquility.
14. Tsugaru-han Neputa Mura
Tsugaru-han Neputa Mura is a museum dedicated to the famous Neputa Festival, one of the largest festivals in the Tohoku region.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various types of Neputa floats, costumes, and instruments used during the festival. They can also try their hand at making their own Neputa lanterns and drums.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the Neputa demonstration, where visitors can watch an actual Neputa performance with full-sized floats and music.
Insider travel tips: Try going during the festival season from August 1 to 7 to see the real Neputa Festival in Goshogawara city. Don’t forget to taste the local Tsugaru cider and apple pie while you’re there.
15. Fukaura Kaisen-kan Museum
Fukaura Kaisen-kan Museum is a maritime and fisheries museum located in Fukaura, Aomori Prefecture.
What to see or do: The museum features exhibits related to the rich marine life of the Sea of Japan, such as colorful fish and giant squid.
Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of the local fishing industry through various displays and interactive activities.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the opportunity to see a massive 10-meter-long giant squid, which is one of the largest specimens in the world.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the museum’s website for seasonal events and special exhibitions. Also, take a moment to enjoy the scenic views of the nearby port and harbor.