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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Misawa.
Misawa, a hidden gem in the north of Japan, is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
From the tranquil forests to the pristine beaches and everything in between, Misawa is a destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the heart and soul of Japan.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture or simply a relaxing getaway, Misawa has something for everyone.
So put on your explorer hat and get ready to discover the many wonders waiting for you in this charming town.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Misawa:
1. Tsugaru-jamisen Hall
Tsugaru-jamisen Hall is a music and cultural center located in Misawa, Aomori Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The hall mainly features performances of Tsugaru-jamisen, a traditional Japanese three-string instrument that originated in the Tsugaru region.
Visitors can enjoy live performances by expert musicians and learn about the history and art of Tsugaru-jamisen through videos, exhibits, and workshops.
Don’t miss: The Tsugaru-jamisen performances by masters, such as Hiromitsu Agatsuma and Yoshimitsu Hamano, are definitely worth experiencing. The hall also offers rental jamisen for visitors who want to try their hands at playing the instrument.
Insider travel tips: Check the hall’s schedule and plan your visit accordingly, especially if you are interested in attending specific performances. Don’t forget to try the local Tsugaru-jamisen sake, which is said to enhance the experience of listening to the music!
2. Towada-Hachimantai National Park
Towada-Hachimantai National Park is a scenic national park located in the northern region of Japan’s Honshu Island. It encompasses a vast area of over 300,000 hectares that includes mountains, lakes, hot springs, waterfalls, forests, and hiking trails.
What to see or do: Explore the serene beauty of Lake Towada by taking a boat ride or hiking around its scenic perimeter. Hike up to the summit of Mt.
Hachimantai to enjoy panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas. Soak in the natural hot springs of Sukayu Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan.
Walk along the Oirase Stream, which meanders through the forest, dotted with waterfalls and ponds.
Don’t miss: Catch a glimpse of the autumn foliage, which transforms the park into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. Visit the Towada Art Center, which hosts contemporary art exhibitions.
Witness the Snow Corridor, a spectacular winter sight of snow walls towering over the roads that run through Hachimantai.
Insider travel tips: Take public transportation as driving within the park can be challenging due to narrow roads and changing weather conditions. Dress accordingly, especially during the winter months, as the temperature can drop below freezing.
Check out the park’s official website for hiking trail updates and road closures. Bring a camera and capture the natural beauty of the park through the different seasons.
3. Lake Towada
Lake Towada is a large, scenic crater lake located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the Towada-Hachimantai National Park to enjoy hiking trails and bird-watching. Take a boat tour to admire the stunning scenery, especially during autumn foliage season.
Also, check out the impressive crater view from the top of the famous Oirase Gorge.
Don’t miss: Witness the breathtaking autumn leaves of Lake Towada, which turns to vibrant colors of red, orange, and yellow between late September and early November.
Try the specialty “Jappa-jiru” soup, made with potatoes and seafood, a popular local dish around Lake Towada.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the crowds and rejoice in peaceful surroundings by visiting Lake Towada during the weekdays, especially during the autumn foliage season.
Take the morning boat tour for smoother waters and better picture-taking opportunities. Bring a jacket or warm clothes as it can get chilly at night.
4. Misawa Aviation & Science Museum
Misawa Aviation & Science Museum is a unique institution that has a comprehensive collection of historical aircraft, scientific objects, and space exploration equipment.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent exhibits that showcase the history of aviation, science, and technology. The centerpiece of the museum is the SR-71 Blackbird, one of the fastest aircraft ever flown.
Other interesting objects include a replica of the Wright Brothers’ Flyer and a Japanese Zero fighter plane.
Don’t miss: The planetarium show is a must-see experience.
Sit back and watch the starry sky come alive with educational multimedia shows that take you on a journey through the cosmos.
Don’t forget to check out the outdoor display of retired fighter jets that span several decades of military aviation history.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for special events and temporary exhibits.
5. Misawa Nature & Culture Garden
Misawa Nature & Culture Garden is a spacious park that offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural features.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. The park also has a stunning Japanese garden where visitors can enjoy a serene atmosphere and scenic views.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the garden’s meticulously crafted bridges, which provide an ideal spot for photos.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the garden. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes as there are many trails to explore.
Additionally, visit in the fall to catch the foliage in its prime.
6. Shimokita Hanto Seaside Park
A beautiful park located on the Shimokita Peninsula with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
What to see or do: Take a scenic walk along the park’s coastal trail, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, admire the colorful flowers and plants, and go camping in the park’s designated campsites.
Don’t miss: The spectacular sunset over the ocean is a must-see, as well as the park’s iconic white lighthouse.
Insider travel tips: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and make sure to pack insect repellent and sunscreen during summertime. Book your camping reservations in advance, as the campsites tend to fill up quickly during peak season.
7. Oirase Gorge
Oirase Gorge is a beautiful natural attraction located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a scenic walk along the Oirase Stream that runs through the gorge, and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Waterfalls, rapids, and serene ponds dot the gorge, making it a wonderful place to hike and relax.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop by the beautiful Choshi Otaki waterfall, which is one of the main attractions in the area.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is in the fall, when the changing leaves provide a vivid backdrop to the already stunning scenery.
8. Hakkoda Mountains
A mountain range located in the Aomori Prefecture of Japan, well-known for its stunning snow-covered landscapes and excellent backcountry skiing opportunities.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy skiing or snowboarding down the rugged terrain of the Hakkoda Mountains. Hiking is also a popular activity during the summer months, where tourists can witness the beautiful flower fields and greenery.
Don’t miss: The Hakkoda Ropeway is a must-see attraction for those visiting the area. The ride provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and leads visitors to the peak of Mount Tamoyachi.
Insider travel tips: It is essential to check the current weather conditions and avalanche warnings before entering the backcountry. Additionally, be sure to bring appropriate clothing and gear as the temperature can drop dramatically in the mountains.
Finally, visitors can enjoy a hot local meal at the Hakkoda Hotel after their outdoor activities.
9. Kanagi Sakura Park
Kanagi Sakura Park is a beautiful park in Misawa, Japan that is home to over 1,500 cherry blossom trees.
What to see or do: The park is the perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing stroll.
During cherry blossom season, visitors can enjoy the beautiful pink blooms and even take part in hanami, the Japanese tradition of picnicking under the cherry blossoms.
Don’t miss: One of the most iconic spots in the park is the Sakuradai, a hill that overlooks the cherry blossom trees and offers stunning views.
Visitors can also explore the park’s various walking paths and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: – The park can get very crowded during cherry blossom season, so arrive early to secure a good spot for hanami.
10. Misawa Ice Arena
Misawa Ice Arena is a multi-purpose ice rink located in Misawa, Japan. It serves as a venue for ice hockey, figure skating, broomball and other ice related sports.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy ice skating or watch ice hockey and figure skating competitions. The rink also offers skate rentals, lessons and holds public skating sessions.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on catching a game or competition. The arena is a great place to watch local hockey teams play.
Insider travel tips: It can get cold inside the rink so be sure to dress warmly.
Also, check the schedule in advance to see if there are any upcoming events or tournaments that might be of interest.
11. Misawa City Museum
Misawa City Museum is a small local museum in Misawa City, Aomori Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The main exhibits of the museum showcase the history, culture, and nature of the area, including Jomon period artifacts, samurai armor, and local crafts.
Don’t miss: The museum’s highlight is a reproduction of a traditional Jomon pit dwelling that visitors can enter and explore. Additionally, the museum has a beautiful garden with a pond and walking paths.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located near Misawa Air Base, so visitors may see military aircraft flying overhead.
12. Michi-no-Eki Misawa
Michi-no-Eki Misawa is a roadside station located in the city of Misawa, Japan.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: – The station is busiest during the summer months when many tourists visit the area. To avoid crowds, visit in the off-season.
13. Ajigasawa Kojo Park
Ajigasawa Kojo Park is a sprawling park in Ajigasawa town, located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. It covers an area of around 7 acres and is situated on the bank of the Misawa River.
What to see or do: There’s a lot to see and do in Ajigasawa Kojo Park.
Visitors can enjoy a pleasant stroll around the park’s meticulously maintained gardens, which are a stunning display of seasonal flora and fauna.
In the spring, the park is abloom with pink cherry blossoms, while in the fall, it’s adorned with vibrant red and orange maple leaves.
Don’t miss: The park is home to a historic kura (storehouse) that has been beautifully restored and now serves as a cultural exhibition center.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the kura to learn more about its history and significance in the region. Make sure to also check out the park’s central fountain, which hosts a dazzling light show in the evenings.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, plan your visit to coincide with the park’s annual “Ajigasawa City Nature Festa,” which takes place in mid-May.
During the festival, the park comes alive with live music performances, food stalls, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Also, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the park’s peaceful, shaded areas.
14. Misawa Airport Observation Deck
An observation deck located inside Misawa Airport terminal building in Aomori Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a panoramic view of planes taking off and landing on the runway. Visitors can also watch maintenance crews working on airplanes.
Don’t miss: The sunset view from the deck is breathtaking. It is the best time to visit the observation deck to see the orange sky transforming into night.
Insider travel tips: – The observation deck is free and open to everyone, including non-travelers.