Northern Japan’s Aomori Prefecture delivers authentic experiences without the tourist crowds. The standout tours include Hirosaki’s private guided walks – perfect for getting local insights and adjusting the pace to your interests. For seafood lovers, the Sanriku coast tour combines dramatic ocean views with the freshest catches of the day.
The region’s ancient Jomon sites and Goshogawara’s cultural spots are best explored on full-day tours with expert guides who know the hidden stories. Nature seekers will appreciate kayaking to Kabushima Island or hiking the pristine Shirakami Sanchi forest, a UNESCO site.
I especially recommend the nostalgic stove-train journey and hands-on craft workshops – they offer that rare glimpse into real Japanese rural life that most visitors miss.
Let’s explore the top tours that showcase the best of Aomori.
Good To Know
- Hirosaki Private Tours offer a customizable half-day experience with a licensed local guide, accommodating up to 7 passengers.
- Sanriku Reconstruction National Park Tour provides a trekking experience through coastal landscapes with a seafood-centric lunch included.
- Goshogawara Full-Day Tour allows selection from 3-4 sites, with pricing starting from $144.65 per person and including entrance fees and transportation options.
- Jomon World Heritage Site Tour focuses on Jomon culture and history, priced at $236.70 per group (up to 6 participants) with lunch and admission fees included.
- Outdoor and Nature Tours include a sea kayak tour to Kabushima Island for $40.46 per person and a private day hiking tour in Shirakami Sanchi starting at $144.65 per person.
Hirosaki Half-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
The Hirosaki Half-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions.
This private walking tour in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, is ideal for up to 7 passengers seeking a customizable experience.
The tour includes a licensed local guide who can help visitors choose 2-3 sites from the “What to expect” list.
While private transportation isn’t included, the tour allows the use of public transport or local taxis, with transportation costs discussed after booking.
Travelers should note that personal expenses, entrance fees, and lunch aren’t covered, and Japanese Yen is required for transportation.
The tour is accessible, with infant seats, service animal accommodations, and wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
Pickup details are provided upon booking, and private vehicles must be reserved 3 days in advance.
With an overall rating of 3.0 from 2 reviews, this tour provides a balanced experience for visitors to Aomori Prefecture.
Read our full review: Hirosaki Half-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Sanriku Reconstruction National Park Trekking and Fishermans Lunch Tour
Though located within the Sanriku Reconstruction National Park, this trekking and fisherman’s lunch tour immerses visitors in the region’s natural beauty and culinary delights.
Beginning at 10:00 am, the private tour takes guests on a trek through the park, showcasing the stunning coastal landscape.
Afterwards, they’ll enjoy a seafood-centric lunch featuring fresh catches from the nearby Tanesashi Fishing Port, as well as desserts and coffee.
The tour includes private transportation, starting and ending at the Tanesashikaigan Information Center.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the experience is suitable for most travelers, provided they’ve no serious medical conditions or heart problems.
With a price of $85.47 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Sanriku Reconstruction National Park Trekking and Fisherman’s Lunch Tour offers a well-rounded and flexible introduction to this remarkable region of Japan.
Read our full review: Sanriku Reconstruction National Park Trekking and Fishermans Lunch Tour Review
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Goshogawara Full-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
Goshogawara, situated in Aomori Prefecture, offers visitors a comprehensive full-day private tour led by a government-licensed guide. Priced from $144.65 per person, the tour allows small groups of up to 7 to customize their experience, choosing from a list of 3-4 sites.
These may include the Dazai Osamu Residence, Tsugaru-shamisen-kaikan, Shayokan, and Tachineputa Museum, with entrance fees covered.
Transportation isn’t included, but the tour is conducted via walking, public transit, or local taxis, with costs discussed after booking. Alternatively, a private vehicle can be arranged with advance notice.
The tour is accessible, accommodating service animals, strollers, and wheelchairs, and is suitable for most travelers. Guests can reschedule the tour up to 2 days prior, subject to guide availability.
Read our full review: Goshogawara Full-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Full-Day Jomon World Heritage Site Tour in Hirosaki Area
Situated in the Hirosaki area of Aomori Prefecture, the Full-Day Jomon World Heritage Site Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Priced at $236.70 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour includes English-speaking guidance, lunch, and admission to the Neputa Museum and Hirosaki Castle.
The tour starts at 9 AM in Omotemachi, Hirosaki, with private transportation provided throughout the day. Highlights include immersing oneself in the Jomon culture at the Neputa Museum and discovering the historical significance of Hirosaki Castle.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible. Confirmed within 48 hours of booking and subject to availability, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a lowest price guarantee and the option to reserve now and pay later, this full-day adventure ensures a seamless and flexible experience in the Hirosaki area.
Read our full review: Full-Day Jomon World Heritage Site Tour in Hirosaki Area Review
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A Sea Kayak Tour of Kabushima Island, the Home of 30,000 Black-Tailed Gulls
Departing from the RIVERRUNS outfitter in the coastal city of Hachinohe, the Sea Kayak Tour of Kabushima Island provides visitors a unique opportunity to observe the island’s renowned population of 30,000 black-tailed gulls up close.
Located in Aomori Prefecture, the tour is accessible via a 5-minute walk from the JR Hachinohe Line Same Station. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions.
Participants are limited to a maximum of 2 per tour, and guests can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility. The tour includes an experienced guide and a lowest price guarantee of $40.46 per person.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation, making it a convenient option for visitors to the region. After exploring the island by kayak, the tour returns to the RIVERRUNS meeting point.
Read our full review: A Sea Kayak Tour of Kabushima Island, the Home of 30,000 Black-Tailed Gulls Review
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Shirakami-Sanchi: Private Day Hiking Tour – Aomori Prefecture
Nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakami Sanchi region of Aomori Prefecture, the Private Day Hiking Tour offers visitors a customized exploration of this pristine natural wonder.
With a licensed local English-speaking guide, guests embark on an exclusive private tour tailored to their specific interests, fitness levels, and preferences.
The tour features a wide range of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging treks, allowing participants to choose the level that best suits them.
Transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and personal expenses are all included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
The tour starts and ends at the Shirakami Sanchi Visitor Center, providing convenient access to this remarkable UNESCO site.
While not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate in this walking tour.
Prices start at $144.65 per person, with flexible booking and cancellation options.
Read our full review: Shirakami-Sanchi: Private Day Hiking Tour – Aomori Prefecture Review
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Private Cherry Blossom Tour in Hirosaki With a Local Guide
Although Hirosaki Park is renowned for its stunning display of over 2,600 cherry trees, the Private Cherry Blossom Tour provides visitors with a personalized experience to fully enjoy the natural beauty during springtime.
Designed for nature lovers, this full-day tour takes guests to explore the picturesque park with a knowledgeable local guide. Highlights include hotel pickup, a private walking tour, and access to bus tickets and entrance fees.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for travelers of various mobility levels. With a moderate fitness requirement, the tour allows visitors to witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms in bloom.
Positive reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor praise the tour’s customizable nature and the guides’ expertise.
Whether you’re seeking a serene spring escape or a deeper connection with Japan’s natural wonders, the Private Cherry Blossom Tour in Hirosaki is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: Private Cherry Blossom Tour in Hirosaki With a Local Guide Review
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Hirosaki Full-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Hirosaki, the Hirosaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide offers a customizable experience to delve deeper into the city’s rich history, culture, and notable landmarks.
This private tour is exclusively for your party, allowing you to focus on the sites that interest you most from a predefined list. Led by a licensed local English-speaking guide, the tour includes transportation and entrance fees for 3-4 chosen sites, ranging from castles and gardens to museums and historic homes.
While lunch and personal expenses aren’t included, the guide will discuss any additional transportation costs after booking. Accessibility features, such as service animal allowance and public transportation access, make this tour suitable for most travelers.
With an average rating of 4.8 from 8 reviews, the tour is a highly-rated option for an immersive Hirosaki experience.
Read our full review: Hirosaki Full-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Private Guided Full Day Stove-Train and Deep Tsugaru Culture Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Aomori’s Tsugaru region can embark on the Private Guided Full Day Stove-Train and Deep Tsugaru Culture Tour.
This full-day excursion, operated by Tomio Yokouchi, takes visitors on a journey through the heart of the Tsugaru area. The tour includes a ride on the iconic stove-train, transporting guests from Goshogawara to Tsugaru-Nakasato, and a visit to the Tachineputa No Yakata museum, where they’ll explore the region’s deep cultural heritage.
The tour is priced at $236.70 per group of up to 6 people and includes guided services in English or Japanese, a delightful lunch, and all necessary transportation costs.
With confirmation within 48 hours of booking and flexible cancellation policies, this private tour provides a hassle-free and personalized experience for visitors to discover the unique charms of Aomori’s Tsugaru area.
Read our full review: Private Guided Full Day Stove-Train and Deep Tsugaru Culture Tour Review
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Private Aomori Handicraft Making Experience Tour
Why not learn about the rich artisanal heritage of Aomori with the Private Aomori Handicraft Making Experience Tour?
This private tour in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, offers a hands-on introduction to traditional crafts, with prices starting from €398.65 per person.
Over the course of the day, you’ll have the chance to make your own lantern, lacquer ware chopsticks, and a Kokeshi doll or other handicraft.
All materials and instruction are provided, and a delicious local lunch is included.
Transportation is also taken care of, with private transfers and public transit from Hirosaki to Kuroishi.
The tour runs from 9 AM, with flexible meeting points to choose from.
It’s not wheelchair accessible, but infants can join while sitting on laps.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can secure your spot now and pay later.
Dive into Aomori’s vibrant craft culture on this private, customized experience.
Read our full review: Private Aomori Handicraft Making Experience Tour Review
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Hirosaki 4hr Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
Discover the historic city of Hirosaki on this private 4-hour guided tour. Led by a government-licensed English-speaking guide, you’ll explore 2-3 top sights at your own pace. The maximum group size is 7, ensuring a personalized experience.
Priced from $111.77 per person, the tour is customizable and refundable up to 24 hours in advance.
Transportation isn’t included, but the guide can advise on using public transit or local taxis. Bring Japanese yen to cover these costs. Private vehicles can be arranged with 5 days’ notice.
The tour meeting point is in Hirosaki, with pickup options available. Most travelers can participate, and the sites are wheelchair accessible.
While the guide’s entry fees are covered, any additional costs will be your responsibility. As this is a private tour, you can’t combine groups.
Confirmation is provided at booking, so you can secure your spot today.
Read our full review: Hirosaki 4hr Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Times of Year to Visit Aomori Prefecture?
The best times to visit Aomori Prefecture are spring and autumn. During spring, visitors can enjoy the region’s stunning cherry blossom displays. Autumn brings vibrant foliage and ideal hiking conditions. The summer and winter months also offer unique experiences.
How Accessible Are the Tour Sites for Travelers With Disabilities?
The accessibility of tour sites in Aomori Prefecture varies, but many offer accommodations for travelers with disabilities. Visitors should inquire about specific accessibility features when booking tours to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Physical Requirements for the Tours?
Many tours have age limits and physical requirements, though specifics vary. Travelers should check with tour operators about accessibility, age restrictions, and any physical abilities needed to participate comfortably and safely.
Can the Tour Itinerary Be Customized to Fit Individual Preferences?
Many tour operators offer customizable itineraries to suit individual preferences. Travelers can often work with the tour provider to adjust activities, duration, and focus areas to fit their needs and interests.
What Is the Typical Group Size for These Private and Small-Group Tours?
The typical group size for private and small-group tours can vary, but they generally range from 2 to 8 people. This allows for a more personalized and flexible experience that can be tailored to individual preferences.
The Sum Up
Aomori prefecture offers a variety of unique and immersive tours, from private guided tours of historic Hirosaki to trekking in Sanriku Reconstruction National Park. Visitors can explore Jomon World Heritage sites, paddle around Kabushima Island, and explore Tsugaru culture. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or local crafts, Aomori has something to suit every traveler’s interests.