Last year we introduced “popular foliage spots” in Aomori prefecture, and this year, we will tell quiet foliage sites where local people enjoy secretly.
Jigoku-numa
“Jigoku-numa (literally means hell swamp)” is located near Sukayu Onsen (hot spring) in Hakkoda Mountains. It is a crater pond of hot spring water, approximately a 90-degree-Celsius swamp. In and around mid-October, surrounding trees of the swamp start coloring, and with a back view of steam of hot spring, visitors can enjoy fabulous autumn leaves.
Best time to view: mid-October
Nango Kakko No Mori Ekorando
“Nango Kakko No Mori Ekorando,” located in Hachinohe City, is a sports facility surrounded by nature. In autumn, the maple trees on its grounds change color brilliantly and are lit up at night to create a fantastic atmosphere.
Best time to view: end of October
Nango Kakko No Mori Ekorando
Yagen Stream
At Yagen Stream, which is located in the Shimokita Peninsula, you will see the unspoiled nature of broadleaf forest with hiba, beech and maple trees. The scenery of valley is as beautiful as the one in Oirase Stream, Towada.
There is the 4-km trail that you can enjoy about one-hour stroll.
Best viewing dates: Mid. Oct. – Early Nov.
Yagen Stream
Kawauchigawa Valley
Kawauchigawa Valley, located on the Shimokita Peninsula, there is a trail with total length of 4.4 km. You can enjoy one and half hour stroll and forest bathing, and at the end of the trail you will find the Yunokawa Onsen (hot spring) to relax your mind and body.
Best viewing dates: Mid. Oct. – Early Nov.
Yunokawa Onsen
Akaishi River
Visit Akaishi River, then you will find autumn foliage along the clear and beautiful stream, which is flowing from the Shirakami-Sanchi, the World Natural Heritage Site. Usually trees begin to turn to red and yellow in the early October, and you can enjoy the view until the end of October.
Best viewing dates: Mid. through Late Oct.
Tsugaru-Iwaki Sky Line
It is a toll road that goes from the foot of Mount Iwaki in Tsugru area, Aomori, up to the eighth station. Its full length is 10 kilometers with 69 curves. Around third station, you can enjoy nature bathing in the forest of over 90-year-old beech trees. A chairlift is available from the eighth station to the next station, and from that point it takes about 30 minutes to the summit to hike.
Best viewing dates: Mid. Oct.
Mt. Iwaki Skyline
Lake Aoba
Lake Aoba is an artificial lake formed by the construction of Yomasari Dam, which located upstream of Niida River flowing toward the Pacific Ocean through Hachinohe City. The scenery from the observatory on the lakeshore shows different beauty depending on season, and especially the autumn foliage is magnificent.
Best viewing dates: Late Oct. – Early Nov.
