Major Highways & Driving Tips in Aomori, Aomori, Japan
1. Aomori Expressway
The main artery connecting Aomori City to the rest of Honshu. Offers a scenic drive through mountain passes and coastal views.
- Scenic Route: Offers stunning views of mountains, coastlines, and rural Japan
- Toll Road: Expect to pay tolls at various points along the route
- Faster Travel: Reduces travel time significantly compared to national roads
2. Hakkōda Toll Road
Connects Aomori City with the Hakkoda Mountains for ski resorts in winter and hiking trails in summer.
- Mountain Access: Provides easy access to the Hakkoda Mountain Range
- Toll Road: Expect to pay tolls at various points along the route
- Seasonal Attraction: Ideal for winter sports and summer hiking
3. Route 45
A scenic coastal route connecting Aomori City with the remote town of Hirosaki.
- Coastal Scenery: Offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Tsugaru Strait
- National Route: Not a toll road, but expect heavy traffic during peak travel seasons
- Historical Sites: Passes by numerous temples, shrines, and historical sites
4. Aomori Rokkō Tunnel
One of the longest road tunnels in Japan connecting Aomori City with the island of Hokkaido.
- Long Tunnel: Spans over 14 kilometers, offering a unique driving experience
- Toll Road: Expect to pay tolls at the entrance and exit of the tunnel
- Faster Travel: Significantly reduces travel time between Aomori and Hokkaido
5. Towada-Hachimantai National Park Road
A scenic route through the Towada-Hachimantai National Park offering beautiful views of lakes and mountains.
- Scenic Route: Offers stunning views of Lake Towada, Mount Hakkoda, and Mount Iwokuma
- National Park Road: Not a toll road, but expect heavy traffic during peak travel seasons
- Natural Beauty: Ideal for nature lovers and photographers
6. Hirosaki City Bypass
A faster route to bypass the city of Hirosaki when traveling along Route 45.
- Faster Travel: Reduces travel time significantly compared to Route 45
- Toll Road: Expect to pay tolls at various points along the route
- Avoid City Congestion: Ideal for travelers who wish to avoid city traffic and congestion
7. Tsugaru Kaido
A historic road connecting Aomori City with the city of Kanagawa on Honshu's eastern coast.
- Historical Significance: Dating back to the Edo Period, it is one of Japan's oldest roads
- National Route: Not a toll road, but expect heavy traffic during peak travel seasons
- Scenic Route: Offers beautiful views of rural Japan and the Pacific Ocean
8. Owani Bridge
A suspension bridge crossing the Tsugaru Strait between Aomori City and Hokkaido.
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait, mountains, and islands
- Toll Road: Expect to pay tolls at both ends of the bridge
- Faster Travel: Significantly reduces travel time between Aomori City and Hokkaido
9. Owani Park Rest Area
A rest area located at the base of Owani Bridge with cafes, restrooms, and viewing decks.
- Rest and Refresh: Ideal for travelers to take a break and enjoy local cuisine
- Scenic Viewing Deck: Offers stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait, Owani Island, and Mount Iwokuma
- Convenience: Provides essential services like restrooms and parking for travelers
10. Hachinohe Bypass
A toll road connecting the city of Aomori with Hachinohe City on Honshu's eastern coast.
- Faster Travel: Reduces travel time significantly compared to national roads
- Toll Road: Expect to pay tolls at various points along the route
- Avoid City Congestion: Ideal for travelers who wish to avoid city traffic and congestion
11. Towada-Hachimantai Skyline
A scenic road with numerous hairpin turns through the Towada-Hachimantai National Park.
- Scenic Route: Offers stunning views of Lake Towada, Mount Hakkoda, and Mount Iwokuma
- National Park Road: Not a toll road, but expect heavy traffic during peak travel seasons
- Adventure Seekers: Ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy winding mountain roads
12. Hachimantai Miboro Pass
A high-altitude pass in the Towada-Hachimantai National Park offering panoramic views.
- Scenic Route: Offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and forests
- National Park Road: Not a toll road, but expect heavy traffic during peak travel seasons
- Natural Beauty: Ideal for nature lovers and photographers
13. Aomori-Hachinohe Railroad
An alternative mode of transport between Aomori City and Hachinohe City without the need for driving.
- Alternative Transport: Offers an alternative to driving, especially during peak travel seasons
- Scenic Route: Passes through beautiful rural landscapes and coastal views
- Save Travel Costs: Can save travel costs compared to driving, especially when considering toll fees
14. Aomori Railway Sightseeing Train
A scenic train ride offering panoramic views of the Tsugaru Strait and mountains.
- Scenic Route: Offers breathtaking views of the Tsugaru Strait, mountains, and coastal landscapes
- Alternative Transport: Offers an alternative to driving, especially during peak travel seasons
- Relaxing Experience: Ideal for travelers who wish to relax and enjoy the scenery
15. Aomori Bus Lines
An alternative mode of transport connecting various cities in Aomori Prefecture.
- Alternative Transport: Offers an alternative to driving, especially during peak travel seasons
- Cost-Effective: Can be a more cost-effective option compared to driving, especially when considering toll fees
- Comfortable Travel: Provides comfortable and convenient travel options for tourists