Weird & Unusual Attractions in Aomori, Aomori, Japan

1. Aomori Nebuta Museum Warehouse

Gigantic festival floats displayed all year round. Experience the grandeur of the Nebuta Matsuri off-season.

Size: Each float is up to 8 meters tall and 10 meters wide, showcasing intricate details.
Interactive Experience: Visitors can get up close to the floats, some even have light-up buttons.
Cultural Preservation: Learn about the history and cultural significance of the Nebuta Matsuri through exhibits.

Matchmaking festival based on a star-crossed lovers legend. Men and women write their wishes on tanzaku slips and hang them.

Romantic Tradition: A unique opportunity to participate in a traditional Japanese matchmaking event.
Wish Fulfillment: Writing and hanging a tanzaku is said to help fulfill your wishes.
Festival Atmosphere: Enjoy live music, dance, and food during this lively event.

In winter, the moat surrounding Hirosaki Castle is frozen to create a stunning ice wall.

Natural Beauty: The ice wall reflects the castle's illuminated towers, creating a magical winter scene.
Winter Activity: Walk along the frozen moat and explore the castle grounds.
Historical Context: Learn about the history of Hirosaki Castle while admiring the ice wall.

Visitors can touch the sacred stone at this shrine to seek blessings for love and marriage.

Love Blessing: Touching the stone is said to bring good luck in love and relationships.
Shinto Tradition: Participate in a traditional Japanese Shinto ritual at this ancient shrine.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy the serene, natural surroundings of the shrine.

A unique owl cafe located within a historic shrine. Interact with several species of owls.

Cultural Context: Experience the blend of ancient Shinto shrine and modern owl cafe culture.
Rare Species: Meet various species of owls, some rare and endangered.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful, calming environment surrounded by these magnificent birds.

Travel on a special train during the annual Snow Festival, decorated with snow and ice sculptures.

Festival Experience: Join in the festive spirit while traveling through Aomori.
Artistic Displays: View snow and ice sculptures created by local artists.
Warm Comforts: Enjoy warm beverages and snacks on board the train.

A museum dedicated to UFO sightings and extraterrestrial life. Features a collection of artifacts and models.

Unusual Topic: Learn about UFOs and extraterrestrial life through exhibits and artifacts.
Interactive Experience: Participate in UFO-themed games and activities.
Scientific Approach: Explore theories about extraterrestrial life from a scientific perspective.

A unique aquarium featuring a large open-air pool where seals can be fed by visitors.

Interactive Experience: Feed the seals directly from the pool's edge.
Natural Habitat: View marine life in a natural, open-air environment.
Educational Opportunities: Learn about the local marine ecosystem and conservation efforts.

A waterfall that flows all year round. The name means 'nameless' or 'unofficial' falls.

Natural Wonder: Enjoy the serene beauty of this picturesque waterfall.
Year-Round Accessibility: Visit the falls regardless of the season.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Experience a less crowded, more authentic Japanese waterfall experience.

Participate in the creation of a traditional Nebuta Matsuri float.

Creative Process: Learn about the craftsmanship and traditions behind these floats.
Cultural Experience: Experience the festival firsthand by participating in its creation.
Souvenir Creation: Take home a piece of your creative work as a unique memento.

An aquarium dedicated to the local bottlenose dolphins. Visitors can watch performances and learn about conservation efforts.

Local Focus: Learn about the local bottlenose dolphin population and conservation efforts.
Performance Opportunities: Watch exciting dolphin shows and performances.
Educational Experience: Learn about the intelligence and behavior of bottlenose dolphins.

A museum dedicated to traditional Aomori wooden clogs. Features a collection of historical and modern designs.

Cultural Preservation: Learn about the history and significance of these traditional Japanese shoes.
Artistic Appreciation: Appreciate the craftsmanship and intricate designs of these wooden clogs.
Hands-On Experience: Try on different pairs of traditional Aomori wooden clogs.

An educational park dedicated to space exploration. Features a planetarium and space-themed exhibits.

Educational Opportunities: Learn about the science of space, astronomy, and the universe.
Interactive Experience: Experience virtual starry skies in the planetarium.
Space-Themed Attractions: Explore space-themed rides and exhibits.

A hot spring located in a beautiful forested area. Enjoy the natural hot spring waters and scenic surroundings.

Natural Beauty: Enjoy the peaceful, scenic beauty of the surrounding forest.
Relaxation Opportunities: Soak in natural hot spring waters for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Historical Context: Learn about the history of onsen (hot springs) in Japan.

Witness the grand night parade of gigantic festival floats during the annual Nebuta Matsuri.

Cultural Experience: Experience the vibrant, lively atmosphere of the Nebuta Matsuri.
Artistic Appreciation: Appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship of the floats.
Festival Atmosphere: Enjoy live music, dance, and lantern-lit streets during the parade.