you may have thought, “Where is Hachinohe? What is there to do?”
As for me, with this ticket in hand, I set off for Hachinohe, and discovered breathtaking scenery and unforgettable food far beyond what I had imagined.
In this article, I’ll introduce a 1-night, 2-day itinerary packed with all the highlights of the Hachinohe and Towada area, with plenty of photos. By the time you finish reading, I bet you’ll be full of excitement for your own journey!
目次
Day 1
Kabushima Shrine
Once you arrive at Hachinohe Station, rent a car and head to the seaside. The first stop is “Kabushima Shrine,” which sits atop a small hill.

The shrine enshrines Benzaiten, the deity of prosperous business and safe fishing. Its history is old, drawing faithful visitors since the Kamakura period. And the other stars here? The black-tailed gulls. This is one of Japan’s premier breeding grounds for these birds and is designated a National Natural Monument.

The real stars at the shrine are the black-tailed gulls. They come very close—watch out for droppings, though! (You can even borrow an umbrella at the shrine.)
From spring to summer, about 30,000 gulls fill the island—a truly overwhelming sight. The birds are called “uminekos” because their cries sound like a cat’s “meow.”
- [Kabushima Shrine]
Address: 56-2 Same, Same-machi, Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture
Official site: http://kabushima.com/jinjya/
Hasshoku Center
After a scenic coastal drive, head to one of the trip’s highlights: Hachinohe’s huge market, “Hasshoku Center”!
Freshly caught seafood and local souvenirs are lined up in abundance. But the biggest draw is the BBQ area called “Shichirin-mura.” You can buy ingredients right at the market and then grill them over charcoal on the spot!



[Hasshoku Center]
Address: 22-2 Kamisai, Kawaragi, Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture
Official site: https://www.849net.com/
Towada Prince Hotel
With your heart and stomach full, head to your accommodation for the night. Drive about an hour and a half from Hachinohe City to “Towada Prince Hotel,” set quietly on the shore of Lake Towada.


At night, enjoy a sky full of stars; in the morning, the lake sparkles in the light. Take yo
[Towada Prince Hotel]
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Day 2
Lake Towada
Start your second day with a stroll on the private beach in front of the hotel.
Lake Towada
Start your second day with a stroll on the private beach in front of the hotel.



Towada Shrine
After your walk along the lakeside, head to the mystical “Towada Shrine.”

The shrine, said to have been founded in 807 by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, was once a spiritual training ground for mountain ascetics. As you walk down the path, you’ll see moss-covered lanterns and the historical main hall, and the solemn atmosphere naturally makes you stand a little taller.


[Towada Shrine]
Address: 486 Yasumiya, Towadako, Okuse, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture
Official site: https://aomori-tourism.com/spot/detail_356.html
Oirase Gorge
The climax of the trip is a walk through “Oirase Gorge,” the only river flowing out of Lake Towada. Designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument of Japan, it’s truly a “living art museum.”

The stream runs about 14 km, lined with many beautiful waterfalls and flows—each step brings a new scene into view.


Official site: https://towadako.or.jp/towadako-oirase/
Kumanosawa Onsen
After soaking up the nature of Oirase, finish your journey at the little-known secret hot spring, “Kumanosawa Onsen.” The retro atmosphere and gentle, free-flowing hot spring water are sure to be the perfect ending to your trip. (Day-use bathing is available.)
[Kumanosawa Onsen]
Address: 1 Horyo Yachi, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture
Official site: https://kumanosawaonsen.com/
Summary
The trip to Hachinohe and Towada, gifted by “Dokoka e Byuun!”
Here, you’ll find breathtaking natural scenery, unforgettable seafood, and mystical moments that soothe the soul.
If your destination turns out to be “Hachinohe Station,” consider it the best invitation to an amazing journey. Use this sample course as a guide, and create wonderful memories all your own!
other recommended places is hereこちら