Source: felicito rustique, jr.
There are a number of things to do in Misawa and the surrounding regions. There are trips round the year conducted by Misawa ITT. They travel all around the Japan and you can explore different things. But you don’t have to be their member to enjoy your stay in Misawa. There are tons of local and leisure activities which you can engage yourself in Misawa. Here are the top 15 things to do in Misawa:
1. Visit Misawa Aviation and Science Museum
The Misawa Aviation and Science Museum is a great source on the history of aviation. While children enjoy the themes of aviation, adults can cultivate their interest in science and technology. The great thing about this place is that you can experiment on the planes. When the weather is fine, it is a great place for children for running around and enjoying themselves. You can also bring children here on a rainy and snowy day.
Information
- Name: Misawa Aviation and Science Museum
- Address: 158 Kitayama, Misawa, Misawa 033-0022 , Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Website: http://www.aviationmuseum.eu/World/Asia/Japan/Misawa/Aviation_Science_Museum_Aomori.htm
2. Visit Big Buddha
There are about 20 Buddha statues in Japan with each one having its own special feature. The Big Buddha statue, in Misawa, is about 70 feet tall and weighs 220 tons. It is truly a wonder of nature and you would be amazed at its beautiful architecture. A stream also runs along the way which can be a bit noisy when you are trying to concentrate. You will also meet several painters along the way.
Information
- Name: Big Buddha
- Address: 45 Kuwabara, Aomori 030-0935, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
3. Visit Terayama Shuji Memorial
Shuji Terayama was a well-known Japanese poet, film director, photographer, and writer. Many view him as one of the most creative artists of Japan. This memorial statue was built in Misawa to honor his legacy. Even if you don’t know Shuji Terayama’s history, you will definitely appreciate the artistic way the memorial has been built. Considering the fact that the place is just a short walk from Misawa station, you should visit it.
Information
- Name: Terayama Shuji memorial
- Address: 116-2955 Misawa, Misawa 033-0022, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
4. Visit Lake Ogawara
Lake Ogawara is Japan’s eleventh largest lake and the largest one in Aomori Prefecture. It covers the boundaries of the Misawa City. The best part of the beach is water which is calm, peaceful and surrounded by big cranes. There aren’t many people at the beach, so there aren’t many services. So you should bring your beverages. There are parks nearby for kids too.
Information
- Name: Lake Ogawara
- Address: Misawa 033-0001, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
5. Visit Sky Plaza Misawa
The Sky Plaza Misawa is present on the left side before you enter the Misawa base. It is a small mall with American goods and souvenir; used and imported items are also present there for sale. It is also a good place for all the anime and manga lovers. You will also find some quality food at this place. The Hawaiin-style chicken and donut sticks are quite delicious. Different exhibitions are also held at the plaza.
Information
- Name: Sky Plaza Misawa
- Address: 2-8-34 Chuocho, Misawa 033-0001, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Website: http://skyplazamisawa.jp/
6. Visit Towada Arts Center
The Towada Art is an art museum located in Towada City, about half-way between the routes of Lake Towada and Hachinohe. The museum was opened in 2008 and it has quickly transformed itself into a symbol of art. There is some absolutely amazing network of art in the museum. The area is located close to downtown and is surrounded by artwork where children can play. So you should visit it with your kids.
Information
- Name: Towada Arts Center
- Address: 10-9 Nishi Nibancho, Towada 034-0082, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Website: http://towadaartcenter.com/web/top.html
7. Visit Hotokenuma
Hotokenuma is a wetland area connected to Lake Ogawara at the base of Shimotika Peninsula. The land reclamation project started back in 1960 to convert the area into paddy fields. Lake Ogawara runs close to it which looks beautiful. There are large signboards everywhere at the place so finding the way isn’t difficult. The place is filled with the wetland. Many clean-ups are also done at the place.
Information
- Name: Hotokenuma
- Address: Misawa, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
8. Visit Kumoi No Taki Waterfall
Kumoi No Taki is a waterfall in Misawa, located along Oirase Stream. There are beautiful autumn leaves falling everywhere. There is also some greenery around the place. Many tourists and locals come here just to take pictures. The waterfall is located between the mountains. The waterfall can easily be seen from the road. You can also view it up close. Once you visit this place, you would want to come here again and again.
Information
- Name: Kumoi No Taki Waterfall
- Address: Oirase, Towada 034-0301, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: Open 24 hours
9. Eat Sushi at Takari Sushi
If you are looking for some quality sushi in Misawa, there is no better place than Takara Sushi. In fact, it is the best sushi you will find in Aomori Prefecture. The Americans in Misawa call it the “Fear Factor Sushi”. It is one of the freshest sushi you will find with all the ingredients mixed elegantly. It is also prepared by some expert chefs. The waiters and waitresses are quite friendly and courteous.
Information
- Name: Takara Sushi
- Address: 3-2-1 Chuocho, Misawa, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
10. Visit Hirosaki Castle
The Hirosaki Castle is a Japanese style castle originally constructed in 1611. It was originally the seat of Tsugaru clan but is now part of the Aomori Prefecture. There is a Golden week held at this place from April to the first week of May where you can see 2600 trees in full bloom. The castle originally had five stories but now is left with only three stories. The castle is located at a 10-minute bus ride from the Hirosaki station. So you should visit it.
Information
- Name: Hirosaki Castle
- Address: 1-1 Shimo-Shirogane-cho, Oaza, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori
- Opening hour: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
11. Dine at Kikuzushi
You should also eat try out some sushi from Kikuzushi in Misawa. The restaurant serves some quality sushi in small private rooms. It is a good place to stop by and eat for lunch. You can also take your family during the night time. You don’t need any reservations for the place. The only problem with the place is that there is limited parking. Otherwise, the food and everything else is up to the mark.
Information
- Name: Kikuzushi
- Address: 2-11-2 Chuocho, Misawa 033-0001 , Aomori Prefecturej
- Opening hour: 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Website: http://www.sushikiku.com/
12. Stay at Misawa Farm
Staying at Misawa farm is another thing you should do in Misawa. There are different farmer inns present on the farm where you can stay. There are many different activities which you can do during your stay there, like milking the cows and making a pizza using fresh vegetables. There are baths, face towels and conditioner facilities for every traveler too.
Information
- Name: Misawa Farm
- Address: Towada, Aomori Prefecture, Tohoku
- Opening hour: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
13. Dine at Akanoren
Akanoren was the first Hataka-style ramen shop opened back in 1946. The place serves flat noodles with enriched soup and soy sauce. You can also get grilled meat from here. The meat is quite as delicious as the ramen itself. The place is less crowded on weekdays as compared to weekends. So you would have to wait in line on weekends. The rice serving is large and delicious at the same time.
Information
- Name: Akanoren
- Address: 2-1-23 Chuocho, Misawa 033-0001, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Website: http://www.akanoren-nagoya.co.jp/
14. Dine at Bouquet
Bouquet is another worth-visiting restaurant in Misawa. Along with many other dishes, the restaurant serves noodles and chicken curry and both of them are delicious. The noodles are handmade and prepared by experts. There are many other hot dishes available but you should eat the cold ones because the noodles are best when eaten cold. The service at the restaurant is quite quick and it isn’t much crowded.
Information
- Name: Bouquet
- Address: 2-3-20 Sakuracho, Misawa, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
15. Dine at Yoshino
If you have been in Yoshino for over a day, you might have heard about Yoshino steakhouse, more commonly referred to as “Yoshino”. This is a popular outdoor evening spot for the locals. The steak prepared at Yoshino is just flawless. The ice cream served at the end is just a treat. If you want to try their special dessert, you should get there early. The menu is limited but still enough.
Information
- Name: Yoshino
- Address: 4-31-3432 Hanazonocho, Misawa, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening hour: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Now you know the top things to do in Misawa. Misawa is full of parks, vocational spots and restaurants. The restaurants here have worldwide popularity. The rates are also affordable in Misawa and even a lay man with a limited budget can have fun. So you should plan your next trip to Misawa.
Have a good trip and travel!
