The Tsugaru-hanto Peninsula is situated in the northwestern part of Aomori.
Jutting out of the northwestern most tip of Honshu is the
Tsugaru Peninsula. Known for its majestic, winding
roads and breathtaking sea views, the peninsula is a
delight for nature loving travelers! Toward the west, the
Tsugaru Peninsula overlooks the Sea of Japan. To the
east is Mutsu Bay, and across the straits to the north is
the large island of Hokkaido.
One of the “must-do” sites on the peninsula is
Takayama Inari, which is affectionately referred to by
locals as the “Thousand Torii Gates.” The shrine is
dedicated to the Japanese deity, Inari. The park’s main
attraction, though, is the path of torii gates that winds
around the grounds. While there are actually only
around two hundred gates, the path of red is quite
impressive, and the view from the top of the hill is a
sight to behold! While there, visitors can also spy
hundreds of fox statues, messengers of Inari, spread
across the landscape.
History buffs may enjoy Magua Beach and the Shariki
Fishing Port, which are just a short drive north from
Takayama Inari. While there are beautiful views of the
Sea of Japan and a unique Sunset Dome to be found
there, the charm of Magua Beach comes from its
history. The beach is home to a memorial stone that was
built in commemoration for American sailors who died in
the 1800’s when their ship, the Cheseborough, was
wrecked during a typhoon. The plaque tells of locals
who tied ropes around themselves and ventured into the
sea to carry survivors back to shore. Now, Shariki
Village is the sister city of Bath, Maine, where the ship
originated. The village hosts the annual Cheseborough
Cup, a relay swimming and running competition with
participants from Aomori Prefecture and Maine.
North of Magua Beach is Jusan-ko, which translates to
“Lake Thirteen.” While the origins of the name are often
debated, the beauty and serenity of this area are not! If
you enjoy clam digging or bird watching, a quick stop at
Jusan-ko might be for you! The brackish water of the
lake provides the perfect nutrients for clams to grow in
large quantities and sizes, and the clams from this lake
are served in restaurants all over Aomori Prefecture.
Birds of many species dwell near Jusan-ko, and there
are often sightings of Siberian Swans resting at the lake
during their long migrations.
Even if you decide not to stop and take in the calmness
of the area, the bridge crossing Jusan-ko will provide
lovely views of the lake as you drive north toward the
cape. In fact, driving around the Tsugaru Peninsula will
give you some of the most breathtaking views to be
found in Japan! The Tatsudomari Line Road, the
highway leading north to Tappizaki, boasts a long and
winding road that hugs the cliffs and coastline.
Tappizaki, or Cape Tappi, is also known for its
magnificent views. This tip of the Tsugaru Peninsula has
been featured in poems, stories, and songs for
hundreds of years, and it is easy to see why! On a clear
day, visitors can see the island of Hokkaido, which lies
on the north side of the strait. The cape is beautiful in its
own right, though, and provides picturesque settings in
all seasons. In the spring, the hills are painted pink in
hydrangeas, while autumn brings bright, red apples.
Watching the ships navigate their way through the
straits can be made even better by climbing the steps
up the hill toward Tappizaki Lighthouse. The panoramic
views from the top of the hill, in addition to the gale force
winds throughout the cape, are simply breathtaking!
All in all, Tsugaru is an incomparable destination. For
those who prefer “off-the-beaten-path” vacations,
Aomori Prefecture and the Tsugaru Peninsula make for
a unique cultural and nature-filled experience!