Today, many of the most remarkable sights to see in Aomori are natural, as much of the man-made history was lost to various 20th-century misfortunes. Yet the cherry blossoms, apple orchards, and mountainous backdrop continue to greet visitors with timeless serenity. The region’s two national parks and the picturesque Lake Towada similarly retain their allure. In the city, if you miss Aomori’s annual Nebuta Matsuri Festival, the Nebuta Warasse Museum offers a chance to admire some of the incredible illuminated floats that once graced the streets. Just outside the city, at Seiryu-ji Temple, the 70-foot, 220-ton Showa Daibutsu statue (“the Great Buddha”) keeps a watchful eye over Aomori.
