Hirosaki Zen Temples & Neputa Village

Tour Overview

This full-day Aomori shore excursion introduces travelers to the cultural heritage of Hirosaki, a historic castle town in Aomori Prefecture. The tour combines Zen Buddhist traditions, feudal-era architecture, and vibrant local festival culture through visits to Choshoji Temple, Hirosaki Castle and Park, and the Tsugaru-han Neputa Village. The experience offers a well-rounded insight into northern Japan’s history, spirituality, and artistic expression at a relaxed pace.

This Aomori tour is ideal for:

• Cruise passengers docking in Aomori
• Travelers interested in Japanese history and samurai culture
• Guests curious about traditional festivals and local craftsmanship
• Visitors seeking a balanced cultural and scenic shore excursion

Full Itinerary

Port Pickup & Welcome

Meet your English-speaking local guide and driver at the port with a personalized welcome board. Depart by private chartered car or coach and begin your journey to Hirosaki. During the drive, your guide introduces the region’s background and explains the historical importance of Hirosaki as a former Tsugaru clan stronghold.

Choshoji Temple (Zenrin-gai Temple District)

Your first stop is Choshoji Temple, located in the Zenrin-gai district, an area known for its concentration of Zen Buddhist temples. Founded in the 17th century, Choshoji served as the family temple of the Tsugaru clan, the feudal lords of Hirosaki.

Stroll through the temple grounds and cemetery, where moss-covered stones, towering cedar trees, and wooden halls create a serene atmosphere. The visit offers insight into Zen Buddhism, samurai burial traditions, and the spiritual practices that shaped life in feudal northern Japan.

Hirosaki Park

Continue to Hirosaki Park, one of Japan’s most beautiful historical parks, especially famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. The park surrounds Hirosaki Castle and features moats, bridges, and landscaped gardens that reflect classic Japanese design.

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park while your guide explains its transformation from a defensive castle ground into a peaceful public space. Seasonal scenery (such as from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage) adds to the park’s enduring charm.

Hirosaki Castle (Hirosaki-jo)

Visit Hirosaki Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castle keeps. Built in 1611, the castle served as the political and military center of the Tsugaru domain. Although modest in size, the structure represents classic Edo-period architecture and samurai defensive design.

Learn about the Tsugaru clan, castle life, and historical events that shaped the region. The surrounding stone walls and moats provide excellent viewpoints for photos and historical appreciation.

Tsugaru-han Neputa Village

Conclude your sightseeing at Tsugaru-han Neputa Village, a cultural center dedicated to the Neputa Festival, one of Aomori’s most celebrated summer events. Inside, admire massive illuminated Neputa floats decorated with bold warrior imagery, mythical figures, and dramatic colors.

The village also showcases traditional Tsugaru crafts and music, offering a lively contrast to the calm atmosphere of temples and castle grounds. This visit brings local folklore and artistic traditions vividly to life.

Return to Aomori Port

After a fulfilling cultural exploration, relax on the drive back to the port, arriving comfortably in time for your ship’s departure with lasting impressions of Hirosaki’s heritage.