The Scenic Beauty of Aomori’s Oirase Gorge

A bus ride from Aomori Station in the far north of Honshū lies Oirase, a river gorge that offers different faces of natural beauty to visitors in each season of the year.
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A Stream for All Seasons

The mountain stream amid the glory of the autumn leaves.

Oirase Keiryū is a scenic mountain stream winding its way through a forested gorge roughly 14 kilometers in length, from Nenokuchi on the northern shore of Lake Towada to the outlying area of Yakeyama. The highly varied route includes more than a dozen falls where water cascades over fantastic rock formations. The refreshingly clear waters of the stream reflect the lush green canopy of overhanging trees in the months of May and June and the rich colors of autumn foliage in October. Oirase Keiryū is a nationally designated scenic spot and protected natural monument.

Access: 2 hr ride on JR Bus Mizuumi-Gō (¥2,300) from JR Aomori Station to Yakeyama bus stop.

(Banner photo: The deep green of late spring in the gorge. Information courtesy of the Aomori Prefectural Government’s Aptinet Aomori Sightseeing Guide.)

tourism Aomori river