Hachinohe
Introduction
Located in the Aomori Prefecture, Hachinohe offers you a sense of regional scale as one of the larger cities in the prefecture. You can explore its expansive area while experiencing the local atmosphere of this established Japanese destination.
Before you go
Before you arrive, you can consult the joint multilingual guide site provided by local tourist associations to help you plan your visit.
Getting there
You can reach the city by train via the Tohoku Shinkansen, which offers hourly service from Tokyo station. These all-reserved Hayate trains travel through major stations such as Ueno, Omiya, Sendai, and Morioka before arriving in Hachinohe. During the winter season, rail trip tickets may offer discounted rates and additional options for shopping tours or hot spring baths. If you are traveling from Tokyo, consider using a JR East Rail Pass or a national Japan Rail Pass. Be mindful that Hayate trains are coupled to Akita-bound Komachi trains that split at Morioka or Sendai, so ensure you are in the correct train and car when boarding.
Alternatively, you can travel by bus. Overnight bus services operate from Tokyo Station and Ikebukuro to Hachinohe.
Getting around
You can navigate Hachinohe using an extensive network of trains and buses, all of which share the same station as the bullet train. While taxis are always available outside the train station for your convenience, keep in mind that some Japanese reading ability is required to navigate the bus system.
Because the city is spread out, you may find that walking to many destinations is time-consuming, making the local transit options a practical way to reach various areas.
Where to stay
Depending on your preference for convenience or rural charm, you can choose between a central business hotel or a countryside retreat. If you prefer to stay close to the action, you can find a convenient and clean business hotel located near the eastern exit of the Shinkansen station.
Alternatively, you can travel three train stops outside the city to Mukaiyama for a different experience. This area offers a youth hostel set on a farm where you can enjoy horse riding, mini golf, or the surrounding countryside.
Food & drink
Explore the diverse culinary scene of downtown Hachinohe, where you can sample a mix of Japanese, Western, and Asian cuisines at Bon. Located in an alley behind Concert Hall Pachinko, this spot features an English menu and friendly service from "Master" Kappa. For those seeking Indian flavors, Pore Pore in the Lapia shopping center offers delicious naan bread. If you prefer fresh sushi, Kantaro Sushi provides an upscale kaiten-zushi experience where you can enjoy local treats and view scenery from Hakodate on screen. To mingle with locals and business travelers, head to Izakaya Row in the center of downtown, a collection of tiny izakayas serving cold beer and tasty food.
Near the train station, Tenryu offers a convenient spot to enjoy local cuisine. For a unique experience, visit Bar Saude in Tsutsumi-cho, a small Portuguese restaurant where you can watch the owner prepare delicious small bites while sipping fine wines. If you are looking for a lively atmosphere with live music and a variety of drinks, Flat is located on the main street near Miroku Yokocho. Other options include the western-style bars in the area near city hall, which are generally welcoming to foreigners.
- Bon
- Pore Pore
- Kantaro Sushi
- Izakaya Row
- Tenryu
- Bar Saude
- Flat
What to see and do
Explore the deep history of the region by visiting the Hachinohe City Museum, where you can explore four exhibition corners covering archaeology, folklore, and local culture. Nearby, the Ne Castle site offers a reconstructed look at the estate of Nanbu Moroyuki, allowing you to see the daily life of a medieval ruler. For those interested in ancient history, the Korekawa Jomon Museum houses artifacts from a famous archaeological site, including lacquerware, bows, and clay figurines. You can also visit the Kushihiki Hachiman-gu Shrine, which serves as the guardian shrine of the Nanbu family and houses treasures such as the Red-Thread-Embroidered Armor.
Experience the natural beauty of the coastline at Tanesashi Coast, where you can see seaside plants in Nakasuka, the Yodo Pine Grove, or the rare natural grass of the Tanesashi Natural Lawn. If you prefer a coastal escape, Kabushima Island serves as a breeding ground for black-tailed gulls and features the scenic Kabushima Benzaiten shrine overlooking the ocean. You can also experience local traditions through seasonal events:
- The Enburi Festival features traditional dances with dancers wearing horse-head shaped hats to pray for a rich harvest.
- The Sansha Taisai is a large float festival featuring an intricately decorated parade and tiger dances.
- A Kagami-style Japanese Polo Game, a rare tradition in contemporary Japan, takes place during the peak of the Sansha Taisai.
Three days in Hachinohe
Day one, you can begin your journey by traveling from Tokyo on the Tohoku Shinkansen. You might choose to ride the Hayate or take a route through Morioka and Akita before arriving in Hachinohe.
Day two, explore the local area and experience the culture of this region. You can spend your time discovering the surroundings while staying in the heart of the city.
Day three, you can enjoy a final day of exploration before departing for your next destination. Whether you travel toward Sendai or back toward Ueno, you can take in the sights of the local landscape.