Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Omazaki is a cape located in Oma Town, Aomori Prefecture, at the tip of Aomori Prefecture's Shimokita Peninsula, the northernmost point of Honshu. Its magnificent views across the Tsugaru Strait to Hokkaido (towards Hakodate), as well as iconic landmarks such as the "Northernmost Point of Honshu" monument and lighthouse, make it a popular tourist spot. The town is known for its thriving fishing industry, and Oma tuna (bluefin tuna) is particularly famous nationwide. The area around the cape is home to a collection of photo spots, seafood shops, and restaurants, making it an attractive spot for both sightseeing and gourmet dining. Historically, it has been a key point on the shipping route across the Tsugaru Strait, supporting the local economy as a base for shipping and fishing.
Highlights
– Honshu Northernmost Point Monument: A popular spot for tourists to take commemorative photos and prove their arrival.
– Omazaki Lighthouse: One of the landmarks of the cape. The contrast between the surrounding sea and sky is beautiful.
- View of the Tsugaru Strait: On a clear day, you can see the mountains of Hokkaido and Hakodate and the strait. The morning and evening views and the seasonal changes in the sea are a sight to behold.
- Tuna restaurants and markets: There are several restaurants where you can enjoy fresh Oma tuna rice bowls and sashimi. There are also plenty of food stalls and souvenir shops.
– Nearby walking trails and observation spots: There are several spots suitable for short walks along the coastline and for taking photos.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest major train station: JR Ominato Line, Ominato Station (Mutsu City). *You will need to travel by bus or car from the train station.
- Bus: Shimokita Kotsu and Oma Municipal Bus operate routes from Mutsu City (towards Ominato), and the journey takes approximately one hour (please check the timetable in advance as there are few buses).
- By car: It takes about 40 to 60 minutes from the center of Mutsu City, and about 2.5 to 3 hours from Aomori City, depending on the road and traffic conditions. Parking is available around the cape, but it can get crowded during peak season.
- Sea Route: You can see the Hakodate area across the Tsugaru Strait, but the operation status of regular passenger ferries and other services is subject to change. For access from the Hakodate side, please check the operation status and schedule in advance.
- Please note: Public transportation is infrequent and is particularly limited in winter, early mornings, and at night. Renting a car or using your own car is more convenient.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quick tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour (photos at the monument and lighthouse, strolling around)
- Meal included: 1.5-2 hours (Taste Oma tuna at a seafood restaurant)
- Relaxing, including sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (visiting nearby tourist spots and hot springs)
The length of stay will vary depending on the weather, whether you have meals, and plans for sightseeing in the area.
Nearby spots
– Tuna-related facilities and restaurants in Oma Town: You can enjoy extremely fresh seafood.
- Mount Osore (Mount Osore Bodaiji Temple): A sacred site representing the Shimokita Peninsula (approximately 1-2 hours by car, distance and travel time vary depending on the route).
– Hotokegaura: Cliffs with a unique sea-eroded landscape (about 1-2 hours by car).
– Cape Shiriya: View of the Kantachi horses (horses known for grazing in winter) and the cape (approximately an hour by car).
– Hot springs and tourist facilities in Mutsu City: Convenient as a base for travel.
*Travel times are estimates only. They may vary depending on the route and road conditions, so we recommend checking in advance.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Transportation and frequency: Public transportation is infrequent, and services are suspended or reduced in winter, so it is essential to check the timetable. Traveling by car is convenient, but be careful of frozen roads and snowstorms in winter.
- Weather: The cape is windy, and visibility can be reduced by fog or rain. Please bring warm clothing and windproof clothing. Be especially careful of the cold and snow in winter.
- Crowds: During the summer, holidays, and weekends, the area can get crowded with tourists looking to buy Oma tuna, and restaurants and parking lots can become congested. It is recommended that you arrive early and make reservations.
- Food, Drink and Shopping: We handle fresh seafood, so we pay attention to hygiene and storage conditions, but if you are eating it raw, please be aware of your physical condition and allergies.
- Manners: The area around the fishing port is a work zone for fishermen, so do not enter restricted areas or private property. Please take your trash with you and be considerate of local residents and other tourists.
- Nature conservation: There are some slippery and dangerous areas on the coast and rocky areas. Please follow the fences and guide signs and act with safety as your first priority.
- Photography: Photography is permitted near the monument and parking lot, but please be mindful not to obstruct traffic or obstruct the safety of the surrounding area.
If necessary, we can also provide specific bus schedules around Oma Town, recommended restaurant lists, seasonal attractions (best times to take photos, etc.). Please let us know what information you need.
