This is the most iconic traditional festival in Aomori. The event is both sacred and lively. It was a rare chance to experience a Japanese cultural festival.
Aomori Nebuta Festival | Review by Valiant Wang
Other Reviews by Valiant Wang
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Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse - Kanemori Yobutsukan
This shopping mall is located within Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, a popular spot in Hakodate’s Bay Area. The facility’s name traces back to the origins of the red brick warehouses and comes from Kanemori Yobutsukan, a shop opened about 160 years ago by Kumashiro Watanabe, the founder of the Kanemori warehouses, as “a place that sells dreams of foreign lands.”
It’s super romantic there in the evening.
The red brick buildings plus the reflections on the harbor are just gorgeous.
I couldn’t stop taking photos as I walked around. -
Cape Shakotan
Cape Shakotan is a popular viewpoint in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park. The sea here is exceptionally clear and known as “Shakotan Blue,” drawing many visitors. The view from the observatory is outstanding, with steep cliffs and dramatic rock formations stretching out, and the spectacular ocean scenery below is well worth seeing.
The scenery on the drive here was already gorgeous. Then you walk a short trail at the cape—about 15 minutes—and you get these insane cliffs with that dreamy blue ocean.
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Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse BAY Hakodate
This multi-purpose complex occupies part of Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, one of Hakodate’s most popular sightseeing spots. The facility repurposes red brick warehouses once owned by Nippon Yusen, with a canal-constructed around 1882 (Meiji 15)-flowing between two buildings connected by bridges, creating a striking and memorable scene.
Inside the warehouse there are lots of unique shops selling all kinds of Hokkaido specialties, handicrafts, and souvenirs. I especially recommend picking up Hakodate’s local dried seafood and sweets.