- The city was originally developed as a major center for the Japanese military horse-breeding industry in the late 19th century.
- Towada is home to a unique, organized grid system that remains a core part of its layout, distinguishing it from many other Japanese cities developed organically.
- The city's namesake, Lake Towada, is a double-caldera lake formed by intense volcanic activity, creating one of Japan's most scenic water bodies.
- Inazo Nitobe, whose face once adorned the 5,000 yen bill, was a native of this region and is honored locally for his contributions to international diplomacy.
- Towada features a high density of outdoor public art installations, effectively turning the city's main street into an open-air museum.
About Towada, Aomori
Towada is a distinctive city in Aomori Prefecture, recognized globally for its integration of contemporary art into the urban landscape, most notably exemplified by the Towada Art Center. The city plan follows a grid pattern influenced by the former Japanese Imperial Army horse-breeding facilities. Visitors can experience local history at the Nitobe Memorial Museum or explore religious diversity through sites like the Chogetsu Temple and the Catholic Towada Church. The city serves as a key gateway to the volcanic landscapes of the nearby Towada-Hachimantai National Park.
Highlights of Towada, Aomori
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
This museum displays large-scale site-specific installations from international artists along the city's main pedestrian thoroughfare.
Museums
This museum provides context on the life and legacy of the renowned educator and diplomat Inazo Nitobe.
Places of interest
Visitors can view this distinct outdoor sculpture which reflects the artistic emphasis placed on the local environment.
Parks
This central green space offers a quiet retreat and serves as a venue for local community events.
Temples
This temple provides a historical perspective on local architecture and spiritual practices in the Aomori region.
Temples
This building highlights the diverse architectural styles and religious history found within the city.
Temples
This shrine serves as a representative example of local Shinto traditions and site preservation.
Top things to do in Towada, Aomori
The 100 highest-rated places in Towada, Aomori, ranked by travellers.
1
Museums
The Towada Art Center is a contemporary museum designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa, consisting of a series of independe...
2
Museums
The Misawa Aviation Science Museum, located in Aomori Prefecture, showcases the history of flight with a focus on aviati...
3
Museums
The Oirase Field Museum is an open-air educational facility located within the Oirase Gorge, a National Special Place of...
4
Places of interest
Choshi Falls is the widest and most prominent waterfall within the Oirase Mountain Stream area, spanning 20 meters in wi...
5
Parks
Towada-Hachimantai National Park spans Aomori, Iwate, and Akita prefectures, defined by the dual volcanic complexes of t...
6
Natural attractions
Lake Towada is a double-caldera lake formed by volcanic activity, located at the intersection of Aomori and Akita Prefec...
7
Places of interest
The Otome-no-zō (Maiden Statue) is a bronze sculpture located on the shores of Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture, Japan....
8
Places of interest
Kankodai is a prominent observation deck situated on the southern shore of Lake Towada, offering an elevated panoramic p...
9
Places of interest
The Shingo Village Tomb of Christ, located in Aomori Prefecture, is the site of a local legend claiming Jesus Christ did...
10
Places of interest
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Places of interest
Ishigedo Rapids is a prominent section of the Oirase Mountain Stream in Aomori Prefecture, characterized by its wide, ru...
13
Places of interest
Tsutanuma Pond is a caldera lake located in the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, recognized primarily for its striking...
14
Parks
Oirase Keiryu Gorge is a 14-kilometer mountain stream trail following the Oirase River as it flows from Lake Towada to Y...
15
Museums
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Parks
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Historical places
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Natural attractions
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Places of interest
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Museums
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Towada, Aomori on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Towada, Aomori
Late May to mid-June for mild weather and the Towada Horse Festival, or late October for vibrant autumn foliage.
2 days
The city center is walkable, but renting a car is necessary to explore the wider region and the mountainous national park areas.
Stay in the city center near the central commercial district to remain within walking distance of the main art installations and dining options.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining are generally affordable compared to major Japanese metropolitan hubs.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 100 curated attractions in and around Towada, Aomori, ranked by traveller ratings.
Towada Art Center is the highest-rated place to visit in Towada, Aomori right now.
The largest category is places of interest, with 33 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Toshima, Osaka, Kyoto.
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