Aomori is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Japan’s ancient past. Unlike other regions, Aomori offers an authentic glimpse into the Jomon period, thanks to its concentration of UNESCO-listed sites. For history lovers, exploring the Jomon artifacts and prehistoric settlements here is a must. One of our favorites is the Half-day Jomon World Cultural Heritage Sites Tour in Aomori City, which gives you a hands-on experience with some of the most significant archaeological sites. If you’re craving a full immersion, the Full-Day Jomon World Heritage Site Tour in Northern Tsugaru Area offers a deeper dive into multiple UNESCO sites and Japanese culture. For those who prefer combining nature with history, the Full Day World Heritage Shirakami Mountains Hiking Tour combines scenic trekking with cultural exploration in a protected UNESCO landscape.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include two archaeological site tours that highlight Japan’s ancient Jomon era, with options for half-day or full-day experiences (see details here, full-day in Tsugaru). Plus, for nature enthusiasts, there’s an 8-hour hiking adventure in the Shirakami Mountains (more info here). Each tour offers a different slice of Aomori’s historical and natural riches—perfect whether you’re a history buff, outdoor lover, or cultural explorer.
1. Half-day JOMON World Cultural Heritage Sites Tour in Aomori City
This 4-hour tour provides a compact but immersive look into Japan’s fascinating Jomon period. It visits two of the 17 UNESCO-listed sites near Aomori, including the Komakino Site and the Sannai-Maruyama Site. The Komakino site features an original stone circle from the Jomon era, and its museum showcases artifacts that make history tangible. The Sannai-Maruyama site was once Japan’s largest Jomon village, with extensive remains that tell stories of early settlement life.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to touch and feel the ancient artifacts, giving you a real sense of the spirit of the Jomon era. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, Tomio Yokouchi, who is praised for his depth of knowledge and flexibility; he even tailors the experience based on your interests. The transportation is private for small groups (up to 3), adding convenience, but larger groups will need to hire a taxi, which adds to the cost. The price of about $200 for up to three people is reasonable considering the depth of experience and access to exclusive sites.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those with a shorter schedule who want an authentic experience visiting iconic archaeological sites with a personal touch.
2. Full-Day Jomon World Heritage Site Tour in Northern Tsugaru Area
For travelers eager to spend a full day exploring Japan’s prehistoric sites, this tour is a comprehensive option. It covers three UNESCO-listed Jomon sites, including the Odai Yamamoto Ruins, which feature the oldest clay pot fragments in northeast Asia—an essential clue to the origins of the Jomon era. You’ll also visit Tagoyano — a shell midden revealing details about ancient diet and daily life — and the Kamegaoka Ruins, famous for its distinctive pottery.
Beyond archaeology, the tour incorporates cultural highlights like the Takayama-Inari Shrine, with its hundreds of red torii gates that make for a stunning photo backdrop. Plus, you’ll experience pottery making at Shikiro en, a studio run by a potter known for Jomon-style decoration, offering a tactile connection to Japan’s ancient craft traditions.
The tour’s value is high, with a well-paced itinerary that combines history, culture, and scenery. Reviews note the expert guidance and interesting stops, making it ideal for those who want an in-depth, diverse experience. The extra fee for pottery making (around $4,000 per person) adds a special hands-on element, perfect for craft enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: This full-day adventure suits history aficionados who want to see multiple sites, learn about ancient culture, and enjoy some scenic and cultural side trips.
3. Full Day World Heritage Shirakami Mountains Hiking Tour
If your idea of history in nature involves trekking through pristine forests and spotting wildlife, this 8-hour adventure is perfect. The Shirakami Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site known for their virgin beech forests and spectacular waterfalls. The tour begins at the Shirakami Sanchi Visitor Center, where you’ll learn about the area’s ecological significance. Then, you’ll explore the Aqua Green Village, with options for lunch, and visit the Ammon Waterfalls, accessible via a river-side trail.
While the focus is on nature, you’ll also see signs of animal activity, like bear scratches on trees—an authentic touch that brings the wilderness alive. You’ll need good walking shoes and a helmet for waterfall visits, highlighting the active nature of this trek. The pace is leisurely but involves some narrow paths and trekking in beech forests, making it suitable for those comfortable with outdoor walking.
This experience appeals to outdoor lovers who are also interested in natural history. It offers a different perspective from archaeological tours, emphasizing ecology, scenery, and adventure. The trip concludes with a return to Aomori Station, completing a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a nature-focused experience that combines scenic mountain walks with some cultural insights into the UNESCO-designated Shirakami Mountains.
$332.69 per group (up to 3)
How to Choose
When deciding among these great options, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re pressed for time but want a hands-on archaeological experience, the Half-day Jomon World Cultural Heritage Sites Tour offers a concise yet meaningful visit. For those craving a deeper dive into Japan’s ancient past and cultural sites, the Full-Day Jomon Tour in Tsugaru covers multiple sites and includes opportunities for pottery making, making it ideal for history and culture enthusiasts. If you’re more outdoor-inclined and want to combine trekking with natural beauty, the Shirakami Mountains Hiking Tour offers scenic waterfalls and lush forest walks—perfect for active travelers.
Consider your budget, interest in archaeology versus nature, and physical fitness level when choosing. Book early, especially for tours with limited availability or popular times, and think about combining a cultural tour with local dining or additional visits to maximize your trip.
In summary, Aomori offers a wonderful variety of historical and outdoor experiences. Whether you prefer quick archaeological visits, a full day of culture, or a nature trek through UNESCO forests, there’s a tour that matches your travel style. For the best experience, plan ahead and select the option that excites you most—these tours are worth the time and money.