AOMORICYCLINGUp close and personal with
the incredible nature andculture of Aomori

Aomori Cycling

Up close and personal with the incredible natureand culture of Aomori

Surrounded by ocean on all sides and blessed by incredible naturesuch as Shirakami-Sanchi and Lake Towada, each region in Aomori
Prefecture enjoys its own unique history, culture and delicacies.
Cycling Aomori is the perfect way to discover the intricacies ofthese individual regions. If you are ready, thenjump on your bike and let's head off to explore
the beauty of Aomori!

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AOMORICYCLING

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Up close and personal with the incredible natureand culture of Aomori

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Course 2 TOWADA・OIRASE

Course 3 HIROSAKI

Course 4 NISHIKAIGAN

Course 5 OKU-TSUGARU

Course 6 SHIMOKITA

Course 7 LAKE OGAWARA

Course 8 HACHINOHE

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1
2
3
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5
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Course 1 NATSUDOMARI

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01/The masses of blue net stored at the port are shellfish baskets, used for cultivating scallops. It's like riding through a maze. 02/Old fishing vessels of all shapes
and sizes are dotted around the Natsudomari Peninsula. 03/Showing off the size of the scallops at "Hotate Hiroba," which has a giant scallop as its signboard. You

can learn about scallop cultivation on the second floor. 04/At Yogoshiyama Forest Park you can see over 3,000 varieties of succulents. 05/Two men and a cat taking
a break from cycling beside the tetrapod seawall. 06/Even at high tide it is possible to walk over the bridge to Oshima from the tip of Cape Natsudomari.

01

Course 1 NATSUDOMARIDistance: 36 km Duration: 2.5 hours

Natsudomari Peninsula juts out into Mutsu Bay,and here you can enjoy both a winding mountainroad, and a coastal road with a view of the horizon
over Mutsu Bay. You can also catch a diverse rangeof flowering plants in bloom, such as wild camellia
growing on the northernmost tip of Tsubakiyama.
A f t e r s k i r t i ng a r o u n d t h e p e n i n su l a a lo ng
Prefectural Highway 9, a small fishing village
suddenly appears. This is Hiranai-machi, a village
which became famous for its scallop fishing after
a long run of poor catches back in 1957. The blue
basket nets that are stacked all around the port are

OshimaTsubakiyama

1

A Yogoshiyama Forest Park●

Natsudomari Pen.

Horikae36-1, Hamago, Hiranai-machi
TEL.017-755-2663

B Hotate Hiroba●

Kagikake56, Tsuchiya, Hiranai-machi
TEL.017-752-3220

www.hotate-hiroba.com

C Asamushi Onsen Station Foot Spa●

Hotarudani70, Asamushi, Aomori-shi

Asamushi Onsen
Road Sta.

B

A
START
Kominato Sta.

Asamushi Hot Springs
GOAL
C
Asamushi Onsen Sta.

9

10for breeding scallops. Apparently the locals always
take scallops - still in their shells - whenever goingto visit friends. It's up to you whether you choose tohave these giant luscious scallops barbecued or as
sashimi.
And you shouldn't ride past Asamushi Hot
Springs, renowned for its healing proper ties,
without stopping in. This foot-soaking hot springis located in front of the station, and is the perfecttonic for those pedal-weary feet. This is a shortcourse, so it is the perfect fit for the rider wanting topull up whenever they find a nice spot.

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01/ Riding up the path that runs alongside Oirase Gorge, with white spray splashing up with force. 02/ The Mossball Studio inside the "Oirase
Keiryu-kan." On display and for sale are moss balls created by studio owner Takashi Okita, a former Japanese pro-wrestler. 03/ View of Lake

Towada, a source of inspiration for Keigetsu Omachi, a poet from the Meiji era. Oirase Gorge starts from here. 04/ Eating the local delicacy Towada
Barayaki at the long-established eatery "Kamikochi." 05/ Drinking delicious coffee at the Oirase Keiryu Hotel, while looking out over the gorgeousforest that comes right up to the window. 06/ Taking in the view of the misty mountain stream from on top of Towada Bridge.

01

Course 2 TOWADA・OIRASE

Distance: 24 km Duration: 1.5 hours
Oirase Gorge Hot Springs

A

START
B
Towadako
Hot Springs
Ishigeto

2

Oirase Gorge

A Kamikouchi Shokudo●

Yakeyama64-177, Horyo, Towada-shi

Lake Towada

Nenokuchi

TEL.0176-74-2418

B Oirase Keiryu-kan●

Tochikubo183, Okuse, Towada-shi
TEL.0176-74-1233

GOAL
Towadakohan
Yasumiya

www.oirase.or.jp/keiryu/keiryu.htm

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Oirase Gorge is on the opposite side of the
Hakkoda mountain range, south-east of Aomori
City, close to the border with Akita Prefecture.
This beautiful mountain stream, bedded withvolcanic sand, is concentrated along a short 14km
stretch from Yakeyama to Nenokuchi, and isdotted with waterfalls, fantastically-shaped rocks
and beautiful scenery around every turn.
The pleasure of cycling beneath these coolgreen leafy trees along the path beside the stream
is beyond description. The sound of the stream
reverberating through the forest in the "Flow of
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Asyura" drowns out even the sound of our wheels.
There is also a rent-a-cycle at the "Oirase Keiryukan," so that could be a good option for some.
When it comes time to satisfy your growing
hunger, you really must try the Towada Barayaki,
a specialty gourmet dish of Towada City. The
g l i st e n i ng b e ef st r ip s a n d o n io n s c o mbi n edeliciously with the special sweet and salty sauce.
After working up a sweat on the bike, head to
the Lake Towada Hot Springs. If you can push ona little further, you will come to the secluded Tsuta
Hot Springs.

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01/ It was just getting into the season for sorting apples when we rode past Hirosaki City Apple Park. They have more than 50 varieties of apples! 02/ The Owani
Line on the Konan Railway operates as a cycling train on weekends and holidays as well as certain times during weekdays. Bicycles can be wheeled straight onto
the train. 03/ Enjoying the special Owani hot spring bean sprouts at Yamazaki Shokudo close to Owani Station. The crispy texture and delicious flavor has made it
a popular dish. 04/ Apple paper weights created using Tsugaru-nuri - exquisite craftsmanship that could be mistaken for the real thing. 05/ Taking a rest at an apple
farm we passed along the way. An upside down apple bin acts as a rest bench. 06/ The forest of Zen temples where 33 Zen temples of the Soto sect line the road.

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Course 3 HIROSAKI

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Distance: 28 km Duration: 2 hours

A Yamazaki Shokudo●

Maeda34-21, Owani-machi
TEL.0172-48-2134

B Apple Park●

Terasawa125, Shimizutomita, Hirosaki-shi

GOAL
Chuo Hirosaki Sta.
Choshoji
TempleHirosaki Castle
C

Seibien

B
Apple Road

TEL.0172-36-7439

www.hi-it.net/~ringo-kouen

C Icecream Shop Souma●

Naruse136-1, Akudo, Hirosaki-shi
TEL.0172-32-6816

START
A
Owani Sta.
Owani
Onsen

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Mention of H i rosa k i m ight br i ng to m i ndimages of Hirosaki Castle and apples for a lot of
people, but an added attraction is Japan's most
northern private train line, the Konan Railway.
This train also operates as a cycling train so if
you are a cyclist, that makes traveling this areaa hundred times more fun! After 30 minutes
rocking gently back and forth you arrive at Owani
Station lined with hot springs. Located close
to the station is the relaxingly old-fashioned
Yamazaki Shokudo where you can enjoy a plateof crunchy Owani hot spring bean sprouts.
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When leaving town, avoid the main road andhead toward Hirosaki via the Koiki-Nodo (widearea agricultural road), also known as Apple Road.
When you see the beautiful ridgeline of a lonepeak far off in the distance, that is Mt. Iwaki.
It's also a good landmark if you get lost. Few cars
travel this road so it is a nice road to ride, and theapple trees weighed down with glistening red fruit
sway gently in the breeze as if they are cheering
you on. Icecream Shop Souma sells old-fashioned
ice candy, so mark this place down as a goodplace to take a break.

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01/ Magnificent rocks and beautiful views dot the coastal road. Try and find the blow holes at Senjojiki Kaigan. 02/ Homey looking but cute - a
poster of the incredibly popular Akita-dog "Wasao" awaits you outside Ajigasawa Station. 03/ The best part about riding along the west coast is thesunset ride. The bright orange sun sinks into the Sea of Japan. 04/ Enjoying a pleasant ride north along the Omagoe Kaido on National Highway
101, with little traffic and views across the Sea of Japan. 05/ Along the Ajigasawa coastal road, freshly caught squid are hung out like curtains. 06/
The aroma of open-grilled squid was too good to pass up. Waiting for some charcoal-grilled squid while taking a short break.

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Course 4 NISHIKAIGAN

Distance: 48 km Duration: 3 hours

Senjojiki

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BA
A Fukaura Road Station●

Kamisunakogawa144-1, Kasose, Fukaura-machi
TEL.0173-76-3660

B Senjojiki Beach●

Sakakibara, Kitakanegasawa, Fukaura-mach

C Umi-no-eki Wando●

246-4, Honcho, Ajigasawa-machi
TEL.0173-72-6661

Squid
CurtainC
GOAL
Ajigasawa Sta.

Yukiaizaki
Koganezaki Furofushi
Hot Springs
START
Henashi Sta.
Lake Juniko15

Almost the entire course follows the coastal roadrunning alongside the Sea of Japan. This course
presents the rider with incredible views of theocean. If you are lucky you will get to ride alongside
one of the trains passing by on the JR Gono Line or
the Resort Shirakami Express. If you are too tired
to complete the course you can always pack yourbike in a cycle bag and hop on the Gono Line.
Not fa r f rom Henash i Station we pass the
Koganezaki Furofushi Hot Springs, with views
out over the Sea of Japan, and Senjojiki Kaigan,appearing like a giant washboard, scenes you could
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only encounter on the west coast. When we reachedthe Natural Ocean Water Swimming Pool - which
was nothing more than an area fenced off in the sea- the cycling clothes came off without hesitation and
we dived in for a swim!
And of course this area is rich in seafood. After
passing a curtain of dried squid, we stopped in forsome grilled squid while taking a rest. The highlightof the course was the view of the setting sun visible
from anywhere along the coastal road.

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01/ In the small fishing village near Cape Tappi you can see a large number of colorful beach shacks made from iron sheeting. 02/ Everyone seems to find a little
more pace with multi-athlete Tetsuya Tanaka leading the way, riding between villages. 03/ The opening of Hokkaido Shinkansen Okutsugaru-Imabetsu Station in

March 2016 greatly improved access to the Tsugaru Peninsula. 04/ The pedestrian only Stairway Highway. Cyclists usually carry their bikes up this section. Other
tourists cheer you on. 05/ A town signboard made using the blades from a wind turbine. "Welcome to the cape of the wind" it says along the road to Tappi. 06/
Looking out over the tip of Cape Tappi, said to have wind strong enough for a dragon to fly.

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Course 5 OKU-TSUGARUDistance: 73 km Duration: 5 hours
TappizakiA

5

Takanosaki

B
Tairadate
Lighthouse

A Tourist Information Center Tappi-Kan●

59-12, Minmaya Tatsuhama, Sotogahama-machi

START
OkutsugaruImabetsu Sta. Avenue ofPine Trees
Tsugaru Pen.

TEL.0174-31-8025

B Tairadate Road Station●

Tarouemonsawa1-3, Tairadate, Sotogahama-machi

Lake Jusanko

Kanita Port

GOAL
Kanita Sta.

TEL.0174-31-2211

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Tsugaru-Imabetsu Station’s name was changed
to Okutsugaru-Imabetsu Station with the openingof the Hokkaido Shinkansen. Departing from thisstation, we are guided on this course by multiathlete Tetsuya Tanaka. Tanaka is a one-legged
cyclist who represented Japan in the Paralympics.
Heading north along the coastal road, we passby colorful shacks made of iron sheeting and buoys
strewn along the beach. The Okuya Inn where thefamous Japanese author Dazai Osamu apparently
once stayed has been converted into the Cape Tappi
Tourist Information Center. Photos are on display
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showing the building in its heyday. No one would
have imagined then that a wonderful cycling track
would have been built right here.
Continuing on we come to Stairway Highway 339,
a pedestrian only section. After climbing to the top
we arrive at Cape Tappi, described in Dazai's novel
Tsugaru as the "cul-de-sac of Honshu." Apparently
the name Tappi originates from the fact that windis strong enough for a dragon to fly. The sight of the
Tsugaru Strait from the cliff top is breathtakingly
beautiful.

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01/ The right amount of undulation along the Hamanasu Line makes the ride even more enjoyable. 02/ Crossing the ocean from Aomori City to Saimura on the high speed sea liner Polar Star. It's a fantastic ride and extremely comfortable. 03/ Standing on Oma Peninsula, the northernmost pointof Honshu. The land visible across the ocean is Hokkaido. 04/ The Original Squid Race where energetic squids race effortlessly, and others don't

move at all. 05/ Riding on the cool Shimokita breeze while staring into the deep blue of the Tsugaru Straights. Cresting the hill and heading into
downtown Mutsu City. 06/ Mention of Oma brings tuna to mind. An extravagant bowl of tuna on rice. The flavor spreads through the entire mouth.

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Course 6 SHIMOKITA

Distance: 67 km Duration: 4.5 hours

With the bicycles safely stored in the cargo hold,we board the high speed Polar Star departing from
Aomori Port. Our sea journey begins. From inside
the spotless boat, passengers can watch a video
showing the attractions of Shimokita Peninsula,read a book, stare at the ocean through the window,
or just laze about. On the day we crossed thesea was calm with very little rocking. After apleasurable journey lasting two-and-a-half hours,
we arrive at Sai port our final stop.
Then it's back in the saddles and off toward
Oma Peninsula, the northernmost point of Honshu.

Omazaki A

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A Kaikyosou●

Omadaira17-734, Oma-machi
TEL.0175-37-3691

www6.ocn.ne.jp/~oma12

B Live Squid Stockpiling Center●

127, Shimofuro, Kazamaura-mura
TEL.0175-36-2112

C Yoshida Bakery●

9-25, Shinmachi, Mutsu-shi

START
Sai Port

Shimofuro
Hot Springs

B

Shimokita Pen.
Mt. Osore

Souvenir Center
Mutsu
Kasamai-kan

C
GOAL
Shimokita Sta.

TEL.0175-23-0148

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Mention of Oma brings to mind pole-and-line
fishing for tuna. Suddenly our attention goes to thetuna for sale outside some of the restaurants. At
the campsite next door, a bunch of riders are busy
pitching their tents.
From Oma Peninsula we head south down
National Highway 279, also known as the Hamanasu
Line, with only light traffic. In Kazamaura-mura,
after playing in a game of the "Original Squid
Race," we then enjoyed some of the delicioustransparent squid as sashimi, prepared at the race
track.

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01/ A flat paved road cuts through a forest lined with the colorful tents of campers. 02/ A beautiful view of the lake awaits those who enter this area, which is
inaccessible by car. 03/ A tranquil road with pastoral scenes runs alongside the Hotokenuma Wetlands, listed on the Ramsar Convention. 04/ Certain parts of thelake are open to swimming, but only during summertime. This is a brackish lake connecting the Takase River and the Pacific Ocean, and rich in aquatic resources.
05/ A road for bicycles only, created from an older road that runs beside the lake. Currently it is only for one section of the lake, but we hope one day it will be
extended to circle the entire lake. 06/ With comfortable grass for a picnic and a lot of stores inside, the Misawa Roadside Rest Area is a popular spot.

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Course 7 LAKE OGAWARA

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Distance: 56 km Duration: 4 hours

Lake Ogawara is an enormous brackish lake
located in eastern Aomori Prefecture close to the
Pacific Ocean, with a single lap covering a distanceof 60km. The floating fishing huts bobbing on
the sparkling surface of the lake add a relaxing,
romantic touch. Situated beside Lake Ogawara is a
campsite, and the laughter of the children playing in
the water in front of their tent is infectious.
We take a side-trip into Misawa City, locatedabout 20 min by bicycle from the southern end of
the lake. Passing down a street lined with western
pubs and bars, part of the American culture that has

Swanp
Hotokenuma

Lake
OgawaraB
A Ogawarakohan Camp Site●

Sabisirodaira116-2949, Misawa-shi
TEL.0176-59-2830

kite-misawa.com/camp

B Misawa Road Station●

4-298-652, Yachigashira, Misawa-shi
TEL.0176-59-3009

kite-misawa.com/tonamihan

START
GOAL
Ogawarako
Road Sta.

A
Misawa Airport

Sky Plaza Misawa

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spread from the Misawa Air Base, you find yourself
asking, "Is this really Aomori?" Nearby the base,we pass some people scooting across the water on
jet skis.
Although there isn't an exclusive road for bicycles
that loops the lake, there is very little traffic, whichmakes for an enjoyable ride. What appears at firstsight to be a grassy meadow on the eastern sideof the lake is Hotokenuma Wetlands, listed by the
Ramsar Convention as an internationally important
low wetland for the habitat of waterfowl.

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01/ Pedaling for about 30 min from downtown Hachinohe brings you to the Tanesashi Coast, where you'll find a beautiful contrast of green andblue. 02/ Hachinohe City is dotted with spring water areas, and we found one in Okuki also. 03/ Bathhouses are open early in the morning forfishermen returning from their night's catch – a feature unique to port towns. 04/ The observation point of Hachinohe Mine, which is open to thegeneral public, is known as "Hachinohe Canyon." The view is spectacular and well worth the climb. 05/ At the morning markets in front of
Mutsuminato Station you'll find seasonal seafood and vegetables. Everything is fresh, and as cheap as you'll find! 06/ Sea Urchins!

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Course 8 HACHINOHE

Distance: 44 km Duration: 3 hours

START
GOAL
Mutsuminato Sta.
Hachinohe
Port

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A

Tanesashi Coast
Okuki
Spring Water

A Morning Market Mutsuminato Station●
Kubo44, Minatomachi, Hachinohe-shi

B Hashikami Road Station●

Korekawa
Historical Site

B
C

Mimikehai3-3, Dobutsu, Hashikami-cho
TEL.0178-88-1800

C Hachinohe Canyon●

Mt. Hashikamidake

Nagasaka9-1, Matsudate, Hachinohe-shi

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In Hachinohe City you will find a different
culture from Tsugaru Peninsula on the west coast,with Iwate Prefecture only a small distance south.
The bustle of the morning markets in front of
Mutsuminato Station begins before sunrise. We
order some rice and miso soup and then selectsome fresh fish and vegetables from the otherstalls. The incredible energy of this market comesfrom the female traders known as "Isaba-nokaccha." Their cries of "Irasshai!" are enough toblow the sleep from your eyes and have your hairstanding on end.
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Heading sout h past t he Kabush i ma Isla ndbre e d i ng g rou nds for t he bla ck-t a i le d g u l l,famous for its cat-like calls, you arrive at Cape
Ashige, jutting into the Pacific Ocean. Here you
can indulge in a perfect view of the horizon.
The beautiful scenery of the ocean reflecting aclear blue sky interlaced by reef, the white sandy
beach on which the waves come crashing in, andthe expanse of natural green grass make it oneof earth's paradises. Along the 5.2km Tanesashi
Coast road, you can enjoy a magnificent 360°
panorama.

Course 6 SHIMOKITA
Name of Prefecture
Prefectural Capital
Population
Area：Aomori Prefecture：Aomori City
：1.32 million (as of 2014)2：9,645km (4.4 times the area of Tokyo)

Best time for cycling ：April - October
Average temperature ：See the following graph (Aomori City, 2013)

Mutsu City（℃）

Course 5 OKU-TSUGARU

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-5
-10

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2

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Mutsu Bay

Sea Liner「Polarstar」

9 10 11 12 （Month）

Course 1 NATSUDOMARI
Lake
Jusanko

Aomori City

Lake
Ogawarako

Course 4 NISHIKAIGAN

Course 7 LAKE OGAWARA

Mt. Hakkoda

Mt. Iwaki
Hirosaki City
Konan Railway Owani Line

Course 3 HIROSAKI

Lake Towada

Hachinohe City

Course 2 TOWADA・OIRASE

Akita Pref.
Iwate Pref.
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Course 8 HACHINOHE

Wandering (by bike): Searching for the colors of spring

Column.1

Hachinohe Portal Museum “Hacchi”

Wandering (by bike): Searching for the colorsof spring was an event held by the Hachinohe
Portal Museum "Hacchi" on May 3 and 4, 2014.
As the 2nd edition of the art program Tour deHachinohe created by the artist unit "Powang,"t h i s eve n t i nvo lve d t o u r i n g t h e s t r e e t s o f
Hachinohe by bicycle. Led by Akira Takahashi
the first day featured a ride from Chojayama to
the center of Hachinohe, and the second day a

Fun cycling parts for a niche market

hacchi.jp

tour of famous areas around Minato-machi. On
the way we discovered short cuts and beautiful
f lowers you'd never notice d r ivi ng i n a ca r,snacke d on Na nbu r ice crackers du r i ng ou r
breaks, and rediscovered the beauty of Hachinohe
by bicycle. It was interesting to see the locals also
listening with interest to the explanations along
the way by Takahashi, who has an exceptional
knowledge of the area's plants and history.
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Column.2

MINAMI Hachinohe Works

Minami Hachinohe Works, an electric parts
manufacturer, began a new venture in 2012 withthe creation of its cycling division.
Rather than create existing pa r ts, Ta keshi
Matsuhita, Director of the Cycling Division, says
the company set out to develop parts that were
mostly unavailable, under a concept of making
fun cycling parts for a niche market originatingfrom the Hachinohe/Tohoku area.
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cycle.minami-web.com

Their products include a multi-function cycling
light with a USB charging por t, a fiber lightthat attaches to a helmet, and they are currently
developing a generator which enables the rider togenerate electricity when pedaling.
Over the last couple of years, the company has
begun to exhibit at cycling shows including Cycle
Mode International.

Challenge Hill Climb Mt. Iwaki

Tsugaru Hantou Century Run

Shimokita Hantou Long Ride

It is hard to beat the exhilaration of riding pass thebeautiful rural landscapes and coastlines, and thencycling the length of the Tatsudomari Line, said tobe the hardest ride in Aomori.

This is Japan's longest ride at 310km, taking in allof the natural wonders of the Shimokita Peninsula
such as Cape Oma, the most northern point of
Honshu and famous as a spot for tuna.

TEL：0173-35-3916

TEL：017-752-2647

Hakkoda Long Ride

Natsudomari Hantou Blue Road Ride

TEL：090-6224-1238
www.iwakisan1238.com

This event is held on the last Sunday of Juneevery year, with positions for a total of 500 riders
in the 10 & 15km classes. The youngest rider inthis year's event was 6 years old, and the eldest
80. A participant from Hyogo Prefecture traveled
the furthest distance to compete, with riders of allages coming from regions across Japan.
Mt. Iwaki Skyline is an automobile only tollroad with a total of 69 bends starting from the footof Mt. Iwaki, and climbing 80% up the mountain.
This race is the only day when the road is open tocyclists. A major attraction to participants is the
chance to challenge the course's notorious featuresof a finish line located at an altitude of 1,238m,
and a maximum gradient of 11.8%.
The start of this year's event was accompanied
by rain, which gradually increased in intensity,and didn't let up the entire race.
29

T h is r ide st a r ts f rom Aomor i Cit y. On t h isundulating and winding course, riders are rewarded
with the beautiful scenery of the Hakkoda Ranges,
Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge.

An 80km ride around Hiranai-machi district,located in almost the center of Aomori Prefecture,ta k ing in views of the mountains and ocean
surrounding Natsudomari Peninsula.

TEL：017-752-2647

TEL：017-752-2647

A wide range of cycling events are held across Aomori Prefecture during the cycling season. An attractive feature of participating
in a race or an event is that you can enjoy a unique experience of Aomori. Why not use the event information for planning yournext trip?
* Make sure to contact the organizers directly regarding details of races.

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Course 1 NATSUDOMARI

Course 5 OKU-TSUGARU

After completing a lap of Natsudomari Peninsula,take a refreshing bath in the Asamushi Hot Springs
district. There is a roofed area for bike parking.

This campsite has a cafe, souvenir store and hot
showers. At night, you can see the fish-luring fires
on the squid fishing boats out on the Tsugaru Strait.

Yamasita281, Asamushi, Aomori-shi

Horozuki, Imabetsu-machi

TEL：017-752-2222

TEL：0174-35-3012

www.tatumikan.com

From June to September

Course 2 TOWADA・OIRASE

Course 6 SHIMOKITAThe Oirase Keiryu Hotel stands at the entrance ofOirase. Use it as a rest area during a ride, or stayovernight and enjoy the hot springs.
Tochikubo231, Okuse, Towada-shi

A hot spring lodge with a bicycle parking rack. If
you have come to enjoy the Shimofuro hot springs,
just fasten your bike to the rack and you're ready to
dip.
67-2, Shimofuro, Kazamaura-mura

TEL：0176-74-2121

TEL：0175-36-2021

www.oirase-keiryuu.jp

www.simofuro.co.jp

Course 3 HIROSAKI

Course 7 LAKE OGAWARA

A bicycle-friendly hotel located conveniently indowntown Hirosaki. Nearby is a professional
bicycle shop, handy in case you have bike trouble.

A hot spring with a bicycle parking rack out front.
This is a good spot to drop into after completing acircuit of Lake Ogawara.

101-1, Daikancho, Hirosaki-shi

1-1-87, Okamisawa, Misawa-shi

TEL：0172-35-0345

TEL：0176-57-4335

www.imgnjp.com/hiro_pla

Open from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm

Course 4 NISHIKAIGAN

Course 8 HACHINOHE

With steep cliffs on both sides, this campsite is
located on a coastal plain with 271 varieties of flora.
Store up on fresh goods from Aomori and go camp.

A campsite in a national pa rk that has been
officially named as a spot of special beauty. Its
simplicity and openness make it the perfect spot.

Ienozyou, Hiroto, Fukaura-machi

Samemachi, Hachinohe-shi

TEL：0173-74-4412

TEL：0178-38-2024

From July to August

From May to September

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Tips for wearing a helmet

Riding tips

If possible, you always want to try on a helmet
before purchasing it. Choose a helmet matching
the circumference of your head, turning the dialat the rear so that it fits snug. The front edge ofthe helmet should be positioned at the top of theeyebrows, while making sure that the helmet
doesn't drop too low at the rear. Adjust the chinstrap so that there is space for one finger.

UphillIf you see that you are approaching a hill, before
arriving at the hill change into a lower gear. It isonly possible to change gears while turning thepedals, so changing gears while climbing a hill
will place stress on the chain. Therefore, makesure you have plenty of time when changing
gears.

How to set up your bike
When setting the frame size, the best way is tostraddle the actual bike to find the best size. Alignthe height of the seat with your hip bone. Sit on theseat and place the joint of your big toe on the pedal
and pedal one revolution. Your knee should beslightly bent when you pass the lowest point. It will
be easier to control the bike if the handlebars are thesame width as your shoulders, or a little wider.

Downhill
Be careful not to pick up too much speed on theway down. Apply both front and rear brakes, but
avoid applying the front brake too hard. Whenthe road curves to the left, stop pedaling with theleft foot at the top, and when the road curves tothe right, stop pedaling with the right foot at thetop, to prevent the pedal from hitting the road.

Ride to the left
According to the Japanese Road Traffic Law,bicycles are considered a light vehicle. In Japan,
bicycles are required to keep to the left, thesame as automobiles. Just as a car is violating
the law by traveling in the opposite lane, riding
a bicycle on the right-hand side (wrong side) can
incur a maximum prison term of 3 months or a
maximum fine of 50,000 yen. Also, take care to
ride on the extreme left of the roadway.

Torii Gate at Natsudomari and the hole in the Fence at Oirase :Dwellings of the Gods?
There are said to be many mystical areas in Aomori where the gods havemade their home: Mt Osore, Hotokegaura, Shirakami Sanchi and Mt. Iwaki justto name a few. On Natsudomari Peninsula there is a small red torii gate, and at
first glance it appears as if it must also be some mystical spot. But on closer
inspection it turns out that it was put there to prevent people from littering. It
certainly feels as if you would be punished somehow if you here.
Another place is the hole in the fence in front of Oirase and Utarube tunnels
which looks like a door through which the gods might pass. But it is actually an
opening for bears and deer, which inhabit the area, to pass through. It's a lot of
fun to search for curious places like these.

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1

MINAMI Hachinohe Works

1

2

4

5

6

7

3

8

10

11

6

Cargo cycling shorts

9

TEL: 0178-38-1565

narifuri 1-17-23, Furukawa, Aomori-shi
Cycle Shop TATEYAMA

cycle.minami-web.com

TEL: 017-774-6507

Kataoka38-31, Ono, Aomori-shi

www.narifuri.com

TEL: 017-734-7537

Light
A revolutionary cycling light with a USB charging
port for use with a smartphone. Makes it possible
to charge at the same time as riding with GPS
navigation.

HelmetThis helmet with a built-in headlamp is a new
product from Minami, a company from Hachinohe
City in Aomori Prefecture.

The design of these shorts has focused onmaterials and lines for achieving theultimate in comfort. They come with a cargo
pocket for carrying small items.

3

7

Bag
Backpack made from Celspun, giving it a tough but
natural texture. The zipper in the shape of aquestion mark opens right to the bottom, making it
easy to use and trendy at the same time.

Wire lock
Compact wire lock with dial that is easy to carryaround. Useful when parking for a short time, as aspare, or when locking several bikes together.

84Fingerless gloves that use a gel-like fabric for the palm.
Has the dual function of grip and reducing shock, anduseful for preventing injury in the event of a fall.

Cycling jersey
Cycling jersey made using an original mesh fabric,with a loose outer layer. Graphic with a picture ofcycling parts gives a stylish look.

5

Gloves9Sunglasses
Sunglasses for protecting the eyes from UV light, dust
and wind. The Japanese made frames and nose pad
are designed to be worn for long periods.

10 Water bottle

Windbreaker

Bottle that makes re-hydratingo n t h e r o a d e a s y. A o m o r i
Prefecture contains plenty ofspring and ground water
stations where you can fill up.

A windbreaker designed for use bycyclists, with fingerless ribs in thesleeves and back pockets. The meshfabric lining prevents getting chilly
when sweaty.

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11 Compact tool kit
Multi-tool kit capable of performing over 10
different functions. Handy for doing minor
adjustments to the seat or handlebars.

FERRYThe Konan Tetsudo Cycle Train

Hakodate

From May to November, the Konan Railway
Owani Line that runs along the historic Tsugaru
Way operates as a cycle train, with cyclists able towheel their bikes directly onto the end carriage.
The cycle train operating time is from 9:30 to 3:30
on weekdays and anytime during weekends andpublic holidays. The fare is only 430 yen. It takes
around 30 min to travel the entire 13.9km, andlooking out the window of a gently rocking train
is a splendid way to enjoy the scenery.
Note: The cycle train does not contain any equipment for fixing
your bike.

Tsugaru-Kaikyo Ferry
Seikan Ferry(Hakodate-Aomori)Tsugaru-Kaikyo Ferry(Hakodate-Oma)
Mutsuwan Ferry(Kanita-Wakinosawa)

Oma
Sai
FukuuraUshitakiWakinosawa

MisawaHachinohe

Tohoku Expressway
Akita

Morioka

Uetsu Main Line

Yamagata

Konan Tetsudo

TEL：0172-44-3136

konantetsudo.jp

Fukushima

Joetsu Shinkansen
Echigo-Yuzawa
Hokuriku Shinkansen
NaganoKanazawa
Takasaki

TohokuShinkansen

Shichinohe-Towada
Hachinohe

Hiroshima

HakataHokuriku Shinkansen
Sanyo Shinkansen
Kyushu Shinkansen

Kumamoto

JR Local Line

Tohoku Shinkansen Hayabusa

Tokyo

Tokaido Shinkansen
Nozomi

Rapid Airport / Ltd.
Exp.Super Hokuto

New Chitose
AirportAir routes
To k y oJAL（75min.）Osaka

J A L（85min.）
ANA（105min.）Publisher: Aomori Cycle Tourism Promotion Committee

Front page photograph: A route going north on Omagoshi Road, Fukaura-machi, Nishi-Tsugaru-gun (Course 4 West Coast)

SapporoJ A L（45min.）
ANA（50min.）*Unauthorized copying and replication of the text and photographs is prohibited.

Nagoya

FDA（80min.）Seoul

KAL（140min.）

Tianjin

OKA AIR（205min.）Tohoku Expressway

Railways

ShinOsaka

38

Tokaido Shinkansen

Takamatsu
Sanyo
Shinkansen

Kagoshima-Chuo

37

Tohoku, Joetsu, Yamagata,
Akita Shinkansen

Tokaido Shinkansen
Kyoto
NagoyaOkayamaShin-Osaka

Kyushu Shinkansen*Information in the pamphlet was confirmed at the time of publication. Please be advised that there may be changes and revisions thereafter.

Hokkaido Shinkansen

Omiya
Tokyo

Shin-Aomori

Sii Line TEL：017-722-4545 www.sii-line.co.jp

Sendai

Niigata

Shin-HakodateHokuto

OkutsugaruImabetsu

The Polar Star is a high speed boat for crossing
to Shimokita from Aomori City across Mutsu
Bay. Traveling the entire journey takes around
150 min, with passengers offered a spectacular
view of the intriguingly shaped rocks known
as Hotokegaura. There are also sightseeingboats to and from Hotokegaura departing from
Wakinosawa and Ushitaki. Ship staff will carry
your bicycle to and from the cargo hold at theback of the ship.

1,000 copies

Hakodate

Shin-Aomori
Hirosaki

AomoriSii Line(Aomori-wakinosawa-Sai)

Load your bike onto the Polar Star and head to Shimokita

Published on March, 2019

Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto

KanitaKikonaiNote: When carrying your bicycle directly onto the Polar Star
there is an additional fee.

New Chitose Airport

AomoriTokyo

Hakodate

ShinAomori

Tohoku Shinkansen
Hayabusa

ShinAomori

Hokkaido Shinkansen Hayabusa,
Hayate, Hakodate Liner

Shin-HakodateHokuto

To k y oJAL（75min.）

Osaka

JAL（95min.）

SapporoHAC（60min.）

Hakodate

HAC（35min.）

ShinAomori

Misawa※sat, sun, holiday

2019.3