Aomori

Aomori is the northernmost prefectural capital on Honshu, set against Mutsu Bay. The city is known for its apple orchards and the Nebuta Festival, whose giant illuminated floats have influenced the local architecture. The cruise terminal is in the city centre, making it walkable. The A-shaped ASPAM building has an observation deck with views over the harbour and skyline. The Sannai-Maruyama Jomon Site, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site, has reconstructed pit dwellings and artifacts from Japan's prehistoric past. The Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE, near the terminal, shows the festival's massive floats year-round. At the Aomori Gyosai Center, you can build your own seafood rice bowl by selecting toppings like tuna, scallops, and sea urchin. Aomori is famous for its apples, which appear in everything from fresh juice to pastries. The Hakkoda Mountains and Lake Towada are reachable for day trips.