The Mutsu Bay is enclosed by Shimokita Peninsula, Natsudomari Peninsula and Tsugaru Peninsula in Aomori Pref.. This scenic coastline is full of varied scenes. Natsudomari Peninsula with an altitude of 200 to 300 m, which crops out into the Mutsu Bay, is a part of Asamushi-Natsudomari Prefectural Natural Park and the tip of Shimokita Peninsula is designated as Shimokita Peninsula Quasi-National Park. Asadokoro Beach in Natsudomari Peninsula is known for the place where swans spend their winter days. The steep mountainsides are eroded by the sea and form the bluff in the west part of Shimokita Peninsula, where natural forest of Acer pictum and linden trees covers its coastline. At the base of Natsudomari Peninsula lies Asamushi Hot Spring town. There are also an aquarium and other facilities in the town of Asamushi. Mutsu Bay is known as the birthplace of Japan’s large-scale scallop fry harvesting.

The Shimokita Peninsula located in the northeastern part of Aomori Pref. is known for its ax-like shape. The whole peninsula area is designated Shimokita Peninsula Quasi-National Park. From Cape Oma at the northernmost of Honshu Island, you can see Hokkaido within striking distance. There are a lot of scenic sites such as Cape Shiriya at the northeastern edge, Cape Oma at the northwestern edge, a series of rock formations made by wave erosion at Hotokegaura, Mt. Osorezan known for “Itako no Kuchi Yose (the calling of the spirits of the dead)” and beautiful autumn leaves at Yagen Stream. Many of these scenic sites create dreary and mysterious atmosphere, which has a nostalgic air of the farthest land. At night, isaribi, which are the lights of a cuttlefish fishing boats that leave the port at the sunset are fantastic. This area is also blessed with good hot springs such as Shimofuro, Yagen, Okuyagen and Yunokawa, where you can enjoy bathing in the idyllic atmosphere.

Mt. Osorezan is said to have been first settled in 862 by the monk, Jikaku. It is one of Japan’s three great spiritual places. Strong smell of sulfur and the desolate scenery of volcanic rocks evoke us of the images of Hell. Beyond this desolate rocky stretch lies the white sand shores of Gokurakuhama (Heavenly Beach) and Lake Usoriyama, which makes a strong contrast. Mt. Sacredness of Mt. Osorezan comprises the specific natural settings and religious devotion of the local people. There is a folklore that every dead spirit goes to Mt. Osorezan. This mountain was long known as the place to hold a memorial service to the dead. After World War II, when “Itako no Kuchi Yose (the calling of the spirits of the dead)” at Osorezan Festival and “Aki Mairi (autumn festival)” came to be known nationwide, Mt. Osorezan became popular among tourists. Thousands of Japanese make a queue to see the itako (oracle) during the great festivals.