Highlights of Aomori

Begin with a scenic motorcoach ride to the Seiryu-ji, a temple that houses Japan’s largest seated image of Buddha, the Showa Daibutsu. The stunning, lush landscape and peaceful serenity of the modern temple, founded in 1982, perfectly set off the stunning, 70-foot tall, 220-ton statue. Once you disembark, you’ll be awestruck by the setting’s lush landscape and peaceful serenity as well as the stunning bronze Buddha. Nearby is the impressive five-story pagoda, made entirely of hiba wood, which is a large evergreen tree prized for its brown-red bark. Next, visit the Nebuta Warasse Museum, a celebration of color, artistry and pageantry commemorating the city’s famous 300-year-old Nebuta Matsuri festival. Step inside, where signature lanterns shaped like red goldfish hang along the hallways and the sounds of traditional music play. Marvel at five large, well-built Nebuta floats exhibited in the museum, which are replaced by new ones every year. Return to port with a deeper appreciation of this magical land.