Think the beauty of autumn in Japan can only be found in the gardens of Kyoto or at the foot of Mount Fuji?

Located in the far north of Japan, at the northernmost tip of Honshu, Aomori Prefecture is home to breathtaking views of clear streams and the world-famous bounty of autumn, woven together by untouched nature. In this article, we will introduce Japan's nature and food culture, focusing on the autumn foliage of the Oirase Gorge, which quietly fills the hearts of visitors, and the profound charm of Aomori apples, which can be enjoyed after a stroll.

Autumn scenery with a focus on the clear stream: Autumn at Oirase Gorge

Oirase Gorge is the only river that flows out of Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture, and is a beautiful valley stretching for about 14 kilometers. Its greatest charm lies in the delicate contrast between the water and the autumn leaves.

Peak of autumn leaves: "Kinshu" reflected on the water surface

The peak of autumn foliage at Oirase Gorge is usually mid to late October. During this time, the broad-leaved trees along the stream, such as beech, katsura, and maple, change color all at once, and the entire mountain looks like a vibrant brocade, earning it the nickname "the magnificent autumn scenery." What sets Oirase's autumn foliage apart from other famous spots is how the colors are reflected on the surface of the "clear stream."

• Water Mirror: In areas where the current is slow, the red and yellow trees are reflected clearly and upside down, like a painting on the water's surface.

• Flowing water: In areas with strong currents, the water reflects the colors of the autumn leaves and flows with white foam, sparkling in the light.

Due to the movement of the water and the changes in light, the scenery of Oirase never looks the same for even a moment.

A special walking path along the stream

Oirase Gorge has a well-maintained promenade that runs parallel to the road for almost the entire length. Walking along this promenade is the best part of sightseeing in Oirase.

• Relaxing sounds: During your walk, the only sounds you will hear are the sound of flowing water, birds chirping, and the wind rustling the leaves. Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend time surrounded by the sounds of nature, providing the ultimate relaxation.

• Breathtaking waterfalls: The mountain stream is home to dozens of unique streams and waterfalls, including the Ashura Stream and Kumoi Falls. Among them, Choshi Otaki, with a drop of 25 meters, is the only large waterfall on the main stream of the Oirase River, and its power is truly impressive.

It is quite tiring to walk the entire 14-kilometer route one way, but there are tourist buses in operation, so if you get tired you can hop on a bus along the way.

The History of the Mysterious Lake and Forest: The Background of Oirase

A trip to the Oirase Gorge is not just about seeing beautiful nature, but also deepening your experience by learning about the history of the land and how nature formed.

The source of Oirase: Lake Towada

The source of the Oirase Gorge is Lake Towada, the third deepest lake in Japan. It is a double caldera lake formed by volcanic activity about 200,000 years ago, and its mysterious blue water is the result of its deep lakebed and abundant transparency.

On the lakeside stands the "Maiden Statue" by poet Kotaro Takamura, which stands as if watching over the lake, further enhancing the tranquil lake scenery. Oirase and Lake Towada are "power spots" that should be visited together.

The world of tiny lives nurtured by moss

As you walk along the Oirase promenade, you'll notice that the rocks and fallen trees under your feet are covered in velvet-like green moss. Oirase's abundant humidity and pure water provide the perfect environment for the growth of small mosses.

Oirase Gorge is known worldwide for its diverse moss habitat, and there are even fans known as "moss girls" who use magnifying glasses to observe this tiny world. In contrast to the vibrant reds and yellows of the autumn leaves, the deep green world of moss at your feet evokes an aesthetic sense that is similar to the "wabi-sabi" aesthetic of Japanese nature.

Post-Walk Bliss: Savoring the Essence of Aomori Apples

After refreshing your body and mind through a walk along the beautiful clear stream, it's time to savor the "gifts of the earth" that Aomori boasts to the world. These are apples, the king of autumn fruits in Japan. Aomori Prefecture has a large temperature difference between day and night and long hours of sunshine, making it the perfect environment for growing apples with concentrated sweetness. Aomori Prefecture accounts for roughly half of Japan's apple harvest.

Not just Fuji! The charm of various varieties

When it comes to Japanese apples, the world-famous Fuji apple is the most representative. It has a good balance of sweetness and acidity and is characterized by a crisp texture. However, in addition to Fuji apples, Aomori has an astonishingly wide variety of varieties that change depending on the season.

• Ourin: It has a strong sweetness and a mild acidity. Its mellow fragrance makes it also known as the "King of Fragrances."

• Toki: A cross between Fuji and Orin. Popular for its refreshing sweetness and beautiful yellow color.

• Kogyoku: Characterized by a strong sour taste and a vibrant red color, these apples are best used in apple pies and jams, rather than being eaten raw. In Japan, they are considered the "best apple for confectionery."

If you are traveling to Oirase in October, you can sample these freshly picked apples in season at roadside stations and farm direct sales outlets and buy them on the spot.

A Japanese way to enjoy apples

In Japan, apples are not just eaten as fruit; they are enjoyed in a variety of ways.

・Apple pie and tart: Many cafes and pastry shops offer homemade pies and tarts made with seasonal apples. These beautiful and delicately flavored pies are created by the skilled techniques of Japanese artisans.

・Apple Hot Springs: At some hot spring inns, you can experience "apple hot springs" where whole apples float in the bathtub. The refreshing scent of apples spreads with the steam, enhancing the relaxing effect.

・Cider: Cider (a sparkling apple liquor) made with locally grown apples is also popular in Aomori. Drinking cider at night while imagining the autumn leaves is one way to enjoy a grown-up trip.

Please also check out " A wide variety of rare local dishes! Introducing Aomori Prefecture's local B-class gourmet food! " ▼▼

Location of Aomori Prefecture

summary

A trip to the Oirase Gorge and Aomori apples is a journey that allows you to experience the beauty of Japan's nature, as well as the wisdom and efforts of the people who have protected and utilized that nature. Your soul will be cleansed by the "magnificent autumn scenery" woven by the clear stream, and you will be moved by the rich flavor of the "Aomori apples" nurtured by the earth. This special autumn trip is sure to deepen and invigorate your interest in Japan. So why not experience the true charm of autumn in Japan's northern region?

Please also check out the " Guide to Exquisite B-Class Gourmet Food that Colors the Night of the Aomori Nebuta Festival " ▼▼