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Private Aomori Shore Excursion Hirosaki Castle and Apple Hill
The Hirosaki day by private car from the Aomori pier: the castle park, the Fujita garden, the Tsugaru clan temple and the five-storey pagoda, with the driving and parking handled.
US$310 per person for 2 · US$620 per car · Pickup at the pier
1 / 4Photo: tour operator, via Viator
Most listings let you reserve now and pay later, and cancel free up to 24 hours before. Your ship's berth or time can change; a reservation costs nothing to hold.
The operator collects you at the cruise terminal
- Pickup is at Aomori Port itself, so the six hours start at the gangway rather than at a station an hour away.
- Hirosaki is the day most passengers want from Aomori and the hardest to time by train; a private car takes the clock problem away.
- Eight reviews average 4.9, and it was open on every Aomori ship day we checked for this autumn, which several better-known tours were not.
Couples or a family of up to six on a call of seven and a half hours or more who want Hirosaki without the train.
The driver speaks Japanese; the operator's own listing says English is written, through a translation app, with information sent in advance. Entry fees are extra. If you want a spoken English guide, the licensed-guide tour on this page is the better fit.
The day, stop by stop
- Hirosaki Park · 1 hrHirosaki Park is one of Japan’s most famous castle parks, centered around the historic Hirosaki Castle. Surrounded by moats, stone walls, and seasonal scenery, the park is especially renowned for its cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.
- Hirosaki Castle · seen in passingIt is in Hirosaki park
- Fujita Memorial Japanese Garden · 40 minFujita Memorial Garden is a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden offering panoramic views of Hirosaki Castle and Mount Iwaki. The garden features a harmonious blend of traditional design, seasonal flowers, and tranquil walking paths.
- Choshoji Temple · 30 minChoshoji Temple is the family temple of the Tsugaru clan, the former rulers of the Hirosaki domain. Known for its solemn atmosphere and well-preserved temple buildings, it offers insight into the region’s samurai history.
- Saishoin Temple · 40 minThe Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda is a striking Buddhist structure and one of the tallest wooden pagodas in the Tohoku region. It stands as an important symbol of Hirosaki’s spiritual heritage.
- Michi-no-Eki Namioka Apple Hill · 45 minNamioka Roadside Station “Apple Hill” is a popular stop offering local specialties, fresh produce, and apple-themed products. It is an ideal place to purchase souvenirs and experience Aomori’s apple culture.
- Private transportation
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Fuel surcharge
- Parking Fees
- Fujita Memorial Garden - Pay on site
- Hirosaki Castle - 320JPY
- Choshoji Temple - 300JPY
- Saishoin Temple & Five-Story Pagoda - 300JPY
- Guide
Guide languages: English, Japanese. Cancellation: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Run by SmartRyde.
Check dates and book
Booked through Viator (a Tripadvisor company). There is rarely a tour desk at the pier, so book before you sail.
We may earn a small commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. It never decides what we recommend — the “think twice” note above is there on purpose.
Before you book
Is the Private Aomori Shore Excursion Hirosaki Castle and Apple Hill worth it from the Aomori cruise port?
The Hirosaki day by private car from the Aomori pier: the castle park, the Fujita garden, the Tsugaru clan temple and the five-storey pagoda, with the driving and parking handled. Best for: Couples or a family of up to six on a call of seven and a half hours or more who want Hirosaki without the train.
How long a port call do I need for this tour?
About 8 hours. The tour runs 6 hr; add half an hour to get off the ship and keep the hour before all-aboard free. Six hours from the port plus the margin before all-aboard: a call of about seven and a half to eight hours.
Can I cancel if my ship skips the port?
The operator's policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What should I know before booking?
The driver speaks Japanese; the operator's own listing says English is written, through a translation app, with information sent in advance. Entry fees are extra. If you want a spoken English guide, the licensed-guide tour on this page is the better fit.
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Private Aomori Shore Excursion HirosakiUS$310 per person for 2 · US$620 per car · New listing · 8 reviews · Free cancellation 24h aheadFrom US$620 per group4.9★ · 8 reviews · Free cancellationCheck dates on Viator →Check dates →