Cacti and Orchids in Enormous Greenhouses
One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Yogoshiyama Forest Park Cactus and Orchid Gardens. The main greenhouse covers approximately 990 square meters and is home to more than 3,000 species of cacti and succulent plants, particularly varieties from North and South America and Africa.
Entering the greenhouse feels like stepping into a completely different climate. Tall cacti, unusual succulents, and colorful tropical plants create an exotic atmosphere that is especially appealing during Aomori’s cold winter months.
The cactus greenhouse is known for its particularly large collection for the Tohoku region. Because the plants can be viewed throughout the year, it is an attractive destination regardless of the season outside.
A Colorful Orchid Greenhouse
Next to the cactus greenhouse is an orchid greenhouse where approximately 150 varieties of orchids are cultivated. From late December through early March, orchids such as cattleyas and cymbidiums bloom in abundance.
The elegant flowers and their delicate fragrances create a warm and colorful indoor environment, offering a welcome contrast to the snowy landscape outside.
Seasonal Flower Festivals
The park hosts several horticultural events throughout the year. The Yogoshiyama Orchid Festival, held annually from early to mid-March, is one of its signature events. During the festival, orchids in a wide range of colors bloom throughout the greenhouse.
During Golden Week in spring, the Camellia and Cactus Festival is also held. Gardening classes, special exhibitions, and other seasonal programs provide additional opportunities to discover the park’s diverse plant life.
A Park with a Connection to Japanese History
Yogoshiyama Forest Park is also connected with Japan’s postwar greening initiatives. On May 20, 1963, the park hosted the 14th Tree-Planting Ceremony and National Land Greening Convention, attended by Emperor Shōwa and Empress Kōjun.
A memorial monument commemorating the tree-planting ceremony stands along the park’s cherry-tree-lined area, providing a reminder of this important chapter in the park’s history.
Winter Skiing and Summer Outdoor Activities
The park’s ski area makes use of slopes reaching approximately 180 meters in elevation. It offers four types of ski courses, including courses for beginners and intermediate skiers as well as cross-country skiing and giant slalom courses.
A dedicated sledding course is located beside the lift, making the area suitable for families with children as well.
When the snow disappears, the facilities take on a different role. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy attractions such as a super slider and a roller-skiing course, allowing the park to remain an active outdoor destination throughout the year.
The ski area has also been used in the past as a training venue for members of Japan’s national cross-country and alpine skiing teams.
Music, Food, and Community Events
Since 2012, Yogoshiyama Forest Park has also served as a venue for the annual AOMORI ROCK FESTIVAL. The event features four temporary stages and a diverse program that can include rock, hip-hop, idol performances, and even professional wrestling.
Another popular event is the Scallop Festival, held annually on the third Sunday of September by Hiranai Town and the Hiranai Town Fisheries Cooperative Association.
The festival celebrates one of the area’s best-known seafood products, offering visitors a chance to enjoy fresh local seafood while experiencing the lively atmosphere of a community event.
Enjoy Camping Surrounded by Nature
For visitors who want to spend more time outdoors, the park has a spacious auto campground covering approximately 34,000 square meters.
Each campsite measures approximately 100 square meters, providing plenty of room for camping equipment and vehicles. The campground is surrounded by greenery and offers a relaxed setting for enjoying the outdoors.
The regular operating season runs from May 1 through October 31, and the campground can be used without a reservation, making it a convenient option for travelers who want to enjoy a spontaneous outdoor stay.
Relax at Yogoshiyama Hot Spring
After outdoor activities, visitors can unwind at Hiranai Ikiiki Kenkōkan Yogoshiyama Hot Spring, a municipal hot-spring facility located within the park.
The facility consists of two buildings. The hot-spring building includes a large communal bath and a children’s pool, while the health building contains facilities such as meeting rooms and a training room.
Although there is no accommodation facility, the hot spring is a convenient place for a day trip and a relaxing bath. It is particularly appealing after hiking, skiing, camping, or other outdoor activities.
Access to Yogoshiyama Forest Park
Address: 36-1 Horikawari, Hamako, Hiranai Town, Higashitsugaru County, Aomori Prefecture
By public transportation: From Kominato Station on the Aoimori Railway Line, take the Hiranai Town Community Bus bound for Yogoshiyama Hot Spring and get off at Yogoshiyama Onsen-mae.
Enjoy Aomori’s Nature in Every Season
Yogoshiyama Forest Park is a versatile destination where nature, recreation, culture, food, and relaxation come together. Visitors can admire tropical plants in the greenhouses, enjoy seasonal flowers, ski in winter, camp during the warmer months, attend local festivals, or simply relax in the hot springs.
Its wide variety of attractions makes it possible to enjoy the park in completely different ways depending on the season. For travelers exploring eastern Aomori, Yogoshiyama Forest Park offers an opportunity to experience both the region’s natural beauty and its lively local culture in one destination.