A quiz to deepen your knowledge while enjoying the charms of Aomori Prefecture, the northernmost prefecture on Japan’s main island

Last updated:2025/4/28

Music writer / guitarist / Certified web writing practitionerHoshino Takashi
Drawing on over 30 years of experience with guitars and bands since my high school days, I specialize in music-related articles and have handled many feature pieces to date. While my tastes lean toward genres like hard rock and heavy metal since I first picked up the guitar, I make a point of listening to a wide range of styles, both Japanese and Western, on a daily basis. I began working as a freelance writer in 2018. I hold a Web Writing Practical Certification, and in addition to writing, I’m also studying video editing. In my private life, I’m raising an elementary school child and stay active while supporting their extracurriculars, such as parkour and dance.

Aomori Prefecture boasts many attractions it can proudly share with the world, including natural monuments and World Heritage Sites.

While there are famous local products and place names that almost everyone knows, there are likely many things that make even Japan residents think, “Wait, is that in Aomori?”

What’s more, in the 2023 Prefectural Attractiveness Rankings, Aomori placed 20th, so some people might feel it’s a region that’s neither especially outstanding nor lacking.

So this time, we’re introducing a quiz that will help you discover the charms of Aomori, the northernmost prefecture on Japan’s main island of Honshu.

If you’re considering a trip to Aomori Prefecture, be sure to check it out before you go!

A quiz (1–10) to deepen your knowledge while enjoying the charms of Aomori Prefecture, the northernmost prefecture of Honshu

What is the collective name of the mountainous region spanning Aomori and Akita Prefectures that became Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Shirakami-Sanchi
Aso Mountains
Kirishima Mountain Range

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Shirakami-Sanchi

Shirakami-Sanchi was inscribed in 1993 as Japan’s first UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. This mountain range spans Aomori and Akita prefectures and contains one of the world’s largest primeval beech forests. The natural environment is exceptionally well preserved and is known for its rich biodiversity.

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What is the name of the traditional local dish from around Hachinohe City in Aomori Prefecture that originated in the Edo period?

Senbei-jiru (rice cracker soup)
Aomori Apple Curry
stuffed squid

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Senbei-jiru (rice cracker soup)

Senbei-jiru is a traditional local dish from around Hachinohe City in Aomori Prefecture, said to have originated in the Edo period. Ingredients such as rice crackers (senbei), fish, and vegetables are simmered in a soy sauce–based broth. Distinguished by the inclusion of senbei, this regional specialty also varies in ingredients and flavor depending on the area, which is one of its appeals.

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What is the name of the hot spring in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture that is counted among Japan’s three great secluded hot springs?

Iya Onsen
Niseko Yakushi Onsen
Yachi Onsen

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Yachi Onsen

Yachi Onsen is located in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, and is known as one of Japan’s three great hidden hot springs. Because it is in a very hard-to-reach location, it is considered a “secret hot spring.”

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What is the name of the breathtaking view seen at the outer moat of Hirosaki Park in spring?

Carpet of cherry blossoms
flower raft
Tunnel of autumn leaves

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flower raft

In the outer moat of Hirosaki Park, cherry blossom petals float on the water in spring and gather into clusters that look like tiny rafts, which is why they are called “hanaikada,” or “flower rafts.” This scene is exceptionally beautiful and is considered one of the iconic views of Hirosaki Park in spring.

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Which festival in Aomori is known as one of the three major festivals of the Tohoku region?

Nebuta Festival
Tanabata Festival
Kanto Festival

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Nebuta Festival

Counted among the three great festivals of the Tohoku region, the Aomori Nebuta Festival is held in Aomori City every year from August 2nd to 7th. The sight of the gigantic nebuta (floats) parading through the streets is breathtaking, and it is renowned as a representative summer festival of Aomori.

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What is the old provincial name of Aomori Prefecture?

Hizen Province
Dewa Province
Mutsu Province

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Mutsu Province

The former provincial name of Aomori Prefecture is Mutsu Province. Mutsu Province encompassed almost all of present-day Aomori Prefecture and part of Iwate Prefecture. Because this region has played an important historical role, the history of Mutsu Province is very intriguing.

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Hirosaki City, said to be the first in Japan to implement the municipal system—how is it pronounced?

Kozamashi
Hiromaeshi
Hirosaki City

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Hirosaki City

Hirosaki City is located in the southwestern part of Aomori Prefecture. This city is famous for being the first in Japan to implement the municipal system in 1889 (Meiji 22). Therefore, the correct reading is “Hirosaki-shi.”

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