Oirase Gorge is a representative natural landscape within a national park in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, known for a scenic walking path where clear streams and waterfalls continue in sequence. A pedestrian trail runs alongside a bus route, allowing visitors to walk selected sections with ease.
The approximately 14-kilometer stretch from Nenokuchi to Yakeyama includes several points with officially provided walking time estimates for visitors. Even with limited time, visitors can walk by bus stop units, which is noted by international travelers.
Oirase Gorge Basic Facts and Overview


Oirase Gorge is the only river flowing out of Lake Towada and features a maintained walking path along the stream for visitors. Its structure includes successive waterfalls, rapids, and clear water, and the area is designated as a scenic site within a national park.
Oirase Gorge Highlights and Nearby Spots



Highlights of Oirase Gorge
- Ishigedo is an easy reference point for walking, with a well-maintained pedestrian path.
- Ashura no Nagare features consecutive rapids that form a powerful stream landscape.
- Choshi Otaki is one of the largest waterfalls in the gorge, allowing close views of its volume and drop.
Spots Within 30 Minutes
- Oirase Stream Museum provides information checks and rest opportunities before or after walks.
- Oirase Gorge Onsen is known as an accommodation area located along the stream.
- Oirase Roman Park is a bus stop that is easy to visit before or after the route.
Activities Along Oirase Gorge Trails

At Oirase Gorge, visitors can walk along the path while viewing waterfalls and clear streams at close range during their visit. The typical flow involves getting off at a bus stop, walking a short section, and using the bus again. It is also possible to combine information checks at the stream museum with rest time at the hot spring area.
Access to Oirase Gorge by Public Transport
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit.
From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Hachinohe Station in about 2 hours and 50 minutes by rail. From Hachinohe Station, continue toward Oirase Gorge by JR Bus Tohoku using public transportation.
JR Bus Tohoku operates services from Hachinohe Station, allowing passengers to get off at stops such as Yakeyama and Nenokuchi. Operating days and bus stops vary by period, so the latest information should be checked.
Oirase Gorge Visitor Details and Official Site


Oirase Gorge is located within a national park and is primarily explored using designated walking paths. Walks are mainly done during daytime hours, and some sections may have access restrictions depending on weather or snow conditions.
The area receives visitors for nature observation throughout the year, and congestion may occur during certain periods. For up-to-date local information and facilities, refer to the Oirase Field Museum Official Website. As transportation conditions and walkable sections change, check the official website for current updates.
Walking Oirase Gorge with Public Transport
Oirase Gorge is a representative national park landscape that allows walking by combining maintained paths and public transportation access. Its sectional structure makes it easy to plan routes based on available time.

