By 珍スポの達人
In this travel video from the channel 珍スポの達人, the creator embarks on an action-packed one-day trip from Tokyo to Hachinohe (八戸市) in Aomori Prefecture using JR East's special travel promotion called 'Doko ka ni Byuun!' (‘どこかにビューーン！’). This unique campaign offers spontaneous discounted train travel to a surprise destination—and this time, the destination turns out to be Hachinohe.
The journey starts at Tokyo Station with a Shinkansen ride to Hachinohe, where the day’s culinary adventure kicks off at Minato Shokudo (みなと食堂). This popular restaurant is famous for its fresh local seafood, and the highlight is the famed flatfish marinated rice bowl (平目漬丼 – hirame-zuke don). The beautifully prepared dish offers a taste of Aomori’s regional delicacies and is a must-try for any food lover visiting the area.
Next, the video features a stop at Kabushima Shrine (蕪嶋神社), a well-known Shinto shrine perched on a small islet and recognized as a breeding ground for black-tailed gulls (ウミネコ – umineko). The presence of thousands of birds adds a unique atmosphere to the spiritual experience, making it a wildlife sanctuary as well as a cultural site.
The adventure continues with a stroll through the historic district of Konakano (小中野), where remnants of the old red-light district are still visible. The YouTuber highlights Shin-Mutsu Ryokan (新むつ旅館), a vintage inn offering a nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s Showa-era charm and nightlife culture. The area retains some of its traditional architecture from the early 20th century, offering a quiet yet evocative walk down memory lane.
Closing the day is a soothing dip at Kumanozawa Onsen (熊ノ沢温泉), a local hot spring known for its affordable prices and relaxing atmosphere. Despite being a whirlwind, the trip manages to highlight food, culture, nature, and relaxation all within a single day, showcasing how much one can enjoy even a short trip in Japan’s countryside thanks to efficient rail connectivity.
This video is a great resource for anyone looking to explore lesser-visited but culturally rich areas of Aomori Prefecture, all made accessible with convenient travel deals.