Hirosaki and Aomori are connected by hourly departing trains along the JR Ou Line. The one way trip takes about 45 minutes, costs 680 yen and is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass, JR East Tohoku Area Pass and JR East South Hokkaido Pass. Alternatively, there are infrequent JR limited express trains along the same route that are slightly faster, but cost an additional 520 yen for an unreserved seat or an additional 850-1450 yen for a reserved seat.
Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates.
Hirosaki's main attractions are all located close to or within Hirosaki Park, which lies a 10-15 minute bus ride or a 30 minute walk west of Hirosaki Station.
The Dotemachi Loop Bus is a convenient, tourist-oriented bus line that stops at Hirosaki Station and many of Hirosaki's attractions, including Hirosaki Park. It operates every ten minutes in a clockwise direction. One ride costs 100 yen, while a day pass for unlimited rides on one calendar day is available for 500 yen.
In addition to the Dotemachi Loop Bus, there are a few other 100 yen loop bus lines, but they operate considerably less frequently and serve areas less relevant to tourists. Furthermore, there is a network of regular city buses, which are less easy to use and more expensive, but can be faster than the loop buses.
Rental bicycles are another convenient means of getting around. From April to November, they can be rented for 500 yen per day between 9:00 and 16:00 from Hirosaki Station or the Otemon Square. Electric bicycles are available for 1000 yen per day.
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