Historic Nejo Plaza: resident castle of the Nanbu family, the leader of the Tohoku region The ruins of the resident castle built in 1334 by Nanbu Moroyuki who ruled the Oshu region in the 14th century. Remains of the building, gates, walls, and fence were found during the 11 years of excavation conducted between 1978 and 1988. Currently, the main hall, stable, blacksmith's workshop, and the shed have been replicated. Adults 250 yen, university and senior high students 150 yen, elementary and junior high students 50 yen / Open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. / Closed Mondays (closed Tuesday if Monday falls on a holiday), closed year end and New Years holidays / 0178-41-1726 From JR Hachinohe station take the bus and get off at Nejo Bus Tei (15 min. ride) and walk 1 min.

Kabushima Island: breeding area for the black-tailed gulls Kabushima, the breeding place for thousands of black-tailed gulls, is one of Japan's designated natural monuments. In May during which the birds lay their eggs, visitors marvel at the island covered with so many gulls. At the peak of the island is a shrine where a festival is held on the third Sunday of April. Visitors to the island are advised to bring an umbrella to protect themselves from bird droppings. A 12-min. walk from JR Same station.

Kushibiki Hachimangu Shrine maintains a national treasure armor Known to have been built in 1648, this historic shrine is associated with the Nanbu clan. Surrounded by old trees, the worship hall, the main hall and the Nandai-mon Gate stand quietly, giving the premises a solemn atmosphere. In the treasure hall are the armors which are designated national treasures and other valuable cultural assets. Treasure Hall Admission 300 yen / Open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. / 0178-27-3053 From JR Hachinohe station take the Nanbu Bus for Hachinohe . Get off at Jinja-mae (7 min. ride)