Iwaki San

Every Prefecture has it's own "Little Fuji" (refering to the most famous volcano in Japan, Mt. Fuji), and in Aomori it would certainly be Mt. Iwaki (AKA Iwaki San). Like Fuji, it is a stand alone conical goliath hovering over the city. It is visible from just about anywhere in the western half of Aomori, and has long since been considered a holy spot by the local shinto inhabitants. It is a long day to hike up it, but chain smokers need not fret because there is a gondola that will place you about 15 minutes from the top. You can be at the top (smoking a cig) in no time...