【Fleet Collection -Kancolle-】 Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture
Introduction: Why Aomori Prefecture is a Sacred Site for Kancolle
If you’re a Fleet Collection -Kancolle- player, you likely know that one of the server names in the game is “Oominato.” This Oominato is derived from the “Oominato Guard District,” a former Imperial Japanese Navy facility located in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture. In the world of Kancolle, Mutsu City in Aomori Prefecture is positioned as one of the most important sacred sites, making it a destination for many admirals.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the charm of sacred site pilgrimage in Aomori Prefecture. From the history of Oominato Guard District to the exhibits at Mutsu Science and Technology Museum, locations associated with ship girls, and even actual travel plans—we comprehensively deliver the information that admirals want to know.
The Deep Connection Between Kancolle and Aomori Prefecture
What is Oominato Guard District?
Oominato Guard District was a key port of the Imperial Japanese Navy established in Meiji 35 (1902), which later was promoted to guard district status and became a vital post for northern defense. Along with Yokosuka Naval District, Kure Naval District, Sasebo Naval District, and Maizuru Naval District, it functioned as an important base of the Japanese Navy.
In the Kancolle game, one of the servers (naval district) that players belong to is the “Oominato Guard District Server.” This is modeled after the historically existing Oominato Guard District, making it the primary reason why Mutsu City in Aomori Prefecture is considered a sacred site for Kancolle.
Connections Between Ship Girls and Aomori Prefecture
In Aomori Prefecture, particularly in Mutsu City, there exist multiple locations with ties to ship girls. The battleship “Mutsu” is an obvious connection, with the city of Mutsu named after the ancient Mutsu Province, with which the ship is deeply related. Additionally, special-type destroyers such as “Hatsuyuki” and “Shirayuki” were based at Oominato during certain periods, making Aomori Prefecture a place of special significance for fans of these ship girls.
Major Sacred Sites in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture
Mutsu Science and Technology Museum
Facility Overview
Mutsu Science and Technology Museum is a science and technology museum centered on “Mutsu,” the world’s first nuclear-powered ship, and is a must-visit facility for Kancolle fans. The museum features abundant exhibits on marine science and technology and ships, including materials related to the former Imperial Japanese Navy.
Exhibits to Pay Special Attention to for Kancolle Fans
- Battleship Mutsu-Related Exhibits: Materials and models related to the battleship “Mutsu” are on display, making it a poignant location for fans of the ship girl “Mutsu.” Mutsu is known as a tragic battleship that suffered a mysterious explosion and sinking at Hashirajima anchorage in 1943.
- Oominato Naval-Related Materials: Photographs and materials from the era of the former Oominato Guard District are displayed, allowing visitors to learn about the state of the navy at that time.
- Warship Model Collection: Numerous detailed models of destroyers, cruisers, and other vessels are displayed, allowing visitors to see the actual ships that served as the basis for the ship girls.
Access Information
- Address: 693 Kitasekine, Sekine, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), year-end and new year holidays
- Admission: General 440 yen, high school students 330 yen, elementary and junior high school students 220 yen
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR Oominato Line Shimokita Station
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Oominato District
General Public Events
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Oominato District holds several general public opening events and escort ship tours throughout the year. These are valuable opportunities to see escort ships—the modern-day “ship girls”—up close.
Points of Interest for Visiting
- Escort Ship Interior Tour: On public opening days, it may be possible to tour the interior of an escort ship. Seeing the actual dock and bridge in person makes the in-game depictions feel more tangible.
- Impressive Scale of Vessels: The actual size and power of escort ships cannot be conveyed through photographs or video alone. You can truly appreciate the significance of the ships you’ve trained as ship girls in the game.
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Curry: During events, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s famous curry may be offered.
Notes When Visiting
Since general public opening events are held irregularly, you must check the schedule in advance on the official website of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Oominato District. Additionally, identification may be required upon entry, so be sure to bring it with you.
Oominato Naval Cemetery
History and Significance
Oominato Naval Cemetery is a burial ground where military personnel and civilians of the former Imperial Japanese Navy rest. As a place to show respect to war casualties, it is also regarded as an important sacred site among Kancolle fans.
Etiquette When Visiting
When visiting as a sacred site pilgrimage, always follow this etiquette:
- Quiet Demeanor: The cemetery is a place for consolation. Loud conversations and disruptive behavior are strictly prohibited.
- Photography: Refrain from photographing gravestones. Judge carefully before posting on SNS.
- Floral Offerings: If leaving flowers, it is advisable to confirm with the cemetery administration beforehand.
- Consideration for Bereaved Families: Family members may be visiting. Always conduct yourself with respect.
Hokuyokan (Mutsu City Sea and Forest Exchange Experience Center)
Hokuyokan allows visitors to learn about the marine culture and fishing history of the Shimokita Peninsula. While it has little direct connection to the navy, it is worth visiting to understand the culture of Shimokita that lives with the sea.
Visiting Locations Associated with Ship Girls
Battleship “Mutsu” Related Spots
Mutsu Memorial Hall (Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture)
Though outside Aomori Prefecture, the Mutsu Memorial Hall in Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture is a must-visit for fans of battleship Mutsu. The main gun and personal effects of the salvaged Mutsu are displayed, allowing visitors to deeply understand the history of the actual ship that served as the basis for the ship girl “Mutsu.”
Some admirals attempt an “Extreme Sacred Site Pilgrimage” visiting both the Mutsu Science and Technology Museum in Aomori and the Mutsu Memorial Hall in Yamaguchi in a short period, though this requires extensive planning due to the very long travel distance.
Mutsu-Related Monuments in Mutsu City
There are monuments and informational plaques related to the battleship Mutsu in Mutsu City. Searching for them during a city walk is part of the fun.
Destroyer-Related Locations
Multiple destroyers were based at Oominato as their home port. In particular, Aomori Prefecture holds special significance for fans of the following ship girls:
- Hatsuyuki: A special-type destroyer that was based at Oominato for a period of time.
- Shirayuki: Sister ship of Hatsuyuki, also with connections to Oominato.
- Murakumo: A destroyer that was assigned to Oominato Guard District.
Ship Shrines and Their Parent Shrines
What Are Ship Shrines?
The vessels of the former Imperial Japanese Navy had ship shrines installed aboard to pray for safe navigation and victory in battle. These were established with the sanction of actual shrines, and visiting these parent shrines is also a form of sacred site pilgrimage.
Related Shrines in Aomori Prefecture
There are shrines in Aomori Prefecture that likely served as parent shrines for ship shrines. When visiting local shrines, researching any connection to vessels may yield new discoveries.
Travel Planning to Aomori Prefecture
Access Methods
Airplane
- Aomori Airport: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda). Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by bus from the airport to Mutsu City.
- Misawa Airport: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda). Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by bus from the airport to Mutsu City. Misawa Airport is closer to Mutsu City and is recommended.
Train
- Tohoku Shinkansen + Local Trains: Approximately 3 hours by Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori, then approximately 2 hours 30 minutes on Aomori Railway and JR Oominato Line to Shimokita Station.
- Sleeping Car Limited Express: The sleeping car limited express “Akebono” once operated this route but is now discontinued.
Overnight Bus
Overnight buses operate from Tokyo to Aomori City. This is a recommended option for admirals who want to keep costs down. From Aomori City, travel to Mutsu City by route bus.
Automobile
Approximately 10 hours by car from Tokyo to Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture. It is also possible to stop at sacred sites in Miyagi and Iwate prefectures along the way.
Accommodation
Hotels in Mutsu City
- Mutsu Grand Hotel: Located in the center of Mutsu City, convenient for sightseeing.
- Hotel New Green: A business hotel near JR Shimokita Station.
- Tonan Hot Spring Hotel: A lodging facility with hot springs.
Surrounding Areas
The Shimokita Peninsula has many tourist attractions such as Mount Osore and Hotoke-ga-ura, so combining a multi-day stay with sightseeing in the surrounding area is also recommended.
Recommended Length of Stay
If you’re visiting only Mutsu City’s Kancolle sacred sites, a single day is possible, but 2–3 days of lodging is recommended to view the sites leisurely and enjoy sightseeing around the Shimokita Peninsula.
Dining and Cuisine
Local Specialties of Mutsu City
- Scallops: Scallops from Mutsu Bay are exquisite. Enjoy them as sashimi, grilled, fried, and more.
- Ooma Tuna: Ooma on the Shimokita Peninsula is a renowned production area for bluefin tuna. If the season aligns, definitely try this delicacy.
- Beko Mochi: A local confection of Aomori Prefecture. Characterized by a simple flavor.
- Navy Curry: During Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force events, you may enjoy authentic navy curry.
Multi-Naval District Touring Plans
Northern Japan Touring Route
When visiting the Oominato Guard District in Aomori Prefecture, combined tours with other sacred sites are also popular.
Combination with Yokosuka Naval District
A route departing from Tokyo via Yokosuka to Aomori. In Yokosuka, you can view the memorial ship “Mikasa” and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Base.
Combination with Maizuru Naval District
Maizuru Naval District in Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture, is also an important sacred site for Kancolle. A route traveling north along the Sea of Japan coast from Maizuru to Aomori is also possible.
Other Kancolle Spots in the Tohoku Region
On the way to Aomori, there are other Kancolle-related spots throughout the Tohoku region:
- Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture: Shiogama Shrine is the parent shrine for several vessels’ ship shrines.
- Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture: A location with ties to destroyer “Miyako.”
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Etiquette and Precautions
Basic Etiquette
The subject matter of Kancolle is real vessels and the history of those who fought on them. When conducting a sacred site pilgrimage, always follow this etiquette:
Especially Be Careful in Places of Mourning
- Conduct yourself quietly at cemeteries and memorials
- Refrain from photography; judge SNS posting carefully
- Never forget consideration for bereaved families and local residents
- Perform floral offerings and prayers with proper form
Rules for Facility Use
- Do not touch displays
- Do not photograph where photography is prohibited
- View exhibits quietly inside facilities
- Always take your trash with you
Consideration for the Community
- Do not be loud in residential areas
- Do not trespass on private property without permission
- Do not cause trouble for local residents
- Remember to be considerate on public transportation
Frame of Mind When Visiting War Relics
Kancolle is a game based on the history of war. Use sacred site pilgrimage as an opportunity to deepen your understanding of actual history and those who died in war.
- Study History: Research the historical background of places you visit before you go
- Show Respect: Never forget respect for those who perished and the sunken vessels
- Reflect on Peace: Take the opportunity to think about the tragedy of war and the value of peace
Combining with Aomori Prefecture Sightseeing
Highlights of the Shimokita Peninsula
Enjoy sightseeing around the Shimokita Peninsula together with your Kancolle sacred site pilgrimage.
Mount Osore
One of Japan’s three most sacred mountains. A spiritual site featuring unique scenery and the distinctive scent of sulfur.
Hotoke-ga-ura
A group of unusual rock formations on the western coast of the Shimokita Peninsula. A scenic spot featuring the beautiful contrast between emerald-green sea and white rocky cliffs.
Ooma Cape
The northernmost point of Honshu. On clear days, Hokkaido can be seen in the distance. Also famous as a bluefin tuna production area.
Sightseeing in Aomori City
When traveling via Aomori City, the following tourist attractions are also recommended:
- Aomori Museum of Art: Displays contemporary art and works by local artists
- Sannai Maruyama Ruins: A large Jomon-period settlement site
- Nebuta House Wa Rasse: A facility where you can experience the charm of the Aomori Nebuta Festival year-round
Seasonal Enjoyment
Spring (April–June)
Cherry blossom season. Cherry blossoms can be enjoyed in parks throughout Mutsu City. The temperature is also pleasant, making it an ideal season for tourism.
Summer (July–September)
The Aomori Nebuta Festival is held in early August. Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force general public events are also often held during summer months. However, be aware of typhoon season.
Fall (October–November)
A season of beautiful autumn foliage. The autumn leaves at Mount Osore are particularly spectacular. Seafood is also delicious during this time, making it ideal for enjoying local cuisine.
Winter (December–March)
Heavy snowfall occurs, and transportation may be disrupted. Winter visits require thorough preparation, but the rough winter Sea of Japan and snowy landscape are also appealing. Relaxing at hot springs is recommended.
Aomori Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage Budget Estimate
For a 1-Night, 2-Day Stay
- Transportation: 25,000–40,000 yen from Tokyo (by plane), 15,000–20,000 yen (by overnight bus)
- Lodging: 5,000–10,000 yen per night
- Meals: 3,000–5,000 yen per day
- Tourist Facility Admission: 1,000–2,000 yen
- Miscellaneous: 5,000–10,000 yen
Total: Approximately 35,000–65,000 yen
Money-Saving Tips
- Use overnight buses to reduce transportation costs
- Stay at business hotels or guest houses
- Purchase meals at local supermarkets and convenience stores
- Take advantage of pass tickets and free passes
Conclusion: The Charm of Aomori Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Mutsu City in Aomori Prefecture holds special significance for Kancolle fans. Through the history of the former Oominato Guard District, the connection to battleship Mutsu, and the activities of the modern Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, you can gain a deeper understanding of the game’s world.
Through experiences at Mutsu Science and Technology Museum, escort ship viewings, and paying respects to war casualties, you can touch upon the history of the actual ships that served as the basis for the ship girls and the thoughts of those who fought aboard them.
Sacred site pilgrimage is not merely tourism but also an opportunity to learn history and reflect on peace. By visiting with proper etiquette and respect, the experience becomes more meaningful.
The Shimokita Peninsula also offers its own appeal—beautiful nature, delicious seafood, hot springs, and more. Through Kancolle sacred site pilgrimage, discover Aomori Prefecture’s new charm.
May your sacred site pilgrimage in Aomori Prefecture become a wonderful memory. Is your fleet ready for sortie?
Reference Information and Links
Official Websites
- Mutsu Science and Technology Museum Official Website
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Oominato District Official Website
- Mutsu City Tourism Association Official Website
Related Publications
- 『Kancolle』Official Publications
- Publications Related to Imperial Japanese Navy History
- Materials Related to Battleship Mutsu
SNS Communities
Information about Kancolle sacred site pilgrimages is shared among admirals on Twitter, pixiv, and other platforms. Searching hashtags such as “#kancollepilgrimage” and “#oominato” allows you to discover the latest information and accounts from other admirals.
Before your visit, confirm the latest information and enjoy a safe and fun sacred site pilgrimage.
