| Population | 14,632 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 177.67 km² |
| Population Density | 82.35 people/km² |
Gonohe Town is located in the southern part of Aomori Prefecture, and its history dates back to the Nara period. The culture of the town, which has been built up since that time, has been passed down through the Sengoku period under the rule of the Nanbu clan to the present day. Agriculture is the main industry in this area, with active production of apples and garlic. Along with its beautiful natural environment, the local community leads a vibrant life. Additionally, the people of Gonohe Town speak a unique dialect influenced by Tsugaru dialect and cherish traditional events and festivals. The Gonohe Summer Festival and Gonohe Spring Festival are examples of this, symbolizing the town’s charm and culture. The local lifestyle is rich in cuisine and crafts that utilize local specialties, captivating visitors. There are also tourist spots where one can enjoy the seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and stunning autumn foliage. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy the warmth of the local people along with the landscapes woven by nature throughout the four seasons.
Culture and Customs
Gonohe Town was established during the Nara period and was influenced by the Nanbu clan during the Sengoku period, with its historical background vividly reflected in the area. The main industry is agriculture, particularly the production of apples and garlic, making it a wonderful land for harvesting delicious fruits and vegetables. The rich natural environment and the active local community are also attractive features. In terms of language, it is characteristic that a unique dialect influenced by Tsugaru dialect is spoken. Gonohe Town has many traditional events and festivals, each expressing the region’s history and culture. In particular, the Gonohe Summer Festival and Gonohe Spring Festival are enjoyable festivals where the local people come together to celebrate, making them a delight to watch. To learn about the culture and customs of Gonohe Town, participating in these festivals is recommended. Gonohe Town is a place where nature, history, and culture coexist, allowing visitors to experience its charm in various ways. Additionally, there are worth-visiting spots such as the “Gonohe Town Agricultural Products Direct Sales Center,” where you can enjoy local specialties cultivated with care by the local people, and the “Gonohe Town Local History Museum,” where you can learn about local history and culture. You can also hear the locally developed dialect, which has evolved while being influenced by Tsugaru dialect, in everyday life.
Local Specialties
- Gonohe Town Apples: Aomori Prefecture is one of the leading apple-producing areas in Japan, and Gonohe Town also offers delicious apples. The freshness delivered directly from the production area is a point of pride.
- Gonohe Black Wagyu Beef: The black wagyu beef raised in Gonohe Town is highly regarded not only locally but also nationally for its deliciousness.
- Gonohe Town Honey: The naturally rich honey harvested in Gonohe Town is characterized by its sweetness and flavor, and is used in various dishes.
- Gonohe Town Carrots: Gonohe Town’s carrots are known for their strong sweetness and deliciousness due to the significant temperature differences in the climate.
- Gonohe Town Shiitake Mushrooms: The shiitake mushrooms from Gonohe Town are a product of abundant natural blessings, and their rich flavor is popular.
Annual Events
- Gonohe Namahage: A traditional event held every February, where namahage visit homes to pray for good health and bountiful harvests.
- Gonohe Cherry Blossom Festival: Held in late April, this festival showcases the beautiful cherry blossom spots in Gonohe Town, captivating visitors.
- Gonohe Summer Festival: This festival, held in August, is an event where you can enjoy the summer atmosphere with bon dances and fireworks.
- Gonohe Town Sports Festival: Held in October, this event brings together townspeople to deepen their connections through sports.
- Gonohe Snow Festival: Held in early February, this event allows you to enjoy winter activities such as snow sculpture making and snow sports.
Access Methods
- Shinkansen & Bus: Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Aomori Station, then take a bus to Gonohe, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Airplane & Bus: Fly from Haneda Airport to Aomori Airport, which takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, then take a bus to Gonohe, which takes about 2 hours.
- Car: Use the Tohoku Expressway from Tokyo and exit at Gonohe IC to reach Gonohe Town. The entire journey takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes.
- Night Bus: There is a night bus from Tokyo to Aomori, and from Aomori, you can take a bus to Gonohe. The entire journey takes about 10 hours.
- Ferry & Bus: Take a ferry from Tokyo to Aomori Port, then take a bus to Gonohe, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Tourist Attractions
- Gonohe Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Gonohe Town.
- Gonohe Castle Ruins – The ruins of the residence of the Nanbu clan, offering beautiful scenery.
- Odateyama Nature Park – A place to enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
- Gonohe Onsen – A hot spring with flowing spring water, perfect for relaxation.
- Tashiro Lake – A nature-rich lake where you can enjoy fishing and boating.
