| Population | 10,113 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 83.89 km² |
| Population Density | 120.55 people/km² |
Located in the beautiful Tohoku region of Japan, Rokunohe Town in Aomori Prefecture captivates visitors with its rich history and culture. This area was developed during the Nara period and was under the control of the Nanbu clan during the Warring States period. Today, the main industry is agriculture, particularly the production of apples and carrots. Local dishes that utilize fresh ingredients grown here are loved by many for their rich flavors. Additionally, life surrounded by nature allows for a pleasant escape from the daily hustle and bustle. The local dialect and customs are also part of its charm, with the frequent use of “ja” in the dialect and many traditional festivals and events held throughout the year. In particular, the Rokunohe Summer Festival and the Rokunohe Winter Festival attract many tourists from outside the area due to their grandeur and vibrancy. Furthermore, local crafts and traditional arts are not to be missed. In particular, carefully woven bamboo crafts and beautifully colored lacquerware enchant visitors with their unique techniques and artistry. Being a coastal area, dishes made with fresh seafood are also exquisite and are very popular among both locals and tourists.
Culture and Customs
Rokunohe Town in Aomori Prefecture was developed during the Nara period and was strongly influenced by the Nanbu clan during the Warring States period. Currently, the main industry is agriculture, particularly the production of apples and carrots. Life is rich in nature, with many dishes utilizing locally sourced ingredients, and the local dialect and customs remain vibrant. Notably, the dialect characterized by the use of “ja” at the end of sentences is distinctive. Moreover, there are many traditional festivals and events, with the Rokunohe Summer Festival and the Rokunohe Winter Festival being popular not only among locals but also tourists. These festivals allow one to feel the town’s history and culture. Thus, Rokunohe Town is an attractive place where nature, history, and tradition blend. The delicious local ingredients, the warm and pleasant dialect of the people, and the traditional festivals provide ample enjoyment for visitors. Additionally, “Rokunohe-yaki,” known as a local craft, is loved for its unique texture and beauty. The “Rokunohe Ohashi,” a symbol of the town, captivates visitors with its magnificent scenery, allowing them to enjoy the seasonal landscapes.
Local Specialties
- Rokunohe Town Garlic: High-quality garlic from Rokunohe Town is characterized by its unique spiciness and aroma, enhancing the flavors of dishes.
- Rokunohe Beer: A craft beer made with local natural water, focusing on handmade quality. It offers a depth and complexity of flavor that cannot be found elsewhere.
- Rokunohe Town Scallops: Scallops raised in cold waters are thick and sweet, delicious on their own and versatile for various dishes.
- Rokunohe Town Apples: Apples grown in the unique climate of Rokunohe Town have a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, with juicy flesh and a fragrant aroma.
- Rokunohe Town Milk: Fresh milk from locally raised cows. It is highly nutritious and can be enjoyed as is or used in cooking and desserts.
Annual Events
- Rokunohe Winter Festival: Held every February, this festival offers winter fun such as snow sculpture creation and snowmobile experiences.
- Rokunohe Spring Festival: Held in mid-April, this festival celebrates the arrival of spring with the blooming of cherry blossoms, featuring parades and activities for children.
- Tanabata Festival: This festival held in July involves the entire town decorating with strips of paper on which wishes are written, deepening community bonds.
- Rokunohe Summer Festival: Held in August, it celebrates the arrival of summer with a grand fireworks display and traditional festival events.
- Rokunohe Autumn Festival: In November, an autumn festival is held to celebrate the harvest of new rice, featuring local specialty displays and meals to enjoy the bounty of autumn.
Access Methods
- Shinkansen: Take the “Hayabusa” Shinkansen from Tokyo and get off at Hachinohe Station in Aomori Prefecture. From there, it takes about 40 minutes by bus.
- Airplane: There are direct flights to Aomori Airport from various locations across the country. It takes about 90 minutes by bus from the airport to Rokunohe Town.
- Bus: Direct highway bus “Hachinohe-go” from Tokyo. The travel time is approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes.
- Car: Using the expressway, it takes about 7 hours to reach Rokunohe Town from Tokyo.
- Ferry: Ferries from Hakodate to Aomori are convenient. It takes about 2 hours by bus from Aomori.
Tourist Attractions
- Rokunohe Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the region’s history and culture.
- Rokunohe Ohashi – A landmark of Rokunohe Town where you can enjoy beautiful scenery.
- Rokunohe Onsen – A healing hot spring area surrounded by nature.
- Rokunohe River – A beautiful river where you can enjoy seasonal landscapes.
- Rokunohe Town Library – A library with a rich collection and a quiet reading environment.
