| population | 12,597 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 94.00 km² |
| population density | 134 peoples/km² |
Hashikami Town, located at the southeastern edge of Aomori Prefecture, is known as a residential community closely connected to the city of Hachinohe. With historical records dating back to the Nara period when Obutsu-ji Temple was established in the Terashita area, the region has long been a crossroads for people and culture. Facing the Pacific Ocean to the east and bordered by Hachinohe City and the town of Hirono in Iwate Prefecture, Hashikami offers a rich natural environment where the sea and mountains coexist. Mount Hashikami, standing at 740 meters, provides panoramic views of the coastline and serves as a popular hiking destination. Along the Sanriku coast, fishing remains vibrant, with salmon, squid, and cod forming the backbone of the fishery industry. Inland, dairy farming, pig farming, and poultry production support the town’s primary industries. Local specialties such as “Ichigoni,” salted sea urchin, and seaweed ramen reflect the rich maritime culture. Hashikami is also home to many students from Hachinohe Institute of Technology, resulting in a notably high proportion of young residents. With traditional festivals, historical sites, and abundant natural scenery, the town offers a unique blend of culture and nature.
Cultural Traditions
The cultural identity of Hashikami Town is rooted in centuries of history shaped by both coastal and mountain lifestyles. Historical sites such as Terashita Kannon Hall, founded in the Nara period, and coastal defense remnants constructed during the Edo era reflect the town’s past. Linguistically, the region features a mix of Tsugaru dialect and Nanbu dialect, creating a distinct local speech pattern. Throughout the year, the town hosts traditional events that continue to unite the community. Major festivals include the “Terashita Kannon Festival,” the “Gagyu Mountain Festival” held near Mount Hashikami, the summer “Ichigoni Festival” in the Kobunodate coastal area, and the “Town Cultural Festival,” where residents present artistic and cultural performances. These events provide meaningful opportunities for visitors to experience the town’s heritage and the strong ties among local residents.
Local Specialties
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Ichigoni (Sea Urchin & Abalone Soup): A traditional delicacy featuring sea urchin and abalone simmered in a clear broth, offering a refined and aromatic flavor unique to the Sanriku coast.
Kobunodate Coast (Google Maps) - Salted Sea Urchin: Fresh sea urchin preserved only with salt, known for its concentrated umami and smooth texture, widely used in local cuisine.
- Seaweed Ramen: A ramen dish enhanced with locally harvested seaweed, offering an enjoyable balance of ocean aroma and light broth.
- Dairy Products: Hashikami’s dairy farms maintain a high self-sufficiency rate in feed production, resulting in fresh and high-quality milk and yogurt.
- Pork and Poultry Products: As major components of the town’s agricultural output, pork and chicken from Hashikami are valued for their rich flavor and tenderness.
Annual Events
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Terashita Kannon Festival (3rd Sunday of May): Held at Terashita Kannon Hall, the first temple of the Nukanobu 33 Kannon pilgrimage.
Terashita Kannon Hall (Google Maps) - Gagyu Mountain Festival (May): A spring festival held near Mount Hashikami, featuring performances and local food stands.
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Ichigoni Festival (July): A summer event celebrating local seafood, especially the iconic Ichigoni soup, held at the scenic Kobunodate area.
Kobunodate Coast (Google Maps) - Town Cultural Festival (November): A cultural showcase with performances, exhibitions, and community presentations.
Access
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Railway: JR Hachinohe Line serves both Hashikami Station and Oja Station, providing easy access from Hachinohe.
Hashikami Station (Google Maps) -
Air: The nearest airport is Misawa Airport, approximately 45 minutes away by car via Hachinohe.
Misawa Airport (Google Maps) - Bus: Local transportation includes the Hashikami Community Bus and routes operated by Iwate Kenpoku Bus.
- Car: The E45 Hachinohe–Kuji Expressway (Hashikami IC / Tanesashi Coast–Mt. Hashikami IC) provides convenient access to the town.
Tourist Attractions
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Mount Hashikami – A 740-meter peak known for blooming azalea fields in late May to early June and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Mount Hashikami (Google Maps) -
Kobunodate Coast – Famous as one of the earliest sunrise points in Aomori Prefecture (excluding mountainous regions), with dramatic coastal scenery.
Kobunodate Coast (Google Maps) -
Terashita Kannon Hall – A historic temple said to have been established during the Nara period and the first site of the Nukanobu 33 Kannon pilgrimage.
Terashita Kannon Hall (Google Maps) -
Barajima Japanese Horse Chestnut Tree – A massive tree estimated to be 600–800 years old, designated as a natural monument of Aomori Prefecture.
Barajima Tree (Google Maps) -
Nijuichidaira – A grassy open space known as the setting of Tetsuro Miura’s “Umimura Ibun,” and venue for the Ichigoni Festival.
Nijuichidaira (Google Maps)