| Population | 6,351 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 488.91 km² |
| Population Density | 12.99 people/km² |
Fukaura Town, located in Aomori Prefecture, was established in 1965 from a settlement dating back to the Nara period. Surrounded by magnificent nature, it is a region where fishing is thriving, and apple production is also carried out. The lifestyle in Fukaura Town is rich in nature, with a food culture that utilizes seafood. The townspeople, who speak Tsugaru dialect, cherish traditional festivals and pass on their culture to the next generation. In summer, the “Fukaura Summer Festival” livens up the town, and in winter, the “Fukaura Snow Festival” is held, allowing visitors to enjoy the seasonal charm. The lives of the people in this area unfold in harmony with the rich nature and the changing landscapes of the four seasons. The town’s appeal is not only its beautiful scenery but also the traditional crafts nurtured by the local people and the dishes made from fresh local seafood. Additionally, the town’s representative specialty, apples, supports the local economy and enriches people’s lives with their deliciousness.
Culture and Customs
Fukaura Town, located at the northernmost tip of Aomori Prefecture, has a history as a settlement from the Nara period. Established as Fukaura Town in 1965, it is now a region where fishing is actively conducted. Fresh seafood is obtained from the town’s nature-rich coastline, greatly influencing the local food culture. Apples are also produced here, and their deliciousness is well-known both within and outside the prefecture. The daily lives of the people in Fukaura Town coexist with nature, characterized by meals that utilize seafood. The Tsugaru dialect is spoken, and its distinctive sound symbolizes the region’s culture. There are many traditional festivals, allowing visitors to feel the culture that has been carefully passed down by the local people. Seasonal festivals such as the Fukaura Summer Festival in summer and the Fukaura Snow Festival in winter entertain visitors. Fukaura Town is a region where the natural environment, traditions, and people’s lives are harmonized, and visitors can fully appreciate its charm. The town’s traditional craft, “Fukaura pottery,” is also noteworthy, with its unique colors and shapes leaving a deep impression on visitors. Additionally, the breathtaking views from the town’s symbol, the “Fukaura Ohashi Bridge,” allow for enjoyment of the seasonal landscapes, making it a tourist attraction.
Local Specialties
- Fukaura Apples: One of the leading apple-producing areas in the country, especially the “Fuji” variety, which has a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it very delicious.
- Fukaura Barbecue: Barbecues using local seafood and agricultural products highlight the freshness and flavors of the ingredients.
- Fukaura Ama’s Shirasu: The shirasu caught by Fukaura’s ama (female divers) is renowned for its freshness and sweetness, especially exquisite in the spring season.
- Fukaura Wood Carvings: The wood carvings, a specialty of Fukaura Town, are made using traditional techniques, and their intricacy and beauty are worth seeing.
- Fukaura Cherries: Cherries produced in Fukaura Town are large and sweet, with many varieties that are perfect for gifts.
Annual Events
- Fukaura Snow Festival: Held every February, this event features large snow sculptures and snow lanterns, brightening the winter for local residents and tourists.
- Fukaura Spring Festival: Held in May, this festival celebrates the season of fresh greenery, with stalls selling local food and crafts, bustling with citizens and tourists.
- Fukaura Fireworks Festival: This event celebrates the arrival of summer with beautiful fireworks lighting up the night sky. Fireworks launched from the sea are particularly spectacular.
- Fukaura Autumn Leaves Festival: Held in October, this festival allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of autumn leaves, especially the illuminated autumn leaves tunnel, which captivates those who visit.
- Fukaura Film Festival: This event, held throughout the year, screens films from both domestic and international sources, receiving great support from film enthusiasts.
Access Methods
- By Air: Aomori Airport is the nearest. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Haneda, and from Aomori Airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Fukaura Town.
- By Shinkansen: The Shinkansen runs to Aomori Station. It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo, and from Aomori Station, you can take a bus to Fukaura Town.
- By Car: Use the Tohoku Expressway. It takes about 8 hours from Tokyo.
- By Long-Distance Bus: Night buses run from Tokyo to Aomori Station, taking about 9 hours and 30 minutes.
- By Ferry: Use the Seikan Ferry. It takes about 4 hours from Hakodate to Aomori Port, and from Aomori Port, you can take a bus to Fukaura Town.
Tourist Attractions
- Cape Tappi – The northernmost point of the Japanese mainland. You can see beautiful sunsets.
- Cape Tappi Underwater Museum – Observe marine life through an underwater tunnel.
- Hamakan – A museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Fukaura Town.
- Tanabu Shrine – A historic shrine located in the center of Fukaura Town.
- Shirakami-Sanchi – A nature-rich mountainous area registered as a World Heritage Site.
