| Population | 48,071 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 404.2 km² |
| Population Density | 118.93 people/km² |
Goshogawara City, located at the northernmost tip of Japan in Aomori Prefecture, is an attractive area with a rich natural environment and abundant fresh seafood. It is said to have existed since the Nara period, boasting a long history, having overcome challenges such as the Goshogawara Great Fire to reach today. The city is known for its active apple production, famous nationwide for its high quality. Additionally, tourism is one of the main industries, with a variety of events held throughout the year, such as the Goshogawara Great Festival and the Tsugaru Snow Festival in winter. If you listen closely, you can hear the Tsugaru dialect being spoken, and the sounds of the Tsugaru shamisen resonate pleasantly. Goshogawara City can be said to be a place that condenses the charm of Japan through its history, culture, nature, and food. On the other hand, the town faces the sea, providing an abundance of fresh seafood, and local restaurants offer delicious dishes made from these ingredients. The local dialect, Tsugaru-ben, is spoken, and its unique sound evokes the local climate. Goshogawara City, where local culture and customs blend with beautiful natural surroundings, is an attractive destination for visitors.
Culture and Customs
Goshogawara City in Aomori Prefecture has existed since the Nara period and is an area where apple production and tourism thrive, with a history marked by the Goshogawara Great Fire that destroyed much of the town. Blessed with nature, this city has an abundance of fresh seafood, allowing locals to enjoy a rich living environment. The people of Goshogawara City use the unique Tsugaru dialect and cherish the traditional culture of the Tsugaru shamisen. Every year, the Goshogawara Great Festival is held, providing enjoyment for both citizens and tourists, while in winter, the Tsugaru Snow Festival takes place, offering seasonal delights. Goshogawara City is a town that has nurtured its picturesque natural environment and local culture and customs, attracting visitors from both Japan and abroad. One of the cultural heritages nurtured by the local people is the production of traditional crafts. In particular, Tsugaru-nuri, a type of lacquerware, is known for its beauty and high quality, making it a popular souvenir for tourists. The local food culture is also appealing, featuring dishes made from fresh seafood and sweets made with apples.
Local Specialties
- Goshogawara Tsugaru Uchida Craft: A traditional craft that Goshogawara City takes pride in, creating beautiful decorative items and daily goods made from iron.
- Goshogawara Apples: A variety of apple unique to Aomori Prefecture that is resistant to cold, characterized by its high sugar content and juicy flavor.
- Tsugaru Komagara Ware: A representative pottery of Goshogawara City, known for its colorful designs and unique texture.
- Goshogawara Mosaic Tiles: Mosaic tiles made from stones produced in Goshogawara City, featuring a rich variety of colors and patterns, used in architecture and interior design.
- Goshogawara Black Garlic: Garlic that has turned black through fermentation, known for its strong antioxidant properties and popular as a health food.
Annual Events
- Goshogawara Great Festival: Held every August, this festival evokes the history and traditions of Goshogawara City. The sight of floats parading through the town is breathtaking.
- Tsugaru Dialect Festival: An event celebrating the local Tsugaru dialect, held every September, featuring performances by local residents.
- Neputa Festival: A major event symbolizing Goshogawara City, held in early August, where giant neputa floats decorate the town.
- Winter Kamakura Festival: A winter festival held every February, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine inside snow-made kamakura (igloos).
- Goshogawara Cherry Blossom Festival: This festival celebrates the arrival of spring and is held during the cherry blossom season in the city, where visitors can enjoy meals and music under the cherry trees.
Access Methods
- Shinkansen: Take the “Hayabusa” Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Aomori Station, then use the JR Gono Line to reach Goshogawara Station.
- Airplane: Use a domestic flight from Haneda Airport to Aomori Airport, then take a bus to Goshogawara City.
- Bus: There are direct buses from Aomori City to Goshogawara City, taking approximately 1 hour.
- Car: You can access Goshogawara City via the Tohoku Expressway and Aomori Expressway. Be sure to check traffic information before departure.
- Rental Car: Renting a car at Aomori Airport or Aomori Station is also a convenient option for free movement.
Tourist Attractions
- Tsugaru Shamisen Hall – A facility where you can learn about the history and culture of the Tsugaru shamisen.
- Goshogawara City Art Museum – Exhibits works by local artists.
- Goshogawara Pear Forest Park – A beautiful park with pear trees, where seasonal flowers can also be enjoyed.
- Tsugaru Clan Neputa Village – A facility displaying neputa festival floats and crafts.
- Goshogawara Castle Ruins – The ruins of a former castle where you can feel the history of the city.
