| Population | 213,071 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 305.56 km² |
| Population Density | 697.31 people/km² |
Hachinohe City is a magnificent city in Japan, proud of its deep intertwining of history, industry, and climate. Established during the Nara period, this area is said to have been under the control of the Nanbu clan during the Sengoku period, and it is alive with unique culture and traditions formed over time. The fishing industry is thriving, with fresh seafood enriching the lives of the citizens, and the manufacturing sector is also robustly developing. The industrial activities overflow with energy, further enhancing the charm of Hachinohe City. Additionally, the natural environment is excellent, allowing for enjoyment of well-preserved nature. The local dialect, Hachinohe-ben, has a unique accent, and the traditional culture of Sanriku is vividly present, enriching the hearts of the citizens. Throughout the year, festivals that breathe life into local culture and traditions, such as the lively Hachinohe Sansha Taisai and the Embari Festival celebrating the harsh winter cold, are held. Hachinohe City is a place overflowing with charm created by its climate and the lives of its people. Moreover, beautiful parks and hot spring facilities that offer stunning scenery are scattered throughout the city, making it a popular tourist destination. Furthermore, dishes utilizing locally produced agricultural products are highly regarded, captivating visitors.
Culture and Customs
Hachinohe City in Aomori Prefecture has an ancient history dating back to the Nara period and was under the control of the Nanbu clan during the Sengoku period. The fishing industry is thriving, with an abundance of fresh seafood, and there are many delicious dishes rooted in local life. The manufacturing industry is also developing, and the various products that emerge from it enhance the city’s appeal. As a living environment, the natural surroundings are excellent, allowing for enjoyment of seasonal landscapes. A unique dialect known as Hachinohe-ben exists and is used daily among the local people. The traditional culture of Sanriku is also rich, and one can feel a part of it through the festivals held in various places. Among these, the Hachinohe Sansha Taisai is particularly popular not only among locals but also tourists. The winter Embari Festival is held with a lively atmosphere that blows away the cold, allowing one to feel the bonds of the local people. From this information, it is clear that Hachinohe City is a wonderful region where tradition and nature coexist. Additionally, agriculture is closely related to the lives of local people, with the production of apples and garlic being particularly active. The local traditional craft, Hachinohe-nuri, is also highly regarded for its technique and beauty, attracting many visitors as part of their tourism experience.
Local Specialties
- Hachinohe Senbei-jiru: A local dish from Hachinohe City, it is a unique soup where senbei (rice crackers) are grilled and soaked in a soy sauce-based broth.
- Hachinohe Nebuta: A beautiful piece of art featuring giant dolls, it is part of the Hachinohe Nebuta Festival held every August.
- Hasshoku Salmon: High-quality salmon nurtured in the cold Tsugaru Strait, enjoyed as sushi or sashimi.
- Nanbu Senbei: A traditional snack passed down since the Nanbu domain era, known for its simple yet profound flavor.
- Hachinohe Black Beef: A rare purebred wagyu known nationwide, praised for its tender meat and delicious taste.
Annual Events
- Hachinohe Winter Festival: A lively festival that makes you forget the winter cold, featuring snow sculptures and ice skating rinks. Local gourmet food can also be enjoyed.
- Hachinohe Sansha Taisai: A traditional festival where citizens come together to worship the gods, with portable shrines and floats parading through the town.
- Hachinohe Four Major Festivals: Four festivals that color the summer (Sansha Taisai, Minato River Festival, Hoan Festival, Port Festival) are held together.
- Hachinohe Citizens Fireworks Festival: A fireworks festival that colors the summer night sky, its beautiful sight is a summer tradition for the citizens.
- Hachinohe Fuku Festival: A festival held in January to welcome the New Year, where citizens dress as lucky pigs to wish for happiness.
Access Methods
- Shinkansen: Take the “Hayabusa” Shinkansen from Tokyo and get off at Hachinohe Station. The travel time is about 3 hours.
- Airplane: Use a flight from Haneda Airport to Misawa Airport. It takes about 1 hour by bus from the airport to Hachinohe City.
- Highway Bus: Direct highway buses operate from Tokyo to Hachinohe City. The travel time is about 8 hours.
- Car: Use the Tohoku Expressway. It takes about 7 hours to drive from Tokyo.
- Ferry: There is also a ferry from Hakodate to Hachinohe Port, taking about 6 hours to arrive.
Tourist Attractions
- Hachinohe City Science Museum – A facility where you can enjoy scientific experiences. It also has a planetarium.
- Sanriku Reconstruction National Park – A national park with beautiful nature and coastlines.
- Aomori Bay – Enjoy beautiful scenery and fresh seafood.
- Hachinohe Park – A park where you can enjoy seasonal flowers. It is also famous for cherry blossoms.
- Cape Tappi – The northernmost cape in Japan, known as a scenic spot.
