| Population | 5,332 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 295.32 km² |
| Population Density | 18.05 people/km² |
Higashidoori Village in Aomori Prefecture, which has a history dating back to the Nara period and was merged in 1965, is a region where you can experience a calm life in a nature-rich environment. Primarily engaged in agriculture, this area is particularly known for its apple production, and local festivals, including the Higashidoori Apple Festival, are held throughout the year, actively engaging the community. Additionally, traditional customs are alive in this region, where communication through the Higashidoori dialect can be observed, and the “Donto Festival” is celebrated in the New Year, enhancing the region’s charm. This introduction highlights the appeal of Higashidoori Village, where agriculture and local culture blend. Furthermore, the area boasts abundant natural tourism resources, making it popular not only among locals but also tourists. For example, there are “Ono River Onsen,” where you can enjoy beautiful scenery, and “Higashidoori Village Agricultural Products Direct Sales Office,” where you can taste dishes made with fresh local ingredients. The “Higashidoori Village Historical and Folklore Museum,” where you can feel the local history and culture, is also a highlight.
Culture and Customs
Higashidoori Village in Aomori Prefecture is said to have a history that dates back to the Nara period and took its current form after merging with surrounding towns and villages in 1965. The main industry of this village is agriculture, particularly apple production. In this nature-rich environment, local people lead a peaceful life while actively participating in community activities. Moreover, the local “Higashidoori dialect” is used, and its unique sound reflects the region’s characteristics. Long-standing customs are also cherished, adding color to the village’s landscape. Among these, the “Higashidoori Apple Festival” stands out. This festival celebrates locally grown apples, where villagers express gratitude for a year of hard work and celebrate abundance. Additionally, the “Donto Festival” is held in the New Year to celebrate the beginning of the year. These episodes illustrate how deeply rooted the culture and customs of Higashidoori Village are in the lives of local people. The traces of pioneering from the Nara period remind us of the village’s history. Throughout the year, villagers engage in agriculture, with apple harvesting being a major event in the village.
Local Specialties
- Apples: Higashidoori Village is particularly known for apple production in Aomori Prefecture, cultivating varieties such as Fuji and Shinano Sweet, which have a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Garlic: The garlic produced in Higashidoori Village is resistant to cold and is known for its strong flavor and sweetness, making it perfect for enhancing dishes.
- Soybeans: Higashidoori soybeans, characterized by their white color and large size, are used in many processed products such as tofu and natto.
- Seafood: The seafood caught in the waters around Higashidoori Village is fresh and delicious, with scallops and wakame being particularly popular.
- Higashidoori Beef: Known for its tender meat and high-quality fat, Higashidoori beef can be enjoyed as steak or in grilled meat dishes.
Annual Events
- “Higashidoori Specialty Market”: A local specialty market held every June, where fresh local vegetables and handmade crafts are sold, promoting the village’s charm.
- “Higashidoori Firefly Festival”: Held in early July, this event allows you to enjoy the beautiful night sky filled with dancing fireflies, providing an extraordinary experience surrounded by nature.
- “Higashidoori Donto Festival”: A traditional fire festival held in late January, where a grand bonfire is lit to wish for health and safety in the New Year.
- “Higashidoori Cherry Blossom Festival”: Held in April, this festival allows you to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms throughout the village, marking the arrival of spring.
- “Higashidoori Snow Festival”: A snow festival held in mid-February, where the entire village is decorated with snow, offering fun activities in a fantastical snowy landscape.
Access Methods
- Shinkansen: Use the JR Shinkansen “Hayabusa” to reach Aomori Prefecture. It takes about 3 hours from Tokyo Station to Shin-Aomori Station.
- Airplane: It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Haneda Airport to Aomori Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Higashidoori Village.
- Bus: Buses are also available from Aomori Station to Higashidoori Village, taking about 1 hour to reach.
- Car: If traveling by car from Tokyo, use the Tohoku Expressway and Aomori Expressway. The travel time is approximately 8 hours.
- Ferry: Ferries are also an option from Tokyo Bay to Aomori Port. While you can enjoy the sea voyage, the travel time is about 22 hours.
Tourist Attractions
- Higashidoori Apple Park – A park where you can enjoy the nature of Aomori, known for its apple production.
- Higashidoori Onsen – A natural hot spring facility reputed for its skin-beautifying effects.
- Omaezaki Lighthouse – The northernmost lighthouse in Japan, known as a scenic spot.
- Oirase Stream – A beautiful hiking course with clear streams and nature.
- Shirakami-Sanchi – A mountainous area with primeval forests registered as a World Natural Heritage site.
