| Population | 4,393 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 241.98 km² |
| Population Density | 18.15 people/km² |
Tago Town in Aomori Prefecture has been developed since the Nara period. Its history dates back to the Edo period when it flourished as part of the Morioka Domain. Today, agriculture, including apples and carrots, is the main industry, and the town is known for its fertile land and delicious fruits and vegetables. Surrounded by vast nature, community activities are vibrant, and people lead rich lives. In some areas, Tsugaru dialect is spoken, and traditional festivals and events are held throughout the year, preserving the local charm. Notably, the Tago Grand Festival and the winter Snow Lantern Festival are spectacular events that the town takes pride in. Tago Town is a charming area where rich nature and traditional culture thrive. Additionally, seafood is abundant, especially scallops and squid, which are actively harvested. The fresh seafood is used in local cuisine, delighting visitors’ palates. Furthermore, hiking trails and campsites have been established to enjoy the town’s beautiful scenery, allowing people to savor the changing nature of the seasons.
Culture and Customs
Tago Town in Aomori Prefecture is a historic town where development began in Japan’s Nara period and became part of the Morioka Domain during the Edo period. The main industry of the town is agriculture, particularly the production of apples and carrots. Living in a nature-rich environment promotes active community engagement and deepens the bonds among people. The charm of life in Tago Town lies in its dialect and customs. The Tsugaru dialect is spoken in some areas, and its unique sound expresses the region’s identity. Additionally, traditional festivals and events are vibrant, reflecting the town’s history and culture. Particularly unmissable are the annual Tago Grand Festival and the winter Snow Lantern Festival. These festivals are loved not only by locals but also by tourists. The culture and customs of Tago Town convey the essence of Japanese tradition and charm, leaving a profound impression on visitors. Enhancing the richness of life in this region are the long-standing seafood processing techniques and traditional crafts. Moreover, the beautiful seasonal landscapes, along with local ingredients, provide deeply moving experiences through regional cuisine for those who visit.
Local Specialties
- Tago Negi: A long green onion specialty of Tago Town, characterized by its rich flavor and unique sweetness.
- Tago Seafood: The sea around Tago Town is a rich fishing ground, providing fresh seafood daily. Scallops and abalone are particularly exquisite.
- Tago Brand Beef: The black-haired wagyu raised in Tago Town is known for its tender meat quality and rich flavor.
- Tago Rice: Grown in clear water and fertile soil, Tago Town’s rice is characterized by its fluffy texture and sweetness.
- Tago Honey: Honey harvested in the nature-rich environment of Tago Town offers deep flavor and aroma.
Annual Events
- “Tago Sea Festival”: Held every August, this festival features a fireworks display and lion dance, allowing visitors to enjoy local traditional culture.
- “Festival of Life”: Celebrating the arrival of spring, this festival decorates the entire town with flowers, celebrating the birth of new life amidst beautiful scenery.
- “Tago Millefeuille Marathon”: This marathon, held every November, allows participants to enjoy the town’s beautiful nature while running.
- “Tago Town Snow Lantern Festival”: This festival, held on winter nights, allows visitors to enjoy the enchanting lights illuminated in the snow.
- “Tago Town Parent-Child Market”: An event where children create products to sell at the market, serving as a part of economic education.
Access Methods
- Shinkansen: Take the Shinkansen to Aomori Station, then transfer to a bus to Tago Town. The Shinkansen arrives at Aomori Station from Tokyo in about 3 hours.
- Airplane: Access Tago Town from Aomori Airport by bus. All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines offer direct flights to Aomori Airport from various cities.
- Ferry: Use a ferry from Aomori Port to Tago Town. Aomori Port is the starting point for many ferry routes, especially bustling with tourists in the summer.
- Bus: Route buses operate from Aomori Station. It takes about 1 hour to Tago Town by bus, allowing for scenic enjoyment during the journey.
- Car: Use the expressway from Aomori IC via National Route 7 and Prefectural Route 15 to Tago Town. This allows for flexible time management and enjoyment of sightseeing along the way.
Tourist Attractions
- Tanabu Shrine – A historic shrine located in the center of Tago Town.
- Tago Onsen – A healing hot spring area surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Tago Coast – A popular spot known for its beautiful coastline and sunsets.
- Tago Ohashi Bridge – Known as a scenic point offering a panoramic view of the town.
- Tago Mountain – A nature-rich mountain ideal for hiking and climbing.
