| Population | 57,413 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 725.65 km² |
| Population Density | 79.12 people/km² |
Towada City in Aomori Prefecture, which has a history of development dating back to the Nara period, achieved city status in 1956. Today, agriculture and tourism are important industries. Residents living surrounded by nature often utilize local products and make full use of regional resources. Additionally, the rich dialect of Tsugaru can be heard in some areas, and its unique sound vividly reflects the culture of this region. There are many traditional festivals, particularly the Towada Lake Festival and the Towada Winter Festival, which have become unmissable annual events for tourists, providing opportunities to share the charm of this area with local residents. Furthermore, this region is rich in museums and art galleries, with the Towada Art Museum, which exhibits works by contemporary art master Yoshitomo Nara, attracting many art lovers from both Japan and abroad. The local specialty “Towada Bara-yaki,” a grilled dish of pork seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, is a popular gourmet item among tourists, known for its juicy flavor that is unforgettable after just one taste.
Culture and Customs
Towada City is a beautiful area with a history of development dating back to the Nara period, and it was designated as a city in 1956. It is characterized by a rich natural environment and many dishes that utilize locally produced agricultural products. The local culture is also alive, with the Tsugaru dialect spoken in some areas. The local industry is vibrant, particularly in agriculture, with fruit production being highly regarded. Additionally, tourism, which takes advantage of the beautiful natural environment, is an important industry, bustling with people enjoying the seasonal landscapes. The charm of Towada City lies in its rich nature and the customs that embody traditional culture. Local festivals are one example, especially the “Towada Lake Festival,” which attracts many tourists. The “Towada Winter Festival” is a grand event that makes people forget the cold, serving as a place for interaction between locals and visitors. These festivals provide a valuable opportunity to experience the traditions and culture of Towada City. The lives of local people are fundamentally based on agricultural work throughout the seasons and coexistence with nature, enhancing the deliciousness of fresh local products. Additionally, the customs that evoke the charm of old Japan are still vividly present in the lives of those who speak the Tsugaru dialect, making it one of the attractions of this region.
Local Specialties
- Towada Bara-yaki: A local grilled dish made with pork seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Its simple flavor is loved by the people of Towada City.
- Towadanko: Traditional pickles from Towada City made using old-fashioned methods. They are characterized by their crunchy texture and unique flavor.
- Towada Beef: A brand of wagyu beef raised in Towada City. Its tenderness and deep flavor are highly regarded by food enthusiasts.
- Towada Soba: Soba made with locally produced buckwheat flour, crafted with care. You can enjoy its fragrant aroma and firm texture.
- Towada Lake Blueberries: Blueberries cultivated around Towada Lake. Their balance of tartness and sweetness is exquisite, and their vibrant color is also beautiful.
Annual Events
- Towada City Winter Festival: Held in late January, this event features snow sculpture displays and snow sports, allowing visitors to enjoy winter in Towada City.
- Japan’s Best Cherry Salmon Festival: This spring festival allows you to enjoy fresh fish from Towada Lake, known as the best production area for cherry salmon in Japan.
- Towada City Summer Festival: This summer event features many stalls and local residents showcasing traditional dances.
- Towada Lake Autumn Leaves Festival: In the autumn around Towada Lake, beautiful autumn leaves are accompanied by grand fireworks, delighting visitors.
- Year-End Towada City Citizens Festival: Held at the end of the year, this festival brings citizens together to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one.
Access Methods
- By Air: Use Aomori Airport and take a bus to Towada City. The travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- By Shinkansen: Take the “Hayabusa” Shinkansen from Tokyo to Aomori Station, then take a bus from Aomori Station to Towada City.
- By Bus: Use a highway bus from Tokyo, arriving at Aomori Station in about 10 hours. After that, take a bus to Towada City.
- By Car: Travel from Tokyo via the Tohoku Expressway and Aomori Expressway, arriving in Towada City in about 8 hours.
- By Ferry: Take a ferry from Aomori Port to Hakodate, then take a bus from Aomori Port to Towada City.
Tourist Attractions
- Towada Lake – A caldera lake surrounded by beautiful natural scenery
- Oirase Stream – A scenic spot known for its clear streams and beautiful nature
- Towada Art Museum – A museum showcasing masterpieces of contemporary art
- Tsugaru Fujimi Lake – A scenic spot with a view of Tsugaru Fuji from the lake
- Towada City Sannai-Maruyama Archaeological Museum – A museum where you can learn about Jomon period ruins
