| population | 36,961 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 119.39 km² |
| population density | 310 peoples/km² |
Located in eastern Aomori Prefecture, Misawa City is a uniquely distinctive region where Japanese traditions and American culture coexist. Its history traces back to the Nara period, when early settlement began, and the city has continued developing along the Pacific coastline. A defining feature of Misawa is the Misawa Air Base, jointly used by the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. Approximately 10,000 American military personnel, civilian staff, and their families reside in the city, giving Misawa a distinctly international atmosphere. Agriculture is also an important industry, with the area known for producing high-quality nagaimo (yam), burdock, and garlic. The presence of the air base has helped shape Misawa into a vibrant commercial center with a unique food culture blending local ingredients and American influence. Locals primarily speak the Nanbu dialect, and traditional customs such as rice cultivation and seasonal festivals remain deeply rooted in daily life. Major annual events include the Misawa Summer Festival and the Misawa Air Base Air Show, both of which attract visitors from across Japan. With the harmony of Japanese rural scenery and strong American cultural elements, Misawa stands out as one of the most distinctive cities in Japan.
Cultural Traditions
Misawa City historically developed under the Nanbu clan, and the soft-sounding Nanbu dialect is still commonly heard today. Agriculture plays a central role in local life, and Misawa is known nationwide for its excellent nagaimo, burdock, and garlic. Facing the Pacific Ocean, the city also benefits from rich marine resources, with shellfish such as surf clams serving as staples of the regional food culture. After World War II, the establishment of Misawa Air Base rapidly introduced American customs into local society. Today, the city features American-style burger shops, steak houses, and stores selling imported goods, creating an urban landscape unlike any other in the prefecture. Traditional events such as Misawa Festival coexist with modern, internationally oriented celebrations like American Day and the Misawa Air Base Air Show, both of which attract large crowds each year. During winter, Misawa experiences heavy snowfall characteristic of Japan’s snowbelt regions. Snow clearing is a part of everyday life, and children enjoy playing in the snow and building sculptures. The fusion of long-standing Japanese traditions with unique American influences makes Misawa a culturally rich and truly one-of-a-kind city.
Local Specialties
- Misawa Burger: A local specialty inspired by American food culture. Each restaurant offers its own recipe, often using regional ingredients and original sauces.
- Misawa Milk: Fresh milk produced by dairy farmers around the city. It is known for its rich yet clean taste and is popular both for drinking and cooking.
- Local Vegetables (Nagaimo, Burdock, Garlic): Misawa is one of Aomori’s top producers of root vegetables, especially nagaimo, which is prized for its strong texture and flavor.
- Misawa Apples: A part of Aomori’s world-famous apple industry. Misawa apples are aromatic, juicy, and available in many seasonal varieties.
- Misawa Rice: Grown in the cool coastal climate using clean local water. Its glossy appearance and natural sweetness make it excellent for Japanese cuisine.
Annual Events
- Shibareru Festival (February): A winter celebration featuring ice sculptures, local food stalls, and sparkling illuminations, showcasing Misawa’s snowy charm.
- American Day (Early June): One of Japan’s largest international festivals, offering parades, live performances, American food, and military vehicle exhibitions.
- Ogawarako Lake Festival (Late July): A lakeside event held at Lake Ogawara, featuring fireworks, stage shows, and family-friendly activities.
- Misawa Festival (Late August): A traditional three-day event with floats, portable shrines, dancing, and community performances.
- Misawa Air Base Air Show (Early September): A major aviation event where the base opens to the public. Visitors can view aircraft such as the F-16, F-2, and F-35A in dynamic flight demonstrations.
Access
- By Shinkansen: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen “Hayabusa” from Tokyo Station to Hachinohe Station (approx. 2 hr 45 min). Transfer to the Aoimori Railway for a 25-minute ride to Misawa Station.
- By Air: Direct flights operate from Haneda Airport to Misawa Airport (approx. 1 hr 20 min). The city center is about 15 minutes by bus or taxi.
- By Bus: Highway and local buses operate from Aomori City and Hachinohe City to Misawa, offering convenient regional access.
- By Car: From Hachinohe IC on the Hachinohe Expressway, drive along Routes 45 and 338 for about 50 minutes to reach Misawa.
Tourist Attractions
- Aomori Prefectural Misawa Aviation & Science Museum – Features aircraft exhibits, hands-on science displays, and the iconic YS-11.
- Tonan Domain Commemorative Village (Michi-no-Eki Misawa) – A roadside station offering historical exhibits, local products, and seasonal events.
- Terayama Shuji Memorial Hall – A museum dedicated to the poet and playwright Shuji Terayama, featuring rare works and architectural beauty.
- Misawa Beechcraft Beach (Beedle Beach) – A seaside park known for ocean views, summer swimming, and its monument to the Miss Veedol flight.
- Shirokane (Hotoke-numa) Coast / Miss Veedol Monument Area – Historic site where the Miss Veedol aircraft took off for the world’s first non-stop trans-Pacific flight.