Aomori Prefecture | JAPAN SHOWCASE | The Japan Times

JAPAN SHOWCASE

A guide to Japan's prefectures and major cities

Aomori Prefecture

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BASIC INFORMATION

Prefecture/City: Aomori Prefecture
Capital/Prefecture: Aomori City
Governor/Mayor: Shingo Mimura
Area: 9,607 square km (3,709 square miles)
Population: 1.33 million as of October 2013
Flower: Apple flower
Tree: Hiba (Thujopsis dolabrata)
Bird: Swan
Business & Industry:

With its pristine forests and access to the Japan Sea and Pacific Ocean, Aomori relies mainly on its fishing and farming industries. In particular, the prefecture produces over half of Japan’s apples, which are a major export product, especially for Taiwan.

Tourism & Culture:

Aomori has rich traditions and pristine wilderness, including UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakami-Sanchi. Visitors can hear the unique Tsugaru shamisen, see spooky Osorezan Temple, savor the famous tuna of Oma and spot the most northerly wild monkeys in the world. The Nebuta Festival attracts over 3 million visitors every August.

Famous for:

Apples and related products such as apple pies and apple cider, the Nebuta Festival, and delicious seafood, including dried squid and tuna. The cherry blossoms of Hirosaki are also renowned.