Arts & Products
Tsugaru jamisen
The Tsugaru-jamisen is a traditional three-stringed instrument that is characterized by a thicker neck than that found on samisen in other parts of Japan. The playing style is famous for the hard, rapid picking action with the plectrum. Born of the harsh Tsugaru climate and the warmth of the local people, this 100-year-old folk tradition now enjoys renown as one of the representative folk music styles of Japan.
Apples
Apples were introduced to Hirosaki in 1875. It is said that it all began when John Ing, an American who was teaching at To-oh Gijuku School, treated his students to some apples. The seeds from those apples were planted and the seedlings that sprouted were grafted onto other trees. This started the breeding efforts which have made Hirosaki the center of apple production in Japan. Now, thanks to the hard work and research of these early pioneers, Hirosaki produces the largest volume of fresh apples in the nation as well as many processed apple products.
Sake
In Hirosaki, the combination of quality rice, pure water and cold weather has long provided the ideal conditions for producing many renowned brands of delicious sake.
Tsugaru Lacquerware
The Tsugaru region is known for its lacquerware. Kara lacquerware requires 40 applications of lacquer before it is finished. It is considered one of the most elegant lacquerware styles in Japan.
Bunako
Bunako is a modern wood craft that works the wood of the beech tree (buna) into various shapes, including bowls, vases, and lamps. It is known as one of the crafts unique to the Tsugaru region.
Akebi-vine Basketry
These baskets are woven from the akebi vine that grows wild in the mountains surrounding Hirosaki. These products are valued highly throughout Japan.
Kogin Embroidery
Embroidery was one of the tasks of women during the long winter months. The women of poor farm families mended and reinforced the fabric of family members’ work clothes by stitching in cotton thread in geometric patterns. Lately, this method of embroidery is used for such items as business card holders, wall hangings, and table centers.
Tsugaru Pottery
This was the official pottery of the Tsugaru Domain, and has recently been restored to its former role as a symbol of regional culture.