Asamushi Onsen Firefly Viewing 2016

Asamushi Onsen Firefly Viewing 2016
浅虫温泉ホタル観賞会 (Asamushi Onsen Hotaru Kanshou-kai)

See one (or more) of three different types of fireflies.

Date: July 1-30, 2016
Time: 20:00-21:30
Location: Asamushi Dam (Hotaruko) Hotarudani 浅虫ダム（ほたる湖）ほたる谷 (map)
Admission: Free?
(Free bus to/from the venue with Asamushi Onsen room reservation)

Shichinohe Rose Festival 2016

Shichinohe Rose Festival 2016
しちのへバラまつり ２０１６　(Shichinohe bara matsuri)
Official Website (Japanese): https://www.shichinohe-kankou.jp/rose

Enjoy rose flavoured soft serve ice cream while wandering around rose gardens in full bloom.

Date: June 18 - July 10, 2016
Time: 9:00-16:00
Location: Higashi Hakkouda Rose Country 東八甲田ローズカントリー (Map)
Admission: Free
Events/Attractions: (starred * events are paid events)

Saturdays & Sundays

• 9:00-15:30 Rose Picking Experience*

Saturday June 18

• 10:00～ Opening Ceremony
• 9:30-15:30 Children's License Making Corner
• 10:00-14:00 Original Kiln-Baked Pizza*
• 11:00～ Bou-Pan Making Experience*
  (Bread wrapped around a stick and cooked over a fire)
• Rose Garden Stroll Rally

Sunday June 19

• 10:00-13:00 Group Planting Experience*
• 13:00～ Rose Garden Treasure Hunting*
• Rose Garden Stroll Rally

Sunday June 26

• 10:00-11:30 Rose Garden Guided Tour
• 13:00-14:30 Special Rose Growing Lecture
• Rose Garden Stroll Rally

Sunday July 3

• 9:30-15:30 Rose Soap-Making Experience*
• 9:30-15:30 Soft Clay Rose-Making*
• Rose Garden Stroll Rally

Sunday July 10

• 9:30-15:30 Soft Clay Rose-Making*


• Rose Soft Serve Ice Cream*
• And more!

Shuttle Bus Schedule

Shichinohe-Towada Station→Towadako Onsen Area (Yakeyama) 七戸十和田駅→十和田湖温泉郷 (焼山)
Shichinohe-Towada Station South Exit 七戸十和田駅 (南口)	Higashi Hakkouda Rose Country 東八甲田ローズカントリー	Towadako Onsen Area 十和田湖温泉郷	Yakeyama 焼山
11:05	11:15	12:01	12:03
14:45	14:55	15:41	15:43

Towadako Onsen Area (Yakeyama)→Shichinohe-Towada Station 十和田湖温泉郷 (焼山)→七戸十和田駅
Yakeyama 焼山	Towadako Onsen Area 十和田湖温泉郷	Higashi Hakkouda Rose Country 東八甲田ローズカントリー	Shichinohe-Towada Station South Exit 七戸十和田駅 (南口)
9:20	9:22	10:08	10:18
13:20	13:22	14:08	14:18
16:20	16:22	17:08	17:18

One-Way Fares:

• Shichinohe-Towada Station⇔Higashi Hakkouda Rose Country: 200yen
• Hakkouda Rose Country⇔Towadako Onsen Area (Yakeyama): 300yen

Higashi Hakkouda Rose Country 東八甲田ローズカントリー
25-1 Yamadate
 Shichinohe, Kamikita District, Aomori 039-2500
0176-62-5400

More Information: 
Base of the Trip, Shichinohe (Japanese): http://www.shichinohe-kankou.jp/event_detail?id=00005658

Ohata Strait Salmon Festival 2016

Ohata Strait Salmon Festival 2016
第２３回大畑海峡サーモン祭り (Ohata Kaikyou Salmon Matsuri)

A festival where you can buy, eat, and try your hand at catching salmon.

Date: Sunday June 19, 2016
Time: 8:30-13:30
Location: Ohata Harbour Fish Market 大畑漁港魚市場内 (map)
Admission: Free (some paid activities/events)

Tohoku Horse Power Competition in Shichinohe 2016

Tohoku Horse Power Competition in Shichinohe 2016 (Spring)
第３３回東北馬力七戸大会 (Tohoku Bariki Shichinohe Taikai)

A draft horse racing event where horses pull sleds with weights--some weighing almost 1 tonne!--across a straight track with a slope at the end.

Date: Sunday June 5, 2016
Time: 8:00～
Location: Aomori Prefecture Livestock Market Yard 青森県家畜市場構内 (map)
Admission: Free?

Goshogawara Fireworks Display 2016

Goshogawara Fireworks Display -Festival of Water, Light & Sound-
第６７回五所川原花火大会 -水と光と音の祭典-
(Goshogawara Hanabi Taikai - Mizu to Hikari to Oto no Saiten)

A fireworks display set to music. The finale features an 80m-wide "water curtain."

Date: Wednesday August 3, 2016
Time: 19:30-20:45
Location: Iwaki River Floodplain "Hokuto Ground" 岩木川河川敷「北斗グラウンド」 (map)
Parking: 1,000yen (limited spaces; parking available from 15:00)
Admission: Free (paid seating available)

Lake Towada Walk 2016

Lake Towada Walk 2016
第３９回十和田湖ウォーク (Towadako Walk)

Enjoy nature--the smell of trees and water, the sound of the breeze--as you walk around Lake Towada.

Date: Sunday July 24, 2016 (rain or shine)
Time: 5:00-17:00
Location: Towadako Elementary School Grounds (Towadako Yasumiya)
十和田湖小学校グラウンド（十和田湖・休屋） (map)
Participant Eligibility:

• Open to all ages, genders, etc.
• Elementary school aged participants and younger must be accompanied by a parent/guardian
• Participants requiring special support, etc. should be accompanied by someone who can provide the necessary support 

Courses/Schedule:

	Full Course 一周コース	Family Course ファミリーコース
Distance	50km	11.7km
Registration	3:00～	9:00～
Meeting Time	4:30	9:50
Opening Ceremony	4:40	10:00
Start Time	5:00	10:45*

*Family Course participants will go by boat to the course start point (Nenokuchi, 11:45 arrival).

Registration:

Fees (includes transportation for Family Course)
(A portion of the fees will be donated to the Kumamoto Earthquake recovery efforts)

• Adults: 2,500yen
• Junior High School Students: 1,800yen
• Elementary School Students: 1,200yen

Registration Procedure:

• ① Submit registration forms either by mail or e-mail.
  
  • Mail:
    〒031-0813 八戸市新井田字鷹待場１５-１４
         MTC21 十和田湖ウォーク事務局
    (Takamachiba-15-14 Niida, Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture 031-0813
    MTC21 Towada Walk Executive Office)
    
  • E-Mail: mtc21[at]htv-net.ne.jp
    Include the following information for each participant:
    1. 氏名 Full Name
    2. 性別 Gender
    3. 年齢 Age
    4. 郵便番号 Postal Code
    5. 住所 Address
    6. 電話番号 Phone Number
    7. コース名 Course Name
    8. 参加費 Fee Amount
    Notes/Cautions:
    - For large groups, please attach the information in an Excel or PDF file.
    - When registering multiple people at one time, please make it clear who is the representative for the group.


• ② Remit payment to the event account through Japan Post
  - 口座番号 Account Number: 02200-3-57549
  - 口座名 Account Name: MTC21


• Registration Deadline: Saturday June 2, 2016


• ③ After the registration information and payment has been confirmed, participants/the group representative will be mailed registration numbers (which double as start order numbers). Registration numbers will be assigned in the order that forms/payment are received.

General Notes/Cautions:

• You will receive a number cloth at registration. Your number will be checked at various check points (see map) so please wear the number cloth during the event.
• Water (500mk) will be available at various points (see map) along the course.
• Participants will receive a certificate of completion after finishing the event.
• Please take your garbage home with you.
• Bathrooms at the start point are expected to be crowded before the event starts, so please leave sufficient time to make use of the facilities if necessary.
• Support Buses (支援バス) are located at various points along the course. If you are unable to continue the walk, you can take the bus back to the goal.
• If you do not reach the Okawatai check point by 15:00, you will not be able to complete the course by 17:00 and will be taken to the goal by bus.
• If you show your number cloth upon leaving, the parking fee for the whole day will be only 500yen.
• July 23-24, 2016 Contact Number: 080-6019-6853

Towadako Elementary School 十和田湖小学校
Okuse Towadakohanyasumiya 16-1 (青森県十和田市奥瀬十和田湖畔休屋１６−１)
Towada City, Aomori Prefecture 018-5501


More Information:
Event Website (Japanese): http://www.htv-net.ne.jp/~mtc21/

Towada Horseback Riding Club Charity Festival 2016

Towada Horseback Riding Club Charity Festival 2016
十和田乗馬倶楽部チャリティーフェスティバル２０１６ (Towada Joba Club Charity Festival)

A once-a-year event where you can interact with horses, watch yabusame (horseback archery), and enjoy performances, food stalls, and various other events.

Date: Sunday June 19, 2016
Time: 10:00-15:00
Location: Towada Horseback Riding Club Dome Area
十和田乗馬倶楽部 ドーム周辺 (map)
Admission: Free (some paid activities)
Events/Attractions:

• 10:00 Opening Parade
• 10:10 Opening Ceremony
• 10:25 Quadrille Show (choreographed dressage)
• 10:45 American Bike Parade
  (Michi no Eki Towada → Kanchogai Dori → Event Venue)
• 11:00 Stage Shows & Start of Horseback Riding Experiences
• 12:00 American Bike Sidecar Riding Experience (Charity Event)
• 12:30 Treasure Hunt Dash
• 12:40 Yabusame Competition
• 13:25 Band Performance
• 14:00 Closing Ceremony
• Gourmet Tents
• Play Area (jump rope, stilts, etc.)
• Etc.

Special Coupon Book:
Advance: 1000yen; At-Door: 1200yen
(Includes souvenir redemption coupon & event vouchers (100yen value x 7 tickets))


Towada Horseback Riding Club Dome Area 十和田乗馬倶楽部ドーム Sawahaba 244-Sanbongi (森県十和田市三本木沢幅２４４)
Towada City, Aomori Prefecture 034-0001


More Information:
Towada Horseback Riding Club Website (Japanese): http://towada-joba.com/festal/

"Meat Day" at Steakhouse Miraikan

"Meat Day" at Steakhouse Miraikan (20th Anniversary Special Event)
ステーキハウス味蕾館20周年特別企画　「２９（肉）の日　第1弾」　(Niku no Hi)

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the restaurant, Steakhouse Miraikan is offering a special deal on May 29th for "Meat Day"* --one hour of all-you-can-eat-steak for only 2,929yen!

(*A Japanese pun: 2 & 9 can be read as "ni-ku" in Japanese, and niku (肉) is also the word for "meat." So the 29th is "Meat Day" and the price "2,929yen" is "meat meat.")

Date: Sunday May 29, 2016
Time: 15:00-20:00 (last order: 19:45)
Location: Michi no Eki Oirase Roman Park Steakhouse Miraikan
道の駅　奥入瀬ろまんパーク　ステーキハウス味蕾館　(map)
Cost: 2,929yen (tax included) for 60 min. All-You-Can-Eat-Steak

Hachinohe Fireworks Display 2016

Hachinohe Fireworks Display 2016
第３６回八戸花火大会2016 (Hachinohe Hanabi Taikai)

An impressive fireworks display of about 5000 fireworks against the backdrop of Hachinohe Harbour.

Date: Sunday August 21, 2016*
(*Due to typhoons, date changed to Sunday August 28)
Time: 19:00
Location: Hachinohe Tatehana Harbour 八戸館鼻漁港 (map)
Parking: Please park at Shopping Center Lapia and take a Shuttle Taxi (シャトルタクシー) to the venue (fixed price: 1000yen one-way)
Admission: Free
(Reserved seating available, 5000yen max. 4 people)

Hachinohe Tatehana Harbour 八戸館鼻漁港
Shinminato 3 Chome−7−3 (青森県八戸市新湊３丁目７−３)
Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture 031-0811


More Information:
Event Website* (Japanese): http://www.8hanabi.jp/

Yosakoi Tsugaru Carnival 2016

Yosakoi Tsugaru Carnvial 2016
第17回よさこい津軽
Official Website (Japanese): http://www.hcci.or.jp/txt/yosakoi

Yosakoi Tsugaru is a mix of Kochi Prefecture's Yosakoi Festival and Hokkaido's Yosakoi Soran Festival. It features a mix of parade and stage style performances along Hirosaki's central shopping arcade, Dotemachi.

Date: Sunday, June 26, 2016 (Rain or Shine!)
Time: 9:30-15:30

Location: Hirosaki City, Dotemachi 弘前土手町通り (Map)
(Road closures in effect from 9:00-16:00)
Admission: Free

Parade Route & Stage Map

(To confirm specific schedules for each venue, please purchase a "Yosakoi Tsugaru Pamphlet" on sale at the venue throughout the event.)


Hirosaki City, Dotemachi 弘前土手町通り


More Information:
Official Event Website (Japanese): http://www.hcci.or.jp/txt/yosakoi

2016 Nakadomari Beach Soccer Aomori Prefectural Tournament in Kodomari

2016 Nakadomari Beach Soccer Aomori Prefectural Tournament in Kodomari
2016第21回中泊町ビーチサッカー青森県大会inこどまり
(Nakadomari Beach Soccer Aomori-ken Taikai in Kodomari)

Five-on-five beach soccer tournament in Nakadomari Town.

Date: July 16-17, 2016
Time: July 16: 8:30-16:50; July 17: 8:30-16:30
Location: Nakadomari Orikoshinai Beach 中泊町折腰内ビーチ (map)
Admission: Free to watch

Asamushi Onsen Fireworks Display 2016

Asamushi Onsen Fireworks Display 2016
第68回浅虫温泉花火大会 (Asamushi Onsen Hanabi Taikai)

Enjoy fireworks at the beach as a pre-event (前夜祭 zenyasai) for the Aomori Nebuta Festival.

Date: Monday August 1, 2016
Time: 19:00～
Schedule:

• 13:00 Venue Opens
• 19:00 Event Starts
• 19:30 Fireworks Start

Location: Asamushi Beachfront Park 浅虫海浜公園 (map)
Parking (1 Day):

• Car: 2000yen
• Micro Bus: 4000yen
• Large/Full Size Bus: 6000yen
• Two Wheeled Vehicles: 1000yen

Admission: Free (paid seating available)
Paid Seating: 1000yen (At-Door)
(Advance Seat Sales Only for Groups of 20 or more)


Asamushi Beachfront Park 浅虫海浜公園
Hotarudani Asamushi (青森県青森市浅虫蛍谷)
Aomori-shi, Aomori-ken 039-3501


More Information:
Asamushi Onsen Website (Japanese): http://www.asamushi.com/event/details.php?details=eve183f1752064f

Thai Cooking Class

Thai Cooking Class
タイ料理教室 (Thai Ryouri Kyoushitsu)

Learn how to make green curry! It's easy and delicious!

Date: Sunday July 10, 2016
Time: 10:00-14:00
Location: Aomori Chuo Shimin Center
青森市中央市民センター　料理室 (map)
Cost: 900yen (incl. ingredients cost)
Registration: Required
Max. Participants: 20 people
(Register by phone (090-7660-1583, Kamiyama-san) or email (potlucksmore[at]yahoo.co.jp))
Notes/Cautions: Please bring an apron and bandana (to cover your hair/head)


Aomori Chuo Shimin Center 青森市中央市民センター
Matsubara, 1 Chome−6−15 (青森県青森市松原１丁目６−１５)
Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture 030-0813


More Information:
Aomori International Exchange Association (Japanese): http://www.kokusai-koryu.jp/news_event/2016/05/post-87.html

Mr. Haneto Contest 2016

Mr. Haneto (Nebuta Dancer) Contest 2016
第５回ミスター跳人コンテスト

A contest to find the male Nebuta dancer worthy of the title "Mister Haneto."

Date: Sunday June 19, 2016
Time: 13:30～
(Participants should gather at 12:30 at the 1st floor Kouryuu Gakushuu Shitsu 1
(1F交流学習室1))
Location: Nebuta no Ie Warasse 2nd Floor Event Hall
ねぶたの家ワ・ラッセ 2Fイベントホール (map)
Admission: Free
Schedule:

• Questions from Judges
• (Individual?) Haneto Dancing Performance
• Group Haneto Dancing Performance

Firefly Viewing at Risoukyo 2016

Firefly Viewing at Risoukyo 2016
ホタル観察会 (Hotaru Kansatsu Kai)

Date: July 23-24, 30-31, 2016
Time: 19:30-20:00
Location: Risoukyo 手作り村鯉艸郷 (map)
Admission: Adults: 300yen; Children: 200yen
Reservations: Required
(Reserve by phone 0176-27-2516 or through the online contact form)
Notes/Cautions:

• You will need to bring a flashlight
• Insect repellent is also highly recommended
• Number of fireflies will depend on weather conditions
• Event may be cancelled due to rain/inclement weather

Risoukyo 手作り村鯉艸郷
Torigamori-2-10 Fukamochi (青森県十和田市深持鳥ケ森2−10)
Towada City, Aomori Prefecture 034-0106
0176-27-2516


More Information:
Risoukyo Website (Japanese): http://www.risoukyo.com/event/index.html#hotaru

Marine Festa in Ominato & Ominato Navy Festival 2016

Marine Festa in Ominato 2016 マリンフェスタＩＮ大湊

Date: Saturday June 4, 2016
Time: 9:00-15:00
Location: Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) Ominato Base (Headquarters District)
海上自衛隊大湊基地（総監部地区） & Ominato Air Base 海上自衛隊大湊航空基地 (map)
Parking:

• Ominato Air Base 大湊航空基地内
• Kamafuseyama Ski Resort Parking Lot 釜臥山スキー場駐車場 (map)

Admission: Free
Events/Attractions:

• Naval Fleet Open to the Public
• Tugboat Bay Cruise
  (整理券 numbered tickets will be distributed from 9:15 (first 200 people) & 11:15 (first 250 people))
• Ground & Air Force Vehicle Display
• Disaster Relief Operation Equipment Display
• Corner to Try on Uniforms
• Stamp Rally
• Airplane Display
• Railroad Car Display (Fire Engine, Snow Plough, etc.)
• Control Tower Tour
• Dog Tag Making
• Etc.

Towada Art Center Special Exhibit SINCERELY YOURS, ELLIE OMIYA

Towada Art Center Special Exhibit: May 28, 2016 (Sat.) – September 25, 2016 (Sun.)

SINCERELY YOURS, ELLIE OMIYA
(シンシアリー・ユアーズ　－　親愛なるあなたの　大宮エリーより)

Description*

Every picture begins with "Dear" and ends with "Sincerely Yours." I hope there is at least one such picture for everyone. I hope to reach people with my pictures as if I was writing letters. Please accept these pictures--feel something from and read something in them. No replies necessary. I'm waiting for you in Towada.
- Ellie Omiya

*Rough translation from part of the Japanese description on the event flyer.

Misawa American Day 2016

Misawa American Day 2016 三沢アメリカンデー
Facebook Page (Japanese): https://www.facebook.com/micamericanday/

A taste of America in Japan! Enjoy various American food booths, learn about American culture, see American guest performers, etc.

Date: Sunday, June 5, 2016
Time: 9:45-16:00
Admission: Free
Location(s): Various

• Misawa Kokaido (Civic Hall 三沢公会堂) (map)
• Misawa Central Park (三沢中央公園) (map)
• Misawa Sogo Taiikukan (Gym 三沢総合体育館) (map)
• Misawa Air Base Main Gate Area (三沢基地正面ゲート付近) (map)
• New Miyaki (ニューみやき) (map)
• Sky Plaza (スカイプラザ) (map)

3 Chome Craft 2016

3 Chome Craft 2016
3丁目のクラフト (San Chome no Craft)
Website (Japanese): https://3chomecraft.wordpress.com/

"Misawa's biggest craft event. Featuring the best local handmade crafts and foods."

Date: Sunday June 12, 2016 (Rain or Shine!)
Time: 10:00-17:00
Location: Miss Veedol Dome ミスビードルドーム (map)
Admission: Free

Christ Festival 2016

Christ Festival 2016
第５３回キリスト祭 (Kirisuto Sai)

Every June Shingo Village holds the "Christ Festival," an odd event ostensibly held in honour of Jesus Christ but featuring Shinto rituals.

Date: Sunday June 5, 2016
Time: 10:00-11:30
Location: Grave of Christ キリストの里公園 (map)
Admission: Free
Events/Attractions:

• 慰霊祭 Spirit Consoling Service 
  • 神事 Divine Service
  • 玉串奉奠 Offering a Sprig of the Sacred Sakaki Tree in Front of a Shrine Altar
  • 奉納舞 (田中獅子舞) Dedicatory Dance (Tanaka Lion Dance)
• 第20回短歌ポスト入選歌表彰式　Tanka Poem Contest Award Ceremony
• ナニャドヤラ奉納 Nanyadoyara Dance Offering

Kagami-Style Kiba Dakyu 2016

Kagami-Style Kiba Dakyu (Ancient Japanese Polo)
加賀美流騎馬打毬 (Kagami-ryuu Kiba Dakyuu)

Kagami-Style Kiba Dakyu began in 1827 as a means to improve the riding skill of Hachinohe Domain soldiers. It is a prefecturally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Riders are divided into two teams (red and white) and compete on horseback to catch a ball using a pole with a net and to throw it into the goal. Only three forms of this traditional ancient sport remain today, in the Imperial Household, Hachinohe, and Yamagata City.

Photo Source: Hachinohe Sightseeing Navi

Date: Tuesday August 2, 2016
Time: 14:00～
Location: Chojasan Shinra Shrine 長者山新羅神社 (map)
Admission: Free


Chojasan Shinra Shrine 長者山新羅神社
1 Chome-6-10 Chōja (青森県八戸市長者1-6-10)
Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture 031-0021
TEL: 0178-22-1769‎


More Information:
Hachinohe Sightseeing Navi (Japanese): https://hachinohe-kanko.com/event_detail?id=00003908

Tanesashi Coast Tourism Festival 2016

Tanesashi Coast Tourism Festival 2016
第53回種差海岸観光まつり (Tanesashi Kaigan Kankou Matsuri)

Various events and performances during the day and fireworks in the evening for a fun summer day at the beach!

Date: Sunday July 3, 2016
Time: 10:00-20:30
Location: Tanesashi Coast Shibafu Hiroba 種差海岸芝生広場 (map)
(In the event of rain, events will be held at Minamihama Community Center 八戸市立南浜公民館 (map)
Admission: Free

Nango Summer Jazz Festival 2016

The 27th Nango Summer Jazz Festival 2016
第２７回　南郷サマージャズフェスティバル２０１６
Official Facebook Page: https://ja-jp.facebook.com/NangoJazz

A full day outdoor summer jazz festival. Get food and drinks at the various food stalls available at the venue.

Date: Saturday, July 30, 2016 (Rain or Shine!)
Time: 13:00-20:45 (venue opens at 12:00)
Location: Kakko no Mori Ecoland Outdoor Stage カッコーの森エコーランド野外ステージ (Map)
Admission:

• Adult: 6000yen (5000yen advance)
• Junior High-Senior High School Students: 3000yen (2000yen advance)
• Elementary School-Aged & Below: Free

Inakadate Rice Field Art Planting Experience 2016

Inakadate Rice Field Art Planting Experience 2016
第２４回田植え体験ツアー (Taue Taiken Tour)

Try your hand at planting the rice field that will become rice field art!

This year's theme is "Ishida Mitsunari and Sanada Masayuki from Sanada Maru." (Sanada Maru is a Japanese television series (NHK Taiga Drama) that started airing in January 2016.)

Date: Sunday May 29, 2016
Time: 9:30～ (Registration from 8:30)
Location: Inakadate Village Office Eastern Rice Paddy
田舎館村役場　東側水田 (map)
Admission: Free
(lunch provided: onigiri and tonjiru (rice balls and pork soup))

Owani Town Azalea Photo Contest 2016

Owani Town Azalea Photo Contest 2016
つつじのまちフォトコンテスト (Tsutsuji no Machi Photo Contest)

Submission call for photographs taken during the 2016 Owani Onsen Azalea Festival that show the harmony between the Owani Town townscape and its local flower, the azalea.

Contest Details:

• Theme: Azaleas & Owani Townscape 「つつじと町並み」 (Tsutsuji to Machinami)

Camera Division

• Awards & Prizes
  
  • First Prize (1): Voucher for 1 Night Stay w/ 2 Meals for 2 People at Hoshino Resort Kai Tsugaru
    (The winning photo will be used for next year's Owani Onsen Azalea Festival Poster)
  • Runner Up Prize (2): Nissenren Voucher (20,000yen value)
• Photo Size/Specifications: 
  • A4 Size  (270 x 297mm) OR
  • Yotsukiri Size 四ツ切サイズ (254 x 305mm)
• Entry Submission Information:
  
  Entry Submission Address
  　〒038-0292 青森県南津軽郡大鰐町大字大鰐字羽黒館5-3
  　　　　　　 　   大鰐町企画観光課内フォトコンテスト係
  Owani Town Planning & Tourism Department, Photo Contest Division
  Hagurodate-5-3 Ōwani, Ōwani-machi, Minamitsugaru-gun, Aomori-ken 038-0211
  
  Required Entry Submission Information:
  タイトル Photograph Title
  住所 Address
  氏名 Photographer's Full Name
  電話番号 Phone Number
  
  Submission Deadline: Entries must be received by Friday June 10, 2016


• Result Announcement: Monday June 20, 2016
  (Results will be announced on the Owani Town Website and winners will be contacted by the Photo Contest Division)
• Photograph Exhibit: Entries will be displayed at the Owani Town Central Community Center (大鰐町中央公民館 - map) from June 25-July 30, 2016

Mobile Phone Camera Division (image processing app usage allowed)

• Awards & Prizes
  Winners of Each Award will Receive an Pair Voucher for 1 Night Stay w/ 2 Meals at Imagine Hotel & Resort Hakodate
  • "Light Up" Prize (1)
  • "Person/People & Azalea" Prize (1)
  • "Konan Railway Owani Line Best Shot" Prize (1)
    (Photos taken anywhere along the Owani Line are OK)
• Entry Submission Information:
  
  Email Photos to: tutuji.photocon[at]gmail.com
  
  Required Entry Submission Information:
  タイトル Photograph Title
  住所 Address
  氏名 Photographer's Full Name
  電話番号 Phone Number
  携帯機種名 Mobile Phone Model
  匿名希望の有無 Pseudonym (Yes/No)
  
  Submission Deadline: Entries must be received by Friday June 10, 2016


• Result Announcement: Monday June 27, 2016
  (Results will be announced on the Owani Town Website and winners will be contacted by the Photo Contest Division)
• Photograph Display: Entries will be displayed at the Owani Town Website Photo Contest Page as the occasion calls

Facebook Division

• Awards & Prizes
  
  • "Like" Prize (1): Choice of Pair Voucher for 1 Night Stay w/ 2 Meals at Imagine Hotel & Resort Hakodate OR Nissenren Voucher (20,000yen value)
• Entry Submission Information:
  
  Upload photo to Facebook page:
  https://www.facebook.com/つつじの町-ﾌｫﾄｺﾝﾃｽﾄ-1139918782717823/
  
  Required Entry Submission Information:
  タイトル Photograph Title
  お名前 Name or Nickname
  
  Submission Period: When azaleas start blooming until Friday June 10, 2016


• Result Announcement: Monday June 27, 2016
  (Results will be announced on the Facebook site and the winner will receive a message from contest staff)
• Photograph Display: Entries will be displayed at the Owani Town Website Photo Contest Page as the occasion calls

General Notes/Cautions:

• Works must be taken at the Chausuyama Park while the azaleas are in bloom
• Works submitted by elementary school aged or younger children will not be accepted
• Submitted works will become property of the contest sponsors.
• Submitted works will not be returned.
• Contest sponsors reserve the rights to display, publish, and otherwise control the use of submitted works in print, online, and other media.
• Any personal information submitted will only be used for contest-related purposes.

More Information:
Full Contest Information PDF File: Japanese
Owani Town Website (Japanese): http://www.town.owani.lg.jp/index.cfm/8,4456,34,163,html
Photo Contest Facebook Page (Japanese): https://www.facebook.com/つつじの町-ﾌｫﾄｺﾝﾃｽﾄ-1139918782717823/

Owani Onsen Azalea Festival 2016

Owani Onsen Azalea Festival 2016
第39回大鰐温泉つつじまつり (Owani Onsen Tsutsuji Matsuri)

Enjoy various musical performances amidst vivid pink and purple azalea blossoms in full bloom.

Date: May 21-25, 2016
Location: Chausuyama Park 茶臼山公園 (map) Admission: Free

Tohoku Rokkon Festival 2016

Tohoku Rokkon Festival 2016
東北六魂祭 (Tohoku Rokkon Sai)
Official Website (Japanese): http://www.rokkon.jp/
[June 23 Update: Main Venue & Marutto Aomori Venue Schedules, Venue Washroom and Parking Information Added]

A festival where you can see six major Tohoku area festivals (one from each prefecture) all in one place!

It was created to encourage the revival of the Tohoku area after the Great East Japan Earthquake & Tsunami of 2011. This year marks the sixth and final year of the event.

(Information will be added/updated as it becomes available)

Date: June 25-26, 2016
Time: June 25: 10:00-20:00; June 26: 10:00-17:00
Location: Aomori City 青森市内
Parade Route: Aoimori Park (Nat'l Rte. 7) ～ Hashimoto Intersection (Nat'l Rte. 4)
青い森公園前（国道7号）〜橋本交差点先（国道4号）
Admission: Free (paid seating available)

90th Anniversary All-Japan National Fireworks Competition 2016

90th Anniversary All-Japan National Fireworks Competition 2016
第90回全国花火競技大会 (Zenkoku Hanabi Kyougi Taikai)
Official Website (Japanese): http://www.oomagari-hanabi.com/

Fireworks masters from across Japan compete in an impressive music and pyrotechnics show at the annual All-Japan National Fireworks Competition (Omagari Fireworks) along the Omono River in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture.

(Information will be updated as it becomes available)
Date: Saturday August 27, 2016
Time: Afternoon Fireworks: 17:30～, Evening Fireworks 18:50～
Location: Omagari Fireworks Competition Venue 大曲花火大会会場　map)
Admission: Free & Paid Seating

• "A" Seating (A席) 23,00yen (max. 6 people)
• "C" Seating (C席) 15,000yen (max. 5 people)
• Chair Seating (イス席) 3000yen/person

Shinmeigu Shrine Thatch Ring Festival

Shinmeigu Shrine Thatch Ring Festival
神明宮茅の輪祭 (Shinmeigu Chi no Wa Matsuri)

Passing through the "chi no wa," a large ring made of kaya thatch, represents a ceremonial cleansing from the impurities accumulated over the first half of the year and a prayer for good health for the latter half of the year. Pre-festival events are held on June 30 while the main festival is on July 1 annually.

Photo Source: Hachinohe City Website

Date: June 30-July 1, 2016
Location: Shinmeigu Shrine, Hachinohe City 神明宮 (map)
Admission: Free
Events/Attractions:

• Kagura
• Bon Odori Dance
• Food Stalls
• Etc.

Shinmeigu Shrine 神明宮
26-1 Nijūrokunichimachi (青森県八戸市廿六日町２６－１)
Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture 031-0044
TEL: 0178-22-8883


More Information:
Aomori Sightseeing News aptinet (Japanese): http://www.aptinet.jp/Detail_display_00005525.html

Aiuchi Mushiokuri 2016

Aiuchi (no) Mushiokuri 2016 相内の虫送り

(Mushiokuri is an event to drive away crop-eating insects. It usually involves a procession with a long, snake-like straw effigy.)

Aiuchi Mushiokuri is a Goshogawara City designated Important Intangible Cultural Property with a long history and which is considered to be a prototypical Tsugaru area Mushiokuri. It is held after rice field planting (2nd Saturday of June, annually) and is an event to pray for an abundant harvest and good health for the year. The crucial sword dance of Mushiokuri is said to represent Sakanoue no Tamuramaro's conquest of the Emishi people in Northern Honshu during the early Heian period.

Accompanying the large 5-metre-long snake-like straw effigy in the procession are sword-wielding dancers, flute, drum & hand cymbal players, etc. When watching the parade, pay attention to the uniquely shaped (compared to other areas) "swords" as well as the head of the effigy.

Photo Source: Aomori Prefectural Government Website

Date: Saturday June 11, 2016
Location: Goshogawara City, Aiuchi Area 五所川原市相内地区 (map)
Admission: Free

Goshogawara City, Aiuchi Area 五所川原市相内地区

More Information:
Aomori Sightseeing News aptinet (Japanese): http://www.aptinet.jp/Detail_display_00002570.html
Goshogawara City Website (Japanese): http://www.city.goshogawara.lg.jp/kyouiku/bunka/aiuchimushiokuri.html

Kasamai Ohata Cherry Blossom Road Cherry Blossom Festival 2016

Kasamai Ohata Cherry Blossom Road Cherry Blossom Festival 2016
来さまい大畑桜ロードさくらまつり (Kasamai Ohata Sakura Road Sakura Matsuri)

Food sales, performances and a walk along one of the most popular cherry blossom lined roads in Aomori Prefecture.

Date: Tuesday May 3, 2016
Time: 10:30-15:00
Location: Mutsu City Ohata Central Park むつ市大畑中央公園（map)
Admission: Free
Events/Attractions:

• 9:15～10:35 Cherry Blossom Road Walking Course
  (Registration from 9:00, Course Distance: 4.66km)
• 10:30～ Opening Ceremony
• 10:40～ Dancing Circle Ohata
• 11:20～ Song & Guitar Performance
• 12:00～ Jamie Peaks(?) Live Performance
• 12:30～ 100-Person Ohata Salmon Takikomigohan Norimaki
• 13:00～ Ohata Wind Orchestra
• Food Stalls
• Free Cherry Blossom Tea
• Etc.

Mutsu City Ohata Central Park むつ市大畑中央公園
Hachimanyuzaka Ōhatamachi (青森県むつ市大畑町八幡温坂)
Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture 039-4401


More Information:
Ohata Tourism Website (Japanese): http://ohatakanko.com/special/sakura2016/

Old Hirosaki City Fireworks Gathering 2016

Old Hirosaki City Fireworks Gathering 2016
第11回古都ひろさき花火の集い2016
(Koto Hirosaki Hanabi no Tsudoi)
Official Website (Japanese): http://www.hiro-hanabi.com/

Enjoy an evening of fireworks by Iwaki River in Hirosaki City.

Date: Saturday, June 18, 2016 (May be postponed to June 19 in the event of strong rain/winds)
Time: 15:00-21:00
Location: Hirosaki Iwaki River Floodplain Sports Park (Akudo District)
弘前市岩木川河川敷運動公園（悪戸地区）(Map)
Admission: Free (Paid Reserved Seating Available)

     Reserved Seating Fees:

• 11,000yen at door (10,000yen advance purchase) 特別席 Special Seat: "Beach Bed" (Max. Occ. 1)
• 6000yen (5000yen) A マス "A" Seat: 1.8m x 2.5m (Max. Occ. 6)
• 3000yen (2500yen) A ペアマス "A" Pair Seat: 1.8m x 1.25m (Max. Occ. 2)
• 4000yen (3000yen) B マス "B" Seat: 1.8m x 2.5m (Max. Occ. 6)
• 2000yen (1500yen) B ペアマス "B" Pair Seat: 1.8m x 1.25m (Max. Occ. 2)
• 300yen (200yen) 観覧C ゾーン入場券  Viewing "C" Zone Admission: Tickets Required for Elementary-School Aged Children and Older

     Reserved Seat Ticket Purchase Locations:

• Online (in Japanese) (4/28-6/7)
• Hirosaki Chamber of Commerce & Industry (map)
  (弘前商工会議所 Hirosaki Shoukoukaigisho) (4/25-6/17)
• Mt. Iwaki Commerce & Industry Association (map)
  岩木山商工会 (Iwaki-san Shoukoukai) (4/28-6/14)
• Nariiwa Food & Grocery (map)
  (成岩商店 Nariiwa Shouten) (4/28-6/14)
• Hirosaki Sakurano Department Store (map)
  (さくら野弘前店) (4/28-6/14)
• Hiroro (map) (ヒロロ) (4/28-6/14)
• Hirosaki Nakasan (map) (中三弘前店) (4/28-6/14)
• Hirosaki Itoyagado (map) (イトーヨーガードー弘前店) (4/28-6/14)

Schedule:

• 15:00 開場 Venue Opens
• 16:00-19:00 ステージアトラクション Stage Events
• 19:30 打ち上げ開始 Fireworks Begin
• 21:00 終了予定 Event Finishes

Hirosaki Iwaki River Floodplain Sports Park
弘前市岩木川河川敷運動公園


More Information:
Official Website (Japanese): http://www.hiro-hanabi.com/