Overview of the Tohoku Region
Area
The Tohoku region covers approximately 67,000 square kilometers, accounting for about 18% of Japan’s total land area. It is the second largest region after Hokkaido, characterized by vast rural landscapes and mountainous terrain.
Population
The population is about 8.6 million, roughly 7% of Japan’s total population. While urban areas are concentrated around Sendai City, most of the region is sparsely populated and rich in natural beauty.
Location
The Tohoku region is located in the northern part of Honshu. It borders Hokkaido to the north across the Tsugaru Strait and the Kanto region to the south. The region faces the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Sea of Japan to the west, making it a broad area surrounded by three seas.
Nature
Topography: Divided by the Ou Mountains
The terrain of the Tohoku region is divided east and west by the Ou Mountains, with additional mountain ranges and basins spreading across the central area.
Pacific Side
The Sanriku Coast, known for its ria (drowned valley) coastline, features complex inlets and stunning scenery that also nurture some of the world’s richest fishing grounds. The Sendai Plain and Fukushima Basin extend across this side, providing wide, fertile farmland.
Sea of Japan Side
The Akita Plain and Shonai Plain stretch along the west, offering fertile lands ideal for rice cultivation. This coastal area experiences heavy snowfall in winter due to seasonal winds from the northwest.
Central Area
The Ou and Dewa mountain ranges rise through the center, with interspersed basins such as the Yamagata Basin and Tsugaru Plain. These regions are known for fruit production, especially apples and cherries.
Climate
Pacific Side: Pacific Ocean Climate
The Pacific side experiences relatively cool summers and mild winters with little snowfall. Along the Sanriku Coast, a cold, moist wind called the “Yamase” often blows during summer, sometimes keeping temperatures low even in midsummer.
Sea of Japan Side: Sea of Japan Climate
The western side receives heavy snowfall in winter under the influence of the northwest monsoon. These areas are known as some of Japan’s snowiest regions, where communities have adapted their lifestyles and tourism to deep snow conditions. Summers are relatively hot, and the four seasons are clearly marked.
Industries
Agriculture and Fisheries
The Tohoku region is often referred to as “Japan’s breadbasket” due to its extensive rice production. Fertile plains and abundant water resources enable large-scale agriculture. Offshore from Sanriku lies one of the richest fishing grounds in the world.
Pacific Side
- Sendai Plain: Large-scale rice farming across extensive paddy fields.
- Fukushima Basin: Famous for peaches, known for their sweetness and juiciness.
Sea of Japan Side
- Akita Plain and Shonai Plain: Fertile land ideal for rice cultivation.
- Yamagata Basin: Produces cherries and pears as regional specialties.
- Tsugaru Plain: A major apple-growing region taking advantage of its cool climate.
Off the Sanriku Coast
This area supports some of the world’s richest fisheries, landing large catches of bonito, saury, salmon, and scallops.
Industry
Traditional Industries
The Tohoku region is home to many traditional crafts with long histories:
- Shogi pieces from Tendo (Yamagata Prefecture)
- Tsugaru lacquerware (Aomori Prefecture)
- Nambu ironware (Iwate Prefecture)
These crafts represent regional culture and are still produced by skilled artisans today.
Modern Industries
In recent years, advanced industries that make use of the region’s natural environment have developed. Factories producing electronic components and precision machinery have been established, supporting local employment. Sendai City and Koriyama City serve as major industrial hubs.
Conclusion
The Tohoku region, with its vast rice fields and abundant fisheries, plays an essential role as “Japan’s food supply region.” While it endures harsh winters with heavy snowfall, people have turned these conditions into strengths—developing winter tourism and cultural traditions around snow.
Tohoku is a region where traditional crafts and modern industries coexist, offering a glimpse into both Japan’s history and its future. Visitors can enjoy the changing beauty of the seasons—from the apple orchards of Tsugaru and cherry-picking in Yamagata to the historical castle town of Sendai and the scenic Sanriku Coast with its fresh seafood.
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