Salmon festival just two turns from the base

  • Published
  • By Simon Griffin
  • Oirase Liasion
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Nov. 10 and 11 you have no excuse not to get out and go down past the mall and check out the Oirase Salmon Festival. Just 15 minutes from base is "The Biggest Salmon Festival in Japan". Salmon races and salmon grabs throughout the two days give you plenty of chances to get your hands on a fresh salmon. There are also costume, performance ( use your Halloween costumes) , tagged fish and smallest fish prizes. 

The salmon grab involves running into an eight inch deep pool and grabbing a wild salmon with your hands. People having problems catching a fish will be assisted by volunteer helpers. 

Although the thrill of catching a salmon will no doubt get you hot, it is fall, so bring something warm to wear after the salmon grab, especially if you plan on swimming as part of your dramatic catch. If you don't have any rubber boots or gloves available they can be rented for 200 yen, a fish cleaning service is available for 300 yen (recommended for the squeamish). 

English speaking staff and an English information sheet will ensure you are not left out of anything. Try some salmon racing. 

The hot food tip; look "Chan Chan Yaki" which is highly recommend. "How to Chan" instructions are in the info pack. 

Entry to the park is free but catching a salmon requires a ticket. You can buy discount tickets for $9 and get maps to the event from ITT, or at the Shimoda Shopping Mall for 1,000 yen. Tickets are available at the event for 1,200 yen. 

Access...
From the POL gate. Drive straight (Route 10) past Universe Supermarket and Honmac, keep driving and go under the toll road. The road curves gently to the right here but at the next light, a T intersection with a yellow Ramen shop on the corner, turn left. The Salmon Park is straight along this road. Cross Route 45 at the lights and just before the bridge opposite the mini dealers, turn left. Follow the parking staff directions 

From the main gate. Turn left at the first lights and right at the first intersection. Go straight through the next two lights and turn right onto Route 10 at the Lawson convenience store. Proceed as above. 

Further information and maps available from simon.griffin@town.oirase.aomori.jp.