Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture is steeped in cultural history, including the world-famous Tsugaru Shamisen (a three-stringed Japanese folk instrument). Did you know there’s a spot where you can enjoy live Tsugaru Shamisen performances alongside delicious local cuisine and drinks? Welcome to Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya!
Tsugaru Shamisen is said to have originated from Niigata’s goze (blind female entertainers), eventually reaching the bosama (blind male traveling performers) of the Tsugaru region. In this article, we’ll introduce the many charms of Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya.
Enjoy Local Dishes & Live Tsugaru Shamisen at Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya
Located in Hirosaki City, Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya has gained popularity by offering something different from a typical izakaya (Japanese pub). Their concept is “minyō sakaba” (a folk-song tavern), where you can savor local dishes and drinks while listening to live Tsugaru Shamisen performances.
A few decades ago, there were plenty of izakayas in Hirosaki offering live Tsugaru Shamisen. However, many have closed due to a lack of successors or difficulty securing shamisen performers. Today, only about half remain. Amid these challenges, Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya stands out, in part thanks to professional performer Mr. Shibuya, who has played the shamisen since the age of nine. He has toured throughout Japan and overseas.
At Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya, you might hear pieces like “Jonkara Bushi” or “Tsugaru Yosare Bushi.” Between songs, Mr. Shibuya’s fun and lively talk adds extra charm. If you’re intrigued, why not experience it for yourself?
Recommended Local Dishes at Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya
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With over 70 menu items (including both food and drinks), there’s plenty to choose from. Below are a few of the staff’s top recommendations:
1) Kai-yaki (Scallop & Miso Hot Dish)
This dish (600 yen before tax) features fresh scallops caught off Aomori’s coast, cooked inside a scallop shell along with seasonal ingredients, dried fish (yaki-boshi) broth, and miso. It pairs beautifully with local sake from Hirosaki—definitely worth a try!
2) Shijimi Ramen
Their shijimi ramen uses clams from Lake Jūsan, imparting a rich, deep flavor in a salt-based broth. Perfect as a finishing dish after a few drinks—or even as a meal starter if that’s your style!
More Regional Favorites
Besides kai-yaki and shijimi ramen, there are other must-try specialties at Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya. One example is ikamenchi (800 yen before tax), a deep-fried patty made by mixing chopped squid tentacles, onions, and various vegetables. You’ll also find regional dishes like Kuroishi tofu (made from local soybeans) and tara-tama (salted cod mixed with egg). Don’t miss these other flavorful local options!
Recommended “Set Menu” Options
In addition to à la carte dishes, Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya offers three set-menu combos that include both food and drinks. Their top recommendation is the Jonkara Set (3,500 yen before tax), which features local specialties like kai-yaki, keno-jiru (a hearty vegetable soup), and a small dish of Kuroishi tofu (though the small dish may vary by day). It also includes fresh sashimi from Aomori’s ports—and two drinks. If you’re not sure what to order, start with this generous set menu.
A Great Selection of Local Hirosaki Sake
Photo Reference: Miura Shuzō Co., Ltd.
Beyond local dishes, Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya boasts a solid lineup of Hirosaki sake. Among them is Hōhai, known for its pleasantly fresh taste and subtle sweetness. Another offering is Hana Ippū, a sake with a rounded, mellow flavor that pairs perfectly with fried foods.
Why not enjoy these local sakes with your meal, all while listening to live Tsugaru Shamisen?
Lunchtime Is Popular, Too!
While most patrons know it for dinnertime, Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya also opens for lunch, serving set meals. A standout is the karaage teishoku (800 yen before tax), featuring chicken marinated in Gen-tare—an apple- and ginger-based sauce. The exact recipe is secret, but the result is addictive. They use a whole bird for this dish, and rice refills are free, making for a very hearty lunch. It’s a different vibe than the dinner crowd, so give lunch a try as well!
Final Notes
A quick tip: the live shamisen performances at Tsugaru Shamisen Izakaya Aiya typically start around 7 p.m. However, during busy seasons like the Hirosaki Sakura Festival or the Neputa Festival, times may change—so be sure to plan accordingly. Keep following our updates for more info on Hirosaki’s shops and tourist attractions. Enjoy the show, the local cuisine, and a memorable Tsugaru Shamisen experience!