The grand year-end finale: Hualien Yuanbai’s “Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture Product Festival” kicks off in full swing

The 2017 Aomori Hirosaki Cultural & Product Festival has officially launched at Hualien Yuanbai, drawing large crowds. (Photo by Chang Chi)

The 2017 Aomori Hirosaki Cultural & Product Festival has officially launched at Hualien Yuanbai, drawing large crowds. (Photo by Chang Chi)

As the final stop of the nationwide Yuanbai chain’s “2017 Aomori Hirosaki Cultural & Product Festival,” the event brings a slice of Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, directly into the store. This year’s theme is Aomori, known as the “Apple City.” Upon entering the venue, visitors are greeted by the rich aroma of fresh apples and grilled squid.

Hualien Yuanbai concludes the New Year holiday period with a grand Japanese product exhibition. The opening day featured adorable yukata-clad kids leading a demon float, blending traditional Nebuta Festival elements with popular dance moves to create an electrifying atmosphere. With nearly 10 booths on-site, the event showcases uniquely Aomori apple-themed goods, a renowned 150-year-old miso shop, classic Japanese side dishes, delicious freshly grilled squid skewers, and beloved Japanese snacks such as Calbee Jagabee potato sticks—bringing an authentic taste of Japan to the supermarket.

Huang Youcheng, store manager of Hualien Yuanbai, noted that the Japanese product exhibition will run until January 14th on the B1 floor. Throughout the event, a series of promotions and giveaways are available, including free apples with purchases over NT$500, complimentary Japanese-style transparent milk tea with total spending over NT$2018, and interactive wall photo opportunities with prizes. Weekends also feature engaging activities such as parent-child storytelling sessions and Japan Quiz Challenges, ensuring fun, food, and excitement for all.