Environmental Changes and the Transformation of Salmon Culture in the Sanriku Coast

A Case Study of Tsugaruishi, Miyako City

Abstract

Salmon has long been vital to the Sanriku region, contributing economically, culturally, and socially. However, recent poor salmon catches have severely impacted fixed-net fisheries and hatchery operations, especially in Iwate Prefecture. Notably, Miyako City’s Tsugaruishi River, once yielding over 100,000 salmon annually, saw a dramatic decline to 2,754 in 2023. This crisis threatens local traditions, such as the Matabei Festival and educational programs like salt-pickled salmon-making. Coupled with external factors like COVID-19 and natural disasters, the decline in salmon poses significant challenges to cultural preservation and regional sustainability, extending beyond mere economic concerns.