The eastern part of Aomori Prefecture, in Tohoku, the northern most area of Japan's main island, Honshu, is known as the Tsugaru region. The name derives from the powerful Tsugaru family clan whose reign began in the early 17th century. Agriculture is still strong in the region which maintains many of the hand craft traditions for which Tsugaru people are famous. Tsugaru region is known for severe winter weather and deep accumulation of snow. In spite of these harsh conditions, this is the furthest northern area of Japan where it is possible to grow urushi trees.