Aomori is famous for apples and garlic, and souvenir shops are dominated by products featuring those two ingredients. They are delicious, but hidden recommendations exist too. One is the Original Dakekimi Donut, sold at Aomori Shunmikan among the many shops on the first floor of Shin-Aomori Station. The lively souvenir area is excellent. Tokyo is about three and a half hours away by bullet train—longer than flying—but being able to visit this shop is a major advantage.
Original Dakekimi Donuts by Shibata Farm
Dakekimi is exceptionally sweet corn grown on the Dake Plateau at the foot of Mount Iwaki, where large temperature differences help develop its flavor. These donuts use plenty of that corn powder. 
Five cost ¥450. The plain plastic package and rubber band make them look appealingly handmade. The phrase “Putting heart into every hoe and every seed” and the farmer illustration are charmingly surreal. The donuts have a deep fried color.
My impressions after eating Original Dakekimi Donuts
Let’s taste one. 
The inside is distinctly yellow because Dakekimi is kneaded into the dough. Its texture is delightfully chewy, while the corn’s sweetness and aroma spread softly through the mouth. It is tender, fluffy, and extremely delicious. Although it looks like an ordinary simple donut, it nearly surpasses a famous donut chain in my personal ranking. Rustic donuts like this seem common but are actually difficult to find. I must buy them again whenever I visit Shin-Aomori. As a fresh product they should be eaten that day, but they are light enough that finishing them is no concern (^^) I repeatedly wanted one on the train but managed to wait until home. Highly recommended. Thank you for the treat! More recommended Aomori souvenirs are collected below.
元祖嶽きみドーナツ Product Info, Expiration Date, Manufacturer
| Product Name | 元祖嶽きみドーナツ |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer / Seller | Shibata Farm |
| Address | - |
| Expiration Date | Same day |
| Place of Purchase | Shin-Aomori Station Souvenir Shop |
| Price | ¥450 |
