[2][3] Aomori Prefecture Hachinohe has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa), closely bordering the Humid Subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) using the 0.0 °C (32.0 °F) isotherm with both January and February monthly averages being too cold to be of the latter, with hot summers and cold and snowy winters.

[4] Per Japanese census data:[5] The area around Hachinohe has been occupied since prehistoric times, and was a major population center for the Emishi people.

Initially, there was a debate as to whether the capital of newly formed Aomori Prefecture should be at Hachinohe or Hirosaki; however, due to strong rivalry between the former Nanbu domain and former Tsugaru Domain, the Meiji government decided to build a new town called Aomori in a central location, and to designate it as the capital of the prefecture.

Per the Meiji period establishment of the modern municipalities system on April 1, 1889, the town of Hachinohe was created within Sannohe District.

During the American occupation of Japan following World War II, a United States Army base, Camp Haugen, was located in Hachinohe, and was the home of the Seventh Division.

AFRS Hachinohe altered its broadcasts to include coverage of South Korea so Americans could benefit from its news and entertainment programs.

[7] Divers from the United States Navy ship Safeguard joined with Japanese workers to help clear the port to facilitate the delivery of relief supplies via the city.

In terms of national politics, the town is part of Aomori 2nd district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.

Hachinohe is the largest city in eastern Aomori Prefecture, and serves as the regional industrial and commercial center.