Per Japanese census data,[2] the population of Ōharu has increased dramatically over the past 50 years.
Historical population
Year
Pop.
±%
1940
5,068
—
1950
6,287
+24.1%
1960
6,455
+2.7%
1970
13,709
+112.4%
1980
19,939
+45.4%
1990
22,598
+13.3%
2000
27,073
+19.8%
2010
29,897
+10.4%
Climate
The town has a climate characterized by hot and humid summers, and relatively mild winters (Köppen climate classificationCfa).
History
The village of Ōharu was established in 1889 with the establishment of the modern municipalities system. It was raised to town status in 1975. In 2008, discussions were held to merge Ōharu with neighboring Shippō, Jimokuji and Miwa towns. Later three municipalities formed the new city of Ama, but Ōharu withdrew from the negotiations, and remains an independent municipality.
Education
Ōharu has three public elementary schools and one public junior high school operated by the town government. The town does not have a high school.