ItäSuomi

Itä-Suomi, or Eastern Finland, is a geographic and cultural region in the eastern part of Finland. It is not an official administrative unit but a commonly used designation that covers parts of the historical provinces of Savonia and Karelia, and in broader usage, parts of Kainuu. The region lies along the inland lake district and reaches toward the eastern border with Russia, with Finnish regions to the west and north.

Geography and environment are dominated by boreal forests and numerous lakes. The Lakeland landscape features large bodies of water such as Saimaa, Pielinen and Oulujärvi, interwoven with rivers and archipelago zones. The Saimaa Canal connects Lake Saimaa to the Baltic Sea, enabling water traffic to the Gulf of Finland. The climate is typical of eastern Finland, with cold winters and relatively mild summers, shaping both biodiversity and outdoor traditions.

Major urban centers include Kuopio and Joensuu, as well as Mikkeli, Savonlinna and Lappeenranta. Kajaani represents the inland eastern side. The economy is rooted in forestry and wood processing, energy production, logistics, and services, with tourism centered on lake and forest scenery, winter sports, and cultural events.

Culturally Itä-Suomi shows strong Savonian and Karelia influences, reflected in dialects, folklore and regional cuisine. The region hosts notable events such as the Savonlinna Opera Festival and various regional festivals. Its history has been shaped by Finland’s eastern border with Russia, including the impact of Karelia’s cession in the 20th century, which contributed to demographic and cultural shifts that linger in the area today.