Iwate
Iwate Prefecture, located in the Tohoku region of northern Japan, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the scenic coastal cliffs of the Sanriku Coast and the mountainous region of Hachimantai. The prefecture is rich in history and culture, with notable sites like Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring temples and gardens inspired by Pure Land Buddhism. Iwate is also famous for its traditional festivals, such as the Sansa Odori, one of Japan's largest drum festivals. Additionally, visitors can enjoy local specialties, including the famous "wanko soba" noodles, served in small, rapidly refilled bowls for a unique dining experience.
Iwate Overview (2024)
Population
1,144,407 people
Area
15,275.05 km²
Density
74.9 people/km²
Temperature in Morioka (2023)
Explore Iwate: 17 Popular Sightseeing Spots
1. Koiwai Farm - Shizukuishi Town
Koiwai Farm, located at the foot of Mt. Iwate, is Japan's largest privately-owned comprehensive farm with a history spanning over 100 years. The farm features 21 facilities inspired by Western architecture, designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as horseback riding, archery, and tractor-pulled wagon rides. Don’t miss the freshly-made soft-serve ice cream, made from milk produced right on the farm. The farm is also home to cattle and sheep, providing a scenic and authentic countryside experience.
Opening Hours |
Green Season: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry: 4:00 PM) Winter Illumination Season: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM (Last entry: 7:30 PM) Hours may vary depending on the season and events. |
Admission |
Adults (Junior high school students and older): ¥800 Children (Ages 5–Elementary school students): ¥300 |
Access |
By Train & Bus: From Morioka Station (Tohoku Shinkansen, JR Lines, or IGR Iwate Galaxy Railway), take a bus for approximately 30 minutes and get off at the "Koiwai Farm Makiba-en" stop. The farm is a short walk from there. By Car: 15 minutes by car from Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
2. Jodogahama Beach - Miyako City
Jodogahama Beach is a scenic spot known for its sharp, white rhyolite rocks, surrounded by lush green pine trees and the vibrant blue ocean—a stunning natural contrast. The name "Jodogahama" (Pure Land Beach) was inspired by a Buddhist monk from Joanji Temple about 300 years ago, who compared its beauty to the Buddhist paradise. During summer, the beach is a popular spot for swimming, and visitors can also enjoy a relaxing cruise around the bay on a sightseeing boat. For an even more unique experience, take a sappa boat tour to explore the enchanting "Blue Cave."
Opening Hours | Jodogahama Marine House: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (March to November; closed during winter) |
Access |
By Train/Bus: From JR Yamada Line or Sanriku Railway Yamada Line "Miyako Station," take a bus for about 20 minutes to the "Oku-Jodogahama" stop, then a short walk. By Car: About 2 hours by car from Morioka Minami IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
3. Chūson-ji Temple - Hiraizumi Town
Chūson-ji Temple, founded in 850, is a renowned Tendai Buddhist temple. It was significantly developed by Kiyohira Fujiwara, the founder of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, who aimed to create a peaceful society guided by Buddhist teachings. Taking 20 years to complete, the temple showcases the wealth and advanced techniques of its time. Chūson-ji is home to over 3,000 National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, including the famous Konjikidō (Golden Hall), earning its reputation as a treasure trove of Heian-era Buddhist art. Other highlights include the main hall, renovated in 2013 to enshrine a new principal deity, the "Higashi Monomidai" (East Observation Deck) with views of Hiraizumi, and the "Tsukimi-zaka" path lined with 300-year-old cedar trees. Visitors can leisurely explore the entire mountain, rich in history and natural beauty. In 2011, Chūson-ji was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens, and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land.”
Opening Hours |
March 1 – November 3: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM November 4 – End of February: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
Admission |
Adults: ¥800 High School Students: ¥500 Junior High School Students: ¥300 Elementary School Students: ¥200 |
Access |
By Train & Bus: From JR Tohoku Main Line Hiraizumi Station, take a bus for 5 minutes and get off at "Chūson-ji Bus Stop." A 15-minute walk. By Car: 5 minutes from Hiraizumi-Maesawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
4. Flower & Garden Mori no Kaze - Shizukuishi Town
Flower & Garden Mori no Kaze is one of Japan's largest and most authentic gardening parks. The Main Garden features hundreds of plant species, a flowing water gorge, and the cheerful songs of wild birds, offering visitors a seasonal escape into nature. "Mori no Oka" is renowned for its breathtaking display of 50,000 moss phlox blooms. The observation deck houses the "Bell of Love and Happiness," a designated "Lovers' Sanctuary." Guests can also stay at the adjacent "Hotel Mori no Kaze Oushuku," enjoying a relaxing getaway. This spot is perfect for experiencing the beauty of Japan's changing seasons.
Opening Hours |
Regular Season: Late April to Early November, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Last admission: 7:00 PM) Illumination Period: Early November to Early January, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Last admission: 7:00 PM) Closed: Winter (Early January to Mid-April) |
Admission |
Regular Admission: Adults ¥600 / Elementary School Students ¥300 / Free for children under elementary school age Note: Admission fees may vary during the Illumination Period. |
Access |
By Train: Take the free shuttle bus (approx. 35 minutes) from Morioka Station, accessible via the Tohoku Shinkansen, JR lines, or IGR Iwate Galaxy Railway. By Car: About 25 minutes from Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
5. Genbikei Gorge - Ichinoseki City
Genbikei Gorge is a designated National Scenic Spot and Natural Monument, offering breathtaking landscapes shaped by the Iwai River, which originates from Mount Kurikoma. Over approximately 2 kilometers, the river has carved out dramatic rock formations and emerald-green streams, creating a stunning and dynamic scenery. The upstream area features powerful rapids crashing against rocks, while the downstream offers serene pools of water, providing a variety of landscapes to enjoy.
Each season transforms the gorge into a different spectacle: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and snow-covered scenery in winter. After taking in the magnificent views, don’t miss the famous "Flying Dango" experience. Place your payment in a basket on the rocks, strike the signaling board, and dango (rice dumplings) with tea will arrive via a pulley system from the teahouse across the river. You can choose from three flavors: sweet bean paste, sesame, and soy sauce glaze.
Access |
By Train/Bus: From Ichinoseki Station (Tohoku Shinkansen or JR Tohoku Main Line), take a bus for about 20 minutes to the "Genbikei" stop, then walk 1 minute. By Car: 10 minutes from Ichinoseki IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | Google Map |
6. Geibikei Gorge - Ichinoseki City
Geibikei Gorge, carved by the Satetsu River over limestone, features stunning cliffs reaching heights of around 100 meters on both sides of the river, extending for approximately 2 kilometers. Despite the dramatic scenery, the river’s flow is calm, allowing for relaxing boat tours. A skilled boatman steers the boat with a single pole and serenades visitors with the traditional song “Geibi Oiwake.” In spring, the cliffs are adorned with wisteria flowers, creating breathtaking cascades of vibrant purple blooms.
Opening Hours |
April 1 – August 31: First departure at 8:30 AM, last departure at 4:30 PM Departure times may vary depending on the season. |
Admission | Boat Tour: Adults ¥1,600 / Elementary school students ¥860 / Children (3 years and older) ¥200 |
Access |
By Train: 5-minute walk from JR Geibikei Station on the JR Ofunato Line. By Car: 30 minutes by car from Ichinoseki IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
7. Esashi Fujiwara Heritage Park - Oshu City
Esashi Fujiwara Heritage Park is a historical theme park where visitors can explore the history and culture of the Tohoku region, focusing on the legacy of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, which ruled this area for about 100 years during the late Heian period. The park authentically recreates significant sites based on historical research, including ancient Tohoku fortifications, the Toyoda Mansion of Kiyohira Fujiwara, the administrative headquarters of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, Hidehira Fujiwara’s Kyara Palace, and a replica of Chusonji's Golden Hall (Konjikido). Guests can also enjoy performances of traditional local arts, such as the Esashi Shika Odori (Deer Dance).
Opening Hours |
March to October: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM November to February: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
Admission |
Adults: ¥800 High School Students: ¥500 Elementary & Middle School Students: ¥300 |
Access |
By Train: 15 minutes by taxi from Mizusawa-Esashi Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen line. By Car: 15 minutes from Mizusawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
8. Kamaishi Daikannon - Kamaishi City
At the tip of Kamasaki Peninsula stands the striking white statue of Kamaishi Daikannon, overlooking Kamaishi Bay. This iconic statue was built in 1970, inspired by a monk from Myohosan Sekiozenji Temple. At 48.5 meters tall, the statue features various attractions inside, including a worship hall, a room housing 33 Kannon statues, and a "Seven Lucky Gods" pilgrimage trail. Visitors can also access the observation deck located 120 meters above sea level on the fish held at the statue's chest, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kamaishi Port and the Pacific Ocean. Recognized as a "Lovers' Sanctuary," it is also a romantic spot.
Opening Hours |
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Hours may vary by season) Closed: New Year's holidays |
Admission |
Adults: ¥500 Middle/High School Students: ¥300 Elementary School Students: ¥100 |
Access |
By Train/Bus: From JR Kamaishi Station, take a bus for approximately 10 minutes to the "Kamaishi Daikannon Entrance" stop, then walk about 10 minutes. By Car: About 60 minutes by car from Tono IC on the Kamaishi Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
9. Kitayamazaki - Tanohata Village
Kitayamazaki features dramatic cliffs soaring up to 200 meters along an 8-kilometer stretch of the Pacific coastline. The powerful waves have sculpted unique rock formations, sea caves, and jagged cliffs, creating a breathtaking landscape. Visitors can climb a 736-step staircase to reach a scenic viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views. Even on rainy days, when mist shrouds the edges of the cliffs, the scenery has a mystical charm. In June, elegant white flowers of the rhododendron bloom, adding a touch of serenity to the rugged terrain.
Access | By Car: About 80 minutes from Miyako IC on the Sanriku Expressway. |
External Link | Google Map |
10. Ryusendo Cave - Iwaizumi Town
Ryusendo Cave is one of Japan's Three Great Limestone Caves and a must-see destination in Iwate. Among its seven underground lakes, the Third Underground Lake is particularly famous for its stunning transparency, with a depth estimated at 98 meters. Inside the cave, the cool air and the mesmerizing blue hues of the lakes create a mystical atmosphere. The water of Ryusendo Cave, sourced from underground springs, is bottled and sold as natural mineral water. It’s said to add three years to your life and has won awards such as being named one of Japan's "100 Famous Waters" and receiving the World’s Highest Quality Award. For unique souvenirs, try coffee or beer made with Ryusendo water.
Across from the cave, the Ryusendo Science Museum showcases how the cave was formed through exhibits and models, making it a great spot for families with children.
Opening Hours |
March–April & October–November: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM May–September: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
Admission |
Adults (High school students and above): ¥1,100 Children (Elementary & Junior High School): ¥550 |
Access |
By Train: From JR Morioka Station, take a bus for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Get off at "Ryusendo" bus stop, located right at the cave entrance. By Car: About 2 hours from Morioka Minami IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
11. Motsuji Temple - Hiraizumi Town
Motsuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside Chusonji Temple’s Golden Hall, is a must-see attraction in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. The temple's garden, designated as both a Special Historic Site and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, features a breathtaking landscape centered around a large pond. This garden, designed to represent the Buddhist Pure Land, offers visitors a serene and extraordinary experience. Motsuji is stunning year-round, with fresh greenery in spring, vibrant autumn leaves, and the famous "Iris Festival" held during the iris bloom season. The festival showcases approximately 30,000 purple and white irises, creating a beautiful contrast against the lush green garden.
Opening Hours |
March 5 – November 4: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM November 5 – March 4: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
Admission |
Adults: ¥500 High School Students: ¥300 Elementary & Junior High School Students: ¥100 |
Access |
By Train: A 7-minute walk from JR Tohoku Main Line Hiraizumi Station. By Car: Approximately 10 minutes from the Hiraizumi-Maesawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
12. Morioka Hachimangu Shrine - Morioka City
Morioka Hachimangu Shrine, built over 300 years ago, is a revered place of worship where various traditional ceremonies and festivals are held throughout the year. The shrine is dedicated to the deity of commerce and daily life, and it has been a site of faith for generations. Visitors can pray anytime as the main shrine doors remain open 24/7. The shrine is also a popular venue for traditional Japanese weddings, attracting many couples. With events held year-round, there is always something to experience at Morioka Hachimangu Shrine. Convenient access by bus from JR Morioka Station or by car with free parking makes it an easy addition to your itinerary.
Opening Hours |
Main Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Shrine Access: Open 24/7 |
Admission | Free |
Access |
By Train: 15-minute bus ride from JR Morioka Station. Get off at "Hachimangu-mae." By Car: Free parking is available. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
13. Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park) - Morioka City
Morioka Castle, designated as a National Historic Site and one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles, is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Morioka Station. The park offers a picturesque experience throughout the year:
Spring: The Sakura Festival draws large crowds, with cherry blossoms illuminated by lanterns at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
May: Wisteria blooms elegantly along trellises.
July: Hydrangeas beautifully adorn the area around Tsuru-ga-ike Pond.
Autumn: Vibrant red maple leaves and golden ginkgo create a striking contrast against the stone walls.
Winter: The "Morioka Snow Candle Festival" transforms the park into a dreamy landscape with mini igloos lit by candles.
Originally built in 1597, Morioka Castle, also known as Kozukata Castle, served as the residence of the local feudal lord. While most of the castle buildings were dismantled in 1874, the stone walls remain impressively intact. The site was redeveloped as a park in 1906 and is now known as "Morioka Castle Site Park," a beloved place for locals and visitors alike. It has also been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Historical Parks. The park features literary monuments honoring figures with ties to the region, such as poet Takuboku Ishikawa, writer Kenji Miyazawa, and author Inazo Nitobe.
Spring: The Sakura Festival draws large crowds, with cherry blossoms illuminated by lanterns at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
May: Wisteria blooms elegantly along trellises.
July: Hydrangeas beautifully adorn the area around Tsuru-ga-ike Pond.
Autumn: Vibrant red maple leaves and golden ginkgo create a striking contrast against the stone walls.
Winter: The "Morioka Snow Candle Festival" transforms the park into a dreamy landscape with mini igloos lit by candles.
Originally built in 1597, Morioka Castle, also known as Kozukata Castle, served as the residence of the local feudal lord. While most of the castle buildings were dismantled in 1874, the stone walls remain impressively intact. The site was redeveloped as a park in 1906 and is now known as "Morioka Castle Site Park," a beloved place for locals and visitors alike. It has also been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Historical Parks. The park features literary monuments honoring figures with ties to the region, such as poet Takuboku Ishikawa, writer Kenji Miyazawa, and author Inazo Nitobe.
Access |
By Train: From JR Morioka Station, take the Morioka City Loop Bus "Dendenmushi" to the "Morioka Castle Site Park" stop, then walk 1 minute. By Car: About 30 minutes from the Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
14. Iwate Museum of Art - Morioka City
Located in Morioka City, the Iwate Museum of Art opened in 2001 and showcases the works of prominent artists from Iwate Prefecture, including Tetsugoro Yorozu, Shunsuke Matsumoto, Yasuo Funakoshi, and Takashi Horie. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum offers interactive programs for visitors of all ages, from children to seniors, making art more accessible and enjoyable. The museum is dedicated to promoting and nurturing the development of Iwate’s artistic culture.
One of the highlights of the museum is its variety of workshops and hands-on activities. These programs provide an approachable way to engage with art, even for those who may find art intimidating or distant. For preschool-aged children, the museum regularly hosts the "Art de Oyako" workshop, designed for parents and children to explore creativity together. These workshops are fun and engaging, encouraging children to unleash their imagination and develop their creative thinking.
Opening Hours |
9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM) Closed: Mondays (if a public holiday, the museum is open and closed the following weekday), and December 29 – January 3 |
Admission |
General: ¥460 (¥370 for groups) Students: ¥350 (¥280 for groups) |
Access | By Train: A 20-minute walk from JR Morioka Station |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
15. Iwate Bank Red Brick Building - Morioka City
The Iwate Bank Red Brick Building was completed in 1911 as the headquarters of the Morioka Bank. Designed by the renowned Tatsuno-Kasai architectural firm, which also designed Tokyo Station, it is the only remaining work by architect Kingo Tatsuno in the Tohoku region. This majestic red-brick building is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.The building’s exterior exudes elegance, while its spacious interior boasts high ceilings and Western architectural charm from the early 20th century. Inside, there are two zones: a free "Iwate Bank Zone" and a paid "Morioka Bank Zone."
The free zone features a multipurpose hall and a library lounge showcasing the history of Morioka’s industry and commerce.
The paid zone includes a tour of the reception rooms, a vault still in use since the building's opening, exhibits on Iwate’s financial history, and a theater presenting the building’s history and architecture.
The free zone features a multipurpose hall and a library lounge showcasing the history of Morioka’s industry and commerce.
The paid zone includes a tour of the reception rooms, a vault still in use since the building's opening, exhibits on Iwate’s financial history, and a theater presenting the building’s history and architecture.
Opening Hours | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM) |
Admission |
General (16 years and older): ¥300 (Group: ¥200) Elementary & Junior High Students: ¥100 (Group: ¥50) Preschool Children (Under 7 years): Free |
Access |
By Train: About 10 minutes by bus from JR Morioka Station. By Car: About 10 minutes from Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
16. Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamon-do - Hiraizumi Town
Hiraizumi, located in Iwate Prefecture and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has a history of temple construction predating the prosperity of the Oshu Fujiwara clan. Among its legendary sites is Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamon-do. Around 1,200 years ago, General Sakanoue no Tamuramaro was ordered by Emperor Kanmu to subdue the bandit Akuro-o, who resided in the Takkoku Cave. Before his campaign, he prayed for victory at Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto. After successfully defeating Akuro-o, he built Bishamon-do as a tribute to Kiyomizu Temple. The hall houses 108 statues of Bishamonten (a guardian deity of Buddhism) and is an impressive example of cliff-side architecture, known as kengaizukuri (overhanging construction). It is the largest temple of its kind in Japan. Visitors can also obtain the Goohoin, a protective amulet believed to ward off evil and invite good fortune, earning its reputation as the "strongest talisman."
Opening Hours |
General Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Winter (November 4 – February 28): 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
Admission |
Adults: ¥500 Middle & High School Students: ¥200 Children (Elementary School & Below): Free |
Access | By Train: A 5-minute taxi ride from JR Hiraizumi Station. |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
17. Iwate TSUNAMI Memorial (The Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Memorial Museum) - Rikuzentakata City
Japan is a country prone to natural disasters, and its people have developed resilience and preparedness over centuries. However, the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of March 11, 2011, claimed countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the nation. To prevent such tragedies in the future, it is vital to equip ourselves with knowledge and technology, take proactive actions, and build communities resilient to natural disasters.
The Iwate TSUNAMI Memorial aims to share the facts and lessons of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami with people around the world. It seeks to inspire visitors to learn from the wisdom of those who came before us and to foster a society better prepared to face natural disasters. The museum also expresses gratitude for the global support received during the recovery, showcasing the region's journey toward rebuilding and resilience.
Opening Hours |
Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM) Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays (December 29 to January 3), and temporary closure days |
Admission | Free |
External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |