Explore Iwate
Japan’s Land of Scenic Beauty, Samurai Heritage, and Local Delicacies

Iwate, the second-largest prefecture in Japan, is a hidden gem in the Tohoku region. Known for its breathtaking nature, historic temples, and rich cultural traditions, Iwate offers an authentic travel experience for those seeking adventure, history, and exquisite local cuisine.

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Best Food in Iwate: Local Dishes You Must Try

Iwate is a paradise for food lovers, offering regional specialties that reflect its rich agricultural and coastal resources.

  • Wanko Soba: A unique dining experience where small bowls of soba noodles are served continuously until you’re full.
  • Morioka Reimen: A cold noodle dish inspired by Korean cuisine, featuring a chewy texture and refreshing broth.
  • Jajamen: A local take on Chinese zhajiangmian, consisting of thick wheat noodles topped with savory miso-based meat sauce.
  • Maesawa Beef: A premium wagyu beef known for its exceptional marbling and deep umami flavor.
  • Sanriku Seafood: Freshly caught sea urchins, scallops, and abalone from the Sanriku coast.

Iwate Festivals & Events: Seasonal Highlights

Iwate is home to lively festivals that celebrate its culture, history, and changing seasons.

  • Chagu Chagu Umakko (June): A colorful horse parade in Takizawa and Morioka, where beautifully adorned horses march through the streets.
  • Morioka Sansa Odori (August): One of Japan’s largest drum festivals, featuring thousands of performers dancing in unison.
  • Kitakami Michinoku Geino Festival (August): Showcasing traditional performing arts such as lion dances and folk music.
  • Hiraizumi Gokusui no En (May): A Heian-period reenactment at Motsu-ji Temple featuring poetry and tea ceremonies.
  • Snow Festivals in Koiwai Farm (February): Illuminated snow sculptures and winter activities set in a picturesque farm setting.

Outdoor Activities in Iwate: Best Things to Do Year-Round

Iwate’s vast landscapes offer a range of outdoor adventures in every season.

  • Hiking in Hachimantai: Explore the volcanic plateau of Hachimantai with scenic trails and stunning autumn foliage.
  • Ryusendo Cave Exploration: A breathtaking limestone cave featuring underground lakes with crystal-clear blue water.
  • Skiing & Snowboarding at Appi Kogen: One of Tohoku’s best ski resorts with powdery snow and excellent facilities.
  • Sanriku Coast Sightseeing: Enjoy dramatic cliffs, beaches, and scenic boat rides along Jodogahama Beach.
  • Cycling in Genbikei Gorge: Ride along the rugged river valley and experience the famous flying dango (mochi dumplings) from a basket across the gorge.

Must-Visit Places in Iwate: Top Attractions

Discover the historic and scenic spots that make Iwate a must-visit destination.

  • Hiraizumi Temples & Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Chuson-ji Temple and Motsu-ji Temple, showcasing Heian-era Buddhist culture.
  • Geibikei Gorge Boat Ride: A serene boat tour through a dramatic limestone gorge with towering cliffs.
  • Morioka Castle Ruins Park: A peaceful site with historical remains and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
  • Koiwai Farm: A vast dairy farm offering fresh dairy products, scenic landscapes, and seasonal events.
  • Tono Furusato Village: A charming folk village preserving traditional thatched-roof houses and folklore culture.

Getting Around Iwate: Public Transportation Guide

Iwate’s transportation network makes it easy to explore both urban and rural areas.

  • Tohoku Shinkansen: High-speed bullet trains connect Morioka to Tokyo in about 2 hours.
  • Iwate Hanamaki Airport: Offers domestic flights to major cities such as Osaka and Sapporo.
  • Local Buses & JR Trains: Convenient for getting around major cities and tourist sites.
  • Sanriku Railway: A scenic railway along the coast, providing stunning ocean views.
  • Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring rural areas like Hachimantai and Tono at your own pace.

Best Hotels in Iwate: Where to Stay

Whether you’re looking for luxury or traditional experiences, Iwate has accommodations for every traveler.

  • Budget-Friendly Stays: Comfortable and affordable options like Natural Hot Spring Sansa-no-yu Dormy Inn Morioka.
Natural Hot Spring Sansa-no-yu Dormy Inn Morioka

  • Luxury Hotels: Stay at Hotel Metropolitan Morioka for a comfortable stay in the heart of the city.
Hotel Metropolitan Morioka

  • Traditional Ryokan: a luxurious hot spring resort offering stunning mountain views, traditional Japanese hospitality, and relaxing onsen experiences at Hotel Mori-no-kaze Oushuku.
Hotel Mori-no-kaze Oushuku

  • Onsen Resorts: Relax in Hanamaki Onsen, one of Iwate’s most famous hot spring resorts.
Yamano Kami Onesen Yuukaen（Hanamaki Onsen）

Yunomori Hotel Shidotaira（Hanamaki Onsen）

Iwate’s Cultural Heritage: Experience Unique Traditions

Iwate’s deep-rooted traditions offer visitors a glimpse into Japan’s historical and spiritual past.

  • Hiraizumi’s Heian-era Temples: Walk through the serene temples and gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Tono’s Yokai Folklore: Learn about legendary creatures such as the Kappa at Tono’s folklore museums.
  • Wanko Soba Tradition: Experience the fun and lively competition of all-you-can-eat soba noodles.
  • Handcrafted Nambu Tekki (Ironware): Explore the history of traditional ironware production in Morioka.
  • Sanriku Fishing Culture: Visit the coastal towns and witness traditional seafood harvesting and markets.

Best Souvenirs from Iwate: What to Buy

Take home a piece of Iwate with these local specialties.

  • Nambu Senbei: Traditional rice crackers available in various flavors.
  • Wanko Soba Souvenir Sets: Bring home the ingredients to recreate this famous dish.
  • Nambu Tekki Ironware: High-quality cast iron teapots and cookware, known for their durability.
  • Hiraizumi Buddhist Art Replicas: Beautiful handcrafted replicas of historic artifacts from Chuson-ji Temple.
  • Sanriku Seaweed & Seafood: Freshly packed local seaweed and seafood products from the coastal region.

Plan Your Iwate Adventure Today!

From stunning landscapes and historical temples to unique cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine, Iwate offers an enriching and authentic Japanese travel experience. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or historical exploration, Iwate has something for everyone.

For more travel inspiration, check out our Japan travel guides and start planning your trip to Iwate today!