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MORIOKA WALKING AREA

Morioka Castle Ruins Park
Morioka Castle Ruins Park (Nationally Designated Historic Site)
The venue for Bistro Wanko and the Wanko Soba World Championship. Although the castle was demolished in 1874, it is still popular with citizens as a place where you can see beautiful stone walls throughout the park.
Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building
Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building
The former Bank of Morioka was designed by the same architectural firm Kingo Tatsuno (famously known as the architect of Tokyo Station) belonged to. The red-brick structure with a green dome and the exterior shows the rigor of Renaissance-style contours, and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
Morioka Machiya Monogatari Museum
Morioka Machiya Monogatari Museum
In addition to harmonizing with the historical landscape, the museum collects and disseminates local information and encourages interaction among local residents. A liquor store was renovated to create a lively and nostalgic shopping district atmosphere that takes one back in time to the Morioka in the 1950s and 1960s
Konyacho
Konyacho
Despite being located in the city center, Konyacho is home to many historical buildings and cultural facilities. The mixture of townhouses and Western-style buildings makes it a must-visit area for sightseeing in Morioka.
Home roasted coffee
Home roasted coffee
Coffee and cafe culture is said to be ingrained in Morioka City. There are many old-fashioned coffee shops and stores selling coffee beans. Walk around the city and you may find a new coffee shop to suit your taste.

FOOD

The Three Great Noodles of Morioka
The Three Great Noodles of Morioka
Morioka is famous for noodles, including Wankosoba, where the waiter adds bite-sized portions of soba noodles to your bowl one after another; Morioka Reimen, which features beef bone broth and firm and smooth noodles; and Jaja-men, thick, flat noodles mixed with meat and miso.
Mochi Cuisine
Mochi Cuisine
In the southern region of Iwate Prefecture, there has long been a "mochi culture" in which mochi is served at weddings, funerals, and seasonal events.
Anko (red bean paste), Zoni (a type of soup served with mochi), and Zunda (ground soybeans) are just a few examples of the approximately 300 varieties of mochi dishes that can be enjoyed.
Seafood
Seafood
Blessed with rich fishing grounds and topography, the coast is a treasure trove of seafood. The seafood from Sanriku is exquisite. You can taste sea urchins, oysters, scallops, and other seasonal seafood. In addition to sushi and sashimi, grilled and boiled fish are also recommended.

TRADITIONAL CRAFTS

Nanbu Ironware
Nanbu Ironware
Nanbu ironware, made primarily from pig iron, is now attracting worldwide attention because of its high iron content when used for cooking!
Lacquerware
Lacquerware
The local lacquerware will enchant you, including Hidehira-nuri, which features cloud-shaped patterns and gold leaf, and Joboji-nuri, which has simple colors and patterns with a low gloss.

All this and more in Iwate Prefecture!

Scenic Spots
Scenic Spots
Blessed with magnificent nature, Iwate Prefecture has many scenic spots such as the Hachimantai Dragon Eye, Ryusendo Cave, and Geibikei Gorge.
Festivals
Festivals
The Morioka Sansa Odori Festival, held every August, features spectacular dances to pray for good fortune to the accompaniment of taiko drums and chants.
Hot Springs and Inns
Hot Springs and Inns
There are more than 70 hot springs, including Hanamaki Hot Springs Village, Hachimantai Hot Springs Village, and Morioka Tsunagi Hot Springs Village.

EVENT INFO

  • TAIKEN in Yanaginogosho

    Hiraizumi World Heritage Information Center
    (108-1 Kararaku, Hiraizumi, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture)
    *Free shuttle bus service will be available between Bistro Wanko and the event venue.
    The "Hiraizumi World Heritage Information Center," showcasing the allure of the Hiraizumi World Heritage Sites, is hosting the "TAIKEN in Yanaginogosho" event. This event allows attendees to try on traditional Japanese costumes and craft accessories for free.

    Click here for more information

  • IWATE SAKE NO EN 2023 in MORIOKA

    In front of Morioka History and Culture Museum
    (1-50 Uchimaru, Morioka-shi, Iwate Prefecture)
    There's a selection of more than 110 varieties of alcohol offered by 23 local manufacturers in the prefecture! Offerings include sake presented at the summit, gold medal-winning sake from the Annual Japan Sake Awards, and competition-winning wines.
    Enjoy delicious food and local performing arts as well!

    Click here for more information

  • Iwate World Heritage Festival

    Hashino Iron Mine (2-15, Hashino-cho, Kamaishi-shi, Iwate Prefecture)
    An event showcasing the charm of three World Heritage sites in Iwate Prefecture will take place at the Hashino Iron Mine in Kamaishi City.
    Through activities such as lectures, traditional folk performances, workshops, and more, participants can see, experience, and appreciate the allure of Iwate's World Heritage sites.

  • A Place to Visit Now: Journey Through Morioka―Iwate Mori and the City of Water

    Morioka Machiya Monogatari Museum and other nearby facilities
    (10-8 Nataya-cho, Morioka-shi, Iwate Prefecture, and other locations)
    *Please verify bus tour details by course
    Morioka City was selected as one of the "52 Places to Go in 2023" by The New York Times. We have prepared special activities for visitors and look forward to welcoming you to experience the charms of this "walkable gem."

    Click here for more information

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