Top 10 things to do in Iwate

  1. Hachimantai Ski Resort

    Address: 〒028-7305 Iwate, Hachimantai, Matsuo, Appi Kougen

    Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding with breathtaking views at Hachimantai Ski Resort. With 21 courses and various levels of difficulty, this resort is perfect for both beginners and experts. The resort also offers hot springs and restaurants for a complete winter vacation experience.

  2. Morioka Handi-Works Square

    Address: 〒020-0023 Iwate, Morioka, Uchimaru, 4 Chome−1−1

    Discover the art of traditional Japanese crafts at Morioka Handi-Works Square. Visitors can watch skilled craftsmen create pottery, lacquerware, and other handcrafted items. There are also workshops where visitors can try their hand at creating their own unique souvenir to take home.

  3. Motsuji Temple

    Address: 〒029-4102 Iwate, Hiraizumi, Koromonoseki, 58

    Step back in time at Motsuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This temple was once the center of political and cultural life during the Heian period and is now home to beautiful gardens and buildings. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this important site.

  4. Geibikei Gorge

    Address: 〒029-4102 Iwate, Ichinoseki, Yakeyama, Higashitamagawa

    Explore the natural beauty of Geibikei Gorge by boat. Visitors can take a leisurely ride down the river while admiring the towering cliffs and waterfalls. There are also hiking trails for those who want to explore the area on foot.

  5. Chuson-ji Temple

    Address: 〒029-4102 Iwate, Hiraizumi, Koromonoseki, 202

    Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Chuson-ji Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple complex includes several buildings and pagodas, as well as a museum with important cultural artifacts. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the temple.

  6. Rock-Breaking Cherry Blossom Festival

    Address: 〒020-0023 Iwate, Morioka, Uchimaru, 2 Chome−13−1

    If you're visiting Iwate in early May, don't miss the Rock-Breaking Cherry Blossom Festival. This unique festival involves breaking open rocks with hammers to reveal cherry blossom trees inside. There are also food stalls and performances for a festive atmosphere.

  7. Takamatsu-kouen Park

    Address: 〒020-0022 Iwate, Morioka, Takamatsu, 1 Chome−1−1

    Take a relaxing stroll through Takamatsu-kouen Park, a beautiful park with a large pond and walking trails. The park is particularly popular during cherry blossom season, when the trees are in full bloom.

  8. Wanko Soba Eating Challenge

    Address: 〒020-0021 Iwate, Morioka, Moriokaminami, 1 Chome−1−1

    If you're feeling adventurous, try the Wanko Soba Eating Challenge. Wanko Soba is a traditional dish in Iwate, consisting of small bowls of soba noodles. The challenge involves trying to eat as many bowls as possible in a set amount of time. It's a fun and unique way to experience local cuisine.

  9. Morioka Castle Site Park

    Address: 〒020-0123 Iwate, Morioka, Shinkoji, 1 Chome−1

    Explore the ruins of Morioka Castle at Morioka Castle Site Park. The castle was built in the early 17th century and was an important stronghold during the Edo period. The park also has a museum with exhibits about the castle's history and artifacts.

  10. Kitakami Tenshochi Cherry Blossom Festival

    Address: 〒024-0000 Iwate, Kitakami, Tenshochi, 1 Chome−1

    Take a day trip to Kitakami for the Tenshochi Cherry Blossom Festival. This festival is known for its stunning cherry blossom tunnels, which stretch for over two kilometers along the Kitakami River. There are also food stalls and performances for a festive atmosphere.