Morioka Sansa Odori Festival
Northwestern Iwate
Shizukuishi Ski Resort
Northwestern Iwate
Morioka Fireworks Festival
Northwestern Iwate
Sanriku Railway
Northeastern Iwate
Plunging 200m-high, 8km-long cliffs along the coast, a mysterious cavern boasting an iridescent blue underground lake, and 2000m-high mountain ranges. Iwate is blessed at every turn by beautiful natural gems that take the breath away.
Iwate Prefecture, ruled as separate northern and southern domains by samurai families until the 1870s, has distinct historic and cultural heritage in each region. Beginning with the shrines, temples and gardens of the 9th to the 12th century that are now world heritage sites, there is a world to discover of traditional entertainment and crafts in each district.
The rich produce of Iwate is made possible by nature, its mountains and seas. It is also the result of the care taken by farmers in nurturing organic soils and ensuring that livestock receive the best feed and purest water. Be sure to taste Iwate’s finest products, including some of its many luxury rice, wagyu beef, apples and oyster brands.
Outdoor sports like skiing and mountaineering, and hot springs where you can truly relax while gazing out over a bank of clouds, valleys or the sea? Or will you take part in the world’s record-breaking no. 1 taiko drums parade, an unforgettable experience of mingling with locals?
Breathtaking natural sights to fill you with wonder, World Heritage shrines and temples that pull you into the spiritual world of the Japanese, and cultural events deeply rooted in local communities. Look, touch, feel and taste Iwate Prefecture for yourself.
The east of Iwate Prefecture overlooks the Pacific, while the west is overlooked by the Ou Mountains. Iwate is the place to feast on seafood including sushi as well as products of the land such as wagyu beef and sake made from rice.
Food products from the fertile lands and seas of Iwate, and historic or traditional crafts. Take home Made-in-Iwate souvenirs for you to remember your trip or for your friends and family to enjoy.
Full-service resort, a traditional Japanese-style inn where you can sleep in a tatami mat room, or a pension that welcomes you with open arms? Let’s find the lodgings that suit you.
Iwate has a great diversity of sights and experiences depending on the season and region. Let’s have a look at what to do and where to go to find those that will pique your interest.
Presented here are some variety-filled model tour routes to discover the diverse attractions of Iwate: mountain and sea, city and wilderness, novelty and history.
Find the sights, restaurants and bars, shop and lodgings you need in Iwate here. Try exploring appealing destinations by activity or area.
Check the latest information when planning your Iwate trip for special events such as festivals and activities.
Where is Iwate? How do I get there? Find out how to get to Iwate in just over 2 hours by Shinkansen from Tokyo here.
The four major means of transport around Iwate are train, bus, rental car and taxi. Check details for each mode before you arrive for your peace of mind.
Click here to find vital information for foreign travelers such as the location of tourist information desks, how to connect to Wi-Fi during your trip and Iwate weather.
Outdoor sports like skiing and mountaineering, and hot springs where you can truly relax while gazing out over a bank of clouds, valleys or the sea? Or will you take part in the world’s record-breaking no. 1 taiko drums parade, an unforgettable experience of mingling with locals?
In Iwate Prefecture, blessed by mountains large and small, there is a diverse range of options for enjoying a walk in the mountains, from hour-long walks to challenging 2- or 3-day hikes. The alpine vegetation is a pleasure to behold in spring and summer, while in autumn it is the views from high peaks across the changing color of the mountain flanks that delight. Get your trekking shoes and mountain jacket out.
The mountains in the west of the prefecture are covered in deep snow from December to May and are home to over 15 ski resorts. To the northwest, Appi Kogen is one of Japan’s most famous ski areas, reputed for its fine powder. Here, everyone from beginners to experts can ski down thrilling runs through the forest on fresh powder snow. Geto Kogen Ski Resort in the west is also recommended: it sees some of the highest average snowfalls in Japan.
Japanese matsuri (festivals), originally seasonal religious events, are unique and deeply rooted in their district and community. At Morioka’s Sansa Odori Festival every August, around 20,000 people parade through the city playing 1500 flutes and beating more than 10,000 taiko drums. After the parade, dances are held all around the venue, and tourists can join the fun if they like. Enjoy the summer nights of Morioka, where the excitement is infectious.
If you ride a train with spectacular views out the window and the shared excitement of fellow travelers, you will have deeper experiences and longer memories of your trip. Sanriku Railway runs along the base of mountains which rise sharply from the inland side of the line, ensuring spectacular views. Iwate also has the Ginga (galaxy)-themed steam train that allows riders to live in book of a famous local children’s author. The coaches feature galleries and planetariums, whisking passengers into a fantasy world.
Hot springs, long sought-after as a cure for internal ailments and injuries, are now a popular drawcard for international travelers in search of relaxation. Easing into one of Iwate’s outdoor baths, affording ocean views on the coast or mountain valley vistas, will put you at one with nature and sooth your body and soul at the same time. Many onsen do not require you to stay the night, so a driving tour of hot springs is also highly recommended.
Northwestern Iwate
Northwestern Iwate
Northwestern Iwate
Northeastern Iwate
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