Hello, my name is Matsuki (松木), a train conductor at JR East Morioka Control Center. You might be wondering, where is Morioka?
Morioka City (盛岡市) in Iwate Prefecture (岩手県) was selected as one of the “52 Places in the World to Go” by the NY Times in 2023. From exciting summer festivals to cultural hotspots, here are some of our recommended spots to visit and activities to enjoy in Morioka City!
1. View of Mt. Iwate from Asahi Bridge
With an elevation of 2,038m, Mount Iwate is a stratovolcano that can be seen in its grandeur from many places in Morioka City. It has been selected as one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan, and its beautiful ridges are also known as “Nanbu Fuji”. Iwate, with its seasonal scenery, attracts visitors with its fresh greenery in spring, lush mountain surface in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscape in winter. This mountain, beloved by local people, is also known as a popular climbing and hiking spot, attracting many nature lovers.
One of the locals’ favourite spots to view Mount Iwate is at Asahi Bridge (旭橋). A stroll across Asahi Bridge isn’t just about crossing the Kitakami River—it’s a chance to pause, take in the serene landscape, and feel the deep connection between Morioka’s city charm and the grandeur of nature. Don’t miss this picture-perfect spot when you visit Morioka!
2. Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building
History buffs, do you recognise this building? This is the Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building. The building, designed by Kingo Tatsuno and Manji Kasai, who also designed Tokyo Station, was once used as a bank. Currently designated as a National Important Cultural Property, it is a symbol of Morioka City and is visited by many tourists, and the perfect showcase of the elegance of Meiji-era architecture.
3. Morioka Castle Site Park
The former site of Morioka Castle, which was the residence of the lords of the Nanbu domain, has been selected as one of the “100 Best Castles in Japan” and “100 Best Historical Parks in Japan”, and is an attractive spot where history and nature are in harmony. In the park, magnificent stone walls and ponds built in the Edo Period remain, giving visitors a sense of the breath of history.
4. Morioka Hachimangu Shrine
Morioka Hachimangu Shrine (盛岡八幡宮), built in 1680, is a historic shrine and one of the most famous places of worship in Iwate Prefecture. The current shrine pavilion was rebuilt in 1997, and the vermilion-lacquered main shrine is decorated with a variety of beautiful carvings. The approach to the shrine is lined with restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal or a cup of amazake (甘酒 non-alcoholic sweet sake).
5. Nanshoso
Nanshoso (南昌荘) is a historical building built around 1885 as a residence by Morioka-born businessman Yasugoro Segawa (頼川安五郎). The garden, which took several years to complete, allows visitors to experience the seasonal scenery and nature of Iwate. Visitors can spend a quiet moment while enjoying matcha green tea and tea sweets on the porch.
6. Morioka Sansa Odori Festival
Morioka Sansa Odori (盛岡さんさ踊り), a summer festival in Morioka, is one of the most famous festivals in Tohoku. Held annually from 1–4 August, it was recognised by the Guinness World Records in 2014 for the record of simultaneous performance of Japanese drums.
Prepare to be amazed by the thunderous rhythm of taiko drums, the graceful variety of choreography of dancers, and the lively tunes of flutes and singing. Each team brings its unique style to the parade, making every performance a fresh and unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the magic of Morioka Sansa Odori!
7. Joyful Train Hinabi
Have you heard of Joyful Trains by JR East? They are sightseeing trains, designed to make your rail journey equally exciting as the destination!
There is a relatively new Joyful Train in town, and it’s called the Hinabi (ひなび)!
Celebrating its 1st anniversary this December, Hinabi offers a relaxing train ride with views of the natural beauty of the northern Tohoku region from the stylish and relaxed atmosphere of the train. The “Morioka colour scheme”, which features red lines on a white background, mountains in the center, waves and rivers on the left and right sides, and snow flurries, represents the rich natural environment in all seasons of the northern Tohoku region.
Why not have a taste of the rich nature of Iwate?
Speaking of taste, JAPAN RAIL CLUB’s “White Winter” Omiyage Snack Box features 2 snacks from Iwate! Try these snacks and more during this festive season!
These are just some of the highlights of Morioka City, so be sure to come visit the next time you are in the Tohoku Region! We will be waiting for you~
