The Tohoku Region (東北地方) is made up of six prefectures, one of which is Iwate Prefecture (岩手県). Located in the northern part of the region, the prefecture is known for its culinary cuisine and prominent landmarks, and many visitors access the prefecture via Morioka (盛岡市), Iwate’s capital city.
Morioka is also directly connected to Tokyo and other major cities by train via Morioka Station (盛岡駅), and visitors can travel by rail to the city by taking the Tohoku Shinkansen (東北新幹線). Thanks to direct railway accessibility, visitors can easily explore the city and the prefecture by taking the Shinkansen.
Did you know? The city garnered worldwide attention when it placed number #2 on the list of “52 Places to Go” from The New York Times in 2023, and since then, the city has witnessed more visitors coming to discover the city! Ever wondered what is there to see in the city? Then read on!
① Take a stroll and travel back in time to Nataya-cho
One of the unique features of Morioka is its walkability: the city is perfect for exploring on foot! There are many spots around the city that visitors can check out, but if they want to know the city intimately, the one spot they shouldn’t miss is Nataya-cho (鉈屋町), a quaint district located along the Kitakami River (北上川).
There are many historical buildings in the district that illustrate Morioka’s past, one of which is the Morioka Machiya Story Museum (もりおか町家物語館). The museum building used to be a sake brewery until it was renovated in 2006, and it features exhibits and sightseeing information that explains the city’s past, especially during the Showa Period.
Visitors exploring Morioka will encounter the prefecture’s special handicrafts, and the most iconic type is Nambu ironware (南部鉄器), which has a history that stretches back a few hundred years. Common Nambu ironwares include kettles and teapots, and since they are made from iron, they are said to have good heat retention and distribution.
② Eat wanko soba to your heart’s content
This is a challenge that many visitors to Morioka have accepted, so why not take the challenge yourself the next time you visit the city? They are not obligated to eat to their limits, but it can be curious to know how much one can eat in one sitting, don’t you think?
③ Behold, the Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building
If there is one historical landmark that visitors should not miss in Morioka, it is the Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building (岩手銀行赤レンガ館). Originally built in 1911, the building has been designated an Important Cultural Property, and is known for its Meiji Era Western-influenced architecture. One more fun fact about the building: it was designed by the same people who also designed Tokyo Station!
The Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building (岩手銀行赤レンガ館)
Address: 2-20 Nakanohashi-dori 1-chome, Morioka-shi, Iwate 020-0871
Access: 10-minute bus ride from Morioka Station (盛岡駅)
④ Enjoy the splendid views of Morioka Castle Ruins Park
Want to enjoy some quiet time, as well as beautiful seasonal views of Morioka? Then the perfect place for that would be Morioka Castle Ruins Park (盛岡城跡公園). The park is home to the former namesake castle, and is a favourite among both the locals and tourists for strolls and scenic views of the surrounding city.
The park is also known for its seasonal beauty: in spring, the park will be enveloped in vibrantly blooming cherry blossoms, and in autumn, warm autumn foliage will colour the park. Even if it is not spring or autumn, the park is worth visiting at any time of the year!
Morioka Castle Ruins Park (盛岡城跡公園)
Address: 1-37 Uchimaru, Morioka, Iwate 020-0023
Access: 15-minute walk from Morioka Station (盛岡駅)
See you in Morioka!
Morioka is one of the major cities in Tohoku that is worth visiting for anyone visiting the region. With its profound history and culture, diverse culinary offerings, and iconic landmarks, the city has something for everyone, and visitors will find themselves wanting to drop by many times once they have set foot in Morioka.
If you want an in-depth look at what the city has to offer, then JAPAN RAIL CLUB has the perfect walking tour just for you. Together with an English-speaking guide, you will visit the city’s prominent landmarks, such as the Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building and Morioka Castle Ruins Park, and enjoy the different tastes of the city, from wanko soba to local sake tasting. Have a look here to learn more about the walking tour, and we will see you in Morioka soon!
Header image credit: ©Linktivity
