Morioka

Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture, is an underrated treasure city of Tohoku cuisine and history. It is home not only to the hearty “Three Great Noodles of Morioka,” but also top-quality Maesawa beef and fresh seafood from the Sanriku Coast. Below is a Morioka travel guide to help you easily explore this robust yet soothing city.

Suggested Itinerary (2 Days, 1 Night)

• ​​Day 1: City Culture and Hearty Food​​
  • ​​Morning​​: Head to Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park) for a walk, taking in the historic stone walls and seasonal scenery; then walk to the Iwate Bank Red Brick Building to check out this century-old red-brick building created by the architect behind Tokyo Station.
  • ​​Afternoon​​: Experience Morioka Handi-Works Square and try making Nanbu ironware or pottery by hand; alternatively, find a café in the city center, such as the popular nagasawa coffee, for a break.
  • ​​Evening​​: Near JR Morioka Station, take on the “Three Great Noodles of Morioka,” and pair dinner with authentic Iwate beef yakiniku to end a fulfilling day.

• ​​Day 2: Rural Nature and Nearby Exploration​​
  • ​​Morning​​: Take a bus to Koiwai Farm, enjoy the vast pastoral scenery, and be sure to drink the rich yogurt made directly on the farm.

If you like skiing or natural scenery, you can also choose to visit Appi Kogen Ski Resort (in summer, it is good for escaping the heat and hiking).

• ​​Afternoon​​: On the way back, stop by a specialty ice cream shop or supermarket, such as belle+one, to buy souvenirs, then depart from Morioka Station by Shinkansen.

Must-Eat Foods and Recommended Restaurants

Morioka truly lives up to its reputation as a “kingdom of noodles and meat.” Don’t miss these authentic local flavors and well-known restaurants:

Must-Visit Attractions

In addition to the cultural sights in the city, the natural scenery around Morioka is also highly charming:

• ​​Morioka Castle Site Park​​: Built on the former site of Morioka Castle, it is an excellent place for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn colors in fall. From the highest point, you can overlook the entire city.

• ​​Iwate Bank Red Brick Building​​: A red-brick building constructed in 1911, with a retro exterior and elegant exhibition halls inside. It is Morioka’s most photogenic romantic landmark.

• ​​Morioka Handi-Works Square​​: Located by Lake Gosho, it offers hands-on experiences in Nanbu ironware and pottery making, and you can also taste freshly grilled senbei. Great for families and craft lovers.
• ​​Koiwai Farm​​: A famous comprehensive farm in Japan with different scenery in every season. Yogurt and dairy products are must-buy souvenirs.

Practical Transportation and Pitfall-Avoidance Tips

• ​​Intercity Transport​​: From Tokyo, it takes about 2.5 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen to reach JR Morioka Station. If you plan to explore Tohoku in depth, consider purchasing a JR East Pass.
• ​​City Transport​​: Attractions in the city center are concentrated, so walking or taking the city loop bus is sufficient. To get to the farm or Handi-Works Square, you’ll need to take a bus; it’s best to check the timetable in advance.
• ​​Dining Reminder​​: Popular Morioka noodle restaurants, such as Seirokaku and Azumaya, often have queues during mealtimes. Visit during off-peak hours or confirm opening hours in advance. Some long-established shops may not accept credit cards, so prepare enough cash.