Experience the Charm of Iwate Prefecture! Japan Travel Web Writer Kasumi Introduces Unknown Beauty and Impressions
- Experience the unknown charms of Iwate Prefecture! A series of surprises from the beginning of your trip
- A moment to touch the history and tradition of Iwate
- A superb view of Iwate! Beautiful nature and the changes of the four seasons unfolding in it
- Experience the ultimate healing of Iwate’s local cuisine and hot springs
- Explore the hidden spots and legends of Iwate Prefecture
- Experience the heartwarming hospitality of Iwate at the end of your trip
- From “Historical Buildings Selected by Kasumi”, we will introduce 5 historical buildings in Iwate Prefecture.
Experience the unknown charms of Iwate Prefecture! A series of surprises from the beginning of your trip
A moment to touch the history and tradition of Iwate
The moment I set foot in Iwate Prefecture, I could feel its deep history and tradition. Although Iwate is generally recognized as part of the Tohoku region, it is actually a place that is deeply involved in Japanese history and culture.
For example, Hiraizumi. This place is where the Hiraizumi clan government was once established, and it is also registered as part of the World Heritage Site “Hiraizumi-Archaeological Sites, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Land of Buddha (Pure Land)”. When I visited this area, I also visited Chuson-ji Temple and Motsu-ji Temple, and was deeply moved by the beautiful architecture and carving techniques of the Heian period.
A superb view of Iwate! Beautiful nature and the changes of the four seasons unfolding in it
Iwate Prefecture is very attractive for its natural beauty and the four seasons within it. I was most moved by Mt. Iwate. This mountain is also known as one of the 100 famous mountains in Japan.
The climbing route from the foot of Mt. Iwate to the summit offers a different atmosphere in every season, with fresh greenery in the spring, refreshing breezes in the summer, colored leaves in the fall, and snowy landscapes in the winter. I visited during the fall foliage season and was mesmerized by the view from the summit. On average, about 100,000 tourists visit Mt. Iwate in autumn, which shows how popular it is.
In addition, there is a limestone cave called “Ryusendo Cave” in Iwate Prefecture. There is no doubt that you will come across breathtaking beauty when you visit here as well.
Experience the ultimate healing of Iwate’s local cuisine and hot springs
When it comes to traveling, you can’t miss the local gourmet food. Iwate Prefecture is rich in unique and delicious dishes such as beef tongue, wanko soba, and chilled Chinese noodles. Wanko soba, in particular, is unique in that you can eat many bowls of it, making it a new experience for visitors. I also tried this wanko soba at my local Yamatoya and was blown away by its unique style and taste.
In addition, Iwate is also rich in hot springs such as Hanamaki Onsen, where you can soothe your mind and body. By enjoying the hot springs and local cuisine, the tiredness of the trip will be blown away at once.
Explore the hidden spots and legends of Iwate Prefecture
A mysterious place in Iwate where tradition and history are alive
Iwate Prefecture is home to many old legends and myths. I was able to experience the deep history and culture of Iwate by visiting some of them.
The first is Iwai Falls in Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture. Legend has it that Iwai, a member of the Hiraizumi clan, hid in this waterfall when he ran away. Behind the waterfall, there is also a cave where Iwai is said to have hidden, and I was drawn into its mysterious atmosphere.
Another Superb View! Iwate Coastline and Sunset
Iwate Prefecture is not only beautiful inland, but also has a beautiful coastline. In particular, the coastline of “Miyako City” is known for its superb view. During the sunset hours, the sun setting over the sea is a spectacular sight, and many photographers and tourists visit. When I visited Miyako City, I was fascinated by the beautiful sunset.
A unique local experience, a handmade workshop in Iwate
One of the attractions of traveling is to enjoy experiences unique to the land. In Iwate Prefecture, there are many workshops and hands-on classes for making traditional handicrafts. I also participated in the “Nambu Tekki” workshop, where I learned traditional techniques and experienced making my own original ironware. This was a valuable experience that cannot be experienced in everyday life.
Experience the heartwarming hospitality of Iwate at the end of your trip
Iwate’s traditional culture and spirit of hospitality
Having traveled all over Japan, I felt something special about the warmth and hospitality of the people of Iwate. The spirit of valuing the traditional culture and history of this area is also reflected in the way they treat visitors.
As an example, when I visited “Handmade Soba Restaurant Ishiwari” in Morioka City, the owner provided me with a detailed explanation of the handmade soba. I was deeply impressed by their enthusiasm and deliciousness.
A hidden gem recommended by locals
The real pleasure of traveling is finding hidden sights that are not listed in guidebooks. Iwate has many secret spots that only locals know about.
For example, “Tono City, Iwate Prefecture”. Many legends and old tales have been handed down in this area, and it is also known as “Tono Monogatari”. I was able to experience unknown scenery and history while asking the locals for their recommendations.
Iwate specialties to taste at the end of the trip
One of my favorite things to do at the end of my trip is to pick up some local specialties. Iwate Prefecture is rich in seafood and mountain delicacies, all of which are exquisite.
Among them, I would especially like to recommend “Iwate no Junmaishu”. In particular, the brand “Nanbu Bijin” has won many awards for its deep flavor and aroma. It is perfect as a drink to soothe the fatigue of your trip, or as a souvenir for your family and friends.
With this, I would like to conclude my introduction to Iwate Prefecture. I, Kasumi, who has traveled all over Japan, cannot fully convey the charm of Iwate. By all means, please experience the deep charm, history, and culture of Iwate Prefecture with your own feet. It will surely be a memorable trip.
From “Historical Buildings Selected by Kasumi”, we will introduce 5 historical buildings in Iwate Prefecture.
Chusonji Temple (Oshu City)
Commentary: Chusonji Temple in Oshu City was built in the Heian period and is known as the oldest existing wooden structure in Japan. The golden seated statue of Amida Nyorai enshrined in the Great Buddha Hall is a beauty that attracts the hearts of visitors.
Kasumi Point: The tranquil atmosphere and majestic architecture make it seem as though time has stopped. I was deeply moved by the weight of history and the traditions handed down here.
Motsuji Temple (Oshu City)
Description: Motsuji Temple in Hiraizumi is a Jodo sect temple built by Taira no Kiyomori. The garden, five-storied pagoda, and Kondo are designated as national treasures.
Kasumi Point: The reflection in the pond around the Konjikido looks like heaven. This scenery has become one of the places I want to visit again and again in my lifetime.
Nanbu Garden (Morioka City)
Commentary: The Nambu Garden in Morioka City was created as a garden for the Nambu family. It is a Japanese garden where you can enjoy the scenery of each season, and it is especially beautiful during the autumn leaves season.
Kasumi Point: A place where you can feel the traditional atmosphere of Japan. A walk in the quiet garden was a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Tono Private House (Tono City)
Commentary: The old private houses that dot Tono City are valuable structures that convey the lifestyle and construction techniques of the past. These private houses allow you to feel the history and culture of Tono along with the stories of Tono.
Kasumi point: By visiting the private houses where people actually lived, you can feel the lives and thoughts of people in the past, which is very impressive.
Morioka Castle Ruins (Morioka City)
Commentary: Morioka Castle was built by the Nambu clan, and the site is now a park. Remnants of the stone wall and moat still remain, and you can remember the history of the castle.
Kasumi Point: Cherry blossoms bloom profusely in spring, and many people come to see the castle ruins as a park. I would like to recommend it as a place where you can feel the overlap of beautiful scenery and history.
These historical buildings are all places where you can feel the deep history and culture of Iwate Prefecture. We hope that you will visit these places and fully enjoy the charm of Iwate.
