Morioka

This is your travel guide for Morioka, Iwate, Japan

1 : Visit Tenshochi Park and see the Cherry Blossoms Festival [2 hrs]

Tenshochi Park is famous for its beautiful cherry trees along the Kitakami River. The park is particularly stunning during the Cherry Blossoms Festival held in late April when the trees are in full bloom. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a boat ride under the blooming sakura, and don’t miss the iconic cherry blossom tunnel.

2 : Explore Morioka Castle Ruins Park [1.5 hrs]

Morioka Castle Ruins Park offers a glimpse into the city’s history. Walk around the remains of the castle, including the impressive stone walls and the reconstructed watchtower. The park also features a lovely garden with seasonal flowers and beautiful views of the city.

3 : Discover Ryusendo Cave [2 hrs]

Ryusendo Cave is one of Japan’s most famous limestone caves, known for its crystal-clear blue lakes and stunning rock formations. Join a guided tour to explore the illuminated passages, underground waterfalls, and unique geological features. The temperature inside the cave remains around 6 degrees Celsius, so dress warmly.

4 : Visit the Morioka Handi-Works Square [1 hr]

At Morioka Handi-Works Square, you can witness traditional crafts and artisans at work. Learn about the local craftsmanship through hands-on experiences like pottery-making, weaving, and lacquerware painting. The square is a great place to buy authentic souvenirs and support local artists.

5 : Indulge in Wanko Soba Experience [1.5 hrs]

Try the famous Wanko Soba, a local specialty where you eat small portions of soba noodles served in rapid succession. Participate in the Wanko Soba challenge and see how many bowls you can eat. Experience this unique culinary tradition at one of the restaurants in Morioka.

Background Info

Weather

Morioka experiences cold winters with temperatures dropping below freezing, and heavy snowfall is common. Summers are mild with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with higher precipitation in the summer months. Humidity levels can be high, especially during the rainy season.

Language

Japanese

Cost Of Living

Morioka has a lower cost of living compared to major cities in Japan like Tokyo and Osaka. Rent, groceries, and dining out are generally more affordable in Morioka.

Other

Morioka is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional arts and crafts like Nambu ironware and Sansa Odori, a lively taiko drumming festival. The city is also a gateway to the scenic beauty of the Tohoku region, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot spring baths.