Iwate Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Iwate, Japan with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in this scenic area of Japan.
- Introduction to Iwate
- List of Places to Visit in Iwate
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Iwate
- Mount Kurikoma
- Shizukuishi
- Best Things to Do in Iwate: Activities and Tours
- Horseback Riding in Appi Kogen
- Road Biking in Hiraizumi
- Week-Long Itinerary for Iwate
- Food and Drink Scene of Iwate
- Where to Stay in Iwate: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Ryokans
- Hostels and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Iwate: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Iwate
- Best Time to Visit Iwate
- Do’s and Don’ts of Iwate
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Iwate: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Iwate
- Where to Go Next from Iwate: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Akita
- Sendai
- Conclusion
Introduction to Iwate
Iwate is located in the Tohoku region of Japan, known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. The prefecture is home to the highest mountain range in Japan, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hiraizumi, and numerous hot springs. Whether you are looking to hike, ski, relax, or immerse yourself in Japanese history and culture, Iwate has something to offer.
List of Places to Visit in Iwate
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Hiraizumi
Hiraizumi was once the political and cultural center of Tohoku during the Heian period (794-1185). Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to several stunning temples and gardens, including Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji.
Morioka Castle Ruins
Morioka Castle was once a mighty fortress during the Edo period, but today only the stone walls remain. Visitors can enjoy the park grounds, which are particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Iwate Museum of Art
The Iwate Museum of Art has an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from Japan and abroad, including works by renowned local artists such as Katsushika Hokusai.
Natural Attractions of Iwate: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Mount Iwate
Mt. Iwate, over 2,000 meters high, is the highest peak in Iwate Prefecture. The mountain is popular among hikers, who can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Geibikei Gorge
The Geibikei Gorge, located in Ichinoseki, is a stunning natural wonder with steep cliffs and crystal-clear water. Visitors can take a boat ride down the gorge and enjoy the scenery.
Jodogahama Beach
Jodogahama Beach is known for its pristine white pebbles and turquoise waters. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Iwate
Mount Kurikoma
Mount Kurikoma is a popular hiking spot with stunning views of the surrounding area. The hike to the summit takes approximately five hours and is suitable for experienced hikers.
Shizukuishi
Shizukuishi is a famous winter sports resort in Iwate, known for its ski slopes and cross-country ski trails. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking on the same trails.
Best Things to Do in Iwate: Activities and Tours
Horseback Riding in Appi Kogen
Appi Kogen is a popular winter resort in Iwate, but during the summer months, visitors can enjoy horseback riding along its scenic mountain trails.
Road Biking in Hiraizumi
Hiraizumi is a great place to rent a bike and explore the countryside. The town has several well-maintained cycling trails that offer stunning views of Japan’s rural landscapes.
Week-Long Itinerary for Iwate
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore Hiraizumi |
| Day 2 | Visit Morioka Castle Ruins and nearby hot springs |
| Day 3 | Hike Mount Iwate |
| Day 4 | Discover the Geibikei Gorge |
| Day 5 | Visit the Iwate Museum of Art in Morioka |
| Day 6 | Ski or hike in Appi Kogen |
| Day 7 | Relax at a local hot spring and enjoy local cuisine |
Food and Drink Scene of Iwate
Must-Try Dishes
Wanko Soba
Wanko Soba is a local specialty in Iwate, featuring small portions of soba noodles served in small bowls. The idea is to finish as many bowls as possible, with the record being over 500 in one sitting.
Jajamen
Jajamen is a local noodle dish made with thick, chewy noodles in a flavorful broth topped with vegetables and meat.
Local Beverages
Nanbu Bijin Sake
Nanbu Bijin Sake is a famous brand of sake produced in Iwate that has won numerous awards for its quality.
Where to Stay in Iwate: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Ryokans
Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer a unique experience for visitors. Some of the best ryokans in Iwate include Hanamaki Onsen Hotel Higashiyama, Hachinohe City Hotel, and Hotel Kairakuen.
Hostels and Guesthouses
For budget accommodation, there are several good options in Iwate, including Iwate Bunka Hostel, Seaside Hostel Mito, and Hichiso no Yado.
What to Buy in Iwate: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Nanbu Tekki (Ironware)
Nanbu Tekki is a type of cast ironware that has been produced in Iwate for over 900 years. It’s known for its durability and is a popular souvenir.
Morioka Reimen Noodles
Morioka Reimen Noodles are a summer specialty in Iwate, featuring cold noodles served in a refreshing broth with vegetables and meat.
Local Culture and Customs of Iwate
Iwate is known for its strong sense of community and dedication to preserving traditional culture. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as taking off shoes before entering a home or temple.
Best Time to Visit Iwate
The best time to visit Iwate is from April to November, with the summer months being the most popular. During this time, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, as well as festivals and events throughout the region.
Do’s and Don’ts of Iwate
Do:
- Be respectful of local culture and customs
- Try local cuisine, including Wanko Soba and Jajamen
- Visit Hiraizumi and other culturally significant places
Don’t:
- Litter or disturb the natural environment
- Wear shoes inside homes or temples
- Ignore safety warnings or advice from locals
Safety and Health
Safety in Iwate
Iwate is generally a very safe place to visit, but like any place, visitors should take precautions to avoid accidents or injury. Be mindful when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, and always follow safety guidelines and advice from locals.
Health in Iwate
Japan is known for its high standards of hygiene and safety, and Iwate is no exception. Visitors should take common-sense precautions, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding uncooked or undercooked food.
Getting to Iwate: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Iwate
The closest airport to Iwate is Hanamaki Airport, located approximately 45 minutes from the city center. Several airlines offer direct flights from major cities in Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka.
Bus Stations Near Iwate
Iwate has an extensive network of local and regional buses, with several stations located throughout the prefecture, including Morioka Station and Hachinohe Station.
Other Options
There are several other transportation options for getting to Iwate, including train, car, and taxi. The shinkansen (bullet train) stops at several stations in Iwate, including Morioka and Ichinoseki.
How to Get Around in Iwate
The best way to get around Iwate is by car, especially if you plan to visit several remote or rural areas. However, there are also several bus and train routes throughout the prefecture, making it easy to navigate without a car.
Where to Go Next from Iwate: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Akita
Akita is located just south of Iwate and is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Tazawa and the Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains.
Sendai
Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku region and is known for its historic sites, shopping, and nightlife.
Conclusion
Iwate is a stunning prefecture in Japan, offering visitors a unique mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or immersing yourself in Japanese traditions and cuisine, Iwate is the perfect destination. Plan your trip today and experience the beauty of this scenic part of Japan.
