Morioka Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Morioka with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and how to get around Morioka.


Introduction to Morioka

Nestled in the northern region of Honshu, Japan’s main island, lies the picturesque city of Morioka. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and mouthwatering food scene, Morioka offers a unique travel experience for every kind of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Morioka

From historical landmarks and museums to scenic views and outdoor adventures, Morioka boasts an array of attractions for all interests.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Morioka History and Culture Museum: Explore the fascinating history and culture of Morioka and the Iwate Prefecture through interactive exhibits and displays.

  • Ishiwarizakura: Admire the beauty and resilience of the Ishiwarizakura, a massive 370-year-old cherry blossom tree that survived the devastating earthquake of 2011.

  • Morioka Castle Site Park: Discover the remnants of the once great Morioka Castle, which stood in the heart of Morioka during the Edo period.

  • Hoonji Temple: Experience the serene ambiance and traditional architecture of Hoonji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to the 13th century.

Natural Attractions of Morioka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Iwate: Hike up the majestic Mount Iwate, which towers over the city at 2,038 meters, and enjoy panoramic views from the summit.

  • Geibikei Gorge: Take a relaxing boat ride down the tranquil waters of Geibikei Gorge and marvel at the towering cliffs and scenic landscapes.

  • Tsunagi Onsen: Soak in the natural hot springs of Tsunagi Onsen, known for its therapeutic properties and beautiful mountain views.

  • Takamatsu Dam: Visit Takamatsu Dam, a spectacular engineering feat that offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Morioka

Morioka has some of the most scenic hiking and biking routes in Japan. Here are a few worth exploring.

  • Nanataki-Hakusan Course: Hike through the picturesque countryside of southern Morioka, passing by waterfalls, rivers, and forests.

  • Lake Gosho Course: Bike around the beautiful Lake Gosho, which is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of Mount Iwate.

  • Mt. Iwate Shitsugen Course: Explore the vast wetlands of the Mount Iwate area, which offer a unique ecosystem full of rare flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Morioka: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun activities and tours to experience in Morioka. Here are some of the best:

  • Wanko Soba Eating Contest: Test your eating abilities at a wanko soba eating contest, a local specialty that involves eating as many small bowls of soba as possible.

  • Morioka Handiworks Square: Learn about the traditional handicrafts of Morioka and try your hand at making your own pottery, lacquerware, or textiles.

  • Sansa Odori Festival: Join the lively celebration of the Sansa Odori Festival, a traditional dance that honors local folklore and culture, held every August.

Week-Long Itinerary for Morioka

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring the best of Morioka:

Day 1: Explore the city center and visit the Morioka History and Culture Museum. Day 2: Hike up Mount Iwate and enjoy panoramic views from the summit. Day 3: Take a relaxing boat ride down Geibikei Gorge and visit the Ishiwarizakura cherry blossom tree. Day 4: Discover the traditional handicrafts of Morioka at Morioka Handiworks Square. Day 5: Soak in the natural hot springs of Tsunagi Onsen and visit Hoonji Temple. Day 6: Participate in a wanko soba eating contest and bike around Lake Gosho. Day 7: Join the celebration of the Sansa Odori Festival and explore the scenic wetlands of Mt. Iwate.

Food and Drink Scene of Morioka

Morioka is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of delectable dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Reimen: Enjoy a refreshing bowl of reimen, a cold noodle dish made with a tangy broth, vegetables, egg, and thick buckwheat noodles.

  • Wanko Soba: Try the local specialty of wanko soba, a style of soba served in small bowls to be eaten in quick succession.

  • Morioka Jajamen: Savor a bowl of Morioka jajamen, a hearty noodle dish served with a flavorful meat sauce, vegetables, and raw egg.

Local Beverages

  • Iwate Kura Beer: Sip on a refreshing Iwate Kura beer, a local craft beer made with locally grown hops and barley.

  • Nanbu Bijin Sake: Try the award-winning Nanbu Bijin sake, a premium sake made with Iwate-grown rice.

Where to Stay in Morioka: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Morioka offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best:

  • Hotel Metropolitan Morioka: Enjoy a luxurious stay at this modern hotel, located in the heart of Morioka.

  • Iwate Youth Hostel: Stay at the Iwate Youth Hostel, which offers affordable accommodation and a cozy atmosphere.

  • Auberge Morioka: Experience local hospitality at Auberge Morioka, a charming guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and delicious meals.

What to Buy in Morioka: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Morioka boasts a rich selection of local products and souvenirs to bring home. Here are some of the best:

  • Nambu Ironware: Invest in a piece of Nambu ironware, a traditional cast ironware that is known for its beauty and durability.

  • Wanko Soba Bowls: Bring home a set of wanko soba bowls, a popular local souvenir that reflects the unique food culture of Morioka.

  • Morioka Reimen Tare: Buy a bottle of Morioka reimen tare, a flavorful sauce used in the preparation of reimen.

Local Culture and Customs of Morioka

Morioka has a unique and fascinating culture, heavily influenced by the history and traditions of the Tohoku region. Here are some of the local customs and practices to be aware of:

  • Kitsune no Yomeiri: This traditional wedding ceremony involves a groom dressed as a fox and a bride donning a red and gold wedding kimono.

  • Kotatsu: Kotatsu is a cozy home appliance that is used in winter, consisting of a low table with a heater underneath and a blanket covering the table.

Best Time to Visit Morioka

The best time to visit Morioka is in the spring, from March to May, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant. The fall season, from September to November, is also a good time to visit, with mild temperatures and stunning autumn foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Morioka

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Morioka:

Do:

  • Do try the local specialty of wanko soba.
  • Do visit the Morioka History and Culture Museum.
  • Do participate in the Sansa Odori Festival.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be disrespectful to local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural landscapes of Morioka.
  • Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering traditional Japanese establishments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Morioka

Morioka is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it’s always wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.

Health in Morioka

Morioka has a well-established healthcare system and plenty of hospitals and clinics to provide medical assistance. It’s recommended to have travel insurance and proper vaccinations before visiting Morioka.

Getting to Morioka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Morioka is easily accessible by various means of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Morioka

The nearest airport to Morioka is Hanamaki Airport, located approximately 30 kilometers away. Regular buses and taxis are available from the airport to Morioka.

Train Stations Near Morioka

Morioka Station is the main train station in the city, with regular connections to major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Sendai, and Aomori.

Bus Stations Near Morioka

Morioka Bus Terminal is located next to the train station and offers regular bus services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Morioka and the surrounding areas, especially for those who plan to hike or bike around the city.

How to Get Around in Morioka

Morioka has an efficient transport system, with buses, trains, and taxis readily available. The city is also easy to navigate on foot or by bike, especially in the city center.

Where to Go Next from Morioka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Morioka is a great starting point for exploring the Tohoku region, which boasts a wealth of natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Hiraizumi: Visit the historic town of Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning temples, shrines, and gardens.

  • Oirase Stream: Explore the scenic Oirase Stream, a crystal-clear river that flows through the forests of Aomori Prefecture.

  • Tono: Discover the folklore and traditions of Tono, a charming town that is rich in local legends and stories.

Conclusion

With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique culture, Morioka is an ideal travel destination for anyone seeking an authentic Japanese experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, Morioka has something to offer for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the best of Morioka.

Autumn foliage at Morioka Castle Autumn foliage at Morioka Castle Oyakuen Garden Oyakuen Garden Morioka Reimen Morioka Reimen