While Momodori Ekimae Shokudō (ももどり駅前食堂) is famous for its spicy chicken, it is also a hidden gem for fans of traditional, house-made tofu. The restaurant takes great pride in its hand-crafted tofu, known for its exceptionally rich, creamy texture and deep soybean flavor, a stark contrast to mass-produced varieties. Their Tofu Teishoku (set meal) and […]
Momodori Ekimae Shokudo: Morioka’s Best Homemade Tofu Dishes Read More »
Step back into the samurai era at Morioka-jō Castle Site Park (盛岡城跡公園), a stunning landscape of moss-covered granite walls and winding forest paths in the heart of the city. While the original wooden keep of the Nanbu Clan’s stronghold no longer stands, the park is celebrated as one of Japan’s “Top 100 Castles” for its
Morioka-jō Castle Site Park Guide: Historic Walls & Sakura Read More »
For true connoisseurs of the leaf, Tea Shop Shun (紅茶の店しゅん) is an essential pilgrimage in Morioka. Since 1985, this dedicated black tea specialist has been a cornerstone of the city’s sophisticated café scene, known for its high-ceilinged, tranquil interior and a selection of teas, including Darjeeling and Uva, many sourced directly from Indian tea estates
Tea Shop Shun: Morioka’s Premier Black Tea House Read More »
Ascend into a realm of ethereal beauty and ancient spirituality at Mt. Yoshino (Yoshinoyama, 吉野山), a UNESCO World Heritage site widely considered Japan’s premier cherry blossom destination. Located in the heart of Nara Prefecture, this sacred mountain is home to over 30,000 cherry trees that blanket the slopes in varying shades of pink as they
Mt. Yoshino Guide: Japan’s Best Cherry Blossom Mountain Read More »
Discover a serene sanctuary of history and art at Nyoirin-ji Temple (如意輪寺), a tranquil gem tucked away in the Naka Senbon area of Mt. Yoshino. Founded in the 10th century, this sacred site is most famous as the final resting place of Emperor Go-Daigo and for its deep connection to the tragic samurai hero Kusunoki
Nyoirin-ji Temple: A Hidden Gem on Mt. Yoshino Read More »
One of the most common questions we come across in many Japan travel forums is whether one should rent a portable WiFi device when travelling in Japan. While Japan SIM cards and Japan eSIMs are much cheaper than a small internet router, pocket WiFi can be the best option for your next Japan trip if
The Best Pocket WiFi to Rent in Japan Read More »
Step into a living chronicle of Japanese history at Yoshimizu Shrine (吉水神社), a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on the scenic slopes of Mt. Yoshino. Originally a Buddhist monastery for mountain ascetics, this sacred sanctuary has served as a royal refuge for emperors and a hideout for legendary samurai heroes like Minamoto no Yoshitsune. Today,
Yoshimizu Shrine: Mt. Yoshino’s Most Iconic Viewpoint Read More »
Step into the heart of Japanese spiritual history at Kinpusen-ji Temple (金峯山寺), the majestic centerpiece of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mt. Yoshino. As the head temple of Shugendo, this ancient site has served as a sacred training ground for over 1,300 years. Its main hall, the Zao-do, is a masterpiece of traditional architecture and stands
Kinpusen-ji: The Best Guide to Yoshino’s Sacred Temple Read More »
Getting to Mount Yoshino (Yoshinoyama, 吉野山) is a seamless and scenic journey, whether you are traveling from the neon lights of Osaka, the historic streets of Kyoto, or the tranquil parks of Nara. As a top-tier UNESCO World Heritage destination, this mountain is exceptionally well-connected by the Kintetsu Railway network, which brings you directly to
How to Get to Mt. Yoshino: Best Routes & Transport Guide Read More »
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Iwate’s capital, where the city’s urban charm gives way to the wild beauty of the Tohoku wilderness. As a destination where three rivers meet under the watchful gaze of the volcanic Mt. Iwate, Morioka offers an incredible variety of plant-based adventures for nature lovers. From the world-class cherry
The Best Destinations to Enjoy Nature in Morioka Read More »
