Nambu Ironware (南部鉄器) is Iwate Prefecture‘s most representative traditional craft. Ironware-making in Morioka started in the early 17th century. The lord of the Morioka Domain invited a tea iron kiln maker from Kyoto when he was building Morioka Castle. Since then, the ironware-making industry has prospered because of the availability of high-quality materials and the […]
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The capital of Iwate Prefecture, Morioka, has a long history. As expected, museums and historical spots are scattered in the big city. If you are unsure which one to visit, check out the ones below. We hand-picked the ones that foreign tourists usually appreciate so you can narrow down the few you might want to
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The construction of Nanshōsō (南昌荘) started in 1885. It took a few years for the gorgeous complex including a main house, a tea house, and traditional style garden to be completed. Apparently, the building’s design referenced the Katsura Imperial Palace in Kyoto. The raised floor provides a better angle to view the gorgeous garden. Since
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Speaking of Morioka, there are many local specialties, including the Nambu Ironware, Morioka Reimen, and a lot more. If you love handicrafts and want to see how they are made, visit Morioka Handi-Works Square (盛岡手づくり村). It is a spot where you can observe the craftsmanship up close and even give it a go!
Morioka Handi-Works Square and Pyonpyonsha Reimen Kōbō Read More »
Apart from the noodle dishes, there is a bread shop that is also quite well-known in Morioka. Fukuda Pan (福田パン) specializes in putting various types of spreads between the hot dog bun-like bread. In addition to the typical flavors, such as peanut butter or fried noodles, uncommon flavors are also available for those who want
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If you like tofu and other soy products, stop by Dengku Chaya (田楽茶屋) when you visit Morioka. The tofu maker has a branch in Morioka’s city center, opposite the famous Sakurayama Shrine (櫻山神社). It’s a great spot to enjoy a healthy lunch after exploring Morioka’s landmark, Morioka-jō Castle Site Park (盛岡城跡公園). The great news is
Dengaku Chaya: The Vegan-Friendly Tofu Restaurant in Morioka Read More »
Aomori City, the capital of Aomori Prefecture, has abundant beautiful nature, such as the Hakkōda mountain ranges and Mutsu Bay. Stunning scenery can be adorned throughout the year, and in fall, it is the time to find out your favorite kinds of apples! The city also holds one of Japan’s representative festivals. Moreover, it has
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While many are unaware of this, Shiga Prefecture, next to Kyoto, has a wealth of national treasures and cultural properties! Starting from Mt. Hiei to the temples in the Sakamoto area, Ōtsu is the city for a day tour destination with spots that are rich in history and culture. To make your visit more memorable,
Enman-in: The Temple to Enjoy Japanese Cultural Activities Read More »
When the Japanese talk about the samurai house in Akita Prefecture, they will never fail to mention the Aoyagi Samurai House (角館歴史村・青柳家). The spacious estate of a size of almost 10,000 square meters features a Main Housean Armory, a Gallery, a Folk Museum, a Samurai Tool Museum, an Antique Tea Room, and shops and restaurants/cafes.
Aoyagi Samurai House: Kakunodate’s Must-Go Samurai Residence Read More »
If you like to spend time in museums, Aomori is probably the best city to visit in the Tōhoku region. While a large part of the city is covered by nature, it surprisingly has many museums scattered throughout. Unlike Hirosaki, which is a 45-minute train ride away, Aomori has more variety. Whether you like contemporary art museums
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