Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima
Discover the soul of Northern Japan in Morioka (盛岡), the charming capital of Iwate Prefecture that perfectly balances samurai history with a vibrant, modern “slow-travel” appeal. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of Mt. Iwate and the rushing waters of the Kitakami River, Morioka gained global fame after being named one of the New York Times’ top places […]
What to Do and See in Iwate’s Capital City, Morioka Read More »
Known as the “Kyoto of the North”, Hiraizumi town (平泉町) once rivaled the imperial capital in splendor, with a refined culture and elegant architecture in the 12th century. Retaining its charm and traces of its former greatness, Hiraizumi has a couple of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Established in the 12th century by the powerful Oshu
Hiraizumi: Is Japan’s “Kyoto of the North” Worth the Trip? Read More »
Discover one of Japan’s most striking architectural wonders at Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamondō (達谷窟毘沙門堂), an ancient temple carved directly into a towering sandstone cliff in Iwate Prefecture. Located just a short distance from other UNESCO sites of Hiraizumi, this 1,200-year-old monastery was founded by the legendary Shogun Sakanoue no Tamuramaro to commemorate a victory over
Takkoku no Iwaya: Japan’s Stunning Cliffside Cave Temple Read More »
Step into a world of serene beauty and spiritual harmony at Motsuji Temple (毛越寺), one of Japan’s most significant UNESCO World Heritage sites in Hiraizumi. Once a massive monastic complex rivaling the greatest temples of Kyoto, Motsuji is now world-renowned for its perfectly preserved Pure Land Garden (Jodo Teien). This 12th-century masterpiece represents a Buddhist
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Experience the golden age of the North at Chūson-ji Temple (中尊寺), the spiritual heart of Hiraizumi and a centerpiece of the region’s UNESCO World Heritage status. Established in the 9th century, this expansive forest sanctuary was envisioned by the Northern Fujiwara clan as a “Pure Land” on earth, a realm of peace and enlightenment. Its
Ultimate Guide to Chuson-ji: UNESCO History, Tickets & Tips Read More »
While Morioka is world-famous for its “Three Great Noodles,” vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes can be found in this northern gem. From the 100% plant-based macrobiotic creations at Oyasai Shokudo Karakoma to the cozy, organic vibes of USAGI Botanica near the castle ruins, the city offers a surprising variety of meat-free gems. Whether you are looking
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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
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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 »
