When the Gautama Buddha was alive, he had many disciples. While they are commonly known as the Five Hundred Disciples (五百羅漢). The number, five hundred, illustrates the greatness of the quantity. Because each of them had learned directly from the Gautama Buddha and was on the way to enlightenment, they were worshipped and enshrined in […]
Hōonji Temple and the Rakan Statue Doing the Big Heart Pose Read More »
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
The Best Spots to Visit for Nambu Ironware in Morioka Read More »
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
The Top Museums and Historical Spots in Morioka Read More »
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
Nanshōsō: A Gorgeous Traditional Residence in Morioka Read More »
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
Fukuda Pan: Morioka’s Must-Visit Flavored Bread Shop Read More »
Morioka-jō Castle Site Park (盛岡城跡公園), not far from Morioka Station, is one of Japan’s top 100 city parks. Renovated from Morioka Castle ruins in 1906, it is a convenient spot in the city center to adore cherry blossoms, fall foliage, and snow scenery. The park is an ideal place in the city center to experience
Morioka’s Must-Visit Spot: Morioka-jō Castle Site Park Read More »
Morioka Castle-jō Site Park is the must-go spot when you visit Morioka. While you stroll in the vast park, don’t forget to stop by the Sakurayama Shrine (櫻山神社) in the park’s north end. There is a uniquely shaped rock that will catch your attention. In fact, the massive rock is Morioka’s guardian rock!
Sakurayama Shrine: The Shrine in Morioka With a Unique Rock Read More »
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). So, it is a great spot to enjoy healthy lunch after exploring Morioka’s landmark, Morioka-jō Castle Site Park (盛岡城跡公園). And, the great
Dengaku Chaya: The Vegan-Friendly Tofu Restaurant in Morioka Read More »
While Morioka is one of the biggest cities in the Tōhoku region, vegan options are still limited. So, if you are strict with your diet, advance planning for your visit is essential. To assist you with your planning, we have gathered the vegan-friendly spots in Morioka that are worth checking out below!
Where to Find Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Morioka Read More »