If you want to tour the main sightseeing spots in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture efficiently, the Morioka City Center Loop Bus “Dendenmushi” is the way to go! At 150 JPY per ride (a flat rate no matter how far you go) and a 1-day unlimited pass at just 400 JPY, the value is outstanding. Covering classic tourist attractions like Morioka Castle Site Park, Morioka Bus Center, and Takuboku’s Newlywed House, even first-time visitors to Morioka can enjoy walking the city without getting lost.

Can you get around tourist spots in Morioka City on foot? If you take a bus, which route is convenient and cheap?

For Morioka sightseeing, the city center loop bus “Dendenmushi” is the single best choice! At 150 JPY a ride, and the 1-day unlimited pass at 400 JPY is a real bargain! We’ll walk through the routes, how to ride, and recommended itineraries clearly!

In this article, we cover the basics of the Morioka City Center Loop Bus “Dendenmushi,” including how to use the clockwise and counterclockwise routes.

Morioka City Loop Bus “Dendenmushi” is a good fit if you:

What Is the “Dendenmushi” Morioka City Loop Bus?

The Morioka City Center Loop Bus “Dendenmushi” is a convenient sightseeing loop bus that starts from Morioka Station and circles tourist spots and major facilities in the city center in about 35 minutes. Its appeal is how simple it is—a flat 150 JPY per ride no matter how far you go—making it easy public transport even for first-time visitors to Morioka.

“Clockwise” and “Counterclockwise” routes are available, and you can choose between them depending on your purpose and destination.

Heading to Zaimokucho (Kohgensha) or Takuboku’s Newlywed House! “Clockwise”

The “Clockwise” route departs from Morioka Station, heads toward Asahi Bridge, and goes first toward Zaimokucho and Takuboku’s Newlywed House.

• Main stops along the way: Asahi Bridge, Zaimokucho Minamiguchi, Takuboku Shinkon no Ie Guchi, Honcho-dori, Kencho-mae, etc.
• Best for: Anyone who wants to head straight from Morioka Station to Zaimokucho, home to “Kohgensha” associated with Miyazawa Kenji, or to “Takuboku’s Newlywed House.”

Best for Morioka Castle Site Park and the Bus Center! “Counterclockwise”

The “Counterclockwise” route departs from Morioka Station, crosses Kaiun Bridge, and goes first toward Saien-dori, Morioka Castle Site Park, and Morioka Bus Center.

• Main stops along the way: Morioka Castle Site Park, Morioka History and Culture Museum, Morioka Bus Center (Shinmeicho-mae), Iwate Prefectural Office, etc.
• Best for: Anyone who wants to start with tourist spots around Morioka Castle Site, or enjoy stylish cafes and a retro stroll around Morioka Bus Center.

Highlights of “Dendenmushi”

• Simple Flat Rate of “150 JPY per Ride” No Matter How Far You Go

A flat 150 JPY for adults (80 JPY for children) regardless of how far you go, so you can hop on and off casually without fussing over change.

• 1-Day Unlimited “Free Pass” is Just 400 JPY

If you get on and off 3 or more times, the 1-Day Free Pass (Adults: 400 JPY / Children: 200 JPY) is a better deal. It is easy to buy at places like the Morioka Station Information Center.

• A Route That Covers the Main Tourist Spots

With just this one bus, you can smoothly tour classic Morioka destinations such as Morioka Castle Site Park, Morioka Bus Center, Zaimokucho (Kohgensha), and Takuboku’s Newlywed House.

• Runs About Every 15 to 20 Minutes! Short Waits Make Planning Easy

Both Clockwise and Counterclockwise run frequently during the day, so you can enjoy strolling the city without carefully checking timetables.

• Nationwide Transportation IC Cards Such as Suica Work as Usual

Even without cash on hand, you can tap to pay with your IC card (Suica, PASMO, iCa, etc.).

• Facility Discounts and Perks When You Show the Free Pass

Show the 1-Day Free Pass at participating tourist facilities and shops for nice perks such as admission discounts.

“Dendenmushi” Bus Stops

Morioka Station East Exit

The gateway to Morioka. Departs from the bus rotary (Stop No. 16) right outside the Shinkansen and local-line ticket gates. Extremely convenient as the starting point of your trip.

Kaiun Bridge

A beautiful bridge famous as the “Two-Time Crying Bridge” spanning the Kitakami River. On clear days, it is a scenic photo spot overlooking majestic Mt. Iwate from atop the bridge.

Saien Kawatoku-mae

A bus stop right in front of Kawatoku Department Store. Ideal as a base for shopping and lunch.

Morioka Castle Site Park

The castle site of the Morioka Domain Nanbu clan. Splendid stone walls remain, making it a park rich in greenery and one of “Japan’s Top 100 Castles.”

Prefectural Office / City Hall

The administrative center of Morioka. Surrounding areas are lined with retro-modern architecture—plenty of spots worth pausing for on a city stroll.

Morioka Bus Center

A new landmark of Morioka renewed in 2022. It is a complex facility integrating dining streets, hot bath facilities, and a hotel.

Morioka Bus Center (Shinmeicho-mae)

A bus stop located on the east side of the Bus Center. Convenient for access toward Konyacho.

Wakazono-cho

An area where quiet residences and historic buildings mingle.

Kami-no-hashi-cho

A quiet area beyond crossing Kami-no-hashi Bridge. An easy place to stop by in the middle of a stroll.

Kami-no-hashi

A historic bridge characterized by bronze giboshi (ornamental finials) spanning the Nakatsu River. Designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

Honcho-dori 1-chome

A bus stop along Honcho-dori street, lined with traditional Morioka shops and residences.

Idai Uchimaru Medical Center-mae

In front of a central regional medical facility.

Chuo-dori 1-chome

Morioka’s central office and commercial area. Many cafes and izakayas gather here.

Chuo-dori 2-chome

An area lined with public offices and office buildings.

Shoko Chukin-mae

Offices and banks gather in the surrounding area, and walking a bit reveals a quiet streetscape.

Takuboku Shinkon no Ie Guchi

The nearest bus stop to “Takuboku’s Newlywed House,” where Ishikawa Takuboku spent a newlywed life with his wife Setsuko for just 3 weeks.

Zaimokucho Minamiguchi

Entrance to Zaimokucho Shopping Street (Ihatov Avenue), home to “Kohgensha” associated with Miyazawa Kenji. On Saturdays, “Yoi-ichi” is held.

Asahi Bridge

A bridge on the route running along the Kitakami River. An area that serves as the return leg to Morioka Station.

How to Ride “Dendenmushi” & Buy a 1-Day Pass

How to Board & Pay the Fare

“Dendenmushi” uses a rear-boarding, front-alighting system where you board from the rear door and alight from the front door.

• When boarding (rear door): Board from the rear door. There are no numbered tickets, so just get on.
• When getting off (front door): When the announcement for your stop plays, press the stop button. Pay into the fare box as you get off.
  • Paying with cash: Put 150 JPY for adults (80 JPY for children) per ride into the fare box. (*No change is given, so please use the exchange machine beforehand)
  • Paying with IC cards (Suica, PASMO, etc.): Tap the card reader when getting off to complete payment.

How to Buy 1-Day Free Passes (400 JPY)

If you ride the bus 3 or more times in a day, the “1-Day Free Pass” for unlimited rides at 400 JPY is a better deal.

• Where to buy:
  • Morioka Station Bus Information Center (Inside Morioka Station East Exit bus rotary)
  • Inside the bus (*When alighting, please ask the driver “1-Day Free Pass, please”)
• How to use: When getting off, simply show the date side of the Free Pass clearly to the driver.

Perks Exclusive to the 1-Day Free Pass

Show the Free Pass to get discount perks at major tourist facilities in Morioka City.

• Morioka History and Culture Museum: Exhibition room admission fee 20% discount
• Morioka City Hara Kei Memorial Museum: Admission fee 20% discount
• Morioka Civic Cultural Hall / Morioka Theater: Special offers for events, etc. (Varies by facility)

Using the pass well makes Morioka sightseeing even more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions About “Dendenmushi”

Summary: “Dendenmushi”

The Morioka City Center Loop Bus “Dendenmushi” is essential public transport for travelers who want to tour major tourist spots efficiently from Morioka Station. Beyond the low 150 JPY per ride, the 1-day unlimited Free Pass (400 JPY) lets you stroll the city freely without worrying about small change. Even on a first trip to Morioka, its greatest appeal is moving around confidently without getting lost, thanks to a route that covers the classic tourist spots.

Making getting around Morioka City cheap and smooth, “Dendenmushi” is a real ally for sightseeing here. You can also ride with strollers or large luggage (take care when it is crowded), so it suits a wide range of travelers. Make good use of the Free Pass and enjoy Morioka’s retro streetscapes, history, and food to the fullest.

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

This website is operated by "Don Don Travel Guide"

Author: Boon

Our mission is to share valuable information with the world through informative and engaging travel media.

Learn more about Don Don Travel Guide.

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“Takuboku’s Newlywed House,” located in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a historic wooden building where the Meiji-era poet Ishikawa Takuboku and his wife Setsuko spent their newlywed life. It is easy to reach by bus (Morioka Loop Bus “Dendenmushi”) from Morioka Station, and is a popular stroll spot with free admission that you can drop by casually. It is also known for a turbulent episode: “The groom was late on the wedding day.”

What kind of place is “Takuboku’s Newlywed House” in Morioka? I’m curious about what Ishikawa Takuboku’s newlywed life was like!

Actually, there is a famous story that Takuboku didn’t show up on the wedding day! We’ll go over the highlights inside the building that still holds the atmosphere of those days, the turbulent episode, and how to get there!

In this article, based on photos the author took on-site, we introduce the access and viewing highlights of “Takuboku’s Newlywed House.”

“Takuboku’s Newlywed House” is a good fit if you:

Highlights of “Takuboku’s Newlywed House”

The Only Surviving Takuboku-Related Building in Morioka City

Among the rented houses where Ishikawa Takuboku spent time in Morioka, this is the only valuable building still standing in its original form—a historically important spot that still conveys traces of Morioka’s samurai residences from those days.

“Takuboku’s Newlywed House” is modest yet carefully preserved, with an atmospheric style that still feels intact today. Well-worn hallways with sunbeams filtering through, fusuma and shoji screens adorned with delicate designs, Japanese-style rooms where the scent of tatami drifts, and a space where footsteps and the sound of wind echo pleasantly—wrapped in a stillness as if you had slipped back to the Meiji period.

The quiet Japanese-style room in the back is said to be where Takuboku immersed himself in writing poems and manuscripts. From the look of the alcove and low desk, it almost feels as if you can hear him breathing—still burning with passion for literature even in a life of poverty.

Kitchen spaces where traces of traditional earthen floors and wells remain are another highlight—architecture that lets you sense the depth of old Japanese houses and samurai residences.

Original Letters and Valuable Materials from Those Days on Display

Inside the building, numerous items such as Takuboku’s handwritten letters, photo panels, and explanations of the poems he wrote are on display, letting you dig into his warm, human side and his literary background.

A “Turbulent Newlywed Life” of Just 3 Weeks

The newlywed life Takuboku and his wife Setsuko shared actually lasted only 3 weeks. Even so, you can feel firsthand the floor plan from those days—when he lived with his parents and younger sister—and the air of a poor yet passionate life.

Walking Distance from Morioka Station & Free Admission for Casual Visits

Located in a quiet residential area about a 10-to-15-minute walk from Morioka Station, viewing and admission are completely free. How easy it is to drop by—so you can take a quick look as part of a Morioka stroll or a walk along Kaiun Bridge and the rivers—is part of its charm.

Location and Access for “Takuboku’s Newlywed House”

Location

Located in Chuo-dori, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, “Takuboku’s Newlywed House” is easy to reach—about a 10-to-15-minute walk from JR Morioka Station. It sits past Kaiun Bridge along a quiet stretch of streets, so you can casually drop by between sightseeing around Morioka Station or a city walk.

Basic Information for “Takuboku’s Newlywed House”

Photo Gallery: “Takuboku’s Newlywed House”

Here are photos of “Takuboku’s Newlywed House.”

Taken in August 2026

The house where Ishikawa Takuboku and his wife Setsuko spent their newlywed life in 1905, also famous as the stage for the “wedding in the groom’s absence.”

Taken in August 2026

Inside the building, large portrait photos of Ishikawa Takuboku and his wife Setsuko, along with floor plans of the house back then and commentary panels on its history, are lined up.

Taken in August 2026

A quiet Japanese-style room scene of fusuma, shoji, and tatami. The Meiji-period atmosphere is still strongly preserved as it was.

Taken in August 2026

In the tokonoma alcove, a hanging scroll of a famous tanka poem and a photo panel of the couple are displayed, inviting you into Takuboku’s poetic worldview.

Frequently Asked Questions About “Takuboku’s Newlywed House”

Summary: “Takuboku’s Newlywed House”

“Takuboku’s Newlywed House,” located in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a valuable wooden building associated with Takuboku—the only one still standing in Morioka City—where the Meiji genius poet Ishikawa Takuboku and his wife Setsuko spent a newlywed life of just 3 weeks. Inside the modest, deeply atmospheric building that retains traces of the samurai residences of those days, amid the quiet presence of tatami and shoji, you can encounter a turbulent, deeply human story that begins with the “wedding in the groom’s absence.”

It is a perfect stop for literature fans, of course, as well as anyone interested in Morioka’s history or retro architecture, or looking for a hidden gem to casually drop by between sightseeing. When you visit Morioka, do step inside and feel firsthand the passionate, bittersweet newlywed air of Takuboku and Setsuko.

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

This website is operated by "Don Don Travel Guide"

Author: Boon

Our mission is to share valuable information with the world through informative and engaging travel media.

Learn more about Don Don Travel Guide.

Best Japan Tours

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“Morioka Bus Center” serves as a base for strolling around Morioka. Reborn as a new facility in 2022, it has been transformed from a place merely for waiting for ordinary buses into a place where you can eat, drink, and have fun.

On the 1st floor, there is a food hall and shops where popular local stores gather; on the 2nd floor, there is a coffee shop where jazz plays; and on the 3rd floor, there are accommodation facilities and even a sauna—making it a place packed with “fun.”

Morioka Bus Center was renovated—can you actually eat and hang out while waiting?

There’s a food hall, café, lodging, and even a sauna. How to use it for food and drinks, plus tips to know.

In this article, based on photos from the author’s own visit, we introduce the charms of Morioka Bus Center, where you can eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.

Highlights of “Morioka Bus Center”

The Main Building Has Regained Its Original Bus Center Role

Since the old center closed in 2016, the site sat vacant for a while, but through the 2022 renewal, its role as Morioka’s eastern gateway was revived once again.

The new main building offers a spacious waiting area rather than being a mere stop, so you can wait for buses comfortably in air-conditioned and heated surroundings. Digitally displayed guideboards are also easy to understand, serving as important transport infrastructure for Morioka citizens.

Adjacent to the bus center waiting room, the eatery (Soba-dokoro Nambu) has a full lineup of easy-to-enjoy menus, starting with the famous “Niku Soba” (meat soba). Being able to eat quickly while waiting for a bus carries on the strengths of the traditional bus center.

Niku Soba is a filling bowl topped with plenty of meat simmered sweet and savory. Side menu items such as soft-serve ice cream, coffee, and shaved ice in summer are also well stocked. While it is a new and clean space, the charm lies in savoring that somewhat comforting feel of “station soba / bus-waiting gourmet.”

Eating and Drinking at the Annex Izakaya, Restaurant, and Food Court

The annex next to the main building is a food hall where popular local stores gather, so you can enjoy meals and drinks in a free-form style. Counters for Morioka craft beer or local sake, skewer grills, authentic cuisine, and more cover a diverse range of genres.

Because it is an open space without partitions, you can mix and match menus from several shops—casually drinking during the day on your own, or spending lively time in a group—and feel the energy of present-day Morioka. It is a solid spot that makes you want to come specifically to eat and drink, not just while waiting for a bus.

Recommended Shop “Morioka Craft Beer BAEREN”

When you want a quick drink while waiting for a bus, Morioka’s craft beer BAEREN is just right. At this counter inside the annex food hall, you can enjoy authentic craft beer that Morioka is proud to share with the world.

Being able to order casually starting from a single glass is a real plus. Despite the authentic bar atmosphere, because it is an open spot inside a bus center, you can enjoy Morioka’s flavors without hesitation even in the short time before departure.

A recommended dish is the roast plate assortment of Short-Horn Beef, Platinum Pork, and Iwate Chicken (1,000 JPY), a menu item that pairs just right with BAEREN’s bitter beer.

Having a glass of your preferred beer from “Colonia,” “Tsunagu Beer,” “Lemon Radler,” “Classic,” “Alt,” and “Schwarz” is simply irresistible.

The Annex Features a Super Sento Facility

On the 3rd floor of the bus center’s annex, a full-fledged thermal bath facility, “SPA & SAUNA KANAN SPA,” is fully outfitted. Being able to refresh in a sauna or large public bath while waiting for a bus or between legs of a trip is a rare setup nationwide.

• Authentic Finnish-style Sauna: Featuring an authentic sauna capable of self-löyly, with quality that even sauna lovers can appreciate.
• Choice of Cold Plunge and Outdoor Air Bathing: With a firmly chilled cold plunge and outdoor air bathing in the rooftop area, you can experience authentic “totonoi” (sauna-refreshment) right in the middle of the city.
• Stylish and Clean Space: A modern interior with the sparkling cleanliness unique to a new facility opened in 2022.
• Empty-handed Visits Welcome: Because amenities such as rental towels are also well stocked, you can casually drop by on a whim between sightseeing or business trips.

Hotel Annex “HOTEL MAZARIUM”

On the 3rd floor of the annex is the lifestyle museum hotel “HOTEL MAZARIUM.” This hotel features artworks produced by Heralbony throughout guest rooms and shared spaces, creating a special place where the stay itself becomes an art experience.

While it sits in a very convenient location inside the bus center building, stepping inside offers a modern, calm atmosphere that makes you forget the hustle and bustle outside. All rooms use Simmons beds, with a clear focus on comfortable sleep. Directly connected to the “KANAN SPA” introduced above, it serves as a stay base where you can feel Morioka’s new culture while enjoying saunas and spas.

Hotel Mazarium: A Highly Recommended Hotel Near Nakanohashi-dori

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Hotel Mazarium

Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Museum

Located inside the “HOTEL MAZARIUM” lounge on the 3rd floor of the annex is the “Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Museum,” which traces the career of world-renowned jazz pianist Toshiko Akiyoshi. It is a precious spot where not only fans but anyone can casually encounter that culture.

Inside, Toshiko’s precious photos and materials, as well as numerous award trophies, are on display. At the attached cafe “Cafe Bar West38,” you can also enjoy coffee, the famous jazz curry, or drinks while listening to authentic jazz. Live performances are also held regularly, so you can enjoy a grown-up Morioka moment with high-quality music—all while remaining inside the bus center.

Key Points to Note at “Morioka Bus Center”

Key Point: Buses Passing the Bus Center Do Not Appear on the Bus Center’s Electronic Display Board

Regarding the splendid electronic display board inside the Morioka Bus Center building, there is actually a rule that “what is displayed here are only buses that originate from or terminate at the Bus Center (or highway buses and the like that enter the premises).”

Many buses coming from the Morioka Station direction that “pass the Bus Center and continue farther on (such as to Prefectural Central Hospital or Chabatake)” do not enter the building and instead stop at the outdoor street-side bus stop. These do not appear on the indoor monitors at all.

If you panic thinking “the bus I want is not on the display board” and wait inside the building, the bus may pass by at the outdoor street-side stop. It is important to confirm in advance whether the bus you want is an “inside-premises” type or a “stops at the outdoor bus stop” type.

(Departure/arrival platform inside the Bus Center premises)

(Bus stop in front of the Bus Center)

Location and Access for “Morioka Bus Center”

Location

Morioka Bus Center is located on “Nakanohashi-dori” in central Morioka City. From JR Morioka Station, take the “Morioka City Center Loop Bus ‘Dendenmushi'” from the East Exit Bus Terminal, or a bus bound for Chabatake/Suidobashi; the ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Get off at the “Morioka Bus Center” stop.

On foot, it takes about 20 to 25 minutes from Morioka Station via Odori Shopping Street or the Nakatsu River. The surrounding area is next to “monaka” and “Hotline Sakanacho,” making it truly a starting point for strolling around town. By car, using the attached dedicated parking lot or nearby coin parking is convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions about “Morioka Bus Center”

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

Summary: Morioka Bus Center

Morioka Bus Center, renewed in 2022, overturns the old image of a waiting area and has been reborn as a multifunctional spot packed with Morioka’s “food, culture, and healing.”

As a stroll base for the Nakanohashi and Sakanacho areas, or as a destination in its own right—use the renewed Morioka Bus Center wisely and enjoy deeper Morioka sightseeing!

Recommended

Morioka Castle Site Park: A Relaxing Haven for Morioka Citizens in Iwate

The castle of Iwate’s Nanbu Domain was “Kozukata Castle” (officially “Morioka Castle”) in Morioka. Here, we introduce Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), which currently serves as a relaxing park for Morioka locals. It is a delightful park surrounded by water and lush greenery where you can also feel the rich history.

＼ A Relaxing Park for Morioka Citizens ／

Click here for the article on walking trails at the wonderful Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Castle Site Park surrounded by beautiful rivers and greenery

This website is operated by "Don Don Travel Guide"

Author: Boon

Our mission is to share valuable information with the world through informative and engaging travel media.

Learn more about Don Don Travel Guide.

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The area extending from Nakanohashi to Sakanacho in Morioka has a compact concentration of spots that are just right for strolling around town. It is perfect for a walk at your own pace—whether you amble along the river, gaze at the large red-brick building, or wander straight through the arcade as you please.

Featuring “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall,” a National Important Cultural Property, the scenery of the Nakatsu River flowing through the center of town toward Iwate Park, and “hot line Sakanacho,” an all-weather arcade shopping street, it is a place where you can feel Morioka’s local atmosphere and tranquility.

Want a relaxed walk past Morioka’s Red Brick Hall and the river—is Nakanohashi and Sakanacho easy to explore?

The distances are just right for strolling. We’ve mapped Red Brick Hall, Nakatsu River, and Hot Line Sakanacho.

In this article, based on photos actually taken by the author while walking, we introduce the surroundings of Nakanohashi and Sakanacho.

Nakanohashi & Sakanacho Area Guide / Highlights

Iwate Park and Nakatsu River — a Park of Water and Greenery for Pleasant Riverside Strolling

The area around the Morioka Castle Site (Iwate Park) and the Nakatsu River flowing beside it is rich in water and greenery. Splendid stone walls remain inside the park, so you can enjoy a stroll while walking among the trees.

A pedestrian path runs along the Nakatsu River right next to it, letting you pass under bridges or go down to the water’s edge while listening to the river’s murmur. Despite being in the central area, it has a sense of openness, making it just right for a leisurely stroll while gazing at the river’s flow.

Recommended

Morioka Castle Site Park: A Relaxing Haven for Morioka Citizens in Iwate

The castle of Iwate’s Nanbu Domain was “Kozukata Castle” (officially “Morioka Castle”) in Morioka. Here, we introduce Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), which currently serves as a relaxing park for Morioka locals. It is a delightful park surrounded by water and lush greenery where you can also feel the rich history.

＼ A Relaxing Park for Morioka Citizens ／

Click here for the article on walking trails at the wonderful Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Castle Site Park surrounded by beautiful rivers and greenery

Recently, entry to the pedestrian path along the riverbed has been prohibited.

A Historic Building: the Beautiful, Striking Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall

What particularly catches the eye at the Nakanohashi intersection is the “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall,” built in 1911. Its exterior—red bricks with white granite lines—lets you feel the modern atmosphere of the Meiji and Taisho eras.

This building was designed by Kingo Tatsuno, who also worked on Tokyo Station, and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Simply gazing at it from the outside conveys the detail and dignity of its construction, but parts of the interior can also be toured for free. Its historic appearance, blending into the city as a matter of course, can be called a symbolic presence when walking through Morioka.

Recommended

A Masterpiece of Retro Architecture: Iwate Bank Red Brick Building

Located along the Nakatsu River in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, the “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building” is a brick structure completed in 1911 (Meiji 44). Formerly used as the main head office of a bank, it has undergone preservation and repair work and is now open to the public as one of Morioka’s iconic historical buildings.

＼ A Stunning Building ／

Click here for a comprehensive guide to the appeal of the retro architectural masterpiece “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building”

You can tour the interior with full access admission (paid entry).

A New Spot in the Nakanohashi & Sakanacho Area / Shopping Mall “monaka”

Opened in 2024, “monaka” is a complex that serves as a new landmark on Nakanohashi-dori. Built on the site of the former “Nakasan Department Store,” it houses a direct-from-farm market lined with fresh local ingredients, eateries, household-goods shops, and more.

Despite being a state-of-the-art building, it features a calm design that blends into the surrounding streetscape. From the 1st floor to the upper floors, rest spaces as well as shopping are well provided, making it convenient to drop by casually after walking by the Nakatsu River or Red Brick Hall. It is a gourmet and shopping spot recommended for strolling in the Nakanohashi and Sakanacho areas where you can feel a new breeze of Morioka.

Rare “Ebisu-ya’s Round Taiyaki” Available to Eat

In the 1st-floor eatery area, rare “round taiyaki (260 JPY per piece)” are available. Featuring the nostalgic taste of traditional taiyaki in a modern round shape, it is a taiyaki that seems to express the style and chicness of Morioka locals.

Nostalgia-Evoking Traditional Arcade “hot line Sakanacho”

“hot line Sakanacho” is an all-weather arcade shopping street about 365 meters long, exuding a somewhat nostalgic atmosphere. Long-established tea shops, clothing stores, and other businesses that have continued from earlier times line the street, making it a place filled with everyday life where locals come for daily shopping.

With the times, unfortunately it no longer has the liveliness of days past, but even so—parents with children or elderly couples walking leisurely, or sometimes elementary school students running through—it remains a shopping street that makes you glad it still preserves the merits of a locally rooted arcade.

Because the wide pedestrian-only pathway has a roof, you can walk on rainy or snowy days without worrying about the weather. Unlike modern shopping malls, it is suited to wandering and gazing at shopfronts while feeling the atmosphere of a shopping street where time flows slowly.

“Plaza Odette”: a Multifunctional Spot Convenient for Tourist Information and Rest

Standing right near Nakanohashi, “Plaza Odette” is a complex perfect for gathering tourist information and resting. Inside, there is a tourist information center where you can obtain town-strolling pamphlets, and a shop lined with Morioka specialties is also attached.

On the 2nd floor, there is the “Morioka Tegamikan” (Morioka Letter Museum) displaying letters of predecessors, where you can quietly touch upon history. A large plaza extends in front of the building, and using it as a starting point when strolling by the Nakatsu River or Red Brick Hall—or as a drop-in spot when tired from walking—is recommended.

Location & Access for Nakanohashi & Sakanacho

Location

The Nakanohashi & Sakanacho area is located about 1.5 kilometers east of Morioka Station, across the Nakatsu River. From JR Morioka Station, it is convenient to take buses from the bus terminal departure points (Nos. 5, 6, 12, 13, etc.)—such as the “Morioka City Center Loop Bus ‘Dendenmushi'” or buses bound for “Chabatake”—and get off at “Morioka Bus Center” or “Nakanohashi-dori 1-chome.”

The bus ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes. From Morioka Bus Center, everything is right nearby on foot, and the Red Brick Hall, hot line Sakanacho, and Iwate Park (Morioka Castle Site Park) are all within a few minutes’ walk. By car, using nearby paid parking lots or the parking lot at Morioka Bus Center makes for a smooth stroll.

History of Nakanohashi & Sakanacho

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

Summary: Nakanohashi & Sakanacho Area Guide

The area extending from Nakanohashi to Sakanacho in Morioka is just right for strolling, where historic buildings, nature, and local everyday life are gathered in a compact area. Walking while listening to the murmur of the Nakatsu River, gazing at the dignified Red Brick Hall, and taking in the present-day air of Morioka on the shopping street—you can spend a relaxed time like that.

Rushing around famous tourist spots is fine, but why not wander around Nakanohashi at your own pace sometimes? In the river’s flow and the shopping street’s atmosphere, comfort unique to Morioka will surely be found.

“Daiji Shimizu” and “Morioka Hachimangu,” which you can walk to from Sakanacho or Nakanohashi and are just right for a stroll to feel good old Morioka, are also recommended routes for walking around Morioka.

Recommended

Nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” and Beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine”

In Morioka, an old city where the charm of a good old river town still lives on, “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine” (located slightly away from the station) and “Daiji Shimizu” (about a 15-minute walk from the shrine) are nostalgic landmarks that evoke the atmosphere of Japan’s good old days.

＼ Good Old Morioka & Ancient City Charm ／

Click here for the article on exploring Morioka: Visiting nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” and beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine”

Introducing “Daiji Shimizu” and “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine.”

This website is operated by "Don Don Travel Guide"

Author: Boon

Our mission is to share valuable information with the world through informative and engaging travel media.

Learn more about Don Don Travel Guide.

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Adjacent to the West Exit of Morioka Station (*reachable almost directly from the station), “Malios (commercial building)” is a complex housing offices, a cultural hall, and more. On its top floor—the 20th—a free observation room is open and known as a spot where you can look out over all of Morioka City.

From 92 meters above ground, you can enjoy not only Morioka’s cityscape but also majestic Mt. Iwate and the flow of the Kitakami River in a 360-degree panorama.

Any free observation spot near Morioka Station—and can you really see Mt. Iwate from there?

Malios 20th-floor observation room gives 360-degree city and mountain views. How to get there and what to look for.

In this article, based on photos actually taken by the author on a visit, we introduce the highlights of the Malios Observation Room.

Highlights of the Malios Observation Room

Morioka’s Cityscape in a 360-Degree Panorama

On the top floor (20th floor) of “Malios,” a complex adjacent to the West Exit of Morioka Station, there is an observation room where you can look out over the city from 92 meters above ground. Morioka is a city built in a basin where three rivers meet amid surrounding mountains; the whole of Morioka can be taken in from the observation room, and the city scenery woven by the mountains in the background, the rivers flowing through the center, and the greenery is worth seeing at least once.

On the west side, Mt. Iwate, the symbol of Morioka, shows its majestic form spreading to its foothills, presenting seasonal expressions along with the scenery of the Shizukuishi River flowing at its foot. Looking east, the platforms and tracks of Morioka Station, and beyond them the Kitakami River and Morioka’s urban area, stretch out, and you can look toward mountains such as Mt. Himekami and Mt. Hayachine in the distance.

Being able to look out over trains arriving and departing and the cityscape formed along winding rivers is a sight unique to this height.

Convenient Location Adjacent to Morioka Station (Almost Directly Connected)

A major convenience of the Malios Observation Room is its location right near the West Exit of JR Morioka Station. After exiting the ticket gates, proceed through the West Exit passage; a few minutes’ walk on the pedestrian deck (connecting passage) brings you to the building entrance.

That you can get there almost without getting wet even on rainy days is also an advantage, letting you sightsee without worrying about the weather. Being just a few minutes from the station, dropping by when you have a fair amount of waiting time before boarding the Shinkansen makes for good sightseeing too.

Free Admission to the Malios Observation Room

While you can enjoy the view from 92 meters above ground, the Malios Observation Room has no admission fee and can be used free by anyone. Simply taking the dedicated elevator to the 20th floor requires no procedures such as reservations at all.

Opening hours are from 9:00 to 18:00, so you can casually enjoy the scenery from bright daytime hours to dusk. A facility that opens such a panorama for free is extremely rare, making it a highly accessible public spot where you can drop by during a little free time—between sightseeing or while waiting for the Shinkansen.

Location & Access for “Malios Observation Room”

Location

“Malios Observation Room” is located at Morioka Ekimae Nishidori, adjacent to the West Exit of JR Morioka Station. From Morioka Station, pass through the 2nd-floor North-South Free Passage toward the West Exit, then continue along the pedestrian deck (connecting passage) for about a 3-minute walk to the building.

Once inside the building, take the elevator to the 20th floor and you will find the observation room right away.

Information for “Malios Observation Room”

“Malios Observation Room” Photo Gallery

Please enjoy these photos of “Malios Observation Room.”

Taken in May 2026: Heading from Morioka Station to the Malios commercial building.

Taken in May 2026: Inside the Malios Observation Room. You can also look out over the city using telescopes (paid).

Taken in May 2026: On weekdays, there is a paid workspace. Doing homework or work (nomad-style) on a high floor is also nice, isn’t it?

Taken in May 2026: The interior is wider than expected. You can relax.

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

Summary: “Malios Observation Room”

Located right near the West Exit of Morioka Station, “Malios Observation Room” is an outstanding spot where you can easily take in the overall picture of Morioka. The scenery from 92 meters above ground reminds us once again that this city is a nature-rich castle town surrounded by mountains and rivers.

Naturally, short visits that make use of Shinkansen waiting time are good, but visiting at the start of sightseeing to look down on the cityscape you are about to explore is also recommended. When you visit Morioka Station, please do stop by and savor the sense of openness from 92 meters above ground.

Recommended

Morioka Castle Site Park: A Relaxing Haven for Morioka Citizens in Iwate

The castle of Iwate’s Nanbu Domain was “Kozukata Castle” (officially “Morioka Castle”) in Morioka. Here, we introduce Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), which currently serves as a relaxing park for Morioka locals. It is a delightful park surrounded by water and lush greenery where you can also feel the rich history.

＼ A Relaxing Park for Morioka Citizens ／

Click here for the article on walking trails at the wonderful Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Castle Site Park surrounded by beautiful rivers and greenery

This website is operated by "Don Don Travel Guide"

Author: Boon

Our mission is to share valuable information with the world through informative and engaging travel media.

Learn more about Don Don Travel Guide.

Best Japan Tours

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Standing along the Nakatsu River in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, the “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall” is a brick building completed in 1911 (Meiji 44). Once used as a bank’s head office, it is now open to the public as a historic building that represents Morioka, after preservation and repairs.

Its beautiful red-brick exterior still conveys the character of Western-style architecture from that era, and in 1994 it was designated a National Important Cultural Property. Inside, you can tour interiors preserved as they were—such as the open-ceiling lobby and the customer waiting area that still evoke how business looked in those days.

Morioka’s Red Brick Hall looks famous outside—can you tour the lobby and original interiors too?

It’s a national Important Cultural Property, and yes—you can see the atrium lobby and period interiors. Highlights inside.

In this article, based on photos actually taken by the author, we introduce the highlights of “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall.”

Highlights of “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall”

A Beautiful Red Brick Exterior That Evokes the Scenery of Those Days

Standing at an intersection near the Nakatsu River, “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall” has a particularly strong presence even among the surrounding streetscapes. As the name suggests, the vibrant red-brick exterior walls are beautiful, and the white walls set at equal intervals add accents for a neat design. Truly beautiful.

Its dignified construction in the Renaissance style lets you feel the modern atmosphere of the Meiji and Taisho eras. Even now, more than 100 years after completion, it retains almost the same appearance as back then, and remains an important landmark shaping Morioka’s historical landscape.

Combined with the scenery of the nearby Nakatsu River, it has become one of the landmarks that convey the charm of the historic city of Morioka.

Tour the Interior of the Red Brick Hall and Discover Its History

The entire interior can be toured for an admission fee of 300 JPY, letting you get a close look at how the bank operated back then. Stepping inside, an open-ceiling lobby with high ceilings opens up before you, and you can enjoy architectural beauty unique to the interior—heavy pillars and a ceiling adorned with elaborate decorations.

The fact that it was still used as a bank teller window until 2012 also lets you feel the continuity of history.

The modern interior evoking office work of those days is also beautiful, with its waist-high wooden paneling and white-based walls, and windows that inspire a sense of romance still convey feelings from that era. It’s an indoor space that lets you soak in that moment and lose yourself in its depth.

Souvenirs and Small Goods Available Through a Collaboration with BEAMS (As of May 2026)

In the open atrium space inside the building, a “BEAMS JAPAN” pop-up shop is being hosted (as of May 2026).

A wide variety of products chosen with a modern taste are on display—regional crafts, original small goods, and apparel. The vessels and everyday items on wooden fixtures harmonize with the classic atmosphere of the Red Brick Hall, so you can hunt for souvenirs you’ll only find here.

Location & Access for “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall”

Location

“Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall” is located on Nakanohashi-dori in central Morioka City. From JR Morioka Station, take a bus from the bus terminal for about 10 minutes, get off at the “Morioka Bus Center” stop, and walk about 1 to 2 minutes.

By car, it takes about 10 to 25 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway “Morioka IC.” Because the facility has no dedicated parking lot, visitors arriving by car use nearby commercial paid lots.

Information for “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall”

“Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall” Photo Gallery

Please enjoy these photos of “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall.”

Taken in May 2026: The interior, ceiling, and modern feel of the building at “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall” are wonderful.

Taken in May 2026: An interior reminiscent of bank operations back then.

Taken in May 2026: There are also many exhibits, such as old coins and bankbooks from those days.

Taken in May 2026: Stepping out of the Red Brick Hall leads to a small flower bed, which is soothing.

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

Summary: A Recommended Morioka Sightseeing Spot in Iwate—”Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall”

As a symbol of Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall” continues to hold onto its beauty and dignity even after more than 100 years. Beyond the beauty of its exterior, it’s a spot with endless highlights—interior decorations that still convey bank life of those days, and events that blend with modern culture.

If you’re enjoying a stroll through Morioka, this Red Brick Hall is absolutely recommended; alongside the tranquil scenery along the Nakatsu River, feel the breath of the eras that continue from Meiji and Taisho. The atmosphere of those days, conveyed directly by that space, will surely become a wonderful page of your Morioka sightseeing.

Recommended

Morioka Castle Site Park: A Relaxing Haven for Morioka Citizens in Iwate

The castle of Iwate’s Nanbu Domain was “Kozukata Castle” (officially “Morioka Castle”) in Morioka. Here, we introduce Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), which currently serves as a relaxing park for Morioka locals. It is a delightful park surrounded by water and lush greenery where you can also feel the rich history.

＼ A Relaxing Park for Morioka Citizens ／

Click here for the article on walking trails at the wonderful Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Castle Site Park surrounded by beautiful rivers and greenery

This website is operated by "Don Don Travel Guide"

Author: Boon

Our mission is to share valuable information with the world through informative and engaging travel media.

Learn more about Don Don Travel Guide.

Best Japan Tours

PR

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Nestled quietly in the city of Morioka, “Kogensha” has its roots in the printing house that published Kenji Miyazawa’s first edition of The Restaurant of Many Orders, and even today, it is a spot where you can still feel the story lingering in the space. You can freely come and go in the cobblestone courtyard, where peaceful time flows amid dappled sunlight through the trees and the aroma of coffee.

Surrounded by a retro atmosphere as if you had wandered into the setting of a fairy tale, while gently taking in the scenery and culture of Iwate that Kenji loved—why not set out on such a “nostalgic stroll” yourself?

Want a quiet Kenji Miyazawa-linked walk in Morioka—what’s the vibe like at Kogensha?

Rooted in the printing house of A Restaurant with Many Orders, its stone courtyard feels storybook. Nostalgic stroll guide ahead.

In this article, based on information and photos from the author’s own visit, we introduce the worldview of Kenji Miyazawa at “Kogensha.”

Highlights of “Kogensha,” a Place Associated with Kenji Miyazawa

Taisho-Romantic Courtyard Scenery of Cobblestones and Retro Buildings

The moment you step inside, an alley with a beautiful contrast of brick and plaster stretches out, with timeworn cobblestones under your feet. Slightly mossy stones and the green of trees sparkle under the morning sunlight filtering through the leaves. Wooden-framed glass doors and classic iron lamps that carry traces of the Taisho era into the present line up like the set of a story, naturally drawing your imagination to the nearly century-long history Kogensha has walked.

Literary Cafe Time at “Kahikan,” Fragrant with Drip Coffee

“Kahikan,” which also has a beautiful name, is a retro and stylish coffee shop evoking the Taisho era, operating in the courtyard of “Kogensha.” In the early afternoon, it also becomes a coffee shop where neighborhood ladies (?) gather, and laughter is often heard inside. Freshly brewed coffee is delicious and offers a flavor that lets you catch your breath; it is a coffee shop you definitely want to drop by during a stroll. (Photography inside is prohibited.)

A quiet stretch along the Kitakami River

Leaving Kahikan and heading farther back, your view opens up and the clear stream of the Kitakami River appears. Standing along the fence, a cool breeze across the river surface brushes your cheeks, with sunlight filtering through the tree branches. On the white wall behind you, a verse of Kenji Miyazawa’s poem is written in ink characters, letting you feel a unique tranquility where literature and nature meet—truly a “space where you feel a healing breeze.”

White Walls That Evoke the Poems of Kenji Miyazawa

On the white walls topped with indigo tile roofs, verses of Kenji Miyazawa’s poems are written in ink characters, as if breathing as part of the scenery. The lines bleeding with black ink feel like a “canvas of poetry” that visualizes the nature and prayers of Tohoku spoken by Kenji. It is a white wall overflowing with quaint charm.

A Museum for Reflecting on Kenji Miyazawa

There is a cozy exhibition room (museum). Inside the glass cases, primary materials that still carry the breath of creation—such as copies of Kenji Miyazawa’s drafts, letters, and proofreading sheets of the first edition—are lined up. On the walls, woodblock prints and cover art motifs of Kenji’s works are also hung, their colors faintly floating under soft spotlights.

Visit notes: Kogensha on a sunny weekday

One Day in June 2025: Walking to “Kogensha” from Morioka Station on a Fine Weekday

On one day in June 2025, I went from Tokyo to Morioka and visited “Kogensha.” Although you can walk from Morioka Station to Zaimokucho where “Kogensha” is located, there is a bit of distance, so I put my suitcase in a locker at Morioka Station to travel light.

Leaving Morioka Station, crossing the river (bridge), and walking for about 10 to 15 minutes brings you to Zaimokucho Street. The sidewalk is paved with cobblestones, making it a simple-looking yet quaint street. Walking a little farther, “Kogensha” comes into view on the left.

The exterior of “Kogensha” also has a design that feels romantic, making it feel as if you were time-traveling to the Taisho era just by standing in front of the shop. The items on sale are also wonderful, and taking your time to browse and shop here seems nice too.

Entering the courtyard of “Kogensha,” the harmony between the brick-style building and the white walls is beautifully set out, and the items on display are all old-fashioned yet novel things that catch the heart; I had already stepped into a space filled with the atmosphere of Kenji Miyazawa.

Heading to the back of the courtyard, the Kitakami River riverbed that comes into view and the river breeze you feel are pleasant.

Because there are almost no tourists on weekday afternoons, under the clear blue sky in the early afternoon with good sunlight, it is a wonderful spot where you can step into the worldview of Kenji Miyazawa at “Kogensha.”

The pairing of the beauty of the Kitakami River seen on the way back from “Kogensha” to Morioka Station and the blue sky of Morioka made me feel the freshness and charm of regional Japanese cities even more.

Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture is a city of rivers; the historic city shaped alongside clear streams nurtures people’s steady lives and gentle feelings, making it a truly wonderful city. Great for sightseeing, great for living—it is one of the recommended cities in Japan.

Photogenic Photo Spots

“Kogensha,” the courtyard where you can feel the thoughts of Kenji Miyazawa, and Zaimokucho Street are full of photogenic spots. You will definitely want to take photos as travel memories too.

The back of “Kogensha” as seen from the courtyard side is also a quaint, photo-worthy spot, with the glass-fronted store interior, stairs up to the second floor, and harmony with the surrounding white walls.

You are also drawn to the small-goods shop visible beyond the cute bamboo grove. Just like a Japanese garden that conveys Japanese beauty with Taisho-style architecture and a grove of bamboo, being able to capture the Japanese-style small-goods shop and those elements in a single photo is also part of the charm of “Kogensha”‘s courtyard.

Location and Access of “Kogensha”

Location

About a 10-to-15-minute walk from Morioka Station, it is just the right distance for travelers to drop by in the afternoon. On fine days, strolling along riverbeds like the Kitakami River, stopping by Zaimokucho, and relaxing with dark roast coffee at “Kahikan” is also wonderful.

Morioka Zaimokucho Is a Wonderful Shopping Street with Traditional Japanese Charm

Wonderful Shopping Street

Morioka City Zaimokucho is a quaint former wholesaler district along the Kitakami River. Earthen-walled storehouse-style streetscapes and the night markets held from time to time are popular; Kogensha, which published Kenji Miyazawa’s The Restaurant of Many Orders, and authentic coffee shops are scattered about, making it a wonderful street for strolling and cultural experiences. There are not so many shops that you would call it a commercial street, so it is a strolling route where you can walk comfortably on cobblestone sidewalks.

The retro public telephone located near the center of Zaimokucho Street is a wonderful photogenic spot.

Zaimokucho Yoichi

At the Zaimokucho Yoichi held from time to time, numerous stalls (food stands) line the road, making it a traditional “fun shopping street event” where you can walk around buying and eating beer, grilled seafood, sausages, and more. Many people come out and it is lively, and enjoying meals at tables and chairs on the road is also OK! In the hot summer, gulping down cold beer starting in the daytime is also the best.

Recommended Strolling Spots in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), a Relaxation Spot for Morioka Citizens

The castle of Iwate’s Nambu Clan is “Kozukata Castle” (accurately “Morioka Castle”) in Morioka. Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), which now serves as a relaxation park for Morioka citizens, is a wonderful strolling spot woven from trees and castle ruins. Because it sits beside the clear Nakatsu River, pairing it with a riverside stroll lets you walk even more pleasantly.

Recommended

Morioka Castle Site Park: A Relaxing Haven for Morioka Citizens in Iwate

The castle of Iwate’s Nanbu Domain was “Kozukata Castle” (officially “Morioka Castle”) in Morioka. Here, we introduce Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), which currently serves as a relaxing park for Morioka locals. It is a delightful park surrounded by water and lush greenery where you can also feel the rich history.

＼ A Relaxing Park for Morioka Citizens ／

Click here for the article on walking trails at the wonderful Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Castle Site Park surrounded by beautiful rivers and greenery

Nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” and Beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu”

In Morioka, an ancient capital where the atmosphere of a long-beloved river town is still alive today, the shrine “Morioka Hachimangu” somewhat away from the station and “Daiji Shimizu” about a 15-minute walk from the Hachimangu Shrine are nostalgia-evoking landmarks that bring to mind Japan’s good old days.

Strolling through “Daiji Shimizu” and “Morioka Hachimangu,” which are just right for a walk that captures good old Morioka, is also a recommended route.

Recommended

Nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” and Beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine”

In Morioka, an old city where the charm of a good old river town still lives on, “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine” (located slightly away from the station) and “Daiji Shimizu” (about a 15-minute walk from the shrine) are nostalgic landmarks that evoke the atmosphere of Japan’s good old days.

＼ Good Old Morioka & Ancient City Charm ／

Click here for the article on exploring Morioka: Visiting nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” and beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine”

Introducing “Daiji Shimizu” and “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine.”

Recommended Hotels in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture is a castle town that later gained a Shinkansen station, as is quite common in regional cities, the traditional castle-town downtown and the area in front of the station are separate. Considering location and getting around, you may hesitate whether to stay by the station or in the downtown area to enjoy gourmet food and izakaya bars. The following article introduces recommended hotels by area in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing in Morioka

Morioka is an old castle town where the charm of good old Japan still lives on. To fully enjoy and explore Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing recommended hotels for sightseeing and business trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

Summary: A Nostalgic Stroll to Savor at “Kogensha” in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Carrying into the present the history of sending Kenji Miyazawa’s first edition into the world, Kogensha is a complex of literature and folk crafts you can enjoy as a set—cobblestone courtyard, retro coffee shop “Kahikan,” Kitakami River deck, white walls engraved with poetry, and the Kenji museum. We have introduced a nostalgic stroll to savor at “Kogensha.”

Enjoying coffee at Kahikan while touring the courtyard, taking a deep breath by the riverside, and immersing yourself in Kenji’s world at the poetry corridor and the museum—Kogensha is one of the places that elevates a Morioka stroll into a “journey of stories.” Picking up a favorite vessel at the long-established folk craft shop lets you savor the lingering memory of the trip at home as well.

Combining it with “Zaimokucho Yoichi” or the nearby Morioka Castle Site Park to spend a nostalgic day in Morioka is also wonderful.

Recommended

A Retro Architectural Masterpiece: “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building”

Standing along the Nakatsu River in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, the “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building” is a red-brick structure completed in 1911 (Meiji 44). Formerly used as the bank’s head office, it has been restored and preserved, and is now open to the public as one of Morioka’s iconic historical landmarks.

＼ Beautiful Architecture ／

Click here for the article thoroughly introducing the charm of the retro architectural masterpiece “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building”

You can tour the inside with full admission (paid).

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Author: Boon

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Morioka is a historic castle town where the charm of old Japan still lives on. Located a little away from Morioka Station, Morioka Hachimangu Shrine is one of the city’s most important landmarks. About a 15-minute walk from the shrine is Daiji Shimizu, a historic spring that has long been loved by locals.

Visiting these two spots offers a glimpse into the nostalgic atmosphere of traditional Japan, making them must-see destinations for anyone exploring Morioka.

I want nostalgic Morioka walks, but how do you actually combine Hachimangu and Daiji Shimizu?

Great pairing. Walking distance and real photos make a chill, nostalgic stroll easy to picture.

In this article, we’ll introduce Daiji Shimizu and Morioka Hachimangu Shrine with original photos and insights from the author’s first-hand visit.

Highlights of “Daiji Shimizu,” Which Also Serves as Household Water for the Region

Located in Nataya-cho, Morioka City, Daiji Shimizu—a communal well that also serves as household water for the area—is a nostalgic water source you no longer see in modern cities. The First Well is for drinking water, the Second for washing rice, the Third for washing vegetables and dishes, and the Fourth for rinsing laundry.

As valuable household water for neighboring homes, it is a wonderful well where you can taste one of the famous waters of the river town “Morioka.” Because it is both one of Japan’s precious treasures and water used in neighbors’ daily lives, we hope tourists treat it with respect.

The First Well at “Daiji Shimizu” Is Drinking Water (Yes, You Can Drink It)

The First Well is drinking water—and delicious water at that. Because it is water neighbors rely on in daily life, and precious water that many people work hard to keep clean, let’s drink it with gratitude.

Because it is crystal-clear, delicious water, let’s drink it with gratitude. You can sense one of the water sources that supported Japanese towns in the good old days.

Location and Access for “Daiji Shimizu”

Location

Located in “Nataya-cho,” where Morioka’s preserved buildings line the street, “Daiji Shimizu” is a spring that has supported local residents since ancient times. From JR Morioka Station, take a bus from the bus terminal; from the nearest stop it is about a 2-minute walk.

Because surrounding roads are mostly one-way and narrow, public transportation is convenient. If you come by car, there is no dedicated parking lot, so parking at a paid lot near the Morioka Bus Center and walking over through the charming streets is recommended.

Highlights of “Morioka Hachimangu,” a Shrine That Represents Morioka

Also reachable on foot from Daiji Shimizu, the shrine that represents Morioka is “Morioka Hachimangu.” It is larger than you might expect, though not impossibly huge, and offers a comfortable space unique to Morioka, which grew as a regional hub.

A Shrine Representing Morioka

From the torii gate into Hachimangu Shrine, it is solemn, beautiful, and quite huge! Bow under the torii, then enter the Hachimangu grounds.

The stairs leading to the main hall ahead are not too long, so it is a shrine with a just-right, splendid main hall where you can worship comfortably. (Photos were taken during the summer pilgrimage in summer 2024.)

The Shinsen (Hand-Washing Basin) at “Morioka Hachimangu”

The “shinsen,” which washes the heart, is beautiful too.

Combining coolness with a Japanese feel, the “shinsen” paired with casually placed flowers is beautiful too.

The Coffee Shop on the Grounds of “Morioka Hachimangu”

On the shrine grounds, there is an atmospheric coffee shop: “Hachiman Shokudo and Chao Coffee Shop.”

Step into Chao Coffee Shop, and the atmosphere is wonderful again. Sitting at a nostalgic table in good sunlight, it is a space where you can settle down and relax over coffee.

Wind Chimes of the Summer Pilgrimage (Natsumode) at “Morioka Hachimangu”

(This is a video. Sound plays.)

Wind chimes of the summer pilgrimage were playing cool sounds. This is a video—please enjoy the cool chimes. Please enjoy wonderful Morioka.

Location and Access for “Morioka Hachimangu”

Location

Known as Morioka City’s chief guardian shrine, “Morioka Hachimangu” has vast grounds on the east side of the city center. From JR Morioka Station, take a bus such as the one bound for “Chabatake” from the bus terminal (bay No. 16), and get off at “Hachimangu-mae”; the entrance with a large torii gate will be right in front of you. Travel time is about 15 minutes.

By car, it takes about 20 to 25 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway “Morioka IC.” A free parking lot for worshippers is available on the grounds, so access by car is also relatively smooth. It is also within a 10-minute walk of Morioka Bus Center, so you can stroll there together with nearby spots like the “Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall.”

Recommended

Retro Architecture Masterpiece: “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building”

Standing along the Nakatsu River in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, the “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building” is a brick structure completed in 1911 (Meiji 44). Formerly used as the bank’s head office, it has undergone preservation and repair work and is now open to the public as one of Morioka’s most iconic historical landmarks.

＼ A Truly Beautiful Building ／

Click here for the article: Thorough Guide to the Charms of Retro Architectural Masterpiece “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building”

Full building access (paid entry) allows you to explore the interior.

Information on “Morioka Hachimangu”

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

Summary: Nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” and Beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu”

Walking through Morioka, the route from Nataya-cho’s “Daiji Shimizu” on to “Morioka Hachimangu” is a stroll where you can feel this town’s “abundance of water” and “Morioka’s history, streetscapes, and culture” firsthand. It is an area where quiet, calm time flows, different from the modern station area.

Walking through Morioka while listening to the murmur of rivers and the sound of wind chimes brings new discoveries with every visit. Surrounded by the lives of people who carefully protect tradition and the sacred air of the shrine, try a stroll that refreshes both mind and body. You will surely come to love Morioka even more.

Recommended

Morioka Castle Site Park: A Relaxing Haven for Morioka Locals

The castle of the Nanbu Domain in Iwate was Kozukata Castle (officially known as Morioka Castle). Today, it stands as Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), a beloved relaxing space for local residents. Here is an introduction to this pleasant park where you can enjoy water, lush greenery, and a rich sense of history.

＼ A Peaceful Park for Morioka Citizens ／

Click here for the article: Absolutely Wonderful! Walking Trails at Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Castle Site Park is surrounded by beautiful rivers and lush greenery

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Author: Boon

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Unlike famous castles across Japan, there is no castle tower or surrounding buildings, and no admission fee. Anyone can enter freely. As a wonderful park of relaxation that Morioka citizens still love today, you can unwind by the Nakatsu River among the castle’s trees, stone walls, and lawn.

Morioka Castle Site Park has no keep—is it too plain for sightseeing?

Nope. Stone walls and Nakatsu River greenery feel like a free local oasis, not a dull stop.

In this article, based on photos the author took on site, we introduce the charms of Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park).

Highlights of Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Citizens’ Place to Unwind: “Morioka Castle Site Park”

Unlike famous castles across Japan, there is no castle tower or surrounding buildings, and no admission fee. Anyone can enter freely. As a wonderful park of relaxation that Morioka citizens still love today, you can unwind by the Nakatsu River among the castle’s trees, stone walls, and lawn.

Morioka / Kozukata Castle Site Park Beside the Nakatsu River

Iwate / Morioka is a town where three large rivers—the Kitakami, Shizukuishi, and Nakatsu—meet; a place of water and greenery, blessed with rivers and mountains. Morioka Castle Site Park, nestled beside the Nakatsu River as it flows through the city, is a park full of the river’s calming presence.

Viewed from the opposite bank of the Nakatsu River, Morioka Castle Site Park is lined with trees, and the blooming flowers captivate you.

The path looking out on the riverfront to one side and the castle site to the other somehow wraps you in a mysterious feeling; while walking this wonderful little path, enjoying the clear air and the greenery’s calm, you can almost slip toward the riverbed at times—so take real care.

Entering the park’s small path from the Nakatsu River side feels like a short trek—a restorative stroll path full of that riverside freshness.

Lawn Plaza Where You’ll Want to Relax on Holidays

The plaza along the Nakatsu River is a carpet of lawn, and in summer lush green grass spreads out. You can’t go onto the lawn to play, but you often see elderly couples sitting at ease on benches along the path. Elderly couples smiling in the park look happy.

Morioka History and Culture Museum

At Morioka Castle Site Park, next to the lawn plaza, is the “Morioka History and Culture Museum,” where you can learn Morioka’s history. In the past, it was a civic library. Books were plentiful, and inside, dedicated reading desks were available to visitors—a good quiet place where exam students in Morioka could study. But when summer vacation came, the building filled completely with junior high and high school students studying, so it may have drifted from a library’s original purpose.

Now a culture museum displaying Morioka’s history, it has many fascinating and entertaining exhibits, and the festival float on the 1st floor is a masterpiece.

Yare-yare-yare-yare~♪

The festival shout is “Yare-yare-yare-yare~♪”—and it might be unique to Morioka.

Sakurayama Shrine

Right next to the culture museum is a quiet shrine, “Sakurayama Shrine.” It’s called Sakurayama because it is wrapped in cherry blossoms in spring.

The fortune slips (omikuji) are colorful and cute.

Beside Sakurayama Shrine, there is a beautiful staircase.

Climbing up, there’s a rock! It’s called “Eboshi-iwa,” shaped like a court noble’s hat. You couldn’t actually wear a hat that huge (it’s heavy), but “Eboshi-iwa” was widely believed in across Nanbu Domain Morioka, and Shinto rites praying for peace from disasters and epidemics were held in front of it. As the “talisman rock” of Nanbu Domain Morioka, many people still pay their respects today.

As expected of “Iwa” (rock)!

Through the Pond to the Multipurpose Plaza

Re-entering the park from Sakurayama Shrine through the Morioka Castle Site Park Historic Site Entrance,

The area by the pond is pleasant.

Going straight leads to the multipurpose plaza halfway up the castle. A lone “horizontal bar” standing by itself is strangely cute. There used to be a “slide” here, too.

The Castle’s Honmaru

From here it’s an uphill path to the castle’s Honmaru. Naturally, you can’t climb the wall here (if you try, you’ll get scolded).

Climbing a proper path,

Climbing,

Looking down.

At the Honmaru Palace site stands the pedestal of an equestrian statue; the bronze statue itself was surrendered to the nation under wartime mobilization, and only the pedestal remains now—but even so (or rather, precisely that pedestal-only scene) looks cool.

From the Honmaru to the Ninomaru

Going from the Honmaru to the Ninomaru, the “Tokon-bashi,” a red wooden bridge spanning the gap, has real atmosphere—but because it’s quite old, crossing it makes your heart beat a little. It’s okay, it’s sturdy, so let’s cross! (Probably.)

In the Ninomaru, there is a monument inscribed with Ishikawa Takuboku’s poem.

“Lying down on the grass of Kozukata Castle, my fifteen-year-old heart absorbed into the sky.”

When an emotionally rich fifteen-year-old Takuboku in his adolescence lay down on the lawn of Morioka Castle (probably sneaking out of school) and looked at the sky—so much that his heart felt almost absorbed into the clear blue—

It feels super good!

There are complaints about school, or irritations you can’t quite put into words, but the clear sky seems to take those feelings in, and suddenly none of it matters—the world is vast, huh? Something like that? To write such a poem at fifteen, Ishikawa Takuboku was an extraordinarily sensitive poet.

Passing from the Ninomaru through the San-no-maru, heading down the slope, you return to downtown Morioka (Odori). That was a stroll through Morioka Castle Site Park.

Japan, Where Water Is Beautiful

At Morioka Castle Site Park, you’ll often find nostalgic faucets for drinking water. A country where tap water is safe to drink is something Japan can be proud of—rare even worldwide.

These days, various resources, assets, and cultures passed down from those before us are being broken down and lost—but we must study history carefully, protect the precious treasures inherited from our ancestors ourselves, and pass them on to the future.

Please enjoy Morioka Castle Site Park—a place to unwind on a holiday in Morioka.

Location and Access: Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Location

Morioka Castle Site Park is in the Uchimaru area in central Morioka City. From JR Morioka Station, take the “Morioka City Center Loop Bus ‘Dendenmushi'” counterclockwise from the East Exit bus terminal for about 6 minutes, and get off right at “Morioka Castle Site Park-mae.”

On foot, cross Kaiun Bridge from Morioka Station and walk through lively Saien-dori—about 15 to 20 minutes. Across the Nakatsu River, it’s close to “Plaza Odette” and the “Iwate Bank Red Brick Building,” and part of the charm is reaching it while enjoying a city stroll. By car, the paid underground parking lot beneath the park is convenient.

Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park) Information

History of Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

FAQ: Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

Because Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a castle town and an ancient city, Morioka Station, where the Shinkansen stops, and Morioka's downtown area (entertainment and commercial district) are slightly separated. Compared to prefectural capitals in other prefectures (regional areas), Morioka is a city where shops still relatively remain in the center of town (such as the Odori arcade street). Furthermore, as a city of water and greenery with three rivers flowing through it, hotels suitable for sightseeing and business trips are scattered throughout the area.

Among them, the hotel areas in Morioka City are roughly divided into three main zones. The recommended areas vary depending on your priorities—such as location, city sightseeing, gourmet dining, or proximity to downtown/entertainment districts—so choosing a hotel that fits your purpose is recommended.

If you are looking for a hotel in Morioka City, please be sure to check out the following article.

Recommended

Recommended Hotels for Morioka Sightseeing

The ancient capital of Morioka, a former castle town, retains the charm of good old Japan. To fully enjoy and sightsee Morioka, choose a high-quality hotel in a recommended area.

＼ Enjoy Morioka to the Fullest ／

Introducing Recommended Hotels for Sightseeing and Business Trips in Morioka, Iwate

Choosing the right hotel is essential for sightseeing in Morioka

Summary: Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park)

Morioka Castle Site Park, which carries the remnants of Kozukata Castle—the former residence castle of the Nanbu Domain—into the present, is an irreplaceable place to unwind for Morioka citizens, wrapped in beautiful stone walls and rich greenery.

This place where history, culture, and nature are tightly woven together lets you feel the depth of Morioka firsthand.

Besides Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park), a stroll through “Daiji-shimizu” and “Morioka Hachimangu”—perfect for soaking up good old Morioka—is another recommended route.

Recommended

Nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” & Beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine”

In Morioka, an old capital where the charm of an old-time river town remains vibrant, Morioka Hachimangu Shrine—located a short distance from the station—and Daiji Shimizu, just a 15-minute walk from the shrine, are nostalgic landmarks that evoke the beauty of Japan’s classic eras.

＼ Good Old Morioka & Ancient Capital Charm ／

Click here for the article: Exploring Morioka! A Journey to Nostalgic “Daiji Shimizu” and Beautiful “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine”

Introducing “Daiji Shimizu” and “Morioka Hachimangu Shrine”

This website is operated by "Don Don Travel Guide"

Author: Boon

Our mission is to share valuable information with the world through informative and engaging travel media.

Learn more about Don Don Travel Guide.

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