Experience the history and culture of the southern inland region of Iwate Prefecture!

Visit a world straight out of a landscape painting formed by nature, where the snowy winter landscapes are just as beautiful

Geibi Gorge in Ichinoseki is a place of beauty; it is considered one of the 100 most scenic spots in Japan. The gorge stretches two kilometers along the Satetsu River and is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including 100-meter-high cliffs, unusual rock formations, and caves. Enjoy a seasonal trip on the water by taking a famous boat ride down the Geibi Gorge.

The Geibi Gorge boat ride follows a 90-minute round-trip route that begins at the departure/arrival point, heads upstream, and turns back at Miyoshigaoka.

The boatman leads us aboard. The flat-bottom boat is larger and more stable than we expected; even wheelchair users can enjoy the boat ride.

The first rock formation that came into view was Kyomeiiwa Rock. It is said that when the morning sun reflects off the water, the rocks look like a mirror.

The boatman skillfully guides the boat using a single long pole. As we proceed over the calm surface, the boatman explains the different sights in the area and where the best photo opportunities can be found. And you may spot fish swimming in the water as if chasing after the boat.

Bishamonten is enshrined in Bishamon Cave, and if you are successful in throwing coins from the boat into the offertory box, you will hear a gling sound.

The Koto Stream, where a single stream of water flows down between the rock walls. It is said that there used to be a village of about 30 houses inhabited by fleeing Fujiwara clan soldiers who made a living from iron sand.

The Shofu-gan Rock resembles a woman's face turned to the left. And the Sofu-gan Rock rises from the opposite shore. These two rock formations resemble a married couple.

Choose your undama and try your luck at this fun challenge that awaits at the turnaround point!

We disembark from the boat for a 20-minute break to stretch our legs. Here, you can try your luck by throwing an undama into the hole found in the Daigeibi-gan cliff wall. There are ten types of undama: destiny, longevity, fortune, connections, wishes, romance, love, bonds, income, and assets. You can purchase five for 100 yen.

The Daigeibi-gan cliff wall rises up 120 m before us. We throw our undama as hard as we can toward the hole... Are we anywhere close to making it in?

Those who get an undama into the Wishing Hole receive a certificate. Try it out if you are confident in your throwing ability.

On the trip back, we hear about the history of Geibi Gorge and enjoy views of dynamic scenery that appear different from the opposite direction. At the climax of the trip, the boatman performs the Geibi Oiwake, his somber voice echoing through the gorge.

Mr. Sugawara related the highlights of Geibi Gorge to us with a sense of humor. The 90 minutes went by in a blink of an eye, with the comfortable rocking of the boat, the beautiful scenery, and our entertaining guide. A tea ceremony boat is available in the summer, and a kotatsu boat is available from December to February.

Enjoy the finest brand beef from cattle raised in the nature of Maesawa, Iwate Prefecture

This restaurant is operated directly by Ogata Ranch, which has received numerous awards including the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award. You can enjoy Maesawa beef raised in the rich nature of the Ou Mountains, as well as the restaurant’s own brand beef, Ogata Ranch beef.
The photo shows the lean steak and yakiniku set meal featuring Maesawa and Ogata Ranch beef for 1,900 yen (lunch options change monthly). This comes with rice, soup, and a fresh salad for an incredible price!

The Maesawa beef seared beef tenderloin bowl for 1,850 yen. The rice is topped with flakes of beef and finely marbled seared beef. The fat contained in Gyusho Black Wagyu beef has a low melting point, allowing it to melt in your mouth.

The melt-in-your-mouth fat in the Maesawa beef makes for exquisite beef nigiri sushi

The Maesawa Beef Aburi Nigiri (3 pieces for 1330 yen) features lightly seared fatty beef. The marbled seared beef lets you experience the elegant fat and flavor of Black Wagyu beef.

The restaurant has box-type table seating, small tatami room seating, and spacious tatami room seating for a variety of situations. Enjoy a relaxing lunch in a calm, traditional Japanese-style space.

Remember your trip with a commemorative photo together with the large Black Wagyu statue found in front of the restaurant!

You can also purchase steaks, hamburger meat, and more at the butcher shop next to the dining area.

The only theme park in Japan that recreates the Heian period!

Esashi in the city of Oshu was the home of Lord Kiyohira, the first lord of the Oshu-Fujiwara clan, and his father, Lord Tsunekiyo. The 20-hectare site is dotted with as many as 120 buildings that reproduce the residences of Heian aristocrats and buildings in the shinden-zukuri style, allowing visitors to experience the culture of the Heian aristocrats.

The Oshu-Fujiwara clan ruled the Tohoku region for about 100 years in the late Heian period. Lord Kiyohira, their first leader, is also known for having built Konjikido, the Golden Hall in Hiraizumi. We got on an ox cart and had our commemorative photo taken to remember this Heian aristocrat feeling.

The park offers a variety of Heian period-style experiences. First, try your hand at archery (free) at the Seicho!

The Seicho was where politics were conducted and where important ceremonies were held. The main and side halls are connected by corridors that also serve as great spots for photos.

Authentic twelve-layered ceremonial kimonos are also a popular choice. Feel like a princess in these Heian period costumes!

Visitors can try on period costumes (free) at the Kyaranogosho, which was built as a reproduction of the residence of Lord Hidehira, the third lord leader of the Oshu-Fujiwara clan. For those who want an authentic Heian aristocrat experience, there is also a twelve-layered ceremonial kimono experience available starting at 22,000 yen (reservation only), where you can wear a twelve-layered ceremonial kimono from a long-established kimono store in Kyoto.

Visitors can also enjoy feeding carp on the premises (100 yen per bag, limited from mid-April to mid-November). There are also many other experiences that will have you feeling like a Heian celebrity, such as clamshell painting (200 yen each) and sutra copying using silver and gold ink on dark blue paper (500 yen each).

The park is dotted with various buildings, including Konjikido, Kiyohira Hall, and townscapes; the park itself has actually been used as a filming location for movies and TV programs. The Film Production Archives Museum exhibits anecdotes of work shot in the park, as well as filming accessories. Searching for where famous scenes were shot is a fun challenge to try.

Shake hands with Shohei Ohtani at this promotional museum for Nambu ironware

The city of Oshu in Iwate Prefecture is the birthplace of Nambu ironware. It is said to have begun in the late Heian period, when Fujiwara no Kiyohira invited iron craftsmen from Omi Province to make weapons and other items. The museum introduces the history and manufacturing process of Nambu ironware.

Oshu is also the hometown of Shohei Ohtani. This is a brass statue of Shohei Ohtani’s handshake made with Nambu ironware techniques. A 3D scanner was used to create a mold of Shohei Ohtani’s actual hand. Although different in texture, you can feel the size of his hand. Try shaking his hand to commemorate your visit to the museum.

Near the statue is a Shohei Ohtani section. Visitors can see his autograph as well as his uniforms from his days with the Nippon-Ham Fighters, the Angels, and the Dodgers.

Be wowed again as you learn about the history and process of Nambu ironware

At the Nambu Tetsubin Kobo (Nambu Iron Kettle Workshop) reproduction section, visitors can see realistic reproductions of mold making, pattern pressing, foot-operated bellows, and other processes featuring mannequins. There was also a section introducing the evolution of Nambu ironware from the late Heian period to the present day.

A cannon is on display in front of the entrance.

The store sells a variety of products, from craft products to masterpieces by traditional artisans. Pink and blue table bells are recommended not only as bells for calling others but also as interior decorations.

When we think of Nambu ironware, we think of iron kettles. The popular iron kettle-shaped chopstick rest is 1,050 yen. It may be small but it has considerable presence.

Premium souvenirs that highlight Iwate culture

Standing in front of the Chuson-ji Temple entrance, this is a convenient spot to stop by on the way to sightseeing around Hiraizumi. It has a souvenir shop that boasts one of the largest and most extensive selections in Iwate Prefecture, as well as the Food Court Mon where visitors can taste traditional mochi dishes and ita soba noodles.

The most popular Iwate souvenir is the Kamome Egg. Hiraizumi is also home to a gorgeous golden version! The Golden Kamome Egg (486 yen each) is a luxurious version with gold leaf on the surface of the chocolate and candied chestnut on the inside. Sorry, they’re so popular that they’re all sold out.

There is a corner where you can see how the Sasaki Seika Three Color Sembei Crackers are hand-baked, and you can even try freshly baked crackers on the spot! These crackers are available in three varieties (peanut, almond, and white sesame), each containing 3 crackers; enjoy 9 crackers for 756 yen.

The Choco Nambu (10 pieces) is 648 yen. Nambu sembei crackers are crushed into small pieces and coated with chocolate. This is a crunchy chocolate with a delightful texture born from tradition and innovation (this is a seasonal product and is not sold during the summer because it contains pure chocolate).

Morioka's soul food, Fukuda Pan's popular An-Butter has been transformed into a box of sweets. The An-Butter Sandwich Cookies (6 cookies for 737 yen) feature a red bean past and butter flavored cream sandwiched between every so slightly salty cookie.

Traditional crafts, sundries, local sake, and other items let visitors get a sense of not only Hiraizumi but also Iwate Prefecture and the Tohoku region. The parking lot is spacious, so feel free to take your time and enjoy your shopping.

A concept room to experience the traditions of Iwate

JR-East Hotel Mets Kitakami is located a minute's walk from JR Kitakami Station, where the Tohoku Shinkansen also stops, making it a great base for business and sightseeing when traveling by train.
In the Iwate Traditional concept room, the wall features silhouettes showing the Devil's Sword Dance (Onikenbai), a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage of Kitakami. In addition to chairs and tables made in Iwaizumi, Iwate Prefecture, the bed runners and cushions feature Nambu katazome dyeing.

The morning buffet is served from 6:30 to 9:30 at the Restaurant MISATO on the first floor of the hotel. The menu features fresh vegetables from the Kitakami region and other carefully selected ingredients.

The fried eggs and grilled fish make for a somehow nostalgic and comforting breakfast. Simple really is best.

Handmade gems that are also available for purchase if you so desire

The warm, wood-filled lobby features a display of traditional Iwate crafts and a library corner, and promotes the region's history and tourist attractions.

Pictured are examples of the glossy Hidehira Nuri lacquerware displayed in the lobby. It is said to have originated by artisans invited from Kyoto by Fujiwara no Hidehira, the third lord of the Oshu-Fujiwara clan, and is characterized by its diamond-shaped gold leaf flower and plant designs.

Sheep-shaped memo stands, made of wood from Iwate Prefecture. As they are handmade, each one has a neck that tilts differently and a unique expression on the sheep's face.
In addition, the front desk offers free bicycle rentals for guests. The front desk offers cycling maps of the Kitakami area (running maps and driving maps are also available), so we recommend taking a short tour of the area in your spare time.

Feel refreshed in the Ihatov utopia-like countryside of Hanamaki, Iwate Prefecture

Conveniently located near the Towa Interchange on the Kamaishi Expressway, JR Shin-Hanamaki Station, and Iwate Hanamaki Airport! Perfect as a base when traveling by car. With views of the gentle mountains and countryside, you can relax in a way not possible in the city. Guest rooms are centered around Twin Rooms with a floor area of 18 m2. The hotel also offers Family Rooms and a Barrier-Free Room.

On the second floor, there is a book lounge supervised by the BACH book selection group on the subject of Iwate. We picked up a cute picture book, sat on a sofa, and relaxed as we read.

There was a commemorative photo spot near the book lounge. Pose with a Japanese-style umbrella to remember your trip to Iwate!

Unlimited access to 100% free-flowing hot springs at affiliated facilities

The affiliated Towa Spa facility at the end of the corridor is a popular hot spring for day trips among locals. One hundred percent natural hot spring water pours into the outdoor and indoor baths, and there is even a highly concentrated carbonated spring and an authentic Finnish sauna. As a guest, you can use the facility as often as you like during your stay to refresh and relieve your fatigue from traveling.

This is the Goat Paddock, home to goat siblings. You can feed the animals from outside the fence and even pet them a little.

The on-site restaurant serves a complimentary breakfast. Breakfast is served buffet-style, the menu consisting of seasonal side dishes, rice cooked in a clay pot, miso soup, and other dishes to nourish you. The locally produced apple juice and yogurt are popular choices.

A local favorite, this retro Showa-era public cafeteria has remained unchanged for years

The Marukan Department Store, founded in 1973, unfortunately closed in 2016. The large cafeteria on the 6th floor also closed, but in response to requests from numerous fans, it was reopened in 2017 as the Marukan Building Grand Cafeteria.
The interior, tableware, and atmosphere from the time the department store was founded have been preserved as much as possible, and the showcases are filled with old-fashioned food samples. Plus, everything on the menu is so affordable! Unable to hold back our impatience, we purchase meal tickets.

This is the most popular item on the menu, the Napoli Katsu for 1,180 yen. Together, the simple tomato ketchup Napolitan spaghetti, crispy pork cutlet, and salad make for a hearty meal.

Another specialty from the menu is the Marukan Ramen for 890 yen. This ramen is filled with vegetables, pork, chives, kikurage mushrooms, and other ingredients, and the starchy soup has a spicy, addictive flavor.

10-tier soft serve ice cream that will have you laughing

This is the soft serve ice cream (350 yen) we heard so much about. It is a whopping 10 tiers, so high that your hands will shake when you hold it. The Hanamaki tradition is to eat it from the top with chopsticks.

The wallpaper and chopstick holders also feature retro designs. Every inch of this restaurant is straight out of the Showa era.

There was also a nostalgic roulette-style omikuji fortune telling machine. Just insert a 100-yen coin into the slot for your zodiac sign, pull the lever, and a rolled-up fortune will pop out. Make sure to also note the important roulette numbers at the top!

Stickers for the restaurant featuring pop art illustrations of nostalgic menu items are 300 yen, and handkerchiefs are also available for 620 yen. Find a cute retro souvenir to commemorate your visit to the restaurant.

Enter the world of fairy tales envisioned by author Kenji Miyazawa

Born in Hanamaki, Iwate Prefecture, Kenji Miyazawa developed his versatile talents as a poet, children's author, teacher, and scholar. Hanamaki is dotted with spots associated with Kenji Miyazawa.
The Miyazawa Kenji Fairy Tale Village is an educational facility where visitors can enjoy learning in a world of fairy tales where it is easy to imagine Giovanni, Matasaburo, and Wildcat leaping out at any moment.

Kenji's School, the main attraction, is divided into five zones: Fantasy Hall, Space, Sky, Earth, and Water. Video and sound embodying the Ihatov utopia are projected in the pure white Fantasy Hall, inviting visitors into the world of Miyazawa's fairy tales.

Cute characters guide you through the museum.

The gallery features miniatures that recreate the world of Miyazawa's fairy tales. A water mill stands alone by the Ihatov river in this landscape showing the village where Gauche lives.

The Matasaburo of the Wind panel section. Looking up, we see Matasaburo dressed in a garance cloak and glass shoes.

In Kenji's Classroom, home to seven log houses, visitors can learn about the plants, animals, stars, birds, and stones that appear in Miyazawa's work. Inside the log houses, you will also find unique works of art created by artists based on Miyazawa’s fairy tales.

The Lanky Gate gives visitors the sensation of becoming taller as they walk deeper along the passageway, which is strewn with constellations of stars. Mysterious contraptions and works of art appear one after another in the park's lush natural surroundings, allowing visitors to experience the world of fairy tales simply by walking through the park. Even if you have never heard of Kenji Miyazawa, this is a wonderful spot that will surely make you want to read his work.

Explore the magnificent world of Kenji Miyazawa through the author’s favorite items and handwritten manuscripts

This facility focuses on the time period in which Kenji Miyazawa lived, the region, his family, and other surrounding areas. Visitors to the museum can experience Kenji Miyazawa's view of the world and the universe through a variety of materials. On display are a cello, Miyazawa's favorite instrument, manuscripts left behind by the author, and other items that are sure to appeal to fans.

Kenji Miyazawa studied agriculture and science as a student, and as a teacher at an agricultural school, he was active in a wide range of fields, including educating farmers, designing fertilizers, and brightening rural life based on the teachings of the Lotus Sutra. The museum exhibits materials under five themes: Science, Art, Space, Religion, and Agriculture, and introduces work left by Miyazawa.

Cats from “The Cat Office" greet us at the entrance.

Within the grounds of the museum is a plaza named after Kenji's work called the Polan Garden. The plaza is home to the south-facing flowerbed and the sundial flowerbed. Both were restored based on blueprints and letters left by Kenji. Be sure to stop by.

Further along the promenade from the Polan Garden is the Miyazawa Kenji Ihatov Hall, which houses and exhibits research papers and works of art related to Kenji Miyazawa. Take a stroll in the lush greenery of Koshiozan and travel through the imaginary world of Ihatov as Miyazawa saw it.

Western-style dishes with Hakkinton brand pork at reasonable prices, a feat possible because it is run directly by the farm!

Hakkinton, or platinum pork, the pride of Hanamaki, Iwate Prefecture, is a premium brand consisting of pigs raised slowly with carefully selected water and feed, including natural water from the Ou Mountains and locally grown corn. At Restaurant Popeye, which is run directly by the farm, you can savor Hakkinton at reasonable prices. Shown here is the Hakkinton Pork Sauté Set for 1,210 yen (the rice set is +290 yen), served with tomato and balsamic vinegar sauce!

The Popeye Loco Moco is 930 yen. This is a luxurious, juicy 150 g hamburg steak made with Hakkinton, served with rice, a half-boiled egg, and a salad, all on a single plate.

Enjoy the tender quality and sweetness of Hakkinton. You can also enjoy variations including the Hakkinton bacon steak and pork ginger. We also recommend trying the parfaits and homemade cakes after your meal.

This popular spot fills up quickly at lunchtime. Please stop by during your sightseeing trip around Hanamaki.

Visit the Kitakami Tenshochi Park, stretching along the banks of the Kitakami River

One of the most famous locations in Kitakami and Hanamaki during the spring is the Kitakami Tenshochi Park, one of the top three cherry blossom locations in the Michinoku Region! In mid-April, cherry blossoms stretch along some 2 km, and visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom along with the sound of the river.