Iwate
Iwate Prefecture ranks second nationally in area after Hokkaido, with contrasting landscapes between inland Kitakami Basin and Rias-type Sanriku Coast. Hiraizumi, built by Heian-period Oshu Fujiwara clan, is registered as World Cultural Heritage, with Konjikido Hall preserving past glory. The coastal area is designated Sanriku Reconstruction National Park, popular for Jodogahama's cobalt blue sea and cliff beauty. Inland offers mountain climbing and skiing at Mount Iwate and Hachimantai, with pastoral scenery at Koiwai Farm and Shizukuishi Plateau. Specialties include wanko soba, Morioka cold noodles, Nambu ironware, and Maesawa beef. Summer's "Morioka Sansa Odori" and early summer's "Chagu Chagu Umakko" showcase regionally distinctive festivals. Access from Tokyo improved via Tohoku Shinkansen and Iwate-Hanamaki Airport.
Climate Information
Best Season
May–October offers relatively stable clear weather, perfect for enjoying both mountain walks and seafood.
Months: 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10
Seasonal Highlights
Spring
Koiwai Farm's lone cherry tree and Kitakami Tenshochi cherry tree rows reach peak viewing.
Summer
Sea kayaking at Jodogahama, night lantern festivals and Sansa Odori held throughout region.
Autumn
Hachimantai Aspite Line autumn foliage spectacular. Season of new crop 'Ginga no Shizuku' rice.
Winter
Powder snow skiing at Appi and Shizukuishi, plus snowy scenery hot springs. Wakasagi ice fishing also popular.
Basic Information
Symbols
Access Information
Bullet Train Lines
- Tohoku Shinkansen
- Akita Shinkansen
Airports
- Iwate-Hanamaki Airport (HNA) - Distance to Capital: 30km
Major Highways
- Tohoku Expressway
- Hachinohe Expressway
- Akita Expressway
- Kamaishi Expressway
- Sanriku Coastal Road
Economical options include JR companies' 'Three-Day East Japan/Hakodate Pass' and Iwate Kenpoku Bus highway bus coupon books.