Iwate Prefecture : Best Things to Do, See, and Eat

Q: What is the best time to visit Iwate?

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Iwate for cherry blossoms and colorful foliage. Winter is ideal for skiing and enjoying snowy landscapes.

Q: How can I get to Iwate?

Iwate is accessible via the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly to Hanamaki Airport from major Japanese cities.

Q: What are the must-try foods in Iwate?

Must-try foods in Iwate include Wanko Soba, a fun noodle-eating experience, Morioka Reimen for its refreshing cold noodles, and Maesawa Beef, known for its rich marbling and tender texture.

Iwate, located in Japan’s Tohoku region, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and culinary delights.

Whether you’re looking for serene temples, dramatic coastlines, or unforgettable flavors, Iwate has it all.

Here’s your guide to the best things to do, see, and eat in Iwate.

Table of contents

Top Attractions in Iwate
Must-Try Local Foods
Frequently Asked Questions

Top Attractions in Iwate

1. Hiraizumi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Hiraizumi's Chusonji Temple surrounded by lush greenery

Hiraizumi is a historic town that showcases the elegance of Japan’s Heian period.

Explore the iconic Chusonji Temple and Motsuji Temple, known for their peaceful gardens and cultural significance.

Read more about the historic temples of Hiraizumi here.

・Hiraizumi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iwate

2. Sanriku Coast

"Dramatic cliffs and blue waters along the Sanriku Coast

The Sanriku Coast is famous for its rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean views.

It’s also a place of resilience, showing recovery efforts from the 2011 tsunami.

3. Mount Iwate

Mount Iwate towering above a forest in northern Japan

Known as “Nanbu Fuji” for its resemblance to Mount Fuji, Mount Iwate offers hiking trails and panoramic views.

It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Koiwai Farm

Koiwai Farm's expansive green fields and a charming barn

Koiwai Farm is perfect for families, offering fresh dairy products, farm tours, and seasonal activities like horseback riding and winter snow parks.

Must-Try Local Foods

1. Wanko Soba

Small bowls of Wanko Soba arranged on a traditional wooden tray

Wanko Soba is a fun dining experience where you’re served small bowls of soba noodles one after another until you’re full.

It’s a true Iwate tradition!

2. Morioka Reimen

A bowl of Morioka Reimen with chilled broth, kimchi, and fresh toppings

This cold noodle dish is refreshing and flavorful, with a tangy broth and fresh ingredients like kimchi and boiled egg.

Perfect for summer days!

3. Maesawa Beef

Juicy slices of Maesawa Beef being grilled to perfection

Maesawa Beef is premium wagyu from Iwate, celebrated for its marbling and tender texture.

It’s a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Iwate?

Iwate is beautiful year-round, but spring (for cherry blossoms) and autumn (for vibrant foliage) are particularly stunning. Winter is ideal for skiing and enjoying snowy landscapes.

How can I get to Iwate?

You can reach Iwate via the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Morioka Station, which takes about 2.5 hours. Hanamaki Airport also connects Iwate to major Japanese cities.

What are the must-try foods in Iwate?

Don’t miss Wanko Soba, Morioka Reimen, and Maesawa Beef. Each dish offers a unique taste of Iwate’s culinary culture.