Morioka (盛岡) is the capital city of Iwate Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan. It is located approximately 400 kilometers north of Tokyo and is known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and beautiful natural scenery.
One of the most famous attractions in Morioka is the Morioka Castle Ruins, which date back to the 16th century. Although the castle itself no longer stands, visitors can explore the park and gardens that surround the ruins.
Morioka is also known for its delicious food, particularly its noodles. One of the most famous dishes is Wanko Soba, a type of soba noodle that is served in small bowls and refilled continuously until the diner is full. Other local specialties include Reimen (cold noodles in a soup) and Jajamen (noodles with a spicy meat sauce).
For nature lovers, the nearby Mt. Iwate is a popular destination for hiking and climbing. The mountain is also a famous symbol of the city, and is often featured in local art and literature.
Getting there
From Tokyo Station to Morioka Station:
| Shinkansen | Tokyo Station ↓ Tohoku Shinkansen ↓ 2 hours 12 minutes (4 stops) Morioka Station (Cost 15,210 yen) |