Topics

Summer Festivals in Iwate

Summer festivals are a must-see if you want to enjoy Iwate's short summer to its fullest. In summer numerous festivals and events are held throughout Iwate. Come to Iwate and experience its hot, exciting summer!

 

Morioka Sansa Odori Festival
Morioka City  Tue. 8/1/2017- Fri. 8/4/2017



With over 10,000 taiko drummers, Sansa is known as the "Greatest Taiko Parade in Japan." Anyone can join the Waodori or “dancing in a circle” at the end of the parade.   
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=56

 

Ugoku Tanabata Festival; Kesencho Kenka Tanabata Festival
Rikuzentakata City Mon. 8/7/2017

 
This is a picturesque parade with decorated floats and festive music. The decorations are changed and paper lanterns are lit as the sun sets, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
On the same day, in Kesencho, Rikuzentakata, Kenka Tanabata or "fighting tanabata" is held. In this festival, large logs of cedar which are over 50 years old are tied to floats with thick wisteria vines from the mountains; the floats are then crashed into each other dynamically.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=58

 

Chusonji Takigi Noh (Chusonji Outdoor Bonfire Noh)
Hiraizumi Town Mon. 8/14/2017



This is a traditional event in which noh and kyogen plays are performed on Chusonji's Hakusan Shrine Noh Stage (national important cultural property), the oldest stage in Japan to be made of hinoki cypress. Bonfires illuminate the noh and kyogen performances by actors of the Kita school, creating an ethereal world on a late summer night in Tohoku. (no photos allowed) 
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=55

 

Morioka Fireworks Display
Morioka City Fri. 8/11/2017 (Sat. 8/12 in case of inclement weather)



This is a fireworks festival with a history of over 30 years. About 100,000 spectators flock every year to see 10,000 shots of fireworks, including large 30-cm firework balls and creative fireworks made by Japan's best pyrotechnists; the dark sky is lit up with colorful fireworks, and the booming sound echoes through your body.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=60

 

Kitakami Michinoku Geino Festival (Performing Arts Festival)
Kitakami City Fri. 8/4/2017 - Sun. 8/6/2017



This is a festival in which over 100 groups from in and out of Iwate perform a variety of traditional art forms, such as Oni Kenbai (national important intangible cultural property), Shishi-Odori, and kagura. The beat of the taiko drums and the tune of the flutes are sure to make you want to dance. In Iwate more and more foreigners are participating in such traditional performances.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=59

 

The Northernmost Ama Festival
Kuji City Sun. 8/6/2017



Held at Kosode Fishing Port, you can see Ama (female free divers) catch sea urchins and abalones, eat grilled scallops, and buy fresh seafood. Fun events include the Sea Urchin Catching Contest and local performing arts show.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=71

Summer Festivals in Iwate

Summer festivals are a must-see if you want to enjoy Iwate's short summer to its fullest. In summer numerous festivals and events are held throughout Iwate. Come to Iwate and experience its hot, exciting summer!

 

Morioka Sansa Odori Festival
Morioka City Mon. 8/1/2016- Thu. 8/4/2016



With over 10,000 taiko drummers, Sansa is known as the "Greatest Taiko Parade in Japan." Anyone can join the Waodori or “dancing in a circle” at the end of the parade.   
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=56

 

Ugoku Tanabata Festival; Kesencho Kenka Tanabata Festival
Rikuzentakata City Sun. 8/7/2016

 
This is a picturesque parade with decorated floats and festive music. The decorations are changed and paper lanterns are lit as the sun sets, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
On the same day, in Kesencho, Rikuzentakata, Kenka Tanabata or "fighting tanabata" is held. In this festival, large logs of cedar which are over 50 years old are tied to floats with thick wisteria vines from the mountains; the floats are then crashed into each other dynamically.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=58

 

Chusonji Takigi Noh (Chusonji Outdoor Bonfire Noh)
Hiraizumi Town Sun. 8/14/2016



This is a traditional event in which noh and kyogen plays are performed on Chusonji's Hakusan Shrine Noh Stage (national important cultural property), the oldest stage in Japan to be made of hinoki cypress. Bonfires illuminate the noh and kyogen performances by actors of the Kita school, creating an ethereal world on a late summer night in Tohoku. (no photos allowed) 
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=55

 

Morioka Fireworks Display
Morioka City Sat. 8/6/2016 (Sun. 8/7 in case of inclement weather)



This is a fireworks festival with a history of over 30 years. About 100,000 spectators flock every year to see 10,000 shots of fireworks, including large 30-cm firework balls and creative fireworks made by Japan's best pyrotechnists; the dark sky is lit up with colorful fireworks, and the booming sound echoes through your body.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=60

 

Kitakami Michinoku Geino Festival (Performing Arts Festival)
Kitakami City Fri. 8/5/2016 - Sun. 8/7/2016



This is a festival in which over 100 groups from in and out of Iwate perform a variety of traditional art forms, such as Oni Kenbai (national important intangible cultural property), Shishi-Odori, and kagura. The beat of the taiko drums and the tune of the flutes are sure to make you want to dance. In Iwate more and more foreigners are participating in such traditional performances.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=59

 

The Northernmost Ama Festival
Kuji City Sun. 8/7/2016



Held at Kosode Fishing Port, you can see Ama (female free divers) catch sea urchins and abalones, eat grilled scallops, and buy fresh seafood. Fun events include the Sea Urchin Catching Contest and local performing arts show.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=71

Cherry blossoms in Iwate

We’ve written the dates when these cherry blossoms usually bloom, but please understand weather conditions may cause those dates to change.

Tendaiji Temple (Ninohe City, northern Iwate)

Season     End of April – beginning of May

About

Weeping cherry trees within the temple grounds greet visitors every spring. Tendaiji is also known for the gorgeous hydrangeas that line the path to the temple.

Access

Car: 5 minutes from the Joboji IC on the Tohoku Expressway. More information can be found at the link above.

Questions

Joboji Town Tourism Association: 0195-38-2211 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

URL  Tendaiji Temple (machine translation available)

For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=17

 

 

Hanamaki Hot Springs(Hanamaki City, central Iwate) 

 Season   End of April – beginning of May

About

There are around 500 cherry blossom trees within the Hanamaki Hot Springs area, and all of them come into bloom to the delight of visitors.

Events

Hanamaki Hot Springs – Cherry Blossom Festival    2016: Scheduled for mid-April through the beginning of May 

 This festival happens when the trees are in full bloom, which happens around a week earlier than the trees in the city   center. 

Access

・Bus: 30 minutes from JR Hanamaki Station

・Car: 15 minutes from Hanamaki IC on the Tohoku Expressway

More information can be found at the link above

Parking  500 spaces

Questions   Hanamaki Hot Springs: 0198-37-2111 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

URL   Hanamaki Hot Springs (various languages available)

Livefeed    Cherry blossom blog (JPN only)

For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=136

 

Tenshochi area(Kitakami City, central Iwate)

 

Season    End of April

About

The Tenshochi area of Kitakami is known as one of the three best places to see cherry blossoms in all of Tohoku. Trees line a path about 2 kilometers long right by the Kitakami River, and is considered the best spot in Iwate. 

Events

Kitakami Tenshochi Cherry Blossom Festival (JPN site)

2016: April 10 (Sun) to May 5 (Thu) This festival will be packed with people from all over Japan to see the cherry trees in bloom. During its duration, fish-shaped flags in all the colors of the rainbow will be set up by the river, where there will also be a tour boat. There will even be a horse-drawn buggy where you can take a trip to the past under a ceiling of pink petals. At night, the trees will be lit up, their reflections glimmering on the surface of the river.

Access

・Car: 15 minutes from the Kitakami-Ezuriko IC on the Tohoku Expressway ・Train: A 20 minute walk from JR Kitakami Station

More information can be found at the link above.

Parking  300 spaces

Questions    Kitakami Tourism and Convention Association: 0197-65-0300 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

Livefeed   Kitakami Tenshochi Cherry Blossom Festival official site (JPN site) 

For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=120

 

Gembikei Gorge (Ichinoseki City, southern Iwate)

Season   End of April – end of May

About

Gembikei is a popular destination that has been designated a natural monument by the national government. There are around 200 cherry trees lining each side of the gorge for a 2km stretch, and the area will be filled with tourists.

Access

・Bus: From JR Ichinoseki Station, take a 20min bus ride to Gembikei

・Car: 10 minutes from Ichinoseki IC on the Tohoku Expressway More information can be found at the link above.

Questions   Commerce and Tourism Division, Ichinoseki City Government: 0191-21-8413 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

Livefeed

Ichinoseki Sightseeing Navigator (various languages available)
 
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=114

 

Fukusenji Temple(Tono City, central Iwate) 

Season  End of April – beginning of May

About

Fukusenji is famous for its wooden 11-faced Kannon statue (a Buddhist figure), as well as for the beautiful cherry blossoms that line the grounds. The temple is enjoyed by many visitors during blossom season.

Access

Taxi: 10 minutes from JR Tono Station Car: 70 minutes from the Kitakami-Ezuriko IC on the Tohoku Expressway

Parking  60 spaces

Questions     Fukusenji Temple: 0198-62-3822 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

For more information: http://www.tonojikan.jp/Several_languages/english/kanko/shisetu/fukusenji.html

 

Morioka Castle Site Park(Morioka City, northern Iwate)

Season    Mid-April – end of April

About

Large rock walls are the only thing left standing of the Morioka Castle site, which lies within Morioka City. That site was made into a park, and is very popular as a famous spot for viewing cherry blossoms.

Events

Morioka Cherry Blossom Festival (JPN site) April 12, 2016 (Tue) – May 5, 2016 (Thu)

Access

・Bus: 10 minutes from Morioka Station

・Car: 20 minutes from the Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway More information can be found at the link above.

Parking   Paid parking lots available nearby

Questions   Morioka Tourism and Convention Association: 019-604-3305 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

URL Morioka Tourism and Convention Association (JPN site)

Livefeed  Information on Morioka’s cherry blossoms (JPN site)

For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=10

 

Rock-splitting Cherry Tree(Morioka City, northern Iwate)

Season   Mid-April

About

A huge granite rock sits in the front garden of the Morioka Courthouse, and from a crack in the middle grows a glorious cherry tree over 350 years old. This tree was designated a natural monument by the national government.

Access

・Bus: 10 minutes from Morioka Station

・Car: 20 minutes from the Morioka IC on the Tohoku expressway More information can be found at the link above.

Parking   Paid parking lots available nearby

Questions   Morioka Tourism and Convention Association: 019-604-3305 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

URL    Morioka Tourism and Convention Association (JPN site)

Livefeed   Information on Morioka’s cherry blossoms (JPN site)

For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=121

 

The Lone Cherry Tree at Koiwai Farm(Shizukuishi Town, western Iwate)

Season   End of April – Beginning of May

About

A beautiful cherry tree stands with its branches stretched open, with the backdrop of Mount Iwate and snow still melting at its peak. This gorgeous spot is well-known as a location for films and TV programs.

Access

・Bus: Take the Koiwai/Amihari Onsen bus for 35 minutes from Morioka Station

・Car: 20 minutes from the Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway

More information can be found at the link above.

Parking    2,250 spaces

Questions  Makiba-en at Koiwai Farm: 019-692-4321 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

URL   Koiwai Farm (English and Chinese available)

Livefeed    Latest news at Koiwai (JPN site)

For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=75

 

Goishi Coast (Ofunato City, southern coast)

Season   Mid-April – end of April

About   A line of cherry trees can be found in bloom near the Ofunato City Museum and Camellia Greenhouse.

Access  

Car: 95 minutes from the Ichinoseki IC on the Tohoku Expressway

More information can be found at the link above.

Questions  Ofunato City Tourism and Products Association: 0192-21-1922 (Inquiries in Japanese, please)

For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=105

 

Summer Festivals in Iwate

Summer festivals are a must-see if you want to enjoy Iwate's short summer to its fullest. In summer numerous festivals and events are held throughout Iwate. Come to Iwate and experience its hot, exciting summer!

 

Morioka Sansa Odori Festival
Morioka City Sat. 8/1/2015- Tue. 8/4/2015



With over 10,000 taiko drummers, Sansa is known as the "Greatest Taiko Parade in Japan." Anyone can join the Waodori or “dancing in a circle” at the end of the parade.   
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=56

 

Ugoku Tanabata Festival; Kesencho Kenka Tanabata Festival
Rikuzentakata City Fri. 8/7/2015

 
This is a picturesque parade with decorated floats and festive music. The decorations are changed and paper lanterns are lit as the sun sets, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
On the same day, in Kesencho, Rikuzentakata, Kenka Tanabata or "fighting tanabata" is held. In this festival, large logs of cedar which are over 50 years old are tied to floats with thick wisteria vines from the mountains; the floats are then crashed into each other dynamically.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=58

 

Chusonji Takigi Noh (Chusonji Outdoor Bonfire Noh)
Hiraizumi Town Fri. 8/14/2015



This is a traditional event in which noh and kyogen plays are performed on Chusonji's Hakusan Shrine Noh Stage (national important cultural property), the oldest stage in Japan to be made of hinoki cypress. Bonfires illuminate the noh and kyogen performances by actors of the Kita school, creating an ethereal world on a late summer night in Tohoku. (no photos allowed) 
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=55

 

Morioka Fireworks Display
Morioka City Sat. 8/8/2015 (Sun. 8/9 in case of inclement weather)



This is a fireworks festival with a history of over 30 years. About 100,000 spectators flock every year to see 10,000 shots of fireworks, including large 30-cm firework balls and creative fireworks made by Japan's best pyrotechnists; the dark sky is lit up with colorful fireworks, and the booming sound echoes through your body.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=60

 

Kitakami Michinoku Geino Festival (Performing Arts Festival)
Kitakami City Fri. 8/7/2015 - Sun. 8/9/2015



This is a festival in which over 100 groups from in and out of Iwate perform a variety of traditional art forms, such as Oni Kenbai (national important intangible cultural property), Shishi-Odori, and kagura. The beat of the taiko drums and the tune of the flutes are sure to make you want to dance. In Iwate more and more foreigners are participating in such traditional performances.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=59

 

The Northernmost Ama Festival
Kuji City Sun. 8/2/2015



Held at Kosode Fishing Port, you can see Ama (female free divers) catch sea urchins and abalones, eat grilled scallops, and buy fresh seafood. Fun events include the Sea Urchin Catching Contest and local performing arts show.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=71

Ski Resorts of Iwate

Appi Kogen Ski Resort ( Hachimantai City )

 
 Appi Kogen Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in Japan, with 21 trails and a total trail length of 45.1 km for skiers of all levels. It is known for its excellent snow quality, often referred to as “aspirin snow” for its fine, light, dry texture that resembles powdered aspirin. There are 2 gondolas and 9 lifts and quad lifts. Nighttime skiing can be enjoyed throughout the season. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available, and you can also take the SAJ  ( Ski Association of Japan )  ski test or the JSBA  ( Japan Snowboarding Association )  snowboarding test. There are many fun facilities and activities, such as the Yuki-asobi Hiroba  ( Snow Playground ) , Snowmobile Land, Snow Shoe Program, and Night Illusion.
Season: mid-December to early May
For more information:
http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=142

 

Amihari Onsen Ski Resort ( Shizukuishi Town ) 

 
This is a ski resort on the slopes of Mt. Inukura in Towada-Hachimantai National Park which is surrounded by beautiful virgin forests. There are 7 trails with 5 ski lifts, for skiers of all levels; the longest downhill distance is 5 km. Snowboarding is allowed on all of the slopes. There is a great view of Mt. Iwate and Hachimantai from the top. You can also take skiing or snowboarding lessons from instructors approved by SAJ  ( Ski Association of Japan )  and JSBA  ( Japan Snowboarding Association ) .
Season: mid-December to early April
For more information:
http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=144

 

Geto Kogen Ski Resort ( Kitakami City )



Geto Kogen Ski Resort is known for its snow quality and quantity, as well as for the long season made possible by the abundant snow. There are 14 slopes ranging from 2 to 36 degrees, with a total trail length of 14 km. Long cruising from the peak can be enjoyed even by beginners. There are 2 gondolas, 2 pair lifts, and 1 quad lift; the gondolas are operated at night as well. Skiing and snowboarding lessons approved by SAJ  ( Ski Association of Japan )  and JSBA  ( Japan Snowboarding Association )  are available.
Season: early December to early May
For more information:
http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=143

 

Shizukuishi Ski Resort ( Shizukuishi Town )
 
 
Shizukuishi Ski Resort offers an exciting skiing experience for everyone. The 4,500-m downhill trail with a maximum slope of 36 degrees was the site of the 1993 World Alpine Ski Championships and is definitely for advanced skiers. There are, of course, other trails for skiers of all levels, such as the Grand Slalom Course for advanced skiers and the Crystal Course for beginners. There are 6 lifts, including a ropeway and a gondola. During the season you can also enjoy night-time skiing every evening. Skiing and snowboarding lessons approved by the Ski Association of Japan are available as well.
Season: mid-December to late March
For more information:
http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=141

 

Hachimantai Resort  ( Panorama Ski Area/Shimokura Ski Area )  ( Hachimantai City )

 
Hachimantai Resort is composed of two ski areas, Panorama and Shimokura. Panorama Ski Area has 4 ski lifts and 7 trails, which are perfect for beginners and families; the longest trail is 2,700 m. Shimokura Ski Area has 3 ski lifts and 6 trails, which are popular with intermediate to advanced skiers; there is a trail called the Wall of Shimokura, with a maximum slope of 37 degrees. Nighttime skiing is available. You can also take skiing, snowboarding, or Telemark skiing lessons.
Season: mid-December to early April
For more information:
http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=145

Fall Foliage : Iwate Prefecture

Hachimantai and Its Fall Colors ( Hachimantai City )
 
The volcanic plateau of Hachimantai  ( 1,613 m )   is one of Japan's 100 Most Beautiful Mountains and Lake Towada in Aomori are together designated as Towada-Hachimantai National Park. There are scenic sightseeing roads that run through the area, as well as many swamps, marshes, and excellent hot springs. Hachimantai is beautiful any time of the year; in particular, usually from the end of September to mid October, the green summer leaves turn color, painting the mountain in various shades of red and yellow. The sightseeing road that stretches between Matsukawa Hot Spring and Toshichi Hot Spring is called the Hachimantai Jukai Line; at the peak, there is a rest house with a restaurant and a souvenir shop.
For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=107

 

Matsukawa Gorge ( Hachimantai City )
 
The gorge which stretches between the Hachimantai Hot Springs and Matsukawa Hot Spring is one of the best spots in Iwate to enjoy the fall foliage. Many people go for a drive along the scenic Aspite Line and Jukai Line. The contrast between the warm fall colors and the bluish white river, as well as between the sharp rocks and soft leaves, is simply breathtaking. The best time to view autumn leaves is usually from the first to the end of October. You can also catch fish such as landlocked salmon. After a walk along the river, relax your muscles in one of the hot springs.
For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=124

 

Mt. Hayachine and Its Fall Colors
( Hanamaki City; Tono City; Miyako City )
 
Mt. Hayachine  ( 1,917 m )  is one of Japan's 100 Most Beautiful Mountains and is also designated as Hayachine Quasi-National Park. People go to Hayachine to enjoy its rare alpine flowers, as well as its beautiful fall colors. There are traffic restrictions on summer weekends and holidays, so use the free shuttle bus. Every July, at the opening ceremony of the climbing season, Hayachine Kagura Gongen Mai dance is performed at the peak.
The best time to view autumn leaves is usually from the end of September to the end of October.
For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=112

 

 Mt. Kurikomayama  (Mt. Sukawadake ) ( Ichinoseki City )
 
 Mt. Sukawadake  ( 1,628 m ) , which straddles three prefectures, is also known as Mt. Kurikomayama in other regions. On the mid-slope, there is Sukawa Kogen Hot Spring. In summer, you will be greeted by various alpine plants, and in fall, you can enjoy the beautiful foliage. Climbing is easy and leisurely, taking only about 2 hours. Along the way, you will see a crater lake with emerald green water; the peak is about 1 hour away from the lake.
The best time to see autumn leaves is usually from the end of September to the first of October.
For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=113

 

Kuji Stream ( Kuji City )
 
Kuji Stream is a beautiful ravine on the Kuji River, which runs along National Road 281 from the Hiraniwa Heights to the Pacific Ocean. There are many waterfalls and rock walls along the ravine. Anglers flock to the river for the abundant fish such as sweetfish and landlocked salmon. The area becomes painted with fresh spring verdure and fall colors, especially near Kagami-iwa Rock. There is also a spring nearby, and its water is said to cure illnesses and bring longevity.
For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=125

 

Geto River ( Kitakami City )
 
There are many scenic spots and recreations around the Geto River. The area is especially beautiful in fall with its colorful foliage. The gondolas at the Geto Kogen Ski Resort are specially operated in the fall for a great view of the foliage. You can also enjoy the fall colors from the outdoor baths of Geto Hot Spring, which closes in winter. At Motoyu Geto, there are two outdoor baths, “Menoyu” and “Shinyu,” which are located on the opposite sides of the Geto River, joined by a narrow bridge. These baths are generally mixed  ( for both men and women ) , but there are ladies-only hours. You can enjoy the hot spring, the view of the river and the fall colors all at once. If you have some extra time, there is an interesting natural monument called Tengu no Iwa, located upstream; it is the largest travertine dome in Japan, with a height of 17.6 m and a base diameter of 25 m.
The best time to see autumn leaves is usually from the first to the end of October.
For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=127

 

Gembikei Gorge ( Ichinoseki City )
 
( National place of scenic beauty; natural monument )
Gembikei Gorge is a dynamic 2-km gorge formed by the Iwai River flowing from Mt. Kurikoma. In 1927, it was designated as a national place of scenic beauty and a natural monument. The rough boulders on either side of the river and the beautiful clear water become colored with cherry blossoms in the spring, azaleas in the early summer, and the autumn foliage. The sound of the water echoes against the rocks and fills the gorge. From April through October, you can also ride an excursion carriage around the gorge.
The best time to see autumn leaves is usually from mid-October to mid-November.
For more information:http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=114

Summer Festivals in Iwate

Summer festivals are a must-see if you want to enjoy Iwate's short summer to its fullest. In summer numerous festivals and events are held throughout Iwate. Come to Iwate and experience its hot, exciting summer!

 

Morioka Sansa Odori Festival
Morioka City Fri. 8/1/2014- Mon. 8/4/2014



With over 10,000 taiko drummers, Sansa is known as the "Greatest Taiko Parade in Japan." Anyone can join the Waodori or “dancing in a circle” at the end of the parade.   
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=56

 

Ugoku Tanabata Festival; Kesencho Kenka Tanabata Festival
Rikuzentakata City Thu. 8/7/2014

 
This is a picturesque parade with decorated floats and festive music. The decorations are changed and paper lanterns are lit as the sun sets, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
On the same day, in Kesencho, Rikuzentakata, Kenka Tanabata or "fighting tanabata" is held. In this festival, large logs of cedar which are over 50 years old are tied to floats with thick wisteria vines from the mountains; the floats are then crashed into each other dynamically.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=58

 

Chusonji Takigi Noh (Chusonji Outdoor Bonfire Noh)
Hiraizumi Town Thu. 8/14/2014



This is a traditional event in which noh and kyogen plays are performed on Chusonji's Hakusan Shrine Noh Stage (national important cultural property), the oldest stage in Japan to be made of hinoki cypress. Bonfires illuminate the noh and kyogen performances by actors of the Kita school, creating an ethereal world on a late summer night in Tohoku. (no photos allowed) 
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=55

 

Morioka Fireworks Display
Morioka City Sat. 8/9/2014 (Sun. 8/10 in case of inclement weather)



This is a fireworks festival with a history of over 30 years. About 100,000 spectators flock every year to see 10,000 shots of fireworks, including large 30-cm firework balls and creative fireworks made by Japan's best pyrotechnists; the dark sky is lit up with colorful fireworks, and the booming sound echoes through your body.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=60

 

Kitakami Michinoku Geino Festival (Performing Arts Festival)
Kitakami City Fri. 8/1/2014 - Sun. 8/3/2014



This is a festival in which over 100 groups from in and out of Iwate perform a variety of traditional art forms, such as Oni Kenbai (national important intangible cultural property), Shishi-Odori, and kagura. The beat of the taiko drums and the tune of the flutes are sure to make you want to dance. In Iwate more and more foreigners are participating in such traditional performances.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=59

 

The Northernmost Ama Festival
Kuji City Sun. 8/3/2014



Held at Kosode Fishing Port, you can see Ama (female free divers) catch sea urchins and abalones, eat grilled scallops, and buy fresh seafood. Fun events include the Sea Urchin Catching Contest and local performing arts show.
For more information: http://www.japan-iwate.info/app/location_detail.php?lid=71

Experience The Best Powder Snow in Japan!

 

In Iwate areas, there are many ski resorts that everyone can enjoy.Because of the great location and circumstances for having very dry and light snow, you can experience the best powder snow in Japan! Plus, each ski resort also has unique and enjoyable snow activities for family. If you've never visited our Ski Resorts, we got some interviews with foreign people living in here, so you can see what beautiful and wonderful places we have!
Please check it out ♪

One day trip to Hiraizumi and Geibikei

http://www.japan-iwate.info/b-en/index.html

Exploring Morioka’s Hidden Treasures “At a Snail’s Pace”!

 
Morioka, Iwate is a city that I have known for twelve years, and for a foreigner, I thought that I knew my way around the city. Recently, I was given a chance to give it a closer look taking the “Den-den mushi go” (“The Snail Bus” in Japanese) an inner-city route on a smaller, newer, less expensive, and generally less crowded bus than the city’s regular ones. It does a quick loop around the heart of the city for 100 yen starting and ending at Morioka station. The bus and its route are designed with the shopper or tourist in mind, not the local commuter. It runs from 9 AM to 7 PM daily with peak shopping hours seeing buses every 15 minutes. The trip, taken on a clear, crisp March day, was highlighted by:
ISHIWARIZAKURA (“The Rock Splitting Cherry Tree”): It is not totally unheard of in nature, but quite rare, for a cherry tree’s seed to germinate inside the cracks of a large boulder. This cherry tree, estimated to be over 350 years old, is exactly that. It is centrally located, in front of the prefectural office. A phenomenon like that is always worthy of pictures and viewing but especially so when its cherry blossoms start blooming. In a typical year that will be around the middle to the end of April.

 
AZUMAYA: “Wanko Soba” is an Iwate tradition dating back to the Edo period (160 years ago) and a dining highlight since the late 1940s. It consists of the customer eating as many bite-size bowls of buckwheat noodles as they desire while being served at a decent pace by the waitress. The object is not to scarf as many as you can, but occasionally it inspires some friendly competition among its participants. The noodles themselves are quite tasty, and Azumaya, probably Morioka’s best-known “wanko” eatery serves them with tuna sashimi, vegetables, Japanese pickles, chicken, plus spices and garnishes, encouraging you to relish the savory aspects of “wanko” too. Most men and women will eat from thirty to eighty bowls, and records are in the 400 to 500 range. Polishing off 100 bowls gets you a nice wooden placard from the restaurant to commemorate the occasion. A definite “must-do” cultural experience, at least once, while visiting Iwate!

 
  ZAIMOKU-CHO: A neighborhood just a short walk from the train station, it is a spiffy shopping district that has wide sidewalks, interesting sculptures, many benches, and decorative lighting adorning its streets to lure and entertain the customer with its unique atmosphere. The following places are some of its featured merchants:
 *KOUGEN-SHA: A high-quality goods and amenities store, highlighted by its lacquer- and tableware, pottery, ceramics, clothing, books, clocks, and other trinkets. Many of the goods it sells are manufactured in Iwate Prefecture. Their motto is; ”quality over fashion” and it is “manna from heaven” for high-end gift seekers. The mood here is one of its special features, and makes it a great representative of Zaimoku’s businesses.

 
 *KOOHIKAN: A tiny, delightful, elegantly-decorated café with great coffee and tea, a quiet, refined ambiance, plus reasonable prices that compete with most local cafes.
 *YAMAZEN: A “wagashi” (“Japanese sweets”) store. Their product is neither too sweet nor over-processed. A great place to begin to experience Japanese confections.

Other recommended “Denden” trips:
① Reimen (cold spicy noodle dish) and Termachi-doori strolling route:
 [Dendenmushi “Migi” (Right) Route   [Morioka Station] to [Honcho-doori Icchome] ]
 Kitayama neighborhood walking, Mitsuishi Shirine (“The Devil’s Handprints”), Ho’on Temple (500 Bhuddist Disciples)
 [Dendenmushi Right Route  [Honcho-doori Icchome] to [Kami no Hashi] ]
 Konyacho to Naka no Hashi walking, Gelato at Fujiwara Apiary, Shirsawa Senbei (“rice cookie”), Shoshido, Gozaku, Iwate Bank Nakano Bridge Branch Office
 [Dendenmushi Right Route  [ Morioka Bus Center (in front of Nakasan department store) ] to [Morioka Station]
 Pyon Pyon Sha for “Reimen”
 Walk the rest of the way to Morioka Station

② Jaja Men (hot, spicy udon noodle dish), Morioka Castle ruins stroll, Iwate Goods shopping route:
 [Dendenmushi “Hidari” (Left) Route  [Morioka Station] to [Prefectural Office/front of City Hall] ]
 Sightseeing on foot
 The Rock Splitting Cherry Tree, Pairon for “Jaja men”, Morioka Castle Ruins Park, Rara Iwate (shopping), Stroll around Odori, Chiroru for cheesecake, Cross Terrace (shopping)
 Walk the rest of the way to Morioka Station
 Shirasawa Senbei store