Northern Iwate

Tokurakuji Temple

Tokuraku-ji Temple (Soto sect) was founded in 1558 as a branch temple of Hoko-ji Temple in Nagawa-cho, Aomori Prefecture. The carvings in the transoms of the main hall of this temple (370 in total) are said to be some of the best in Tohoku, and each side is based on a legend or historical fact, and their splendor is astounding. In addition, the seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai and the wooden standing statue of Bodhisattva Wakashi are designated as important cultural properties of the prefecture, and there are many other statues enshrined there as well.

Ichinohe Town Tourism Observatory

There is a reflecting telescope with a diameter of 50 centimeters, and you can use a computer to search for the stars you want to see. During the day, you can visit the planetarium and observe solar prominences and sunspots. There is also a bird watching pavilion with exhibits of local wild birds and plants, as well as a campsite.

Ninohe Citizen’s Forest

The Citizen's Forest Festival is held in mid-May, and the area is crowded with trout fishing tournaments and other events. You can collect wild flowers and mushrooms here, and it is a popular place for forest bathing and relaxation for local residents. The Kenhoku Youth House is located nearby, and some people use it as well. Forestry Center Phone 0195-27-3283

Inaniwa Highlands

A grassland that spreads out at the base of Mt. Inaniwa. The path through the virgin beech forest is perfect for forest bathing. A sea of ​​green grass sways in the wind. Cows and horses are grazing leisurely. Such refreshing scenery refreshes both mind and body. Time seems to move slowly here.

Tsurigane-do

A gaping hole in a large rock. A bell-shaped rock once hung from the ceiling of the hole. Legend has it that when a couple goes to the afterlife, they meet here and ring this bell before entering the Pure Land of Paradise.

black bean cake

A pound cake made with plenty of carefully selected black beans from Iwate Prefecture. The black beans had just the right amount of sweetness and firmness, resulting in a moist cake. In addition to black bean cake, Takeya Seika also sells sweet natto, black bean tea, black bean jelly, and more. Bean sweets that do not contain additives can be safely enjoyed by everyone from children to the elderly.

Cassiopeia Messe Nanyato

``Cassiopeia Messe Nanyato'' was born as an information dissemination facility, coined from the Bon dance ``Nanyato-yara'', which is traditional in the Ninohe metropolitan area and the Kita-Ou region. There is an observation deck at a height of 33.6 meters, and you can see Mt. Orizume, Masenkyo, and Ninohe city. It also has an event hall, conference room, etc., and can be used for multiple purposes.

Mill Miru House

Located at the confluence of National Routes 340 and 395, this facility not only sells special products from Karumai Town and sells agricultural products directly, but also serves as a restaurant and rest area. The on-site restaurant offers a variety of reasonably priced menus, including local cuisine (hitsumi) made with local produce, sarunashi soft-serve ice cream, and multigrain dishes.

Tatsumiyama Park

A park located on a small hill in Kuji City. The highlight is not only the cherry blossom trees, but also the city and Kuji Bay, making it a place of relaxation for citizens.

[Iwate Enjoyment Model Course] Spectacular View Course

[Model course] A 2-night, 3-day trip to enjoy Sanriku Geopark [Iwate Travel Map] Iwate Prefecture Tourism Association TEL 019-651-0626

Iwate Kita-Sanriku travel special feature

Special feature on Iwate skills – Iwate craftsmen ① Northern and coastal areas of the prefecture

2024 Iwate Doll’s Festival

Cherry blossom information 2023 – Northern and central areas of the prefecture

World Heritage Goshono Ruins Special Feature

Iwate’s autumn leaves & day trip hot spring special feature

Winter events & gourmet 2022-2023 special feature

Exquisite! Iwate liquor special – Sake [north/center of the prefecture]

Winter experience tourism information