Iwayama Parkland

Nitobe Inazo Monument

The monument, ``Wish Fulfilled, Bridge of the Pacific,'' erected in Morioka Castle Ruins Park, a place of relaxation for citizens, belongs to Inazo Nitobe, who was born in Morioka and later served as deputy secretary-general of the League of Nations. When Nitobe was asked by a professor what his purpose was to study English literature, he answered, ``If I were allowed to do so, I would like to be a bridge across the Pacific Ocean.'' "I want to serve as a government official. That's why I need to be fluent in English," he is said to have replied.

Daiji Shimizu

Gidaji Temple and Daiji Temple are the water sources. It is made of a box shaped like a hinadan, and from the top it is filled with drinking water, rice polishing, washing water, and foot washing. It is still used by many people as daily water.

Gando Lake Family Travel Village

A family travel village was opened in June 1981 on the north side of Lake Iwado, said to be the most beautiful man-made lake in Japan, so that groups centered on families could easily enjoy nature. The travel village has a ``campground'', ``festival plaza'', ``children's plaza'', ``picnic plaza'', ``promenade'', and ``tennis court'', and in 2000, an auto campsite complete with sanitary house was opened. Additionally, the annual Iwado Lake Festival is held in late September, where you can enjoy local Yabukawa soba and tankaku beef.