Shunsuke Matsumoto

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.

Glass studio glass K

In addition to introducing the glassblowing process through panels, tools and raw materials are also on display. Inside the workshop, you can see how vessels and vases are made using a technique that is said to have been around since B.C. You can also try out the actual production experience.

16 Arhats

The 21 stone statues that remain on the grounds of Souryuji Temple were built to commemorate the victims of the famine that occurred during the Nanbu domain era. It was started in 1837 and completed in 1849, thirteen years later. It took over half a year just to transport the rock from the neighboring town of Yahaba, where it was cut, to this location. In addition, the statues were carved by craftsmen employed by the domain, and stone statues made by local stonemasons are rare in Japan.