Roadside station “Mitagai Branch”

Ryusendo Cave and Ryusen Shindo Science Museum

Ryusendo Cave is counted as one of the three largest limestone caves in Japan and is also designated as a national natural monument. The length of the cave is already known to be over 4,088m, and the total length is said to reach 5,000m. In addition, fresh water gushing out from the depths forms several underground lakes, and the third underground lake is 98 meters deep and boasts one of the clearest waters in the world. The dragon blue lake water, which hides the breath of nature's finely honed nature, and the countless stalactites inside the cave will transport you to a fantastical world.

Roadside station “Iwaizumi”

The roadside station "Iwaizumi" is located along National Route 455, a 15-minute drive from Rikuchu Coast, and a 10-minute drive from Ryusendo Cave, making it a great location for Sanriku sightseeing spots. There is also a wide variety of local souvenirs on display, including Matsutake mushrooms from Iwaizumi in the fall.

Yasukamori

Yasugamori (1,239.1m above sea level) is located in the northwestern part of Iwaizumi Town, in the northern part of the Kitakami Mountains. This area is the headwaters of the Yasukagawa River, which flows into the Pacific Ocean, and it is said that the name of the mountain, Yasukamori, comes from the Ainu word ``wakka'' (clear stream). The course is adorned with Betula birch, Japanese aspenia and buttercup in spring, and sawflower in autumn. From the summit, you can see the Pacific Ocean, Mt. Hayachine, and Mt. Iwate. The trailhead is located in Kuzumaki town, and it takes about 35 minutes to climb, then descend to Yasukedaira, and it is also possible to climb Mt. Tobetsu in about 50 minutes. The forest of giant beech, birch, and yew trees is filled with ferns, hydrangeas, and cypress.