Things To Do
in Morioka

Morioka is the capital city of Iwate Prefecture in the northern Tohoku region of Japan. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, Morioka is surrounded by mountains and rivers, making it a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. The city also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites like Morioka Castle and the Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree attracting tourists from all over the world.

Morioka's local cuisine is also famous, particularly for its Wanko Soba noodles, a unique dining experience where customers can eat as many small servings of soba as they want.

  • "Arigatou" - Thank you
  • "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
  • "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Oishii" - Delicious

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Morioka's Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Morioka Castle Ruins Park, a beautiful area rich in history. Take a leisurely stroll and appreciate the cherry blossoms if in season.

afternoon
:

Visit the Iwate Prefectural Museum, which showcases the region's art and cultural heritage. Have lunch at a local soba restaurant to taste Morioka's famous noodles.

evening
:

Head to the Bishamonten Zenshoji Temple for a tranquil evening experience. Enjoy dinner at a nearby izakaya, trying various Japanese tapas.

day 2
Culinary Delights in Morioka
morning
:

Begin with a visit to a local market to sample fresh produce and street food. Try some traditional mochi to kickstart your day.

afternoon
:

Take a cooking class to learn how to make Morioka's signature dishes. Savor your own creations for lunch and share the experience with fellow learners.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner at a boutique restaurant featuring a seasonal kaiseki meal. End the day with a visit to a nearby onsen for relaxation.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery surrounding the city, including mountains and rivers.
  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites, shrines, and festivals.
  • Less crowded compared to larger Japanese cities, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Strong community spirit and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and regional specialties.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
  • Transportation may be less convenient due to fewer train and bus routes.
  • Job opportunities can be fewer, especially for foreigners.
  • Harsh winters with heavy snowfall may be challenging for some residents.
  • Limited access to international services and amenities.

Best Activities in Morioka

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking at Mount Iwate

Enjoy scenic trails and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes while hiking at Mount Iwate.

Cycling along the Kitakami River

Experience the beauty of Morioka's nature by cycling along the Kitakami River, with its picturesque scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

Cherry Blossom Viewing at Tsunagi Park

During spring, Tsunagi Park becomes a picturesque spot for cherry blossom viewing, offering a delightful outdoor experience.

Tours

Uncover the best of Morioka with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Morioka

Visit one of these nice places.

Takkoku no Iwaya Bisyamondo

A cliffside temple with breathtaking views of Morioka and the surrounding landscape.

Morioka Castle Site Park

A historic site with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and scenic views of the surrounding city.

Morioka Hachimangu Shrine

Offers a picturesque setting with traditional architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, particularly during cherry blossom season.

Food in Morioka

Morioka, the capital city of Iwate Prefecture, boasts a rich culinary heritage with a focus on fresh seafood, renowned Wagyu beef, and traditional noodle dishes. The local cuisine is deeply influenced by the region's natural resources, resulting in a diverse and vibrant food scene.

Morioka Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Wanko Soba

A unique dining experience where diners are served small portions of soba noodles and are encouraged to eat as many bowls as possible. Try this at Wanko Soba restaurants like Nanbu Bijin and Yoshoubi.

Must-Try!

Morioka Reimen

A cold noodle dish with chewy noodles in a refreshing soup, perfect for hot summer days. Visit Reimen Street for a variety of restaurants offering this local favorite.

Morioka Jajamen

Thick, chewy noodles topped with a savory miso and ground meat sauce. Sample this dish at Jajamen restaurants such as Sanriku.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Morioka better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Morioka Fish Market

Explore the vibrant stalls of Morioka Fish Market offering a wide variety of local seafood, including freshly caught fish, sea urchin, and scallops. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the freshest seafood in the city.

Nanbu Ichiba Market

Experience the bustling Nanbu Ichiba Market, where you can find local produce, artisanal food products, and street food stalls offering regional delicacies like grilled scallops and yakisoba.

Weather

This city experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Heavy snowfall occurs, particularly from December to February. Summers are warm to hot and can be quite humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the low 30s Celsius (around 77 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit). Spring and autumn are relatively mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful natural scenery as cherry blossoms bloom in spring and foliage changes in autumn. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but the late summer months can see increased precipitation due to typhoons. The area is known for its scenic beauty, which changes markedly with the seasons, making it a picturesque location year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Be mindful of bowing

In Morioka, it is common to bow as a sign of respect. Be mindful of the depth of your bow, as a deeper bow is often used to show more respect.

Removing shoes indoors

In Japanese culture, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments. Always check for footwear etiquette in each specific setting.

Respecting personal space

Japanese people often value personal space and may not be as physically expressive as in some other cultures. It's important to be mindful of this and respect individual boundaries.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Morioka with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in the region is generally high, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community among residents. The local government places significant emphasis on public safety and disaster preparedness, given the region's susceptibility to natural events like earthquakes. Emergency services are well-organized, and residents are encouraged to participate in community safety drills and awareness programs. Policing is generally seen as effective and approachable, contributing to a feeling of security among citizens and visitors alike. In terms of personal safety, violent crime rates are extremely low, and petty crimes such as pickpocketing are rare, especially compared to many urban areas around the world. Public spaces are usually well-lit and maintained, promoting safety during both day and night. Disaster preparedness is an integral part of life, with communities often engaging in training for earthquake response. Many buildings are constructed with earthquake-resistant designs, further enhancing overall safety. While natural disasters pose some risks, the overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and security, making it a safe place to live and visit.

Tipping in Morioka

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Morioka, Japan, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. It is not customary to tip at restaurants, hotels, or for services.

Payment

Cash is still widely used for transactions in Morioka, Japan. Many smaller establishments may not accept credit cards, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash. However, major hotels, department stores, and larger restaurants may accept credit cards. Mobile payment methods such as IC cards and QR code-based systems are also gaining popularity.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Morioka.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Morioka for cherry blossom season, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery

Summer

Warm and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage and comfortable temperatures

Winter

Experience snowy landscapes, winter festivals, and hot springs for a relaxing winter getaway

Morioka at Night

The nightlife in Morioka offers a unique blend of modern entertainment and traditional charm. As the capital city of Iwate Prefecture, it provides a variety of nighttime activities that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can find lively izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) where locals and visitors gather to enjoy an array of delicious food and drinks, often featuring regional specialties like wanko soba and fresh seafood. For those interested in a more relaxed atmosphere, Morioka boasts several bars and lounges that serve both local and international beverages. Many of these establishments offer a cozy, intimate setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Music enthusiasts can explore Morioka's live music venues and karaoke bars, where you can either enjoy performances or take the stage yourself. Jazz and rock performances are particularly popular, drawing in crowds looking for a dynamic night out. Additionally, the city's nightscape is beautifully illuminated, with several areas becoming especially picturesque in the evening. The Morioka Castle Ruins Park, for instance, offers a serene and scenic spot for a nighttime stroll, while the illuminated Iwate Bank Red Brick Building adds a touch of historical charm to the urban landscape. Overall, Morioka's nightlife is a delightful mix of the traditional and contemporary, offering something for everyone to enjoy under the night sky.

Hiking in Morioka

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Amida Mountain

A popular hiking spot offering scenic views of the surrounding area, including Morioka City and nearby mountains.

Hachimantai

Known for its beautiful landscapes and alpine flowers, Hachimantai offers various trails suitable for different skill levels.

Morioka Castle Ruins Park

A historical site with hiking paths around the castle ruins, providing a mix of culture and nature.

Ishizuchi Mountain

A slightly further hike, this mountain is known for its challenging trails and breathtaking views at the summit.

Hanamaki Onsen Hiking Trails

Located near Morioka, these trails combine spa relaxation with nature hiking experiences.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Morioka through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Morioka by plane.

Sendai Airport (SDJ)

The busiest airport in the Tōhoku region, located approximately 130 kilometers south of Morioka, it offers both domestic and international flights.

Hanamaki Airport (HNA)

Located about 36 kilometers southeast of Morioka, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also has some limited international services.

Akita Airport (AKJ)

Situated about 120 kilometers to the northwest of Morioka, Akita Airport provides both domestic flights and some international connections.

New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Located approximately 590 kilometers north of Morioka, this is the main airport serving Sapporo and Hokkaido, offering extensive domestic and international flights.

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Located around 600 kilometers southwest of Morioka, this major international airport serves the Greater Tokyo Area and is one of the busiest airports in the world.

Walkability

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Iwate Prefecture, the city in question offers a unique blend of urban and natural elements that enhances its walkability. The town features well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a compact layout that encourages exploration on foot. Public transportation options, such as trains and buses, are accessible, allowing residents and visitors to move easily between neighborhoods without relying heavily on personal vehicles. The main urban areas often boast a variety of amenities within close proximity, including shops, restaurants, parks, and community centers, making it convenient for individuals to run errands or enjoy leisure activities by walking. The presence of green spaces, such as parks and riverside paths, adds to the appeal of walking in the area, providing scenic routes and opportunities for relaxation amidst nature. Additionally, the local culture promotes a sense of community and safety, further encouraging pedestrians to enjoy the walkable environment. With its mix of urban convenience and natural beauty, the city's walkability fosters a vibrant lifestyle for its residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Japanese Nationals

The majority population in Morioka, primarily consisting of ethnic Japanese.

Foreign Residents

Includes expatriates and long-term foreign residents, with a significant number from countries such as China, South Korea, and the Philippines.

Elderly Citizens

A growing demographic group due to Japan's aging population, with many seniors residing in Morioka.

Youth and Students

Includes local students as well as those studying at institutions such as Iwate University.

Part-Time Workers

A demographic group made up of young people and others working in temporary or part-time positions.

The Soul of Morioka

Discover the essence of Morioka through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Morioka, with many local teams and a strong following among young athletes.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys widespread popularity in Morioka, with numerous clubs and programs for all ages, as well as local schools participating in competitive leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is commonly played in schools and local leagues, attracting both players and fans in Morioka.

Sumo

Sumo wrestling has a cultural significance in Japan and is appreciated in Morioka, with local tournaments held occasionally.

Running

Running is a popular recreational activity in Morioka, with various marathons and running events taking place throughout the year.

Traditional Japanese Martial Arts

Various forms of traditional martial arts, such as Judo and Kendo, have strong followings in Morioka, often taught in schools and dojos.

Traffic

In this city, traffic tends to be moderate, with the flow generally manageable throughout most of the day. During peak hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, congestion can occur, especially near commercial districts and schools. Public transportation options, including buses and trains, provide good connectivity, helping to alleviate some of the vehicular traffic. The road infrastructure includes a network of avenues that connect key parts of the city, and traffic signals are typically well synchronized to maintain an orderly flow. Drivers are generally courteous, and there is a strong adherence to traffic laws. Parking can be a bit of a challenge in busy areas, but various parking facilities are available. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transportation among residents, with dedicated bike lanes present in several parts of the city, promoting eco-friendly commuting. Overall, while there can be moments of congestion, the traffic environment is relatively calm compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Morioka.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Morioka cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants are beginning to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diners. Look for Buddhist temple cuisine (Shojin Ryori) restaurants for plant-based options.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free dishes at certain restaurants and cafes, especially those offering international cuisine or health-focused menus.

Healthcare

In this city, healthcare services are well-structured and accessible, reflecting the broader healthcare system of Japan, which is known for its high-quality medical care and universal health coverage. Residents typically enroll in a national health insurance program, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses, making healthcare affordable. Facilities include hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers, providing a wide range of services from routine check-ups to advanced medical treatments. Many healthcare providers in the area are equipped with modern technology and adhere to high standards of treatment and patient care. Preventive care is emphasized, with regular health screenings and public health initiatives aimed at promoting wellness among the population. Moreover, the local government often plays a role in organizing health education programs and vaccination campaigns. Access to healthcare is generally good, with both public and private options available. Emergency services are effectively managed, ensuring that residents receive timely medical attention when needed. Overall, the focus on preventive care, alongside comprehensive medical services, creates a supportive healthcare environment for the community.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2024 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide