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Iwate Prefecture (岩手)
Our Recommendation
4/5
Review: Would recommend a visit!

Iwate Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region of Japan and is known for its coastal areas facing the Pacific Ocean and the Ou Mountains, which offer skiing and hot springs. The prefecture is divided into four regions, each with a distinct emphasis on nature, traditional beliefs, and samurai history. Iwate is also renowned for its high-quality wagyu beef, rice, and sake. Visitors can start exploring the cultural and natural beauty of Iwate by visiting the World Heritage sites of Hiraizumi.

Iwate Prefecture (岩手)

Our Recommendation
4/5
Would recommend a visit!

Iwate Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region of Japan and is known for its coastal areas facing the Pacific Ocean and the Ou Mountains, which offer skiing and hot springs. The prefecture is divided into four regions, each with a distinct emphasis on nature, traditional beliefs, and samurai history. Iwate is also renowned for its high-quality wagyu beef, rice, and sake. Visitors can start exploring the cultural and natural beauty of Iwate by visiting the World Heritage sites of Hiraizumi.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Places to visit in Iwate

Hiraizumi

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
Beautiful and a historically significant town with important temples designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: Several hours
Price: Adults 800 yen, Child: 500 yen
Activities: Sightseeing

Hiraizumi was the headquaters of the Fujiwara clan which at one point became the most powerful family in Japan from the 11th to late 12th century. While the Fujiwara clan was defeated by the great Minamoto no Yoritomo and its distinct Buddhist philosophy was discontinued, the buildings themselves were preserved. …

Jyodogahama

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
Busy, traditional shopping street with a lot of inexpensive shops
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Price: Free
Activities: Sightseeing, Shopping

This shopping street stretches from Ueno Station to Okachimachi Station and has a long history dating back to shortly after the war. The approximately 500 m long shopping street is lined with 400 shops. In addition to its wide selection of goods and low prices, it is also a popular tourist destination with its festive atmosphere of stalls. Everything from gourmet food to souvenirs, cosmetics…

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Ryusen-do

Our Recommendation
3.8/5
Stunning Rock formations worth visiting if you are in the vicinity
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 1.5- 2.5 hours
Price: Adults 1,100 yen, Child: 550 yen
Activities: Sightseeing

Ryusen-dō is a stunning limestone cave located in the Iwate Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its unique rock formations, crystal-clear underground streams, and fascinating history, making it a popular destination for tourists and cave enthusiasts. The entrance to Ryusen-dō is located in a dense forest, and visitors must hike a short trail to reach the cave’s entrance…

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Geibikei Gorge

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
Nice place to go on a ride in raft on a sunny day
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 1-3 hours
Price: 1,800 Yen, Child: 900 Yen (Boat ride)
Activities: Sightseeing

Geibikei is a scenic gorge located in the mountainous region of Iwate, Japan. It is considered one of the most beautiful gorges in Japan, and is known for its stunning landscapes, historic structures, and relaxing riverboat rides. The history of Geibikei dates back to the Edo period, when it was first developed as a transportation route for goods and people…

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Genbikei Gorge

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
Gorge relatively close to Geibikei Gorge. Admire the view from the bridge or the resting spot.
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Price: Free
Activities: Sightseeing, Shopping

Genbikei Gorge is a stunning and pristine natural gorge located in the Iwate Prefecture of Japan. This awe-inspiring site is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area, and is a must-visit for anyone visiting the region. The gorge is situated in the middle of the beautiful, forested mountains of the Iwate prefecture, and is home to a series of breathtaking waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and lush vegetation.  …

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Koiwai Farm

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
Beautiful nightscapes of the city center
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Price: Free
Activities: Sightseeing, Shopping

The beautiful sandy beach is approximately 800 m long and is impressive. The Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower can be seen beautifully lit up in the evenings and at night….

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Potential Itineraries

A Cultural Day Trip to Kamakura

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
A great travel option if you want to stay close to Tokyo
Number of Days: 1 day
Sub-destination: Kamakura
Best time to visit: All year
Activities:

While prices are generally cheap, this is perhaps not the case with transport costs. If you are seeking to maximize your time with limited money, Kamakura, which served as the capital centuries ago, may be a good idea. 

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1~2 Day trip to Hakone

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
Experience the Japanese Onsen culture
Number of Days: 1-2 days
Sub-destination: Hakone
Best time to visit: All year
Activities: Onsen, Outdoors

While prices are generally cheap, this is perhaps not the case with transport costs. If you are seeking to maximize your time with limited money, Kamakura, which served as the capital centuries ago, may be a good idea. 

1~2 Day trip to Nikko

Our Recommendation
4.5/5
Experience Mother Nature while learning about Japanese History
Number of Days: 1-2 days
Sub-destination: Nikko
Best time to visit: All year
Activities: Onsen, Outdoors

While prices are generally cheap, this is perhaps not the case with transport costs. If you are seeking to maximize your time with limited money, Kamakura, which served as the capital centuries ago, may be a good idea. 

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