14 Day Northern Japan (Tohoku) Self-Drive Adventure

Check-out of the Oirase Mori no Hotel and set your navigation for the Hotel Metropolitan Morioka New Wing, which is a 3 hour drive south from the Oirase area.

After check-in, commence your exploration of Morioka. The DenDen-Mushi, a city sightseeing loop bus, runs a circuit of the city centre every 15 mins and cost JPY100 per journey, or an all-day pass can be purchased from the bus terminal at Morioka Station for JPY300. Please use your maps and guides to explore the city. Places of interest include:

Iwate Koen – Stroll through the picturesque park which was originally the site of Morioka Castle, home to the Nanbu clan. Surrounding the castle site are many of Morioka’s old merchant districts, such as Konya-cho and Sakana-cho where traditional buildings remain intact.

Nansho Estate – (10:00-17:00/JPY200) built in 1885 as a private residence to Morioka businessman, Yasugoro Segawa. The landscaped gardens, which took years to complete, are designated as a Registered Monument of Japan. The estate remains as one of Morioka’s few residences and gardens from the Meiji era. Wander through the estate which often holds various exhibitions. Take a break in the tearoom while sipping green tea.

Hoonji (500 Disciples of Buddha Temple) – (09:00-16:00/JPY300) This temple houses 499 statues of Buddha’s disciples, each with a different expression and pose. Include yourself to make 500 disciples.

Asabiraki Sake Brewery – (09:00-16:30) opened in 1871 by a samurai of the Nanbu clan, the Asabiraki Sake Brewery is renowned for its techniques, known as Nanbu style. “Nanbu Toji”, a group of sake brewing experts formed in the area over 300 years ago, has become famous throughout Japan and are often invited to sake breweries throughout Japan to impart their brewing expertise. Free sake sampling is available. Free tours of the brewery are available when an English-speaking staff member is available.

Stay: Hotel Metropolitan Morioka New Wing - 1/3