Discover Morioka

Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture, may be small compared to other cities, but it offers a variety of intriguing sights for visitors. Explore some of Morioka's top-notch art museums or visit the Baeren Brewery for a taste of local craftsmanship. With a rich cultural scene and diverse attractions, Morioka is a delightful city that's worth a visit.

Things to see and do

Tours and Activities

FAQs

Getting around in Morioka

The easiest way to get around in Morioka is either by public transportation or on foot, since the major sights and attractions are easily accessible. 

Travelers can opt to buy the following passes to get around:

  • Dendenmushi Loop Bus 1-Day Pass

    • Coverage: most touristic attractions in Morioka

    • Duration: 1 day

    • Price: 300 Yen

    • Where to buy: information booth at Morioka Station

Getting to Morioka

Public transportation:

To get from Tokyo to Morioka by public transportation, travellers need to take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

 

Valid rail and bus passes:

 

Rental cars:

How long to stay in Morioka

We recommend staying here for about one day. 
 

Hotels in Morioka

Flights to Morioka

Nearest airport:

The nearest and most convenient airport is Akita Airport 

  • by car: approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes

  • by bullet-train: approximately 3 hours (bullet-trains available between Akita station and Morioka station)

Seasonal information

Cherry blossoms: 

The best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan is usually between late March and early April. Although the blooming period can vary slightly from year to year and depending from region to region. 

Festivals in Morioka

There are several festivals in Morioka throughout the year. Please be advised that the following list is based upon previous entries of those festivals and that the dates might have changed slightly in the following year. It is also possible that the entire festival is cancelled in the case of heavy rainfall or a natural disaster. Please check with the official organisers' website for the most up-to-date information. 
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For the exact location of any of the festivals listed here, you can consult our map above by clicking on the icon in the upper most corner of the map to open the map legend. Festivals are hidden by default but can be made visible by clicking on the "Festivals" checkbox in the map legend.

 

  • Morioka Yuki Akari Festival

    • Date: February 6th until 8th

    • Time: 17:00 - 20:00

 

  • Jizo Ritual Festival

    • Date: July 27th and 28th

 

  • Morioka Sansa Dance Festival

    • Date: August 1st until 4th

 

  • Morioka Tanabata Festival

    • Date: August 4th until 7th

    • Time: 10:00 - 21:00

 

  • Morioka Funekko Nagashi Fireworks Festival

    • Date: August 17th

    • Time: 16:30 - 20:00 (Fireworks: 19:00 - 20:00)

 

  • Morioka Autumn Festival

    • Date: September 14th until 16th

Getting mobile data in Japan

Day trips from Morioka

Nyuto Onsen boasts a variety of hot springs to choose from, as well as stunning lake views and impressive hikes. Unwind in the serene surroundings and reconnect with nature in ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 39.22

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Kakunodate is a treasure trove of cultural and historical attractions, including the Akita Art Village, Hideyoshi Sake Brewery, and Kakunodate Samurai House. A visit to this remarkable town offers an ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 52.01

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