Model Itineraries in Iwate

2026年6月20日(土)から10月4日(日)まで開設される、岩泉町B&G海洋センター プールを主役にした1日コースです。屋根のある屋外プールで、25mプールと幼児用プールがそろい、しかもプール水は温水。夏でも涼しい北上山地の岩泉で、水温を気にせずゆったり遊べるのが大きな魅力です。開設期間が10月まで続くので、夏の終わりの水遊びにも使えます。午前はまず日本三大鍾乳洞のひとつ、龍泉洞へ。地底湖の透き通った青は「ドラゴンブルー」と称され、洞内は年間を通じて10度前後というひんやりとした世界が広がります。続いて道の駅いわいずみに立ち寄り、岩泉ヨーグルトや短角牛など町の特産品を眺めながら早めの昼食を済ませましょう。お昼を回ったら岩泉町B&G海洋センター プールへ移動し、午後いっぱい水遊びを楽しみます。鍾乳洞の冷たさと温水プールの心地よさ、対照的なふたつの水を味わう1日です。

The annual festival held at Hayachikune Shrine (早池峰神社) in Ohsako Town, Hanamaki City at the foot of the sacred Mt. Hayachikune (2026, August 1, 10:00-16:00). A 1-day course centered around a quiet shrine town at the foot of the mountains, where Hayachikune Kagura, registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, is presented. In the morning, warm your body with a foot bath at Taion Onsen and enjoy the vineyard scenery at Edel Wein, a pride of Ohsako, and stop by the community facility Aeria where local specialty products are displayed. After gazing at Mt. Hayachikune from the Kawarano-bo trailhead, at 10:00, the sound of drums and flutes begins to echo through the shrine grounds. A 1-day experience to savor the solemnity of Kagura and the clear air of the mountain village with the entire family from morning.

The "Atago Shrine Grand Festival Noda Matsuri" (held August 21-23, 2026) is held at Villagers' Square (Nonchan Plaza) and the central village area of Noda Village in Kunohe District, Iwate Prefecture. This one-day course features the festival's opening day (August 21, 2026) when this small village nestled along the Sanriku coast comes alive with its most vibrant celebration of the year. In the daytime, enjoy shopping at Michi-no-Eki Noda, feel the sea breeze on the beautiful Tofugazo Coast with its pine forests, and experience salt-making culture at Noda Salt Experience Hall. Visit Rikuchu-Noda Station on the Sanriku Railway, and around 5 PM the festival atmosphere begins to spread throughout the village center. In the evening, at Villagers' Square, the lights of the mikoshi and food stalls glow, creating a unique Noda Village day where the sea and festival become one.

A full-day course to enjoy Isawa Dam nestled in the mountains, centered around the 5th Ōshū Fireworks Festival held on August 22, 2026 (Saturday) at 7 PM. In the afternoon, view one of Japan's largest rock-fill dams up close at Isawa Dam Observation Plaza. Visit Ishiabuchi Dam Memorial Plaza, which preserves the history of the former dam that was submerged, then learn about how the dam works and the region's natural environment at Yume-no-Ko Visitor Center. In the evening, secure your spot at the venue while having dinner, and enjoy the time when the dam lake takes on the colors of the sunset. At 7 PM, approximately 9,000 fireworks light up the night sky above the dam lake surrounded by mountains, with sound echoing all around for a spectacular finale. This is the ultimate summer Ōshū plan, combining dam viewing and fireworks in the mountains.

Centered on the Maesawa Summer Festival Cool Evening Fireworks Spectacular held on August 15, 2026 (Saturday), this course allows you to enjoy a full day in Maesawa, Oshu City, known as the homeland of Maesawa beef. In the afternoon, learn about the history and culture of Maesawa beef at a rare cattle museum, then enjoy local specialty products at the Maesawa Roadside Station. Visit Maesawa Ikiiki Sports Land, the fireworks venue, during the day to run and play on spacious lawns. In the evening, secure your seating while enjoying dinner at the venue and watch the descending sun paint the sky. At 7 p.m., fireworks burst across the open night sky, creating an impressive finale unique to this unobstructed venue. A definitive summer plan for Maesawa that abundantly combines Maesawa beef history exploration with fireworks.

Held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, this is a full-day course featuring the Ihatov Forum Light and Sound Pageant Fireworks Fantasy as the main attraction, allowing you to enjoy the entire city of Hanamaki, which is closely connected to Miyazawa Kenji. In the afternoon, visit the Miyazawa Kenji Memorial Museum to touch the poet's world, then deepen your understanding of Hanamaki's nature and culture at the adjacent Ihatov Hall. In the evening, have an early dinner in central Hanamaki before heading to the Kitakami River riverbed. Once positioned on the riverbed as darkness falls, approximately 8,000 fireworks will launch into the night sky stretching from Asahi Bridge to Asahi Grand Bridge. This is a course to enjoy an Iwate summer night in the warm embrace of the abundant nature that Kenji called "Ihatov."

A full day course enjoying the entire Ichinoseki area of Iwate Prefecture with the Ichinoseki Summer Festival Usui River Opening Fireworks Festival (held Friday, August 7, 2026) as the main attraction. In the afternoon, experience breathtaking scenery of strange rocks and clear streams at Genbikei (厳美渓), located near the Kotsujimura Manor Ruins (骨寺村荘園遺跡), a symbol of Ichinoseki city. Return to the city center and stroll through the historic Omachi Shopping Street (大町商店街). In the evening, enjoy local cuisine near Usui River Park (磐井川河川公園) while securing a good viewing spot, then watch approximately 10,000 magnificent fireworks from prime seating along the riverside as darkness falls. A definitive Ichinoseki summer plan combining the cool refreshment of clear streams with dynamic fireworks in one unforgettable experience.

Start at Kitakami Municipal Park Tenshow-chi, one of the three great cherry blossom viewing sites of Michinoku. Stroll leisurely along a 2km cherry tree-lined walking path beside the Kitakami River, then enjoy lunch with local flavors at Tenshow-chi Rest House. In the afternoon, explore a settlement of thatched farmhouses at the adjacent Michinoku Folklore Village, learn about the life and nature of the Kitakami River basin at the Kitakami Municipal Museum, then finish by playing freely on the broad lawns of Iwate Prefectural Agriculture Interaction Park. A full-day course packed with walking, dining, learning, and playing—perfect for families with small children.

A Sanriku Coast drive beginning at Goishi Beach (碁石海岸), a designated National Scenic Spot named after its round pebbles polished like go stones. View the three arches carved by rough waves into towering rocks at Anatooshi Islet (穴通磯) from the observation point, and browse souvenirs while enjoying café breaks at Kamome Terrace, famous for the local specialty "Kamome no Tamago." In the afternoon, head to Rikuzen-Takata to encounter the Miracle Pine that endured the tsunami and the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Memorial Museum, where you'll face the present-day reality of Sanriku life with the sea. This course is centered on driving with walking distances easily adjustable to fitness levels, making it perfect for three-generation families traveling with grandparents.

Start your journey with a sweeping view of Kamaishi Bay from the 48.5-meter-tall white Kamaishi Daikannon. Visit the Museum of Iron History to learn about the city's pride as the birthplace of modern iron smelting and its connection to the UNESCO-listed Hashino Iron Mine. Enjoy a Sanriku seafood lunch at the harbor-side UOGASHI Terrace. In the afternoon, travel to Unosummai to learn the lessons of the Great East Japan Earthquake at the Inochi wo Tsunagu Mirai-kan, then finish at the Kamaishi Unosummai Fukkou Stadium, which hosted the Rugby World Cup. This full-day course through a town where the legend of "Japan's Iron Man" still lives—perfect for groups of friends who love sports and history—weaves together the stories of iron and rugby.

A one-day journey of cliff-lined splendor traveling north along the coast from Miyako Station aboard the Rias Line of the Sanriku Railway, affectionately known as "San-tetsu." Alight at Tanohata Station—featured in a poem by Kenji Miyazawa—and venture to Kitayamazaki with its "Alps of the Sea": cliffs approximately 200 meters high stretching roughly 8 kilometers. After savoring the grand Pacific panorama from the observation deck, extend your journey to the magnificent Unopike Cliff. Conclude at Michi no Eki Tanohata Shii no Kaze, browsing dairy products from mountain farming and souvenirs. A perfect itinerary for couples who love local railway travel, combining two sublime vistas—train windows and dramatic cliffs.

A spectacular scenic drive along the Hachimantai Aspite Line, a 27-km mountain road offering views of Mount Iwate and Hachimantai. After shopping at Michi-no-Eki Nishine, visit Matsuo Hachimantai Visitor Center to learn about Hachimantai's nature before ascending the sky road. Enjoy the signature curry and mountain-top walks at the summit rest house at approximately 1,540m elevation, then explore the black rocky expanse of Yakebashiri Lava Flow, a national special natural monument. Finish with healing moments among alpacas and wildflower fields at Salad Farm. The scenery changes with every curve—a perfect day for couples who love scenic drives.

Spend a day exploring the romance of sea and earth in Kuji, the home of the northernmost ama divers. Begin at the Kosode Ama Center to discover the history of the divers, then marvel at the dramatic sea views of Sanriku at Tsurigane-do, a spectacular rock formation on the cliffs. At Mogurampea, an unusually rare underground aquarium in Japan, play with the fish, then explore local flavors and find souvenirs at a roadside station. Conclude your journey at the Kuji Amber Museum, where ancient tree resin has transformed into precious gems. This course is perfect for three-generation families traveling with grandparents, where reminiscences naturally flow.

Visit Ryusen Cave (龍泉洞) in Iwaizumi Town, Iwate, one of Japan's three greatest limestone caverns. Explore the underground lake called "Dragon Blue," renowned worldwide for its remarkable transparency, then visit the Ryusen Shinado Science Museum across the street to learn about traces of the ancient peoples who lived in the cave. Enjoy lunch at Roadside Station Iwaizumi with its specialty Iwaizumi Tanjaku beef and rich Iwai spring yogurt. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the grass at Fureai Land Iwaizumi along the Omoto River. Finish your day at Roadside Station Mitagai Bunko, a repurposed former school, enjoying school-lunch-style snacks and hunting for souvenirs. This one-day journey through an underground world and mountain villages is perfect for groups of friends seeking adventure.

A seaside day at Jodo-ga-hama (浄土ヶ浜), the most celebrated scenic spot of Sanriku, often praised as "like the Pure Land itself." Stroll along the beach admiring white rhyolite peaks and clear blue waters, learn about Sanriku's nature at the Visitor Center, then board a traditional fishing boat to discover the mysterious Blue Grotto. Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch at Miyako City Fish and Vegetable Market—the public's kitchen—and finish with souvenir shopping at the Michi-no-Eki Miyako - Seatpia Naado - near the harbor. With short distances between spots and plenty of rest areas, this is a course where families with small children can enjoy themselves at a relaxed pace without worry.

A full-day course in Hanamaki, the hometown of Miyazawa Kenji, where you can enjoy both the world of fairytales and Showa-era nostalgia all at once. The morning takes you to the fantastical displays of the Miyazawa Kenji Doshinkan Fairytale Village and the Miyazawa Kenji Memorial Museum with its cherished cello, immersing you fully in Kenji's world. At lunch, feast on the famous 10-tier spiral soft ice cream eaten with chopsticks at the Showa-scented Marukan Building Grand Dining Hall. After becoming absorbed in wooden toys at the Hanamaki Toy Museum in the same building, finish with the Hanamaki Hot Spring Rose Garden, where Kenji designed the flower beds. A greedy plan packed with learning, play, and delicious food—perfect for families traveling with elementary school children.

Starting with a boat cruise on Geibikei Gorge (猊鼻渓), one of Japan's hundred most scenic views, where you gaze up at 100-meter cliffs, listen to the boatman's traditional song "Geibi Oiwake," and then explore Yūgenkyū Cave (幽玄洞)—one of Japan's oldest stalactite caves—home to ancient fossils. At the Stone and Kenji Museum (石と賢治のミュージアム), discover the connection between Kenji Miyazawa and the stone heritage of the Higashiyama region. In the afternoon, tour the brewing facilities at Seiki-no-Ichi Sake Brewery (世嬉の一酒造), enjoy mochi cuisine, and finish with a panoramic view of Ichinoseki from atop Tsuriyama Park (釣山公園). This leisurely Ichinoseki highlights course—gently touring by boat, cave, brewery, and castle hill—is perfect for couples who enjoy a relaxed pace.

Visit the scenic Genbikei Gorge (厳美渓), said to have been beloved by Date Masamune. Stroll through the gorge with its emerald-green waters and continuous odd rock formations, then take a rest at Kakokyoya (郭公屋) to enjoy the famous 'flying dango,' where a basket descends via rope from across the gorge. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the sparkling world of glass at Sahara Glass Park, then search for local mochi-related dishes and souvenirs at Michi-no-Eki Genbikei roadside station. End the day at Ichinoseki City Museum, tracing the mochi culture and history that thrives in this region. A perfect Ichinoseki walk for three-generation families who love sweet treats—combining gorge beauty and delicious confections in one experience.

A one-day course through Hiraizumi, the golden capital built by the Ōshū Fujiwara clan, centered around two world heritage temples. First, brush up on history at the Hiraizumi Cultural Heritage Center, then climb Tsukimi Slope lined with old cedar trees to reach Konjikudō at Chūson-ji Temple. At Takadachi Yoshitsune-dō, the place where Yoshitsune met his end, enjoy the majestic views of the Kitakami River, and in the afternoon, leisurely stroll through Mōtsū-ji Temple with its beautiful Pure Land garden. Conclude with souvenir shopping at Michi-no-Eki Hiraizumi. With short distances between spots and mostly flat garden walks, this world heritage tour is perfect for three-generation families visiting with grandparents.

A family course that offers a full day of enjoying pasture activities and traditional handcrafts at the foot of Mt. Iwate in Shizukuishi. At Koiwai Farm Makiba Garden, one of Japan's largest private comprehensive farms, interact with sheep and savor the famous rich soft-serve ice cream, then take commemorative photos with the solitary cherry blossom tree standing alone in the pasture with Mt. Iwate as a backdrop. In the afternoon, try hand-baking senbei at Morioka Handcraft Village, then get active riding unique bicycles at Goshogane Koiki Park. Complete the experience at Michi-no-Eki Shizukuishi Anekko searching for direct-sale souvenirs. This well-balanced course featuring animals, hands-on experiences, and outdoor play allows families with small children to enjoy smiling faces throughout the entire day.

A gourmet course where you spend a full day savoring Morioka, known as the 'noodle capital' for its three great noodles: wanko soba, jaja noodles, and Morioka cold ramen. After getting acquainted with the city through the stone wall stroll at Morioka Castle Ruins Park and retro architecture at Iwate Bank Red Brick Hall, challenge wanko soba at lunch at the long-established Tougae Honten with the server's spirited chant. In the afternoon, savor an authentic bowl at Hakuryuu Honten, the birthplace of jaja noodles, finishing with chi-i tantantan, and round it off by taking home coppe pan from Fukuda Pan, a soul food for Morioka citizens. Perfect for groups of friends who love food tours and enjoy friendly competition—a complete day of excitement and delicious discoveries.

岩手県盛岡市と雫石町にまたがる「岩手県立御所湖広域公園 矢櫃地区水辺園地」を主役にした1日コースです。公園は通年開放されており、水遊びの期間は未発表ですが、例年は夏休み期間に川へ入る家族連れが多く訪れます。矢櫃地区は矢櫃川の清流を活かした水辺園地で、「矢櫃渓谷」の眺めと睡蓮の群落を望む山里の風景の中に、散策路・ウッドデッキ・休憩シェルターが整えられています。川に降りて水遊びができ、利用は無料。駐車場は第1(6台)・第2(5台)・第3(10台)と小さく、快適トイレ(仮設)が設置されています。岩手県が設置し、小岩井農牧(KOIWAI・F)が指定管理者として管理している、手入れの行き届いた水辺です。午前は同じ小岩井の名を持つ小岩井農場まきば園で広い牧草地と動物にふれ、盛岡手づくり村で南部鉄器などの伝統工芸をのぞいてから、午後は矢櫃の清流へ。牧場と工芸と川遊びを1日でつなぐ、盛岡近郊ならではのおでかけです。

岩手県雫石町、国道46号沿いの道の駅「雫石あねっこ」の敷地内にある道の駅 雫石あねっこ 水遊びゾーン（オートキャンプ場内）を主役にした1日コースです。施設公式は「浅瀬を対岸まで渡れる水辺は、小さな子供も安心して遊べる水遊びゾーン」と説明しており、水遊びデビューの子どもにも向いた穏やかな水辺が魅力。オートキャンプ場に併設されているため、炊事場やトイレなど設備が整っているのも家族連れにはありがたいところです。道の駅には受付、産直、そば処、ハーブ園、そしてサウナと露天風呂のある日帰り温泉「橋場温泉 新はしばの湯」がそろい、遊ぶ・食べる・温まるが一か所で完結します。水遊びゾーンの開設期間は未発表で、キャンプ場の営業に準じ、例年は夏休み期間が中心です。午前は岩手山を望む小岩井農場まきば園で牧場の一日を味わい、昼はあねっこの産直とそば処で雫石の味を。午後は水辺で夕方まで遊ぶ、岩手の夏らしいコースです。

The Hanamaki Festival (held September 11–13, 2026, at Kamimachi · Festival Plaza and surrounding areas in Hanamaki), which has over 300 years of history in the hometown of Miyazawa Kenji, features a full-day course centered on the festival's opening day (September 11, 2026), with magnificent ornate floats and valiant deer dancing parading through the streets. During the day, stroll through Toriyanosaki Park on the grounds of Hanamaki Castle, and visit the Miyazawa Kenji Memorial Hall and Fairy Tale Village to encounter the world of "Night on the Galactic Railroad." After an early dinner near Hanamaki Station, at 5 p.m., the sounds of drums and flutes echo through the Kamimachi area, and colorful floats brighten the streets. At the Hanamaki Central Plaza Food Stall Village adjacent to the venue, street food is available from 2 to 9 p.m.—a uniquely Hanamaki experience where literature and festival coexist.