MORIOKA was where I based myself for 3 nights on my Tohoku trip. From Morioka I went on day trips to the Akita & Aomori Prefecture. For the first 3 days of my stay in Morioka, I (more or less) just traveled from the hotel to Morioka Station. It was not until the 4th day that I actually ventured & explored the city of Morioka. And on a sunny morning I discovered the enchantment of this 400-year old castle town. It was this 4-hour walk in the city that I finally got a glimpse of its historical past.
Morioka was founded toward the end of the 16th century when the 26th Lord of Nambu, Nobunao, began construction of both the town & castle. From the founding date, through the Meiji, Taisho & Showa & Heisei eras, Morioka has been a center of political, economic & cultural activity for Iwate Prefecture. Morioka, with its abundance of nature, many historical spots, castle grounds & numerous temples, has been called "Small Kyoto of Northern Japan". So, now you get an idea of how beautiful this city is?!
Facts about Iwate Prefecture
Capital: Morioka.
Population: 1,420,000.
Area: 15,278 sq. km.
Prefectural Flower: Paulownia.
Prefectural Wood: Nanbu red pine.
Prefectural Bird: Pheasant.
Main Events: Hanamaki Festival, Kamaishi Festival. |
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