Iwate

With a rich cultural calendar, vibrant folklore, rugged landscapes, and pride in its Tohoku roots, Iwate looms are large.

Part of the Tohoku region, Iwate overlooks the Pacific Ocean via the Sanriku coastline and is buttressed by the Ou Mountains, home to some of Japan’s best ski resorts and hot springs. Roughly divided into four distinct regions, Iwate is marked by common themes of nature worship, traditional folklore, and the prefecture’s samurai history. Gourmands are drawn to some of Japan’s best wagyu beef, rice and sake. The World Heritage sites in Hiraizumi act as a great starting point for exploration into Iwate’s rich heritage and natural beauty.