6 Hours Morioka Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle

listing image 1
Show all photos
6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover Morioka's highlights efficiently in a private vehicle with a government-licensed multilingual guide!

Discover the charm of Morioka, a castle town nestled among the mountains of northern Japan. Stroll the granite ruins of Morioka Castle, now a tranquil park, and admire the elegant red-brick Bank of Iwate building designed by the architect of Tokyo Station. Marvel at the famous Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree, growing straight out of a giant boulder.

With a private vehicle, explore at your own pace. Visit the serene Hoonji Temple with its 500 Rakan statues, the vermilion Morioka Hachimangu shrine, and a craft village where artisans create renowned Nanbu ironware. Wander the literary Zaimokucho street and the bustling Odori arcade to sample Morioka's famous noodles.

With a fully customizable itinerary and a knowledgeable local guide, this private tour is a relaxed way to experience the best of Morioka at your own pace.

What's Included

Private vehicle
Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'Itinerary' list.
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under Itinerary

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel in Morioka or your preferred place around Morioka Station. Please use email for any communication before the tour.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Morioka Castle Ruins

    Stroll through the atmospheric ruins of Morioka Castle, now a peaceful public park famed for its imposing granite stone walls and seasonal cherry blossoms. Your guide shares the history of the Nanbu clan who once ruled the region.

    40 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building

    Admire this beautiful red-brick Meiji-era bank building designed by the architect behind Tokyo Station. Your guide will point out its elegant Western architecture, a symbol of Morioka's modernization, and the preserved interior halls.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 3
    Rock-breaking Cherry Tree

    See the remarkable Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree, a 350-year-old weeping cherry that has grown straight out of a large granite boulder, splitting it in two. A beloved Morioka symbol and natural monument, especially stunning in spring.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Hoonji Temple

    Visit this serene Zen temple famous for its hall of 500 Rakan statues, each a uniquely carved disciple of Buddha with its own expression. Your guide shares the temple's history and the meaning behind these remarkable wooden figures.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Morioka Hachimangu

    Visit Morioka's grand guardian shrine, a vivid vermilion complex that has protected the city for centuries. Your guide explains its role in local festivals and you can admire the ornate main hall and tranquil grounds.

    25 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Ihatov Avenue Zaimokucho

    Wander down this charming street associated with poet Kenji Miyazawa, lined with craft shops, cafes, and bronze statues celebrating his work. A relaxed place to feel Morioka's literary heritage and local creative spirit.

    25 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Morioka Handi-Works Square

    Explore this lively craft village where you can watch local artisans at work and discover Nanbu ironware, Morioka senbei crackers, and traditional sake brewing. A great place to see the region's renowned handicrafts up close.

    40 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Morioka Odori Shopping Street

    Stroll Morioka's bustling main shopping street, lined with cafes, bakeries, and shops selling local specialties. A perfect spot to sample Morioka's famous noodles, pick up Nanbu ironware souvenirs, and enjoy the lively downtown atmosphere.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by Japan Guide Agency
Show 3 more

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}
Book Now