Morioka 8 Hour Private Tour with Licensed Guide Vehicle

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8 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

Looking to discover the very best of Morioka and northern Iwate at your own pace? This private tour is perfect for you! With a government-licensed, English-speaking guide and a private vehicle with driver, explore the castle town's history, crafts and natural beauty in comfort.

Morioka sits where three rivers meet beneath Mt. Iwate, a relaxed city famed for handsome Meiji-era architecture, Nambu ironware and soba noodles. On this fully customizable 8-hour tour you choose the sights that interest you most, from the stone walls of Morioka Castle Ruins Park and the rock-splitting cherry tree Ishiwarizakura to the red-brick Bank of Iwate building and the Five Hundred Rakan of Hoonji Temple.

Visit grand Morioka Hachimangu Shrine, watch artisans at Morioka Handi-Works Square, or head out to historic Koiwai Farm. Your guide tailors the day to your interests - the easiest, most rewarding way to experience the warm spirit of northern Japan.

What's Included

Private vehicle
Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' 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:

If your hotel or desired pick up point is not on the list, please contact us. Please be at your pick up point 10 minutes before the tour starts. This tour includes an English-speaking, Government-licensed guide and a private vehicle with a driver.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Stroll through Morioka Castle Ruins Park (Iwate Park), the impressive stone-walled remains of the former castle of the Nanbu clan, beautiful in every season and a green landmark in the heart of the city.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Admire the Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building, an elegant Meiji-era landmark designed by the architects of Tokyo Station, beautifully blending Western and Japanese influences.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 3

    See Ishiwarizakura, a celebrated 350-year-old cherry tree that grows dramatically out of a split granite boulder - a designated National Natural Monument and one of Morioka's most beloved sights.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Visit Hoonji Temple, renowned for its hall of Five Hundred Rakan - expressive wooden statues of Buddha's disciples, each carved with a distinct face and pose.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Explore Morioka Hachimangu Shrine, the city's grandest shrine with striking vermilion halls and a center of beloved local festivals and traditions for over three centuries.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Visit Sakurayama Shrine, nestled beside Morioka Castle park and home to the giant sacred Eboshi-iwa boulder, a tranquil spot deeply cherished by locals.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Enjoy Koiwai Farm, a historic working dairy farm at the foot of Mt. Iwate, with sweeping pastoral views, fresh dairy treats and charming heritage buildings (a short drive from the city).

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 8

    Discover Morioka Handi-Works Square, where local artisans craft Nambu ironware, ceramics and traditional sweets, and visitors can watch demonstrations and try hands-on crafts.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Japan Guide Agency
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Tags

Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
City Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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