Iwate Park 岩手公園(盛岡城跡公園)

By the early 20th century, the site of Morioka Castle had been abandoned, falling into disrepair. Renowned park designer Yasuhei Nagaoka transformed the castle grounds with plants, flowers, trees, and walking paths to create Iwate Park.

Iwate Park can be accessed by bus or taxi from Morioka Station.

Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Morioka Station; from there, ride the Morioka City Loop Bus to the park (10 minutes). Alternatively, you may access the park on foot (15 to 20 minutes).

A popular event held in the park is the Ishigaki Music Festival. The festival, which is held every September, is completely free. There are ten stages throughout the city, with the main stage in Iwate Park. Even if you do not like rock music or understand Japanese, the atmosphere makes the festival worth a visit.

There are other events throughout the year at Iwate Park and many things to see, including a shrine, a pond, statues, a totem pole, and more. You could spend a few hours at the park or a whole day.