Iwate Prefecture boasts the largest area in the Tohoku Region. Morioka City is the prefectural capital and is conveniently located near the Kitakami and Nakatsugawa Rivers, looking up at the famous peak of Mt. Iwate.
Morioka is famous for its picturesque natural landscape, as well as its popular local cuisine. Among Morioka's famous foods are the "Morioka sandaimen" - the Three Great Noodles of Morioka: Morioka Reimen, Morioka Jajamen, and Wanko Soba.
These three noodle dishes are Morioka specialties that have been loved by tourists and locals alike for a very long time.
Akita Prefecture is located in the northwestern part of Japan’s Tohoku region. About 450 kilometers north of Tokyo, it takes just over 3 hours to get from Tokyo Station to Akita Station by bullet train.
Here’s what you need to know about Akita, local cuisine, and activities to help plan your trip.